oebuck R
The Wildlife Trust Magazine for Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland
Issue 145 July - November 2018
Awards roll in
Hauxley scoops RICS Award
Kielder
A wonderful place for everybody
Red squirrels
Conservation work continues plus news from around the UK
HandleBards
Cycling back to Northumberlandia
Volfest 2018
Celebrating our volunteers
Our Wildlife Family festival returns
Contents The ‘Bards’ are back
4
Your data protected
4
We all went ‘Wild at Kielder’
5
Redesdale revitalisation begins
5
Hauxley’s fabulous award
6
Our Wildlife returns
7
Annual performance summary
Duncann hutt
Local news
8-9
Funding Hearts and minds receive cash boost
10
Legacy from Trust Life Memeber
11
6
Hauxley scoops award
Corporates 12
Holiday offer from Verdant Leisure
13
Cottages in northumberland
New corporate member joins Trust
Reserves & volunteers Celebrating our volunteers
14
So much to see and do at Hauxley
15
Conservation Kielder - a wonderful living landscape
16-17
Common creature conundrums
18-19 20
Reds on report
21
15
New corporate member
BBC Countryfile at H neil denham
Gems of the region
13
UK news The campaigning begins
22-23
The birders’ Glastonbury
24
Go wild for worms this year
25
Britain’s waterworld
26-29
Stay wild this summer
30-31
BBC’s correspondent goes wild
32-33
Top places for ocean giants
34-35
Patrons: Conrad Dickinson, Bill Oddie & Chris Packham President: Chris Mullin Vice Presidents: Charles Baker-Cresswell & Angus Lunn Vice President & Founder: Tony Tynan Chairperson: Sandra King Vice Chairmen: Ian Armstrong & Graham Gill Honorary Secretary: Nigel Porter Acting Treasurer: Derek Coates
16-17
Spectacular Kielder
26-29 Fancy a paddle?
Chief Executive: Mike Pratt Head of Living Landscapes and Conservation: Duncan Hutt Director of Finace and Central Services: Helen Twelves Head of Marketing and Fundraising: Sheila Sharp EcoNorth Managing Director: Vicki Mordue
Find us on: NorthumberlandWT @NorthWildlife NorthWildlife
Chief Executive’s comments
richard clark
basil yardley
Time to act for nature
11
Life member legacy Tim mason
Hauxley
Tel: (0191) 284 6884 Fax: (0191) 284 6794 Web: nwt.org.uk
Registered Charity No: 221819 Registered Company No: 717813 Registered in England & Wales VAT No: 556 103264 Roebuck Editor: Fiona Dryden Roebuck Designer: Richard Clark Thank you to all contributors. online version available
Northumberland Wildlife Trust is a member of the largest voluntary organisation in the UK concerned with all aspects of wildlife protection - The Wildlife Trusts. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the Trust or the Editor. Whilst every effort is taken to check accuracy of the information contained herein, no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions. The contents are Copyright. Front cover photo: © John Faulkner All other photos © NWT unless otherwise stated
Roebuck is printed on
www.t2landscapes.co.uk
Northumberland Wildlife Trust Ltd Garden House, St Nicholas Park, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne. NE3 3XT
As I write this, we banging home since we set out in 1962. have just received But this is a unique opportunity; the news that Hauxley ‘Time really is Now’ to act for wildlife. Wildlife Discovery Mrs Sonia Yardley, who joined our Trust Centre has won its that year with her husband Basil, came fourth major award. to see me recently to bequeath a legacy In addition to the from him. She recalled how concerned Royal Institute of they were then for the environment and Chartered Surveyor’s how concerned she remains to this day award mentioned in this Roebuck, we with all the uncertainties such as global have won three additional regional warming, economic and socio-political awards from the Royal Institute of British change and the pressures on land Architects for this amazing building. and sea, from plastics pollution to the Of course it’s so much more than a slackening of planning laws. building and the judges are picking up Standing up for nature is clearly a on the X-factor built into the Hauxley lifetime, indeed a multi-generational, project, which is the passion and love commitment. People like Sonia and Basil for what we do, that came from the Yardley, and also young people today, volunteers, staff and professionals who like our blogger, James Common, are created it. Their enthusiasm for nature inspiring. We need all generations to act and for sharing it with the wider public is together for the wildlife-rich world we what you sense and feel whenever you need for the future. That is what Hauxley visit. is about and everything we do with you. We have made something which The biggest reward for us all will frames nature in a unique way. In many be success in securing and rebuilding ways, it symbolises what NWT is about - biodiversity over the next 50 years and reconnecting people with nature. It is not that work needs a boost right now with all about celebration, however; our cause your support! and mission is getting more serious by the day. A letter from Chair Sandra King and myself , enclosed in this Roebuck, is expressly asking for your help to create a loud voice to protect nature as we enter a once in a lifetime period. We need to make the Government sit up and take notice in the next few months Mike Pratt as we see critical policies for protection Chief Executive of our seas and landscapes, species and Northumberland Wildlife Trust habitats rolled out for a post-Brexit future. We need to ensure this is done well, so we end up with a greener UK into the future. Nature is under pressure as never before which means we all need to act together in its cause. Sounds Tony Lewis (Contracts Manager, Brightblue Studio), Marianne Wilde (Company Secretary, Brightblue Studio), familiar? Yes, Mike Pratt (Chief Executive, Northumberland Wildlife Trust) indeed, it is the and Henry Amos (Director, Brightblue Studio) same message we have been
Local news
The ‘Bards’ are back in town
For the third year running, The HandleBards, the world’s first bicyclepowered Shakespearean actors will be heading back to Northumberlandia to woo the region’s lovers of the Bard of Avon with their extremely energetic performance of Twelfth Night. The four-strong, all male troupe of actors who pedal from venue to venue with the set, props and costumes on their bicycles, specialise in open-air theatre across the globe whatever the weather. In 2017 the female troupe performed ‘As You Like It’ with the male troupe performing ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ in 2016. There is drunkenness, frivolity and cross-dressing aplenty… rather like a 17th century version of a modern day soap opera.
The handlebards
Tuesday 14 August 6:30pm - 9:30pm (includes interval) Gates open at 5:00pm. £15 per person. Under 12’s free. Book now: nwt.org.uk/handlebards
Au revoir, not goodbye
Data protection: our promise to you
Jane Speak, Head of Business Management has retired from the Trust after 29 years’ service. A French graduate from Newcastle University, Jane joined as Office Manager with responsibility for the Trust database and office administration, before becoming Business Manager almost 15 years ago. Over the years Jane has seen the Trust evolve from being run by volunteers to a professionally managed organisation with fantastic volunteer support and throughout her working career, she has always held on to the ethos that you should never ask anyone to do something you are not prepared to do yourself. She will be much missed, but we wish her well.
The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is the most important change in data privacy regulation in 20 years. Digital technology has transformed almost every aspect of our lives and this Regulation makes our data protection laws fit for the digital age in which an ever increasing amount of data is being processed and empowers people to take control of their data. The GDPR has direct effect across all EU member states and it became enforceable on 25 May 2018. However, the GDPR gives member states limited opportunities to make provisions for how it applies in their own country and it therefore sits alongside the new Data Protection Act 2018, which ensures that the UK is prepared for the future, especially after we leave the EU. We think treating people fairly, respectfully and transparently is not just a legal requirement, it’s how it should be. We have reviewed all our data policies and have a new privacy statement available on the website nwt.org.uk/policies. This tells you exactly what information we collect, why, what we do with it, the legal basis and your rights. We will never sell your personal information or share it with anyone without your consent. We like to keep in touch with you but if you want to change the way we do this, you can do so at any time - just let us know and we will do it. We want you to feel comfortable and confident with us. So, things are changing to bring everything up to date, but you are in control.
