CUMBRIA W i l d l i f e
M a g a z i n e
Animal tales from a Wildlife Rescue centre
LIFE ON A REMOTE WILDLIFE RESERVE
Wild Britain, could we see large predators return?
BRAND NEW PUBLICATION
Dominic Boulding ©
Cover photograph by: Dominic Boulding ©
contents features p 4-5
Animal tales from a wildlife sanctuary
p 6-8
A return to the wild
p 9
What’s on Guide
p 10-11
Martha Kane interviews a wildlife crime officer
p 12
Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s ‘Meadow Life’ Competition
p 13
Renowned cameraman urges BBC to do more for conservation
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editors letter
Cumbria is a beautiful county with a rich variety of plants, animals and marine life. I feel passionately about this part of the country and wanted to capture that within my publication and writing. I sincerely hope that you enjoy reading my efforts. I would dearly like to thank the Wildlife and Media students for their valued contributions and in particular Dominic Boulding who kindly let me use his stunning photography to illsustrate the magazine. I would also like to thank the interviewees who have made this project both fascinating and possible. Martha Kane EDITOR
Dominic Boulding ©
p 14-15
How to make your garden into an animal and mini-beast haven
p 16-17
Learning new skills in an islandic nature reserve
p 18-19
A tale of Persecution by guest writer Andrew Dent
p 20-21
A walk around Talkin Tarn by Katie Halsall
p 22-23
An interview with RSPB Scotland’s ‘Wildscapes’ winner, Dominic Boulding r Cumbria Wildlife Magazine 3
Animal tales from a wildlife sanctuary Martha Kane looks behind the scenes at Knoxwood Wildlife Rescue Trust with manager, Emma Scott. Meeting the residents and finding out their stories.
I
t would have been expected that this nature rich haven would have been tranquil and calm. However this was not the case. Approaching the small holding I was greeted by a large rowdy looking goose as a heron took flight from a near tree which left it still shuddering in its wake. Crows cawed raucously to each other from across the tree tops. Insects and small birds filled a garden awash with wildflowers and nettles, as cats and dogs strolled cheerfully around the wooded grounds. There was a feeling of safety surrounding this sanctuary where humans were accepted and even trusted, which was heartening given the sad tales surrounding many of its guests and residents. Emma Scott is the general manager at Knoxwood Wildlife Rescue Trust, near Wigton where injured wild animals are rehabilitated back to health, most are then released back into the wild however sometimes this is not always possible, often due to the nature of the injury and the type of animal suffering from them. The sanctuary is open to the public during weekends from spring to late autumn.
How it began
T
he sanctuary started out when Emma’s father, George Scott, went to the pub one day, and returned with a “gaggle of Chinese geese.” Who had sadly just found themselves homeless, having had nowhere else who would take them. The sanctuary grew from there, Emma explained:
ABOVE Emma with her very handsome lurcher, Meg. it’s got a chance to take, it doesn’t matter what it is, we’ll give it a go.”
The surprised doorman
O
There are now 250 animals housed on a piece of land which had initially been bought by her parents to build a family home on.
ther peculiar resident are the small army of skunks who have been gradually acquired from a variety of places, following a fad whereby people started keeping them as pets. “The problem about skunks,” Emma admits: “is when they spray in your living room for example you have lost all of your furniture, carpet, the lot.” As one unsuspecting club bouncer found out when he saw what he thought to be:
The sanctuary is pretty rare in that: “very few sanctuaries cater for just wildlife.” They are an independent sanctuary whereby they receive no funding from local councils or other animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA.
“a little black cat plodding along on the street, he wondered what it was doing so he picked it up to find it was actually a skunk and it sprayed him.”
“My whole family has always been really animal orientated, there always seems to be space for one more.”
They also have their own wildlife hospital, which has saved and rehabilitated countless numbers of patients. The oldest inhabitant is Guinness, an 18 year old horse who had been treated so badly before arriving at the sanctuary that: “you couldn’t raise your voice or raise your hand or lift up a bucket without him more or less falling over in fright, he’d been that badly treated. He is now kept in a stress free environment.” “It took years of work just to get him calm enough for the farrier to come and trim his feet.” No animal is seen to be more or less important: “we take a lot of young seagulls who have fallen off roofs and also young pigeons, a lot of people do tend to think they are vermin and they shouldn’t be helped but we have a policy whereby if it’s alive and
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BELOW: One of Knoxwood’s most whiffiest residents.
“So he phoned the RSPCA and they got sprayed as well. They then took it to the nearest shelter, which happened to be a cat shelter and it sprayed the shelter, which completely and utterly stunk the building right out.” Fortunately the little skunk came to live at Knoxwood, where he has been joined by a number of friends over the last few years. The most exotic resident to date was a bright pink flamingo. The Sanctuary specialises in birds as they are difficult to place elsewhere. “We have two cockatoos who talk and do their thing. One of them has a penchant for destroying sofas, he can gut a sofa in twenty minutes and he doesn’t mind if it’s a brand new one from DFS or a cheap second hand one, he will destroy it regardless. They are flock birds so tend to be destructive when left alone.” “People sometimes buy pets, without thinking it through completely, these cockatoos will live until they’re forty year old, people do get them thinking it’s a good idea at the time.” “Dolly the goat was found in our local school, hurtling around the playground. We went for her as we couldn’t leave her at the school, she was quite happy to come home with us in the van. But she jumped out of every single pen we put her in and even broke down two doors. We never did find out where she came from so she has joined our little flock of goats.”
