Britain’s rivers and canals weave across the landscape, linking regions together while nurturing a variety of wildlife. Gliding along on a canal boat holiday offers a front-row seat to this thriving world, where birds, insects and other creatures make their home along the water’s edge.
Even in the heart of bustling cities like Birmingham, these man-made waterways can support a surprising array of unexpected visitors – wildlife you’d never imagine spotting so close to urban life. Ready to see what’s out there? Discover the fascinating canal wildlife waiting to be spotted on your narrowboat holiday.
What animals live along canals?
Keep your eyes peeled for some of the UK’s wildlife as you drift along the waterways, from the dazzling flash of a kingfisher’s wings to the quiet presence of badgers and even bats emerging at dusk.
- Mammals
- Amphibians
- Reptiles
- Fish
- Birds
- Insects and other invertebrates
Types of animals and insects that live along canals
Canal paths are home to more than just birds and insects. While many species live in or near the water, you may also spot grazing sheep, curious cows, or horses, goats, and chickens along the way. Look out for reptiles like grass snakes basking in the sun, or deer such as red, roe, and muntjac at dawn and dusk in countryside stretches.
Mammals
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Fish
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Insects
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Amphibians
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Types of birds that live along canals
No canal journey would be complete without the lively chorus of canalside birds. Along your adventure, you’re likely to witness a wonderful variety of species. Some of the birds you’re most likely to spot include:
- Barn owl
- Canada goose
- Coot
- Cormorant
- Grey heron
- Kestrel
- Kingfisher
- Mallard duck
- Moorhen
- Swan
Tips to spot wildlife on the canal
From hedgehogs to herons, the waterways are teeming with creatures. Along the towpath, keep an eye out for nesting birds, sheltering mice and the occasional frog or toad. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a shy water vole burrowing in the canal banks! The abundance of wild plants and flowers attracts countless insects, all of which support this vibrant ecosystem.
Here are some handy tips to help you make the most of your wildlife spotting on the canal:
- Be patient and observant: Wildlife often reveals itself when you least expect it. Take your time, move quietly and scan your surroundings carefully.
- Use binoculars: These allow you to enjoy close-ups of birds and animals without disturbing them, especially species that are easily startled.
- Go slow with the boat: A gentle cruising speed minimises noise and gives you a better chance to spot creatures along the banks and in the water.
- Venture out in quieter times: Early mornings and evenings are when many animals are most active.
- Watch the water’s edge: Many creatures like to stay close to the banks where there’s food and cover.
For more detailed advice, read our full guide on bird spotting on the canals.
Plants and foraging
UK canals aren’t just a haven for wildlife, but they’re also rich with plant life waiting to be discovered. From edible herbs and berries to natural decorations like holly and ivy, a canal boat holiday offers plenty of treasures for keen foragers and nature lovers alike.
Trees
- Willow
- Oak
- Ash
- Sycamore
- Horse chestnut
Flowers
- Ivy-leaved toadflax
- Red deadnettle
- Ivy
- Daisy
- Shepherd’s purse
- Lesser celandine
Wild food
- Blackberries
- Elderberries
- Meadowsweet
- Apples
- Damsons
- Water mint
- Horseradish
- Hazelnuts
- Dandelions
- Rose hips
- Nettles
- Dandelions
- Wild garlic
- Bramble leaves
- Hairy bittercress
- Chickweed
Tips for foraging
- Only pick what you know: Never eat anything unless you’re 100% sure of its identity.
- Forage sustainably: Take only what you need and leave plenty behind for wildlife and other foragers.
- Wash before eating: Always clean plants, berries and herbs thoroughly before cooking or consuming.
- Avoid polluted areas: Steer clear of plants growing by busy roadsides or in places where chemicals may have been used.
- Test your tolerance: When trying something new, start with a small amount to check that it agrees with you.
- Handle plants with care: Use gentle picking methods to avoid damaging the environment.
Why are canals important in the UK?
Britain’s canals are thriving lifelines for nature. The rich food supply and varied habitats provide support for a range of wildlife – generations of canal animals have lived near and around the areas you’re likely to spot them. In a country where urban developments continue to expand in once-rural areas, canals are sanctuaries for these animals. They not only help conserve biodiversity bu