4 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
Everybody went lynette friend
Partners at Kielder Water & Forest Park are delighted with the success of their second Wild at Kielder Festival which took place over the first bank holiday in May. The festival was aimed at encouraging everybody to experience at first hand the wonders of the area and, in total, over 1500 people took part in 40 wildlife related activities and events across Kielder. As per last year, the Gruffalo was hugely popular and it was uplifting to see so many visitors enjoying not only the glorious weather but enthralled in Osprey Watch, which continues until mid-August. The Wild at Kielder Festival is part of the Living Wild at Kielder project, which has been made possible thanks to support from National Lottery players through the Heritage Lottery Fund.
nick lightfoot
L-R: Jennifer Care, Maria Hardy, Karen Collins and Nick Lightfoot
The revitalising of Redesdale has begun The new ÂŁ2.8m Landscape Partnership scheme has begun in Redesdale, the project team is now in place and a range of exciting projects is underway. Already, intrepid early-risers have learnt about local wildlife on a dawn chorus walk, plans for new wildflower meadows are afoot and students from Newcastle University are developing designs for a unique new sheltersculpture on the Kielder Forest Drive. The five-year scheme will see the restoration of important wildlife habitats, including the River Rede itself, archaeological investigations,
conservation of historic monuments, improvements to public rights of way and a programme of fun and educational community events. There will be many great opportunities to get actively involved, from practical conservation work and wildlife recording to researching historical records and taking part in archaeological excavations. To find out more about how you can be part of this wonderful project visit nwt.org.uk/volunteer. Check out the project’s progress and details of upcoming events via its social media outlets and website.
revitalisingredesdale.org.uk RevitalisingRedesdale @OurRedesdale @RevitalisingRededsdale
July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 5
Local news
Hauxley building honoured with prestigious award Back row L-R: Volunteers Roland Watson, Christine Hall, Conrad Chilvers and Geoff Garrett. Front row L-R: Volunteer John Hancill and NWT Druridge Bay Estates Officer Anthony Johnston
duncan hutt
The Trust’s new Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre has secured first prize in the Community Category of the annual Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) 2018 Awards, North East. The Awards saw over 55 of the North East’s most impressive and community beneficial buildings battling it out for top honours. The panel of RICS judges felt that the facility, built on a site of a former open cast mine on Druridge Bay, is an exceptional asset to the region and praised the project team, architects Brightblue Studio, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Chartered Surveyor Andy Laurie and Structual Engineer Spike Milliken for creating what is arguably one of the North East’s greenest buildings, which people of all ages can enjoy. Beating off very stiff competition, the Award is a fabulous acknowledgement of the hard work that went into project from all those involved, but especially the dedicated team of building volunteers who clocked up over 26,000 hours on the project, and who helped make our dream a reality. The Award also recognises the wonderful financial support the project received from National Lottery Players through the Heritage Lottery Fund, charitable trusts, legacies, corporate supporters, local companies and public donations.
Conservation grazers head to Longhorsley
stephen comber
Flexigraze flock
F lex ig ra z e 6 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
simon greener
Next time you are passing Longhorsley Moor, keep your eyes peeled for the Flexigraze sheep and ponies. For the foreseeable future, four Exmoor ponies from the Moorland Mousie Trust and 26 soay sheep will be grazing on the land as part of a programme to supplement the culling of the birch scrub on the site. This latest venture is part of a long relationship between Longhorsley Parish Council and the Flexigraze conservation grazing scheme. There are approximately 25 hectares of lowland heathland in Northumberland, which represents less than 0.05% of the UK total. The only extensive example of this habitat in the county is found at Longhorsley Moor, hence the need for conservation grazing rather than traditional methods of birch control.
Wild day out for Gibside pupils A group of pupils from Gibside School in Whickham headed to our Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre as part of their community visit to find out more about different types of wildlife in support of their current geography topic. It was a long drive but well worth the journey as the lucky nine had a wonderful time spotting the different birds visiting the reserve through binoculars and testing out the fabulous play area, which was installed thanks to funding from the Tesco’s Bags of Help campaign and heavily supported by Tesco shoppers in Amble. The morning ended with refreshments in the Lookout Café and the opportunity to watch the antics of the visiting geese on the reserve’s main lake. We would love to welcome more school groups to the Wildlife Discovery Centre, so if you are interested, or know of a school that would be, please call the Hauxley team on (01665) 568 324 to discuss.
A festival of wildlife themed activities for all the family!
Our Wildlife Sunday 16 September, 10am - 4pm
FREE ENTRY
Northumberlandia, NE23 8AU
SAVE THE DATE!
Steven Morris
Steven Morris
christine o’neil
simon greener
tim mason
christine o’neil
Bird box making | Mindfulness sessions | Minibeast hunt Boot camp session | Guided walks | Landscape trail Tai chi workshop | Landform interpreter | Raffle & tombola and more... (Activities indivdually priced)
Annual Performance “An environment rich in wildlife which contributes to the health and wellbeing of society” The Trust is on a mission to save wildlife and wild places in the North East in two key ways; first, by working in partnership with landowners and communities to create Living Landscapes - these are large-scale areas which are better managed and more joined up, where wildlife can move freely and thrive; and second, by changing attitudes, ensuring the environment is at the forefront of decision-making. We currently have three Living Landscape areas where we focus most of our conservation project work: Druridge Bay, Kielder and City to Coast. We are committed to educating and inspiring people about nature using our visitor centres, events programmes, campaigns and information platforms. The main achievements in 2017/18 were: Getting Closer to Nature at Hauxley
Protecting Red Squirrels • Delivered the national Red Squirrels United project in the North East with 2 full-time rangers to maintain red squirrel strongholds in Kielder, Uswayford and Kidland Forests. • RSNE conducted the 6th annual monitoring programme, with 294 surveys completed in spring 2017, across five counties. With 150 people involved, 87% of surveys were delivered by volunteers. Results show that red squirrel range had been maintained, with red squirrels in 45% of sites, and grey squirrels in 43%.
• Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre opened with its circular walk, accessible paths, 6 hides, dedicated educational space and café with a view. • Volunteers spent 26,000 hours on the building, a lifetime achievement. • 65,500 visitors enjoyed nature to March 2018. • Award-winning 2018: Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors North East, Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, Royal Institute of British Architects North East . john faulkner
tim mason
Art and Nature at Northumberlandia
christine o’neil
paul pickett, forestry commission
aurelie bohan
• Added natural play features and interpretation to bring an extra dimension to this human landform sculpture park. • 87,000 visitors experienced nature. • Award-winning: Northumberland Tourism’s Best Family Day Out 2017. • Secured an Arts Council grant for an artist in residence and art/nature activities.
Coast Care Volunteering • Year 1 of a volunteering project with the Northumberland AONB and Seahouses Development Trust to improve the natural and cultural heritage from Amble to Berwick. • 213 volunteers recruited and over 2300 hours contributed to beach cleans, practical conservation, repairs/ maintenance and site wardening. • Young Rangers progamme (13-17s) started, based at Seahouses. Coast Care northumberland
Promoting Wildlife at Kielder
Landscape-scale Improvement
• Ospreys reached the 50th fledged chick milestone; Osprey Watch, run by volunteers, had 7,147 visitors. • Wild at Kielder 2017 attracted 1,500 visitors participating in 30 wildlife activities across 8 sites at the two-day festival. • Improvements to Bakethin nature reserve were completed, including the Welcome Point and Hide, designed and constructed by students from Newcastle University, with help from NWT staff and volunteers.