Fantastic Mr Fox
D
awson the friendly fox came to Knoxwood after a very confusing visit to a veterinary surgery.
“He was picked up by a lovely couple who thought he was a puppy, they found him under a lorry in a wagon yard, soaking wet through, and on death’s door.” “But because baby foxes are chocolate brown, like a Labrador, they assumed he was a pup and brought him home. So he spent the first part of his life sleeping on their bed, doing all the things a puppy would. But then they thought he is a funny looking thing and he does smell really bad so they took him to the vets to find he was actually a fox.” BELOW: Dawson the friendly fox.
ABOVE: A tawny owlet being nursed by Knoxwood.
Not a fox...
“We have made four attempts to integrate him with other foxes, but he doesn’t believe he’s a fox, as far as he’s concerned he’s a human. He won’t have anything to do with the other foxes, he’s terrified of them. When he was young we set him up by himself to distance him from humans, but he cried for six weeks.” “He’s a failure on our part as we haven’t managed to rehabilitate him into the wild but he’s a huge success in himself, as obviously he’s quite pleased he’s still alive.” Dawson is a lovely character with a great beaming grin. He bounds up and down his pen when anyone approaches, struggling to contain his excitement. Emma admits that they did try to let him have his run of the centre but he would pick up pigeons in his mouth and leave them at their backdoor. Although not harming the birds, he did however give them somewhat of a fright. It is the charity’s aim to rehabilitate and release the animals however this is sometimes impossible so they provide them with a comfortable and happy place to stay. For the trust to work so effectively and independently they rely heavily on volunteers and are always looking for people who could lend their time and resources. Volunteer opportunities are wide-ranging. From more hands on, labour intensive duties to lighter tasks like weeding and sweeping, helping in one of their shops, or at one of their many fundraising events. “It’s really down to what people can give, if we get a volunteer who has a particular skill we can generally find a use for it.” BELOW: Orinoco the red squirrel tucks into a flapjack.
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A return to the Wild
G
reat Britain would have been almost unrecognisable a thousand years ago. Dense forests of oak, ash and silver birch populated much of the isles, awash with small and large mammals, birds and insects alongside a diverse selection of plants and trees. Now Britain's woodlands only account for 12% of the land cover and much of these once thriving habitats contain only a small selection of the organisms they used to.
by: Martha Kane
HOW NATURE USED TO BE
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perfectly balanced ecosystem existed, just like a tall pile of bricks, certain pieces can be removed with few ill effects but choose the wrong block and the whole system can tumble down changing the balance forever. These ‘key stone’ species are crucial for an ecosystem. Many of them have already been lost by manmade interference or persecution, often through hunting and habitat loss. Wolves, brown bears, big cats, beavers, elk and wild boars all used to roam the isles in abundance, but their loss has meant catastrophic changes to our ecosystem, leading to vast numbers of plants, animals, birds and insects becoming extinct. But this loss of life doesn’t just affect species numbers; it can create devastation for human inhabitants too.
climate change, for example where whale numbers are falling throughout our seas it is thought that this could be having an effect on the “composition of our atmosphere.” By rewilding many, like the political and environmental activist and writer, George Monbiot, believe we can even slow down the effects of global warming. By interfering and killing off many species we are effectively unbalancing the ecosystem which is a finely tuned and effective way of supporting life. By interfering with nature’s own super-efficient methods we have created problems for the population, deer are just one such example. There are no longer natural predators in the wild, leading to massive increases in their populations. They graze relentlessly affecting the growth of young trees and shrubs, meaning a reduction in natural habitat which is why ‘The Deer Initiative’ was created, in partership with DEFRA and The Forestry Commission alongside countless smaller organisations.
‘Rewilding’ the British uplands would be a ‘highly effective’ method of combatting flooding scientists have argued. The government are currently carrying out trials to gauge just how significant this impact could be. Trees drag rain water down to their roots, whereas fields of "There are 62million people on this small grass do not have the same effect, meaning rain water washes off rap- island and its whether there is enough wilidly and in higher volume, making derness left for predators." flooding more likely. Beavers have been recently reintroduced to the Argyll in Scotland as part of a trial. They provide an effective water management system, meaning that flood water is kept in the uplands, draining gradually meaning lower river levels downstream. They also provide niches in an ecosystem which allow other creatures to flourish, making a more diverse habitat. This unbalancing of the ecosystem is even thought to aid
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The main approach to control is through fencing to prevent deer from entering woodland areas and culls, where they are shot in the hope to reduce numbers. Culls can only go so far and they do not affect the behaviour of deer. When there are natural predators deer tend not to overstay around the river banks, rarely grazing. But this is not the case now; they graze significantly, aiding the erosion of river banks. Alastair Boston, Deer Liaison Officer for the north of England admits: “They are having a major impact on the woodlands within Cumbria and Lancashire as they affect the woodland’s
regeneration, establishment and succession, which is down to their grazing and browsing pressures.”
