SOME angler friends tell us they are seeing otters in rivers where they have been very scarce, if observed at all, for many years.

THERE might be gold in your house. Researchers say mobile phones are a source of gold, with the average household having 22gms of the precious metal in old mobiles.

THE untidy and littered state of our road margins and railway lines is often criticised, but there are ways of dealing with the problem through the use of nature.

A NUMBER of readers have been in contact regarding two related and timely issues — the plight of bees and the illegal destruction of hedgerows.

IN their quest for food, humans do not recognise that all creatures are entitled to their share of Earth’s resources. Overfishing can deprive ocean predators, including whales and dolphins, of food.

THIS is National Biodiversity Week, and people will be taking to the great outdoors to enjoy nature at a time when, arguably, it is at its best.

WE learn every day about the environment from young Irish people.

TREES and plants in general are up to a month late in donning their summer colours, but should be wearing their lush seasonal coats by now.

MIKE CARNEY describes his birthplace as the ‘’most beautiful place on earth’’.

IN TOUGH times for farmers, lime is currently being promoted as the cheapest fertiliser available.