• Secured funding and started the new 5-year Wildwood project at Kielder to recreate native upland woodland; 26 volunteers assisted with surveys, restoration and planting. • Managed over 60 nature reserves, with major restoration work at Whitelee. • Secured funding for Revitalising Redesdale, a 5-year landscape partnership to restore and celebrate the natural and archaeological/historic heritage of this area. geoff dobbins
Creating Living Seas
Re-introducing Water Voles
• Responded to the consultation which designated the Northumberland Marine Special Protection Area, an important site that supports 200,000 seabirds. • Ran 27 events, inspiring over 1,000 people. • Successfully ran a marine summer school at the Dove Marine Laboratory for Newcastle University for the third year.
• 580 water voles were released in June and August 2017 at Kielder. • Surveys show that water voles survived winter and are beginning to spread through Kielder Water & Forest Park. • The project featured on BBC’s Countryfile, highlighting partnership working with NWT, Forestry Commission and Tyne Rivers Trust.
tom marshall
Summary 2017/18 In Our Care
60+ 3 2 6
Inspiring People
Nature Reserves managed = 3,800 ha
183,000
“Living Landscape” project areas;
116
Visitor Centres: Hauxley Wildlife
156
Free for everyone to enjoy
Visitors to reserves
Druridge Bay, Kielder and City to Coast (Newcastle and North Tyneside)
NWT events run
Discovery Centre and Northumberlandia (managed with the Land Trust)
Fairs and shows attended
Marine Conservation Zones
Unique visitors to NWT website
91,000
4,990
Involvement in: reviewing planning applications (including
Volunteers
Supporters 42 fte
600
21.6
600
13
34,800
over 35%
Volunteers
1,041
We included squirrel volunteers and the new volunteering project ‘Coast Care’ in 2017/18
11,000
Members
3,850
Likes/Followers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Highthorn and St Mary’s Lighthouse) and policy change with City Parks and North East England Nature Partnership
Staff (excluding EcoNorth)
Volunteers
Trustees
Volunteer hours
FTE
of the total ‘workforce’
Income
Expenditure
Total Income (April 2017 - March 2018) - £2,575,955
Total Expenditure (April 2017 - March 2018) - £2,619,308
£2.6m
£2.6m
Subsidiary trading
£749,395
29%
Charitable activities
Grants
£630,838
24%
Subsidiary trading costs
£351,105
14%
Donations
£317,118
Legacies
£1,805,139
69%
£651,749
25%
Cost of raising funds
£89,188
3%
12%
Cost of café and shop sales
£43,777
2%
£187,445
7%
Trading support costs
£32,033
1%
Charitable activities
£169,088
7%
Deferred tax
- £2,578
<-1%
Café and shop trading
£120,144
5%
Sponsorship
£47,568
2%
£3,254
<1%
Membership
Other
Thank you! To all our funders and in particular players of the National Lottery and People’s Postcode Lottery, plus Northumberland Wildlife Trust members!
Supported by players of
Funding
Cash will boost hearts and minds in the region change, marine and coastal habitats, bird identification, sustainable living and nature in everyday life will develop the children’s knowledge and skills that link to the national curriculum, but equally as important, they will help shape their attitudes for the future on the importance of making nature part of their lives. In addition, specific support from the Wellesley Trust Fund will enable us to develop, deliver and measure the project’s outcomes as well as
The Wellesley Trust Fund is all about making a difference to the lives of young people and this grant will enable a huge number of children, who may for various reasons be unlikely to visit Hauxley, to do so. Jon Goodwin Senior Philanthropy Advisor Community Foundation Using the funding, we will develop and pilot a new hands-on environmental learning programme at our Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre for 300 children aged between 8 - 12 years of age. The Wild Heart & Minds project will bring nature to life for the children, many of whom will be from urban schools. It will run from autumn 2018 - summer 2019. Five educational workshops focussing on: landscapes and climate
providing coaching for schools to help them find funding to add these special workshops to their activity plans. Research by Natural England suggests that only one in five children play outside compared to seven out of ten from their parents’ generation with sedentary and ’virtual’ lifestyles becoming increasingly linked to ill-health including obesity, stress and diabetes.
The Restoring Ratty Crowdfunder raised £1,117. This will enable project staff and volunteers to place approximately 500 voles into over 100 release pens in the remote parts of Kielder
Woodland Wonders Appeal Funding appeal photo: Our Woodland Wonders appeal has so for recieved £5,325. This will allow teams of volunteers to continue with the creation of the Kielderhead Wildwood, improving young woodlands at East Chevington with the removal of a number of trees to allow light into the woodland floor and the planting of 1,000 native broadleaves. Northumberlandia will also benefit from the appeal funding with the replanting of native shrubs and trees. There is still time to donate at nwt.org.uk/ woodlandwonders.
£424 was raised from the Waitrose Green Tokens scheme.
£310 was raised via the Naked Wines member voucher offer.
Riverside Leisure Park (Wooler) donated £307 from its customer booking scheme. All monies will be spent on vital conservation work around the region.
10 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
The Trust’s new project aimed at getting young people along to nature reserves received a major cash boost in April from two charitable trusts in the region. Now, thanks to £5,000 from the Sir James Knott Trust and £10,000 from the Wellesley Trust Fund at the Community Foundation, our dream to pilot an education programme for local and regional first and middle schools is now set to become a reality.
Funding updates
Very generous cash boost from local wildlife group The Trust’s Hauxley reserve has received a spring surprise from the Ponteland Wildlife Group. A very generous £500 has been donated towards the renovation of the Ponteland Hide. The original Ponteland Hide was supported by a donation from the Ponteland Group many years ago and was due a renovation, so when plans to do this its members decided they would like to maintain the link, and contribute financially towards the work. The money raised came from the donations made by those attending group meetings and walks. Meeting on average once a month, the Group has been in existence for 44 years, has a mailing list of over 100 supporters, and usual attendance at its meetings are between 40-50. Anybody interested in joining the group can find out more details by visiting: pontelandwildlife.wixsite.com/ pontelandwildlife or calling Chris Wright on: 01661 822 210.
Alex Lister (left) Northumberland Wildlife Trust Druridge Bay Living Landscapes Manager with Chris Wright, Ponteland Wildlife Group
basil yardley
A lifetime of support and a legacy for the future
Lifetime supporter, Basil Yardley’s garden
The Trust is delighted to have been named as a beneficiary in a legacy from one of its first members. Basil Yardley, who was born in 1924 and passed away in 2017, has bequeathed in excess of £180,000 to support our work. Basil joined the Northumberland and Durham Naturalists’ Trust when it was formed in 1962 and went on to become a lifetime supporter of Northumberland Wildlife Trust following its launch in 1972. As early as the 1960s he was concerned about the loss of habitat, the need for legal protection for wildlife and the need to recycle. A keen wildlife gardener in the days before people realised the need to use peat free compost and plant flowers to attract bees and butterflies, he is a wonderful inspiration to our young people of today. We are truly humbled that, after a lifetime of support, he has made such a wonderful donation to our work which will ensure that future generations will marvel at the wildlife gems this region has to offer. July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 11
Corporates
New corporate member joins the Trust Exciting news! The Trust is delighted to welcome a new bronze category corporate supporter. Offering over 200 holiday cottages and serviced apartments across Northumberland and beyond, Cottages in Northumberland is an established cottage holiday provider with a passion for the area and the amazing sights and
experiences it has to offer. The company offers a wide choice of places to stay, including countryside retreats and coastal cottages, as well city apartments in lively Newcastle. Northumberland is unrivalled in the UK when it comes to natural landscapes and, by supporting the work of the Trust, Cottages in Northumberland hopes to
both protect and celebrate our region’s natural landscapes and the wildlife with thrives in it. By becoming a corporate member, the company will be greatly supporting the work we undertake on our much-loved wildlife reserves, to ensure they continue to be enjoyed by both wildlife and visitors alike.
cottages in northumberland
What a great way to start the summer season than with the news that ‘Cottages in Northumberland’ has joined our family of corporate supporters. The staff are just as passionate about Northumberland as we are, so I am sure this will be a wonderful partnership. cottagesinnorthumberland.co.uk
Mike Pratt, Chief Executive, Northumberland Wildlife Trust
CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP - We offer three levels of corporate membership which are designed to enhance your Corporate Social Responsibility commitments, provide year-round benefits to your business and support your staff development, PR and marketing strategies. You choose the level that you feel reflects your company’s commitment to the local environment. To find out more about becoming a corporate member contact our Marketing Office on (0191) 284 6884 or via email to elizabeth.lovatt@northwt.org.uk.