S
teve Piper believes such a reintroduction would mean: “deer will still overpopulate but much more slowly, so there will be less need for culls by humans, and forests will have an easier BRINGING BACK THE WILD time growing and expanding, creating more habitats for a growing lynx population and benefitting all our wildlife ne attempt at helping to solve the problem is by reintrobecause it all evolved in a heavily forested Britain. They’ll ducing the Eurasian Lynx. "As a native, our ecosystem evolved also help control rabbit populations in However as Alistair pointed out, agricultural areas with forest fringes with them in it and questions remain about the feasiround the edges helping farmers.” bility of such a project: suffers from them not being
O
Such a scheme was very successful in there." “It’s whether it’s sustainable on Switzerland. However the ‘accidental’ wild our land as there are 62million people on this small island and boar reintroduction to parts of the country has been met by it’s whether there is enough wilderness left for predators to esmixed responses suggesting that public opinion is still not ready tablish and be successful without coming into conflict with huto share the environment with larger mammals. Many encourmans, whether it is the farming communities or with vehicles.” age this enrichment of biodiversity whilst others live in fear of walking their dogs... CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 But others, like Steve Piper from the Lynx UK Trust, disagree, arguing that such a project could be very effective at helping to control deer numbers. Believing that the Eurasian Lynx could be the perfect candidate, he explained: “As a native, our ecosystem evolved with them in it and suffers for them not being there now.”
>>
BELOW: Eurasian Lynx could be rereleased in Britain. BOTTOM: Wild boar were accidently released into the countryside after farmers began rearing them for meat.
Wolves need “lots of space” and bears although “solitary and shy” are a lot larger meaning: “people are even more fearful of them because they’re so big, they can also be big roamers, both wolves and bears would seem more likely to attack domestic or agricultural animals.” Whereas Lynx behaviour is typically different, preferring not to leave “the forest for any reason. Running around after sheep in an open environment is a huge risk to them, and one they will probably only take if they are starving through lack of prey, during a bad winter perhaps, or through injury.”
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 &7 >> frightened of coming up against the tusked woodland dweller. Despite their being only a very few incidences where pet dogs have been injured, terror has engulfed villages as many living in proximity to the animals complain of having their gardens, verges and in some cases wheelie bins are being ransacked by the feral hogs. Others complain that they could help spread diseases in livestock despite scientific studies suggesting this to be unlikely at present, however in the case of Foot and Mouth disease becoming established in livestock once more, this could become a problem in the future. All these factors have led to half of the wild boar population in the Forest of Dean being the subject of a cull. Boars usually have a positive impact on soil, by rooting through the undergrowth they fulfil a missing element which exists in current woodland ecosystems. As human populations grow throughout our tiny little island it is difficult to see how the wild and people can coexist harmoniously. Many of the population lack the understanding to realise the positive effect these missing creatures can have upon habitats, preferring to focus on ‘tusks and teeth,’ it will take a lot of persuasion for many to believe otherwise.
Dominic Boulding Š
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What's on guide...
by: Martha Kane
Canopy Camp Extreme Sleep in a tree top amongst the branches and marvel at the view. You will learn how to climb whilst spending your evenings by a cosy campfire before retreating to your bed in the canopies above. A three day adventure in the heart of the Lake District. Booking Essential please call: 07702 256 425 or email: gareth@woodmatters.org.uk Meeting at: Meet at the Footprint Building, St.Catherines, Patterdale Road, Windermere, Cumbria.LA23 1NH
ABOVE: The Solway Firth from the Cumbrian coast
Kielder’s Night Watch Safari Go on a trek through Kielder Water’s vast woodland expanse, which lays claim to the darkest skies in England, perfect for stargazing and making lasting memories. Join professional naturalist Bruce Ferguson, as he goes in search of nocturnal and crepuscular dwellers, like bats, badgers and owls. He will be armed with special equipment to carefully uncover the must ellusive of night time creatures. Event takes place on Wednesday 28 May 2014 at 9pm-10.30pm.
This is an adult only event. Cost: £250
2020 Vision Exhibition A stunning photographic exhibition, portraying the beautiful coastal waters surrounding our county. There will be two theatre shows on 25 June at The Winter Gardens, Morecambe and on 21 August at Victoria Hall, Grange with photographers involved in the project, and a photography workshop with Ben Hall at Leighton Moss. Morecambe Promenade from 20 May - 29 June Barrow-in-Furness (outside the Forum) from 1 July - 2 August Grange-over-Sands from 5 - 29 August
To book call: 01388 529154 or bruce@natureholiday.co.uk Age 8+ Accompanied by an Adult £5 per person and £15 Family of four
Knoxwood Wildlife Rescue Trust
Osprey Watching at Dodd Wood
Take a look at some interesting and characterful creatures whilst getting an insight into conservation and how treasured our wildlife should really be. Knoxwood is free to visitors but you can leave a donation if you wish. It is not a zoo so please be mindful that many of the animals are wild and recuperating.
