|  | | Over the summer months an inconspicuous area of Bristol's Durdham Downs turns into a knee-high sea of rippling grasses, packed full of colourful flora and fauna.
Marvellous Meadows is a guide to help visitors explore this wonderful world of butterflies, moths and insects. | | John Hardy and Mandy Leivers enjoy the flora and fauna of the Downs. |
 | | | The wildlife secrets of the Downs are revealed in the new leaflet, which is produced by the Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project.
The Project is a joint venture bringing together the city council, Bristol Zoo, the Downs Committee, English Nature, and the Society of Merchant Venturers. The trail takes about half an hour to complete and is on short grass without steps, stiles or significant slopes.
 | | The trail takes about 30 minutes to complete. |
This makes it an ideal activity for visitors with pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Fragrant glory
Mandy Leivers, Avon Gorge and Downs Biodiversity Education Officer, says the summer months are the best time to visit:
"During May, June and July you can experience the meadows in their full and fragrant glory, with wild thyme, oxeye daisies and bird's-foot-trefoil to capture your imagination, " she said.
"The air is also buzzing with life with butterfly beauties like the marbled white and common blue dancing in the summer sun."
You can pick up a copy of the trail from the Downs Tea Room or by calling Mandy Leivers at Bristol Zoo on 0117 903 0609.
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