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Albion Outdoors albionoutdoors.co.uk
Howick Hall Gardens howickhallgardens.org
Elanders Ltd elanders.com
Esh Group esh.uk.com
Bell Ingram bellingram.co.uk
Northern Experience Wildlife Tours northernexperiencewildlifetours. co.uk
Harlow Printing Ltd harlowprinting.co.uk
Mears Ltd mearsgroup.co.uk
Karpet Mills karpetmills.co.uk
Nestlé Confectionery Ltd nestle.co.uk Northumbrian Water Ltd nwl.co.uk
Berwick Holiday Park haven.com/parks/ northumberland/berwick
Northumberland County Council northumberland.gov.uk
Blyth Harbour Commission portofblyth.co.uk
Ord House Country Park ordhouse.co.uk
North East Chamber of Commerce ne-cc.com
Cottages in Northumberland cottagesinnorthumberland.co.uk
Poltross Enterprises poltross.com
Potts Printers Ltd potts.co.uk
Geoffrey Lurie Solicitors geoffreylurie.com
Sykes Cottages sykescottages.co.uk
Riverside Leisure riverside-leisure.co.uk
Gustharts gusthart.com
Verdant Leisure verdantleisure.co.uk/riverside
Harrison Leisure UK Ltd percywood.co.uk
Wardell Armstrong wardell-armstrong.com
holidaycottages.co.uk holidaycottages.co.uk
12 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
Tarmac tarmac.com The Banks Group hjbanks.com Thermofisher Scientific thermofisher.com
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Reserves & volunteers
VOLUNTEERS
coast care needs you! Volunteering with us is fun, social and makes a difference. There are currently a number of roles available with the Coast Care project:-
Community Events Assistant Flexible location Organising the many strands of the project and helping with its administration
In April, the Trust celebrated the efforts of our hardworking volunteers at the 2018 Volfest. As a volunteer organisation, we rely heavily on the invaluable efforts of our volunteers without whom our work would be 100% harder. The annual Volfest is Chief Executive Mike Pratt’s opportunity to lead the Trust in our thanks for all their hard work. susan wilson
Historic Environment Monitor Flexible location Looking after the amazing heritage of the coast
Players of People’s Postcode Lottery help volunteers celebrate
Photographer Flexible location Photographing people, wildlife, landscapes and species across the project Visitor Centre Assistants Flexible location - every Tuesday From clearing invasive species to working around the Seahouses Volunteer Centre
To find out more or to apply please visit:
www.coast-care.co.uk/volunteer-roles Telephone: Gary Campbell, Coast Care Project Co-ordinator 07813-563047 Email: gary@coast-care.co.uk
Volunteer Mary Lee and Mike Pratt, NWT Chief Executive
Over 100 volunteers who had clocked up 70+ volunteering hours during 2017 each received an honorary membership courtesy of the players of People’s Postcode Lottery and, as a special thank you, the efforts two volunteers were specifically recognised with an additional award. Mary Lee and Christine Hall have volunteered for the Trust for 13 and 6 years respectively. Christine helped to build the Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre and volunteers in its brand new Lookout Café as well as undertaking practical conservation work across our 60 reserves. Mary, who also volunteers in the Lookout Café two days a week, helps with the Hauxley bird counts, undertakes general estates tasks and has been a reserve warden at the Weetslade Country Park for over 10 years. Supported by players of
14 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
Image: john faulkner
Hauxley reserve featured on BBC Countryfile
tim mason
The Trust’s Hauxley reserve made an appearance on BBC Countryfile on Sunday 6 May, as part of the programme’s episode on Northumberland. Presenter, Steve Brown took in the wildlife on the reserve with volunteer warden Tim Mason and talked about the accessibility of the reserve and the Roseate terns, which pop across from nearby Coquet Island. The pièce de résistance was the appearance in the car park of one of the site’s very charismatic resident red squirrels. Staff and volunteers at the Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre have already seen an increase in the number of visitors and have a feeling visitor numbers will continue to rise now summer is here.
Workshops
Access most areas
Co-op support
Did you know The Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre has a programme of adult learning workshops which run throughout the year? Courses include subjects such as introductions to birds and birdsong, bat, newt and moth identification, photography and crafts. For the full range of sessions on offer visit nwt.org.uk/whats-on or pick up a leaflet at Hauxley. Remember places are limited, so booking is essential.
Limited mobility should not mean missing nature. The new award-winning visitor centre at Hauxley is fully accessible with a shop and café. The wheelchair friendly part of the reserve only accounts for about half of our total area, however it is the best bit. The route takes in two accessible hides and some fantastic wildlife habitat. Whether you spend a few minutes in the reed beds listening for Reed buntings, Chiffchaffs or Sedge warblers, half an hour looking for butterflies on one of our meadows, an afternoon in the one of the hides trying to spot an elusive Roseate tern or just sit with a drink in the café enjoying the view, you will have plenty of wildlife watching opportunities to enjoy.
If you are a Co-op member, do not forget to visit the Amble store and support our award winning Wildlife Discovery Centre at Hauxley via the Local Community Fund. 1% of what you spend on selected own-brand products and services supports charities via the Local Community Fund. Since January 2018, we have received £718 from generous shoppers.