Come take a look at the spectacular ospreys who are nesting in the area. There are lower and upper viewpoints which are both shrouded in forest, in a very picturesque setting, where red squirrels have also been known to visit. The lower point is in full view of the lake, and if lucky you could find yourself witnessing the osprey’s iconic swoop as they hunt fish on the water.
Open weekends 11am to 3pm. No dogs are allowed on the site. The sanctuary is on the A595, before the Thursby roundabout, in Thornby
The lower viewpoint is open between 10am and 5pm daily. The Upper Viewpoint is open from 10.30am until 4.30pm daily, and high
Moor, Wigton, Cumbria, CA7 0LA.
powered telescopes and binoculars are provided but you are welcome to
Conservation Work Parties
bring your own. The Osprey viewpoint is 3 miles north of Keswick and on
A perfect way to learn about the practicalities of conservation whilst spending the day in a picturesque setting amongst new friends. It’s also best if you don’t have an aversion to getting your hands dirty! Witness first hand all the excitement nature has to offer. The Cumbria Wildlife reserves are dotted all over the county, and you are rarely far away from one. Please visit: http://www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on to find out about your nearest event.
the X4/X5 Bus route.
Wild food Foraging If you were left alone in woodland would you know how to survive? Well Mark Williams from Galloway Wild Foods has the answers. You will go on a walk of culinary delight if tasty berries and insects are your thing. Tuesday 22 July 2014 at 1pm at Dodd Wood near Keswick.
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An interview with:
by: Martha Kane
Cumbria’s Wildlife Crime Officer Martha Kane speaks to PC Helen Branthwaite about her constant battle against the tide of illegal hunting, poaching and the trade in endangered species.
W
ildlife crime is a disturbing aspect of rural life.
subjected to. This is motivation though to work towards bring-
When a wild animal is killed or injured it can
ing offenders through the courts for their actions and it is very
have far reaching consequences for a rural com-
satisfying when we are able to do that.”
munity. Many rely on wildlife tourism in the Lake District; the Osprey project alone has attracted more than a million visitors
Wildlife Crime Officers rely heavily on intelligence received
resulting in extensive financial benefits for the area. The protec-
from the public. Cumbria is one of the largest counties in the
tion of wild flowers and plants is also extremely important, not
country, therefore it would be impossible for the police to patrol
just for further generations to enjoy, but they provide habitats for countless numbers of species, many of which are already struggling or in decline. It can be very distressing to the public when they witness evidence of habitats and animals being mindlessly destroyed.
the entirety alone. During their current ‘Shine a Light’ campaign they hope to raise awareness about the suspicious activities to watch out for. “The Shine a Light campaign was set up to raise awareness of wildlife crime and help people to understand what it is and what
Therefore it is important that Cumbrian
the main priorities are. We also wanted to
wildlife is protected effectively. Helen
encourage the public to report suspicious
Branthwaite is the Wildlife, Rural and Envi-
activity to us and outline how they can do
ronmental Crime Officer for Cumbria and it is her job to ensure that those showing blatant disregard for wildlife are brought to justice. She explained what initially drew her to the role: “I have always had a keen interest in wildlife so on that level I find it very interesting. However due to the fact that I
that.” Helen says the main issues that face Cumbria’s wildlife protection unit are “the poaching of deer, persecution of badgers, hunting with dogs and raptor persecution.” All hunt-
am interested I do
ing with
find it hard to see
dogs in
the persecution that
the UK
Wildlife is Cumbria Wildlife Magazine f
has been outlawed however it is possible to hunt rats and rabbits but only with the landowner’s consent. Nevertheless groups of people are frequently found hunting, and it is crucial that such activities are reported to the police. Badgers, foxes and birds of prey are at particular risk due to the
groups. The dogs themselves frequently become injured too, and due to the illegality of the ‘sport’ they are left with injuries and subjected to barbaric attempts at surgery by their owners, much to the distress of the animals. “Offenders are often linked to organised
levels of persecution surrounding
crime groups and use it as a
“Offenders are often linked to organised crime them. Just last year game keeper, platform to commit other types groups and use it as a platform to commit Cumbrian, Colin Burne was of rural crime.” other types of rural crime.” found guilty of trapping and kill-
ing buzzards. Video footage showed the game keeper clubbing to death two of the raptors. Countless remains of other buzzards were also found near the area. Burne narrowly escaped a jail sentence due to inoperable bowel cancer but had this not been the case the magistrate would have almost certainly have prescribed a jail term. Helen Branthwaite led the investigation into the crime. She feels it publicised the mes-
Surprisingly another area which has seen a rise in popularity is the trade in endangered species. “This is an area of activity which is a problem throughout the country and we have dealt with some cases in Cumbria over the past couple of years. This type of trade is much more accessible now because of the internet. Criminals, many from organised crime groups, do exploit wildlife as a commodity especially in
“Criminals, many from organised crime groups, do exploit wildlife as a commodity especially in this area.”
sage that: “wildlife crime is not tolerated in Cumbria.”
this area.” Some birds of prey are very valuable when sold abroad and
therefore attract illegal gangs who are often connected to a wide network of other criminal activities.Any dead animals that are
Badgers have been subjected to harsh criticism of late due to
found without an obvious cause of death should be viewed with
the number of cattle who have contracted bovine TB. However
suspicion.
many people who take part in badger baiting and the like often have a violent disposition, enjoying watching the dismemberment and brutality that such attacks entail. Viewing the act as a sport, testing their dogs and often gambling money during the process, people taking part in these are often part of organised
People who are seen with equipment or dogs, walking through rural areas and appear to be acting suspiciously should also be reported to the police.Destroying breeding or habitat sites is a major problem and anyone found doing so should also be notified to the police.
