When people think about wildlife along the Thames Path, birds often steal the spotlight. But did you know there are lots of mammals living secretly alongside the river too? Some swim, some scurry, some only come out at night — and all of them help make the Thames Path a very special place.
As part of our Nature on the Trail month, let’s go on a mammal‑spotting adventure!
Who lives by the river?
One of the most exciting animals along the Thames is the otter. Otters are brilliant swimmers, with webbed feet and thick fur to keep them warm in cold water. They are shy and mostly come out at night, so instead of seeing one, you might spot clues they leave behind.
Did you know?
Otters mark their territory with something called “spraint” — it’s a bit smelly, but scientists use it to track where otters live!
Another riverbank resident is the water vole. These small, round mammals love living in burrows near the water’s edge. They’re sometimes called “water rats”, but they’re actually much cuter — with blunt noses and fluffy faces.
You might also see signs of foxes along quieter stretches of the Path. Foxes are very clever and can live near towns as well as in countryside. Early mornings or evenings are the best times to spot them.
What about bats?
As the sun goes down, the Thames Path changes again. Bats wake up and start flying along the river, hunting insects. The river is like a takeaway delivery service for bats, with lots of insects hovering above the water.
Fun fact:
Bats don’t bump into things in the dark — they use echolocation, sending out tiny sound waves that bounce back to them like a map.
Try this mammal detective game!
Next time you walk the Thames Path, try being a Mammal Detective:
🔍 Can you spot footprints in muddy ground?
🔍 Look for holes near the riverbank — could they be animal homes?
🔍 Can you see flattened grass where an animal might have rested?
🔍 At dusk, can you spot bats fluttering in zig‑zag patterns?
Remember: seeing signs of animals is just as exciting as seeing the animals themselves!
Why mammals matter
Mammals help keep the river healthy. Otters control fish numbers, bats eat insects, and small mammals are food for larger animals. Together, they keep a natural balance that has existed along the Thames for thousands of years.
For 30 years, the Thames Path National Trail has allowed people to walk through these shared habitats — quietly, respectfully, and with curiosity. Every time you walk the Path, you’re visiting someone else’s home.
So keep your eyes open, your steps gentle, and your imagination ready.
You never know which furry neighbour might be nearby! 🦦🦇🐾