Conservation
Kielder: a truly spectacular place Home to the biggest man-made lake in northern Europe, the largest working forest in England and Europe’s largest expanse of protected night sky, Kielder truly is a spectacular place. Following the fantastic news in late 2017 that we had been granted £354,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to launch the Kielderhead Wildwood project in partnership with Forestry Commission, we have been very busy! Steven Lipscombe, the newly appointed Kielder Wildwood Project Assistant, has been out on site twice a week since the beginning of March with a hardy group of volunteers, and, to date, 4,000 trees have already been planted. During the course of the five-year project, we will be planting 30,000 trees at Kielderhead to restore a low density, native upland woodland over 100ha of land. This will favour declining, red-list upland bird species, such as dunnock, mistle thrush, song thrush, tree pipit, woodcock and black grouse. Along with planting trees, several training events have been organised to help us survey and record the species that we find there, along with understanding any archaeological features that may be found. The osprey season got off to a slow start this year, perhaps hindered by the Beast from the East. In the last two years, the first breeding birds arrived back at Kielder on the 24th and 26th March, but this year, our first bird returned on the 4th April. As you can imagine, this was a worrying few days but I am glad to report that all four nests are back in operation. Unfortunately, the male on nest three did not make it back safely to Kielder this year, but thankfully a new male found his way to the nest and a successful new partnership has been formed. At the time of writing, all four nests have three eggs and we expect to see the first 16 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
chicks hatching in the last few days of May and into June. This year, we have appointed Kielder Osprey Assistant Ellie Kent to work with our fabulous team of volunteers delivering Osprey Watch. You can visit the Osprey Watch team at Kielder Waterside every weekend and Bank Holiday Monday, with additional Wednesdays in July and August. It runs between 10.30am and 5:00pm. As in previous years, Calvert Trust is running its very popular Osprey and Wildlife Cruises throughout the season with a contribution made to Northumberland Wildlife Trust for every ticket sold. The cruises really make for a wonderful experience, so for further information or to book a ticket, call: (01434) 250 232. The work to develop Bakethin Nature Reserve, which we manage in partnership with Northumbrian Water, continues apace. Through the Living Wild at Kielder project, there is now a new ‘Welcome Point’ building in the car park which was designed and built by students from Newcastle University. This provides a great place for visitors to orientate themselves with the reserve and the many trails going through it, along with information on the species they are likely to encounter along the way. Another new feature is a beautiful bench created by Consett based award winning chainsaw artist Tommy Craggs. The bench features an osprey with outstretched wings catching a salmon together with four otters. You can view the bench for yourself on the lakeside way en route to the Bakethin Hide. Our team of volunteers regularly carry out practical conservation work at Bakethin to make sure the reserve stays in great condition for a variety of wildlife; recent work has included creating a water feature at the new hide to encourage birds and other wildlife to
come closer. This summer will see the third and fourth release of water voles into Kielder Forest. In June and August 2017, the ‘Restoring Ratty ‘team released 580 voles into the wild and will release several hundred more in June and August of this year. So far, in 2018 the project team has been surveying the release sites and watercourses for evidence of water voles surviving the winter. We are really pleased to be finding droppings, burrows and feeding signs in several areas, proving that we do now have water voles living in Kielder Water & Forest Park. Over the last two months, Restoring Ratty Project Officer Kelly Hollings and a number of volunteers have refurbished and erected a new ‘Ratty’ hide on the Forest Drive, overlooking a pond where we released water voles last year. You can access the hide on foot from Kielder Castle (1.6 miles each way) or in your car - although tolls do apply. This project is yet another great example of partnership working with both Forestry Commission and Tyne Rivers Trust. All of our work at Kielder has been made possible through funding raised by players of the National Lottery via the Heritage Lottery Fund without whom Kielder would not be such an exciting and inspiring place to visit. Katy Barke Kielder Living Landscape Manager Northumberland Wildlife Trust
Image credits: spotting scope - Neil denham. Osprey - forestry commission england. Wildlife hide, wood carving and tree planting - Katy Barke
As one of the Trust’s chosen Living Landscape areas, Kielder is a focus for much of our work.
Osprey Assistant Ellie Kent helping a younf wildlife enthusiast
July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 17
Conservation
Common creature There are many species that look so similar that, to the untrained eye, it is difficult to tell them apart and send nature lovers scurriyng for their field guides. When out and about on Trust reserves this summer, see if you can spot these top four confusing species.
Willow tit and Marsh tit
Stoat
james common
Luke Massey/20 20VISION
WIllow tit
asel Stoat and We
Perhaps more so than any other pair of birds, willow and marsh tits can give would-be naturalists nightmares. So similar in appearance, in fact, that the willow tit was the last regular British breeding bird to be identified - only named in 1897. Both species can be encountered in Northumberland with a little effort, thus for accurate recording, separation of the two is key. Thankfully, there are several ways to tell them apart. The easiest way to separate these species is by call: with marsh tits sporting an explosive, sneezing pitchou call and their close cousin, a distinct, raspy szi-szi-dzeedzee. The difference in calls is quite apparent but when birds do not play ball, differences can also be observed in the bills (beaks) of the birds - willows boast a pale spot on the lower mandible, while marsh has a pale patch on the upper mandible. Look out for differences in the birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cheeks also marsh tits appear white around the ear while willow tits lack such contrast, appearing buff in comparison. These factors, coupled with the glossiness of the birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s black cap should at least point observers in the right direction: willow tits show a duller, matt coloured cap while that of the marsh tit appears much glossier, almost shiny.
18 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
Weasel
Elliot Smith
amy lewis
Marsh tit
When deciding between stoat and weasel, size gives the most obvious indication. Weasels are small - about twice the size of a house mouse - while stoats are much longer, roughly the size of a rat. The belly of these animals also gives a clue as to identity, with stoats boasting a creamier, yellow-tinged underside, contrasting with the pure white stomach of the weasel. Colour differences also extend to the tail of the animals with weasels showing a short, entirely brown tail and stoats, a far longer appendage tipped with black - easily distinguished with even a fleeting glance. For a slightly more difficult separating factor, you can also look at the dividing line that separates the brown and pale areas of the animal. On weasels, this is undulating and irregular; while on stoats the line appears to form a straight line between back and belly. If you see a white individual in Winter, you can be sure this is a stoat - which enter their famous ermine stage during the colder months. Weasels remain brown; thus, separation at this time becomes somewhat easier.
conundrums James Common Northumbrian Nature Writer & Conservationist
Twitter: @CommonByNature Blog: commonbynature.co.uk
Common tern
Field vole Bank vole and
Bank vole
allan potts
Tom Hibbert
Common tern and Arctic tern
Congratu la to James tions fo r his blog ‘New N a tu re ’ which scooped ‘Green & first prize in the Ec was high o’ category and ly comm en the Gree n & Eco c ded in of the UK ategory B Awards 2 log 018!
These two tern species are particularly troublesome, especially at distance; though with good views and a little patience, they can be readily told apart. Particularly if the bill is seen, with common terns possessing a longer, vibrant orange bill tipped with black, and Arctic’s a short blood red one. Of course, this only helps with the birds are seen up close and at distance, other factors must be used. These include differences in belly colour - commons sport a pure white underside compared to the grey-coloured stomach of Arctics - and variations in the length of the terns famous tail streamers. As a rule, those of common terns are shorter than the birds wing-tips when perched, while those of Arctic extend beyond the tip of the wing. Something which undoubtedly played a part in giving the species its nickname of sea swallow. Look out also differences in colouration on the bird’s wings also. Both species possess a certain amount of black on the trailing edge; though in commons this appears more sooty-grey and blends gently into the plumage of the wing in a gradual manner. In Arctic’s, this dark area is much more sharply defined and, in flight, gives the impression of a rather neat black fringe.
Field vole
margaret holland
james common
Arctic tern
Now this is a hard one as, upon first glance, both species can appear altogether identical – at least before we delve into the nitty gritty. Colour provides a starting point for the identification of small voles, with field voles, as a rule of thumb, appearing much ‘colder’. They boast a grey-brown coat, contrasting with the warmer, rustic red-brown of the bank vole. With the fur of the former often appearing scruffier, to such a point that it can often conceal the ears; while the ears of the latter are altogether more prominent. Protruding and somewhat mouse-like in appearance and far more obvious than those on the former. Of course, given their full name of ‘Short-tailed Field vole’ the tail of the field vole also provides grounds for identification. This species boasts a relatively short one, at least in comparison with the Bank vole. The tail of the former constituting only 30% of its total body length as opposed to the 50% of the latter. Alongside colouration, tail length is one of the best indicators associated with vole ID. Despite their names, habitat preference is not a reliable indicator of identification as, like most rodents, voles get everywhere. Field voles are perfectly suited in life in marginal land (and indeed, banks) and Bank voles occur readily in fields. Don’t be fooled!