LEFT: PC Helen Branthwaite on patrol. BELOW: Groups of men are known to go badger baiting whereby they set their dogs on the animal, resulting in horrendous injury and death. Often those involved in such activities are unsavoury types and should therefore never be confronted. Any non-urgent activity that raises suspicion please call: 101 in order to speak with a Wildlife Crime Officer or alternatively email: wildlifecrime@cumbria.police.uk. If the activities require immediate assistance please dial 999.
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Meadow Life Competition Do you have a passion for photography and a love of the countryside?
N
ovice, professional and amateurs are all being invited to take part in this year’s ‘Meadow Life’ competition, run by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust. Hay meadows are a wonderful picturesque setting teeming with rare birds, insects and plants and visiting one makes for a perfect day out. They support many species of animals, birds and wildflowers. Meadow voles and barn owls both rely on uncultivated grasses, and they are struggling because of the lack of them. Cumbria Wildlife Trust would like you to capture this forgotten beauty in a photograph. There are four categories for you to express your creativity, ‘Living Meadows’ will show how people use and experience meadows. ‘Meadow Wildlife’ will capture the diversity of wildlife and meadow plants. Those with a creative eye can enter the ‘Artistic Vision’ category whereby the photographers can use more abstract approaches to illustrate hay meadows and their beauty. There is also a category just for junior entries (under 16’s) where they are invited to demonstrate any aspects from the other categories. All prize winners will feature in the 2015 Cumbria Wildlife Trust calendar, with the winner showcasing their photograph on the front of membership magazine ‘Cumbria Wildlife.’ The winner will also have their work published in ‘Cumbria Life’ magazine. Photographs will be exhibited at the Westmorland County Show; with camera equipment vouchers awarded to prize-winning pictures. First prize winners in each category will choose between two inspirational books:A Year in the life of an English Meadow by Andy Garnett and Polly Devlin, or The Meadow by Barney Wilczak. The closing date for all entries is: 1st September 2014. To submit your entry online and further terms and conditions please visit the link: http://www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/ haymeadowphotocompetition Entries can also be made by sending your photograph along with your name, address, and chosen entry category to: Claire Green, Meadow Life Photo Competition, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Plumgarths, Crook Road, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 8LX.
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Previous winner Andrew Walters won the wildlife habitats catergory with this photograph of a hover fly
Sample photograph of a butterfly on a bluebell flower.
The Wildlife Trusts Irish Sea Marine Conference
Looking below the sea surface to find the forgotten life underneath
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nspirational speakers spoke passionately about the ‘often overlooked’ and undervalued ‘Irish Sea’ as they gathered at the ‘The North West Wildlife Trusts Irish Sea Marine Conference last month. Due to the type of habitat in the Irish Sea we tend to have a lot of sediment in the water which often makes it appear murky and unwelcoming. But underneath there is a wealth of exciting wildlife, rarely seen and known about by many. Sir Martin Holdgate, Trustee for Cumbria Wildlife Trust and former Chief Environment Scientist to the UK Department of the Environment provided and inspiring address spoke about the challenges the Irish Sea has faced in the past and how we can now safeguard it for the future. The Irish Sea has the potential to be one of the most productive and wildlife rich places on earth however pollution, climate change, and bottom trawling fishing methods has meant only a proportion of the once abundant life now still exists. David Harpley, Conservation Manager at Cumbria Wildlife Trust provided an update on the ongoing process of designating Marine Conservation Zones in the Irish Sea. Laurence Browning of Natural England outlined Allonby Bay as a case study for inclusion as a marine conservation zone. Dr Tavis Potts, Marine Social Scientist and Karen Mitchell, Independent Communicator and Campaigner, both gave delegates ideas on how conservation can move away from “preaching to the already converted” to inspiring others into caring about wildlife and conservation, how it is possible to dispel common myths and inaccuracies using fresh ideas and approaches. Sally Smith from the Heritage Lottery Fund’s ‘Skills for the Future’ programme announced a new round of funding for the Trust’s very successful ‘Marine Graduate Training Scheme.’ Students were given a personal account from a trainee currently on the program. The conference took place at the Netherwood Hotel in Grangeover-Sands. The event was funded thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of Skills for the Future programme.
