A message from Rebecca Green, Senior Ranger at Trumpington Meadows.
Last week the team cleared the top swale, the ditch that runs along the edge of the reserve, into the pond and then the Cam. They removed cut and emergent vegetation such as greater willowherb, which obstructs the water flow and can really dominate damp areas to the detriment of other species. They litter picked as they went. This swale is part of the SuDS (Sustainable Drainage System), but despite having a functional job it is a potentially a good habitat for wildlife. I’m looking forward to the day when the building work is done and this area will improve.
Next week, on Wednesday 20th February, we’ll be in the south of the reserve, continuing our work to improve access and condition of the riverside path and banks, as well as removing a patch of blackthorn scrub that’s encroaching on an otherwise lovely wildflower meadow. Bring your gloves if you have them, as well as lunch and suitable clothes for the weather (it’s forecast to remain mild). We’ll have plenty of spare gloves for those that need them as well as the usual tea and biscuits. Meet at the bike rack over the M11 bridge at 10am, or if you prefer a lift come to the office for 9.50am. Please let us know if you can make it.
Trumpington Meadows news
– Recent sightings include a little egret along the swale, a couple of hares enjoying the sun in the nearby fields, lots of song thrushes singing and great spotted woodpeckers drumming – spring is close!
– It’s National Nest Box week – a great time to put up a new nest box.
– The sheep are back – we’ve currently got 58 ewes grazing in Water Meadow. This meadow is very productive in terms of grass growth – not the best for wildflowers, so the sheep are going to really help improve the condition here. We work closely with local farmers to make this happen – in this case, Martin form Devils Dyke Firewood
Have a great weekend and hope to see you soon!
Becky and Jo
Please get in touch with us using any of the below.
Phone: 01223 665742
Facebook Group: /trumpingtonmeadowsNR
Facebook Page: /wildlifebcn
Twitter: @wildlifebcn
Website: www.wildlifebcn.org