July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 19
Conservation
Two summer gems worth a closer look East Crindledykes Quarry
duncan hutt
duncan hutt
The Common Blue
They may be small but the flash of azure is a wonderful sight in the summer months as this little butterfly flits past. The bright blue is actually a distinctive feature of the males while the females are generally brown with a hint of blue but have an orange margin to the wing. Underneath the greyer wings have a number of ‘eyes’ and orange spots along the edge which are more prominent in the female. In general, a blue butterfly in our region is likely to be a common blue although there are always a handful of holly blue recorded every year, mostly in our more urban areas. In 2016, there were over 3700 common blues recorded in the North East but only 63 holly blues 1. So, if you see a blue butterfly the chances are that it will be a common blue. Nationally the common blue can be found throughout the British Isles with the exception of Shetland. In most years, common blues can be seen any time from early June through to late September although the peak flight time is normally in July. The males are more active as they search out females while the female tends to fly lower searching out nectar or places to lay eggs. Common blues can be found throughout Northumberland, Newcastle and North Tyneside, pretty much anywhere where common bird’s-foot trefoil can be found. This low growing plant in the pea family is the preferred choice for the caterpillars but clovers, rest harrow and greater bird’s-foot trefoil can also be used. The caterpillars hibernate over winter and then spend about two weeks as a chrysalis before emerging as the adult butterfly. In this stage, the pupa may gain some protection from ants that attend to it and may bury it. Some of the Trust’s reserves are great places to spot common blues. Out coastal sites in particular are favourite haunts of this butterfly with the coastal cycle path at East Chevington, Annstead Dunes and Hauxley all good places to find them. Inland, East Crindledykes Quarry is also a good spot as they fly over the rich limestone grassland. 1. Butterfly Summary, 2016. North East England Branch, Butterfly Conservation
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Our small reserve at East Crindledykes Quarry is a hidden gem, best visited in summer. The site is only about 1ha (2.5 acres) but is packed with wildlife and geology. The former limestone quarry is in the ‘great limestone’ a band of limestone that has been quarried numerous times along its length from large sites such as Greenleighton to small quarries associated with providing lime for local farms. Indeed, there is a limekiln close to east Crindledykes that has been preserved by the National Park. The main limestone rock face that still exists in the reserve is about 3m (10ft) high and shows a gentle folding in the rock strata. The potential as a reserve was spotted at the time that infilling of the quarry had begun from material brought from Bardon Mill colliery. The Trust took a lease on the site, the infilling was stopped and the site became a reserve for both its geology and the developing limestone flora on the thin soils. Today East Crindledykes Quarry is the Trust’s best limestone grassland site with a number of specialist plants. Small scabious, a similar flower to field scabious but generally a little smaller, burnet saxifrage, autumn gentian and hoary plantain are among those found here. Bird’s-foot trefoil and thyme carpet some of the drier slopes, the former helping make this site good for common blue. Other butterflies such as ringlet and meadow brown use the site’s grasses as their caterpillars’ food plant. Access to the site is a little tricky. You need to find a suitable place to park on the Stanegate near the track to East Crindledykes farm or you can visit as part of a longer walk from Bardon Mill (buses and trains) or from the Military Road (buses). Walk down the track towards the farm and turn left in front of the farmhouse garden, cross the field diagonally climbing the slight slope to a gate near the top corner; this is the gate into the site. Duncan Hutt Head of Living Landscapes and Conservation Northumberland Wildlife Trust
LIFE14 NAT/UK/000467
Reds on report We are incredibly fortunate here in northern England to see red squirrels, one of the most charming, engaging and threatened species in the UK. Despite predictions dating back to the early 1990’s when the Wildlife Trusts of Northumberland and Cumbria launched their Red Alert campaign, that reds would be all but extinct in a few remote conifer woodlands, the battle still rages to protect reds across a wide geographical range. Through initiatives such as the Red Squirrels Northern England (RSNE) annual squirrel monitoring programme which is now into its seventh year, with surveys happening in spring 2018 in almost 300 woodlands and gardens, we are building a compelling case that red squirrel conservation can work. However, here is the caveat: protecting reds is not a quick fix. The work is long term, and policy makers and funders need to recognise this if we are to continue to give reds a chance. The RSNE project was launched in 2011, with an event held at Hutton in the Forest, Cumbria, where Prince Charles attended to show his support for the cause. Seven years on, RSNE has achieved much success, however like many other UK conservation projects, finding longer term solutions to the eternal problem of funding is proving difficult. The project remains true to its original aims: grey squirrel management, red and grey range monitoring and
working with community and other interest groups to achieve successes for reds: but with a much reduced team, managing this work is becoming increasingly difficult. No one organisation can singlehandedly save red squirrels, and the project continues to focus on building partnerships with a whole host of other interested groups. One thing that has become increasingly clear is that community-led red conservation is crucial. Data from 2017 showed that over 80% of the conservation effort to protect reds is being carried out by local community groups, operating under the banner of Northern Red Squirrels. Recognising the role of volunteer groups, advocating their work and helping these groups grow and become more sustainable should be at the core of future strategy. It is important too that we look beyond current methods of protecting reds. Northumberland Wildlife Trust is involved in the UK scale Red Squirrels United (RSU) project, which receives funding from Europe (EU LIFE) and Heritage Lottery Fund to work in areas of Northern Ireland, Wales, Lancashire and Merseyside, and around large red squirrel safe havens in the north at Kielder, Kidland and Uswayford Forests. Several of the team attended the RSU Knowledge Fair in Bangor recently, where 120 red squirrel conservationists from around the UK gathered to hear a
image: Luke Massey/2020VISION
series of talks, to take part in workshops and to network and share their experiences. There are two other exciting developments in red squirrel conservation, both in their early stages. Firstly, work to develop fertility control for grey squirrels is gathering momentum through the work of the UK Squirrel Accord. Secondly, a number of organisations are exploring the potential for the role of pine martens, a native predator that is making a comeback in some areas of the UK. A recent study in Scotland provided compelling evidence that exposure to pine martens resulted in a major reduction in grey squirrel numbers. In contrast, red squirrels were resurgent in these same study areas, possibly as a direct result of the decline of greys, their arch (non-native) rival for food and other resources. Pine martens and red squirrels share co-evolutionary history but not so for grey squirrels. Although these exciting developments might well play a crucial role in future strategy for reds, we must not get carried away just yet. The very immediate here and now needs real focus, as projects such as RSNE and their partners across the north continue to hold the line. Simon O’Hare Project Manager Red Squirrels Northern England
You can help us help reds by joining our Friends of the Red Squirrel membership scheme. Visit: rsne.org.uk/friends-red-squirrel to find out more, or telephone: (0191) 284 6884. Friends of the Red Squirrel
Other ways of helping: • Log your red squirrel sightings here rsne.org.uk/node/add/squirrel-report • Join your local community red squirrel group by visiting northernredsquirrels.org.uk/nrs-groups July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 21
UK news
Campaign begins for Nature’s recovery We all need the future to be more wild as an urgent priority. Please help us build momentum for a Nature Recovery Network
A
s we stand on the brink of the biggest ever shakeup of environmental rules, The Wildlife Trusts are calling for politicians to introduce new laws to build a wilder, better Britain. Central to this would be a requirement for Local Authorities to produce local Nature Recovery Maps, showing where the remaining wildlife is and how it can be reconnected and expanded. These maps, produced with wide local consultation, would join up to form a national Nature Recovery Network. For the first time our landscapes would be farmed and developed in an integrated way that benefits people and wildlife.
The campaign for a Network kicked off with a presentation at Westminster in May. 48 MPs heard The Wildlife Trusts explain the need to rebuild nature after decades of destructive practices. “We know from research across the globe that a healthy, wildliferich natural world is essential for
our wellbeing and prosperity,” said Nigel Doar, Director of Strategy at The Wildlife Trusts. “Nature needs to recover – for the sake of wild plants and animals, and for everything it brings us: better health, climate control, flood management, enjoyment, employment and more.” The Westminster Government recently consulted on future English planning policies and public payments to farmers. As part of their campaign for a Nature Recovery Network, The Wildlife Trusts lobbied strongly for the planning system to protect Local Wildlife Sites, and for government payments to farmers that help them create and look after places for wildlife.