BAFTA winning Cameraman urges BBC to tackle climate issues head-on
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raised by Richard Attenborough as being “the best he has ever worked with,” Doug Allan has filmed a wealth of renowned nature documentaries such as Frozen Planet, Life, and Planet Earth. He began his career as a Marine Biologist but since realising that this career means very little time spent in actual living habitats and an awful lot in a laboratory he decided a cameraman would suit his interests more. What this has given him is the experience of witnessing the wild at first hand alongside the scientific knowledge to understand it. Frozen expanses appeal to Doug, after being a committed diver in the UK it became almost ‘second nature’ when he went out to the Antarctic and Arctic. He spoke at the recent ‘North West Wildlife Trusts Irish Sea Marine Conference’ in Grange-over-Sands where he expressed a desire for wiildlife documentaries to tackle conservation issues head-on. It was initially diving in the coastal waters surrounding the UK which first ignited Doug’s passion for marine life. Doug commented: “Inspiring the nation I do find that if you are in a position to film for these big series’ which bring wildlife into people’s homes then I would like to see the BBC do more to connect an environmental message to these programmes.” Documentaries tend not to tackle conservation issues because scientific data is constantly being reproduced and therefore if they were to add such information the documentary would quickly become out of date. Therefore such information is frequently put in a ten minute separate segment at the end. Which misses opportunities to inspire the public to do more about climate change and habitat loss. Doug said: “In other words not just making glossy programmes that don’t confront the issues but I prefer to show people the lovelieness and then give them a background to the challenges that are faced, and then something of the solution. Give it a bit more heart, so to speak, give it a bit more personality. Because that’s what we have to do.” All the seas are interconnected on our planet and therefore a change in one part of the world will often be felt in another, this is why sea conservation will always be so important. Doug’s book ‘Freeze Frame’ is available from Amazon and all good book stores, you can also download a sample for free from: http://dougallan.com
by: Martha Kane
by: Martha Kane r Cumbria Wildlife Magazine 13
How to make your garden into a wildlife and mini-beast haven by: Martha Kane
S
upporting our populations of wildlife is a good way of giving nature a helping hand whilst encouraging visitors who will enrich your garden and creating exciting nature watching opportunities. Bees pollinate a garden making the flowers more vibrant and pungent; they also encourage countless other creatures and critters. Being the most efficient pollinators in the world means without their busy work it could lead to disastrous consequences for our food growing industries. There has been a worrying decline in our bee populations during the last fifty years. Emma Scott from Knoxwood Wildlife Rescue Trust says a per-
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fect way to encourage bees and support other wildlife, in your garden is by creating a ‘wild corner.’ “Behind a potting shed, around the back of a greenhouse” by just keeping the area generally unkempt, by allowing the nettles to grow through and the moss to take hold, by scattering wildflower seeds it creates a little nature haven which helps to support our declining wildlife species. “It’s a really passive way, but makes a real difference, as unfortunately humans have encroached so much on their habitat, it is necessary to help them out.” Bird baths and water bowls left around the garden help to keep wildlife hydrated especially during the summer months and periods of dry weather. Feeding the birds and small mammals such as hedgehogs is also another positive step, as food can frequently be scarce. Little shelters, for bats, birds, hedgehogs and insects, placed in enticing areas can help increase their numbers, providing them with little places of safety and areas to nest.
Using pesticides and weed killers in gardens can have drastic consequences for wildlife populations. Slug pellets often result in dead hedgehogs, rat poison kills our owl populations and by spraying weed killer on a full flowering dandelion you can inadvertently harm bees and other pollinators. Do we really need our gardens and hedgerows looking perfectly kept and impeccably neat? Or would we all benefit from allowing that caterpillar to chomp through a few leaves, creating a tasty evening meal for our colonies of bats to nibble upon. By allowing nature to take hold we can support many other creatures along the food chain, resulting ultimately in benefit for ourselves.
TOP: Bee loving plants in a garden. UPPER RIGHT: Hedgehog eating food left out by gardener. RIGHT: Emma Scott from Knoxwood Wildlife Rescue Trust. FAR RIGHT: Bumble Bee
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Learning fantastic skills in a unique and inspiring setting When Lawrence Eagle was given the opportunity to become assistant warden at the Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s nature reserve on the island of Walney he jumped at the chance of experiencing the wild, first hand.
L
iving amongst a nature reserve on a remote island in the Irish Sea, could be seen as a lonely and isolating experience.
However Walney Island nature reserve offers a perfect opportunity to witness wildlife in its most rugged and natural state, attracting those who wish to learn more about conservation in a more intimate and abundant setting. With miles of unspoilt coastline and spectacular views of the Lakeland fells it provides a beautiful and unique habitat. The largest surviving British mammal, the grey seal, has made its home upon the island alongside the common seal, which also frequently basks along its shores. Rare sea birds nest along the sands and the noisy but distinctive natterjack toad also inhabits this wildlife rich haven. The wildlife reserve was recently cut off completely in the worst winter storms to hit us in living memory. Remodelling the island and unearthing evidence of extinct species, it created mountains of work for the volunteers and wardens who help keep the reserve habitable for its countless residents. The Cumbria Wildlife Trust created a new placement scheme for an assistant warden, aimed at graduates and students, giving them unique experiences and valuable skills which will hopefully inspire life long careers in conservation. The assistant warden currently spends much of their time maintaining habitats, monitoring colonies of sea birds and showing visitors around the reserve. It has been a fantastic opportunity for those who would like to have a more hands on approach to conservation. The role requires the volunteer to live on the island, giving an idea of what life is really like in a nature reserve.