Nature needs to recover – for everything it brings us
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5 3 7
1
nik pollard
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22 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
Our vision for the future 1 Nature is normal Children have trees to climb, fields to explore and ponds to investigate.
6 Recovering seas Sightings of whales and other sea creatures are increasing.
2 Green developments All housing and other development creates a net gain for wildlife.
7 Fertile soils Nutrients are staying locked in soils rather than eroding and blowing away.
3 Wilder cities Green roofs, green walls, pocket parks and trees are common. 4 Buzzing countryside Farmland is crisscrossed by colourful habitat for wild pollinators.
8 Restored uplands Instead of just closegrazed grasslands, the trees and peat bogs are back, reducing flooding and locking up CO2 from the air.
5 Long-term fisheries All fishing is sustainable and jobs are secure.
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2
Fight for a green future
Late news st UK-wid e a wildl nd issues ifetru : org/n sts. ews
Imagine being a swift with the freedom of racing through the skies and screaming those wonderful screeches. How different the patchwork of our towns, cities and countryside would look from the air! You’d search for places with abundant insects to eat and safe places to nest. It wouldn’t be easy finding food because in recent years insects have declined so dramatically. There are not many invertebrates left in our parks and arable fields, but lucky swifts may find a Local Wildlife Site. Here there may be up to 800 different species compared to less than 100 in a typical playing field. In Local Wildlife Sites soils are healthy, plants can flourish and biodiversity, including insects, can thrive. Protecting, managing and expanding the network of Local Wildlife Sites is central to the work of The Wildlife Trusts who regularly advise local authorities, farmers and developers to this end. The recent Agriculture Command Paper, published by the Westminster Government, supports greater investment in wildlife in England, and Trusts are campaigning across the UK to ensure that such investment happens, not least in Local Wildlife Sites. However, government budgets for farming will be squeezed, and there is growing pressure to remove perceived barriers to infrastructure and built development, like Local Wildlife Sites. To ensure the voice of wildlife is heard over the cacophony of Brexit, we’ve been campaigning under the banner of #ActSwiftly. It’s vital that all governments hear from as many people as possible about the need to make the right decisions about new farming and planning policy. We’re determined that the future should be about nature’s recovery. Your support for your Trust is helping protect wildlife for the future. Thank you from the swifts.
Stephanie Hilborne OBE Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts @stephhilborne Wherever you are in the UK, your Wildlife Trust is standing up for wildlife and wild places in your area and bringing people closer to nature. Contact us on enquiry@wildlifetrusts.org or 01636 677 711. To join your Wildlife Trust, visit wildlifetrusts.org/joinus. Natural World, The Kiln, Waterside, Mather Road, Newark, Notts NG24 1WT. Read the report and join our campaign on wtru.st/natnet
Editor Rupert Paul Layout editor Dan Hilliard Communications Manager Lucy McRobert @wildlifetrusts
wildlifetrusts
July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 23
UK news 17-19 August Rutland Water nature reserve
Visit Birdfair
The birders’ Glastonbury is 30 this year. Come along in August and join the celebrations
This year, the British Birdwatching Fair celebrates 30 years as the world’s biggest wildlife festival. Why not experience this amazing event for yourself? Birdfair, as it is affectionately known, is hosted by Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust at Rutland Water, Oakham, on 17th-19th August, in partnership with the RSPB. With hundreds of stands and stalls you can chat to your favourite wildlife charities; compare wildlife holidays; try the latest optics; sample local food; and admire wildlife art and photography. The BTO bird ringing display is always popular, and new for 2018 is a ‘Wild Zone’ for young people
and families. Wildlife celebrities star in debates, events and game shows, and there are lectures on all aspects eric renno
Emyr Evans
Not only can you buy binoculars at Birdfair. You can use them to see ospreys
■ Download the report at wildsheffield.com/stateofnature 24 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
paul hobson
Did you know that Sheffield’s city boundaries are drawn around the old county of Hallamshire? The ground-breaking Sheffield State of Nature report reveals that a third of the area is now designated for its wildlife value and habitat quality is improving. Sheffield’s once heavily polluted rivers are recovering, with 26 out of 31 fish species doing well. Otters have also returned to the River Don. Despite this, over 100 Local Wildlife Sites still need better management.
■ Wildlife Trust members get 10% off on Sunday 19th. This offer applies whether you book in advance or pay on the gate! More info and tickets: birdfair.org.uk
The presentations are always popular: this is Bird Photographer of the Year
Sheffield’s new nature report
Cornfield annuals on a derelict housing plot in the city
of nature and conservation. On Sunday 19th, The Wildlife Trusts will perform their hugely popular family pantomime, supported by your favourite wildlife celebrities. Last year’s Birdfair raised £330,000 to help conserve native birds on the French Polynesian island of Rapa Iti. This year Birdfair will support the creation of Argentina’s largest national park, providing a refuge for nearly a million flamingos and shorebirds.
25,000 stand up for An incredible 25,000 of you responded in just two weeks this spring when the Government proposed to take all reference to Local Wildlife Sites out of the National Planning Policy Framework. This change would have removed all protection for England’s 42,000 Local Wildlife Sites. These are quiet, often unnoticed places where wildlife thrives – meadows, woodlands, city oases. Although they tend to fall under the radar they are a critical part of our wildlife resource. Designated
Good enough to eat – if you’re a worm
Rupert paul, niall benvie
A Nature Recovery Network (p2) would give the water vole a chance
Root for worms!
terry whittaker
The water vole is still heading for extinction. That’s the stark conclusion of research led by The Wildlife Trusts. Analysing data collected over ten years has revealed that the water vole’s distribution has declined by 30% since 2006 in England and Wales.
It has now vanished from 94% of its former haunts
Local Wildlife Sites
Support from Labour’s Hilary Benn...
Happy: Grace (and buttercups) at Teifi Marshes reserve
Nature: good for you Following 30 Days Wild this June, researchers at the University of Derby have proved that seeing beauty in the natural world leads to improved wellbeing and happiness. The threeyear study involved thousands of participants, and demonstrated the positive impact of wildlife on our health.
...and Rebecca Pow of the Conservatives
nicki dyas
Local Wildlife Sites cover 3% of Wales and Northern Ireland, 5% of England and 1.7% of the Isle of Man. They are recognised and protected in planning policy – the process is one of their only protections – but nevertheless some are still lost each year. Because of your action, Housing Minister Dominic Raab has agreed to revisit the wording (in England). Thank you! But these special spaces are far from secure – we may need your help again soon to save our Local Wildlife Sites.
It has now vanished from 94% of places where it once was. This would be even worse without The Wildlife Trusts and others carrying out river restoration and reintroductions across the UK. The causes are well known: habitat loss, water pollution, built development and predation by the North American mink. Ellie Brodie, Senior Policy Manager for The Wildlife Trusts, says: “We’re working hard to bring them back, but much more is needed if we’re going to stop this creature disappearing altogether. We need commitment to a Nature Recovery Network.”