Lawrence at the Irish Sea Marine Conference Lawrence Eagle currently holds the position; he describes the opportunity as being “a really, really good experience.” Adding: “I have really learned a lot, enabling me to improve on my bird observation skills and exposing me to what it’s really like to be involved in active conservation.” His favourite part of the project to date has been the setting up of an electric fence, protecting ground nesting gulls from their relentless predators. Joe Murphy, Senior Reserves Officer, believes that the scheme has been an overwhelming success. He said: “The trust gets an extra person and the volunteer gains valuable on the job experience, which is really what employers look for.” “The reserve relies very heavily on volunteers and to have an extra pair of hands has been absolutely great.” This is the first time that the Cumbria Wildlife Trust has carried out a live-in warden placement scheme on Walney and following its success they are hoping to open up the scheme to further students. In September Laurence will be moving on to study for a Master’s degree in conservation at the University College London which will open up the position to further applications after the summer. If you would be interesting in this unique work experience opportunity please visit: http://www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/ for further information, later in the year.
by: Martha Kane
LEFT: Grey seal pup. One of the last remaining areas in the British isles where grey seals can still be found. LOWER LEFT: The distinctive common eider duck. A large sea duck which breeds at Walney island. LOWER RIGHT: Barn owls are seen all year round at South Walney nature reserve. BOTTOM: Walney island lighthouse.
Images licensed by Getty images at istockphoto.com
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Persecution
By Andrew Dent
Nature enthusiast and Wildlife and Media student, Andrew Dent took a walk through Whinfell forest in early 2013. He was upset to find a trap where three buzzards had been captured. He now feels even more strongly that we should be protecting our wildlife not persecuting against it.
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s the sun rises the habits of the crepuscular wildlife begin to show,. The rays bounce within the woods allowing an act of beauty to penetrate the darkness of the night before, the ferns and bracken enriched by different shades of green, a new day is getting older by the second.
A vixen emerges from her den, cautiously smelling, ensuring the air is clean from the scent of danger, the scent of man. She lives in a world where no one takes her side, witnesses her views or contemplates the plight which has had her species try in vain to adjust their natural ways to keep up with man’s ever present need to expand and destroy. As she scavenges from scraps and feeding on fowl, fowl introduced to the isle as a means of sport, she confidently places all four paws on ground and begins going about her daily mission to source food. Her red fur bounces through the grass with her agility. Confident; the artful poacher is forever alert, as she knows too well that around any corner there could be lethal danger. As she continues her hunt, the skies become brighter, the forest is alive with noises, and birds broadcast their chorus telling the world of their presence. On the outskirts of the forest the meadows are radiant with wild and sun flowers; high up in the air, another cautious animal appears. The buzzard circles the open arable ground below. Scouring the land, scavenging the carrion of an animal who has lost its battle of survival. With its wings at full stretch, and the prominent fingertips showing along its feathers, it dominates the sky. It’s mewing echoes through the forest, but just like the fox, the buzzard is not appreciated within the countryside, and is often persecuted by man, to protect his stock. As the day comes to an end, the sun begins to set and the crepuscular habits of wildlife begin again. The deer emerge from deep within the woods, the sun setting allows for another animal to begin its venture from their underground lair. Bold and often thought of as fierce, a snout mirrors the actions of the vixen, smelling the air for safety, once confident, its course black and white coat sets off from the sett, with one thing on is mind, food. The badger’s long claws dig and scratch the surface of the fields, giving a prominent excuse for man to eradicate them, for destruction to their land is unforgivable to the crops that he strives to grow. A screech is heard and the ghostly white emerges from the sky, hunting in the ‘safety’ of the night, the barn owl searches for food. Everything begins to darken, darker than the night-time skies, persecution has took them all. The common buzzard lies alive at the bottom of a trap struggling for life, for no one knows how long she has had to suffer inside. The deep truth within her eyes; does she want to be set free? Or does she long to be free from a world which can no longer administer such suffering. The vixen is dead. Trapped in a snare; her death sentence is final with a gunshot to the head. The vixen’s mouth is exposed and fur stained with her own blood. As the owl hunts through the night, her silent flight allows success after success with the capture of her prey, but little does she know, the prey is a pest, not to nature but to man. As she feasts upon her food, she is unknowingly dying from the poison used to eradicate her prey to help against the invasion of pests in human crops. She writhes in agony but fights for survival for she must provide for her offspring who are now facing the same cruel fate.
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ABOVE: Poisoned Owl LEFT: Fox killed for attacking game. BELOW: Buzzard with legs tied
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A walk around Talkin tarn with katie halsall On a cold wintery day Katie Halsall decided to go on a walk around Talkin Tarn in Brampton, with just herself and her camera. Catching the train from a bustling Carlisle city centre she found herself suddenly alone, with only the wildlife to keep her company.
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tepping onto the platform, I wait for the train to move on, I then stand still. All that can be heard is the rustle of trees and the call of birds. Brampton Station is quiet and often deserted. I walk up the long, winding road, which runs almost parallel to the tracks, only having to stop once for a car to pass. I was making my way to Talkin Tarn, a last minute decision of the day. It was a cold. A crisp day and I could hear lots of birds calling and flitting between the hedges as I walked by. A Robin popped out to say ‘hello,’ watching me before disappearing again into the hedge. To get to Talkin Tarn, you have to walk through a field, which often has grazing animals on it. This morning it had cows. A cow spotted me walking by, and instead of wandering in the other direction, it carried on moving towards me. It was a little unsettling, being so close to a huge cow with it eyeing me as I walked past. I went through the gate quite quickly after that! Once within the Talkin Tarn boundaries, the atmosphere felt really strange. It was quiet, with just the occasional bird call, and it felt like the birds were watching and waiting for something to happen. I had been sitting there for a while when I heard the fluttering of wings on my left side. It sounded like it was really close, and I slowly turned my head to see a Robin sitting on the fence around half a metre away from me. I slowly lifted my camera, and it just stood watching me. It was almost too close for my lens to focus. I managed to snap a few photos before it flew away again though it did return for a second time! It was quite happy to sit and watch me, watching the other birds.
KATIE HALSALL
This nuthatch takes advantage of a busy bird feeder. 20
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An inquisative robin catching a closer look and to 'say hello.'
A fidgety blue tit watching out for predators. r Cumbria Wildlife Magazine 21
An Interview with:
Dominic Boulding
A Wildlife and Media student at the University of Cumbria, he recently won a prestigious photography award from RSPB Scotland. He spoke to Martha Kane about his passion for photography and his ambitions for the future.
D
ominic’s passion for wildlife photography began when
away from everything and just be on your own waiting for an
as a teenager his grandfather introduced him to bird
animal or bird to show you the inside of its world as it were. It
watching. Later on in his teenage years he developed
feels like a pure time for you.”
an interest in photography. When he combined the two it ignited His favourite types of animals to photograph are woodland more than just a hobby but hopefully a lifelong career.
birds. As he feels they are frequently overlooked in favour of what many perceive to be the more impressive predators. But
He is currently coming to the end of a three year degree in Wild-
one of his favourite activities is just sitting in a garden watching
life and Media Studies at the University of Cumbria. A setting
the array of visiting birds flock to a feeder. Walking through
that at first wasn’t his first choice but Cumbria’s rugged and vastly Carlisle’s parks he listens for bird song, excitedly he admits to contrasting landscapes have opened up endless opportunities for
hearing a chiffchaff there just yesterday.
him to develop his skill. He said:
“Having come up here it’s ideal; the lakes aren’t far away, Scotland isn’t far away either and you have the Solway.”
Nuthatches are notoriously difficult to spot, descending trees upside down and looking very mouse like they are a favourite of Dominic’s, who spends long periods of time watching out for wildlife in pursuit of the perfect shot. What this type of photographer needs in droves is perseverance
Dominic makes the most of any time he spends outside, looking for wildlife on his daily trek through Carlisle’s city parks he has found a surprising number of wild birds and animals. In particular, he especially enjoys the serene and relaxing nature of wildlife photography, revealing that: “It’s kind of nice to get
and patience. He admits:
“you can be sitting there for three days, slowly getting demotivated that no animals will come and see you. It’s just beating that.”
Dominic Boulding ©
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Not only this but exposure to the elements is frequently an issue, in his recent expedition to the Cairngorms in Scotland he found himself to be to unsuitably prepared due to the depth of snow meaning they had to take a train rather than walk, resulting in missing out of much of the wildlife.
“Sometimes it is weather restrictions that get in your way, just like when it’s raining, you could go out but the lighting is going to be pretty horrible.” His favourite photograph to date is one he took from the heart of a Thailand jungle, where there was “no real light pollution” as he looked up there were countless stars, much brighter than what he is used to, which he admits was “pretty amazing.” He took thirty second exposures on a constant timer and then stitched the photographs together which gave him am effect of trails of light, “as the stars move whereas everything else stays still which looks quite cool.” Dominic hopes the next few years will see him doing more of what he loves, travelling and taking photographs. He hopes to build an impressive portfolio in the hope it will help him secure a rewarding career in the vocation he is so passionate about, admitting:
“...as long as I’m still taking photographs in ten years, I will be happy.” Dominic Boulding ©
LEFT: Ptarmigan watching in
the Cairngorms TOP RIGHT: Dominic and his beloved camera. MIDDLE RIGHT: A spring duckling captured by Dominic. RIGHT: A Snowy crowned robin-chat captured during one of Dominic’s many photography expeditions. Dominic Boulding ©
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WHATS ON IN CUMBRIA
Thank you for reading Cumbria Wildlife Magazine
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Cover Photograph by Dominic Boulding Design by Martha Kane Edited by Martha Kane Produced by Martha Kane