gina gavigan
Water voles still declining, says new research
The Wildlife Trusts have launched their wildlife gardening campaign with the RHS. This year, we’re encouraging everyone to go wild for worms, nature’s engineers, by helping them in your garden: try making a compost heap for starters! More on wildaboutgardens.org.uk
July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 25
UK news
Fancy a paddle? Britain drips with water, observes Matt Gaw, who has canoed on rivers all over Britain. But he wonders whether we have lost our connection with our watery past
A
lthough the river is straight, almost canalised, in the morning light it is beautiful. Sun scalds the surface, the ripples reflecting gold pencil lines onto the bank. Two buzzards lope into the air, circling and mewing. There are teal, the wobbling gas flame of kingfisher and, from over the fields, lapwing. This Suffolk river, the Lark, bubbles through chalk at its source near 26 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
Bradfield Combust before travelling slowly through the Brecks to reach the flatlands of the Fens. A couple of miles downstream it meets The Great Ouse, whose name so neatly captures its sluggish demeanour. It is part of a network of 42,700 watery miles that spread like blue veins under the nation’s skin. Britain drips with water: rivers, streams, bogs, marshes, lakes, canals, ditches
and ponds. Nearly all have been shaped by humans in some way, bent to our purpose and needs. The path rivers take depends on the lie of the land and the underlying geology. Water wells up from springs, or gathers as rain, snowmelt, mist and dew, before streaming downhill. In the uplands, the water cheese-wires into the earth, forming v-shaped valleys, or follows paths gouged by long-gone
Matt Gaw is a writer and journalist who works with Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Who wouldn’t want to be here? Suffolk’s River Stour is greatly changed, but it’s still beautiful
glaciers. Later the streams converge to create a river, which meanders through the landscape. The flow forms shingle bars and sparkling braids, chuckling over riffles as it pulses towards the sea over clay, sand, gravel and rock – shaping the land as it goes, cutting, carrying and depositing silt. Few rivers in England and Wales still possess fully-functioning natural processes. Over the centuries,
Water gathers as rain, dew or snowmelt as development and agriculture advanced, rivers were modified. Water was impounded for mills, abstracted
for farming, drinking and industry. The channels were straightened and deepened for transport and drainage. The relationship between the water and the floodplains fractured. It’s hard to imagine how the Lark used to look. In prehistoric times it was part of a delta, a wild landscape of sluggish rivers, meres and reed swamp fanning out over the land. Ribbons of grey silt called ‘rhodons’ can still be seen from the July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 27
UK news
linda pitkin
The River Itchen, with blunt-fruited water-starwort below the surface and Itchen Stoke Mill above
28 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
The Tame has the world’s worst microplastic pollution directly managing nearly 12,000 miles of waterway. Plans typically focus on reducing pollution and restoring a more natural state: re-instating meanders, allowing woody debris to be left and matt gaw
air, cutting across the arable expanse: a ghost river tracking across the black earth. While the decline of industry and more effective regulations have improved water quality, pollutants still make their way into our rivers. Topsoil washed by heavy rain from fields brings phosphates, nitrates, herbicides and pesticides. Sewage and wastewater bring microplastics and pharmaceuticals. In 2016, 16 British waterways were tested for neonicotinoids, a powerful insecticide. The Waveney in Suffolk was the most contaminated, the acute harm level exceeded for a whole month. The River Tame at Denton, Greater Manchester has the worst microplastic pollution in the world, with levels even greater than South Korea and Hong Kong. It is easy to feel gloomy. I have canoed all across the UK, and for every stretch of bucolic beauty there is also abuse and neglect. But there is also hope. There are catchment-scale partnerships now in every part of the country and The Wildlife Trusts are part of 96% of them – advising, supporting and
Matt’s canoe, The Pipe, on the Waveney
removing barriers to migrating fish. The otter, pushed to the brink by a toxic cocktail of pesticides and persecution, has now returned to every county in England. Nevertheless, many of our freshwater bodies are not faring well against targets set by the the EU Water Framework Directive. Less than a fifth of England’s rivers and lakes are in a good enough condition to support species that should be present. Part of this is due to the sheer extent of the issues: it is a landscape-scale problem. I wonder too if there is a disconnect between people and rivers. Our relationship with the water that shaped life, language and culture has changed dramatically over the years. Although the move away from industry may have resulted in fewer pollutants – no coal dust, no heavy metals or slicks of sewage – it also means our interaction with rivers has declined. Flows that were once worshipped and sacred, full of votive offerings and holy meanings have been slowly forgotten, neglected. Part of The Wildlife Trusts’
matt gaw
Otter
Beautiful demoiselle This aptly-named damselfly frequents fast-flowing rivers in the south west between May and August. This is a male; the female has iridescent brown wings
Grey heron
Sunset stillness on the river Lark, in Suffolk, in January 2017
efforts aim to increase awareness and understanding of rivers and wetlands amongst the public and landowners. But we also need a political solution. “We can really benefit our rivers if we can reshape land management policy and agri-environment schemes after we leave the EU,” says Ali Morse, Water and Catchment Officer for The Wildlife Trusts. “It’s a vital opportunity to create a really important role for rivers and wetlands in future.” This means ensuring there is public money for public good – that Government will fund projects that bring benefits for all. And this is something
The nearest thing on a river to a pterodactyl Increasingly common in river valleys following the 1984 ban on organochlorine pesticides
Pike Stealthy ambush predator, best seen from a bridge or canoe. JK Rowling borrowed its species name Lucius to name Draco Malfoy’s father in the Harry Potter books
Water crowfoot Beautiful plant of chalk streams, often forming huge clusters of waving feathery fronds. The fried egg-coloured, buttercupshaped flowers emerge into the sunshine
Restoring rivers will deliver multiple benefits in the future rivers are well placed to do. Not only are these waterways valuable for biodiversity, a network of wild corridors across the land; they are also vital for naturally managing flood risk. Wetland habitats, such as peatland, are also crucial for carbon storage. That means restoring them will deliver multiple benefits in the future. It’s a lot to think about. I turn my canoe around, and paddle slowly back upstream, towards where the river – with its restored riffles and shingle bars – gurgles and sings again. A place where the Lark, once more, lives up to its name.
If you liked this article... Kingfisher Commoner than you might think. Once you hear its squeaky-hinge call and glimpse the darting flash of blue you’ll get your eye in
You might enjoy Matt’s book, which chronicles his canoeing travels along many of Britain’s rivers
July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 29
otter: Luke Massey/2020VISION; heron: neil aldridge; pike: Bertie Gregory/2020VISION; crowfoot: Linda Pitkin/2020VISION; kingfisher: jon hawkins
River wildlife
UK news
Stay wild
Nature is good for you – so make the most of your local green space this summer, says Liz Bonnin
main pic: penny dixie
T
his June, The Wildlife Trusts asked everyone to notice nature everywhere, every day. Hundreds of thousands of you took part in 30 Days Wild, carrying out literally millions of Random Acts of Wildness. So why not stay wild? Nothing restores you like spending time in nature – the breeze in your face, the fragrance of grasses and flowers warmed by the summer sun, the soft buzz of insects and trills of birdsong. We know nature makes us feel good. But now, there is mounting evidence that it can improve your energy levels and mood, lessen hypertension, respiratory tract and cardiovascular illnesses, and reduce anxiety and depression. Over the past three years, The Wildlife Trusts have also proved that taking part in 30 Days Wild improves health, happiness, and the desire to protect nature. It starts with the beauty of nature, connecting us more deeply to the natural world. As our appreciation increases, so does our happiness. This, in turn, encourages people to do more to help wildlife and take action for nature. The impacts don’t just last a few days. They might even last a whole year. So this summer, treat your body
Liz on Rathlin island, famous for its puffins, off the Northern Irish coast 30 ROEBUCK 145 July - November 2018
and mind as often as you can. Go for a long walk, pick the blackberries in the hedgerows, take off your shoes and feel the grass underfoot, and breathe. There are pockets of green everywhere, even in our busiest cities. I live in London and love to cycle around Richmond Park in search of its red deer, or enjoy the majestic oaks. Many of the UK’s wilder places have a special place in my heart too: the breathtaking mountains and lakes in Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park; the magical Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel with its colourful puffins and playful seals; the impossibly beautiful
Liz Bonnin is a biochemist, wild animal biologist and science and wildlife presenter
You can benefit from our natural world coast of Pembrokeshire (and the chance to clamber over rocks and jump into crystal clear waters). One of my favourite experiences is to listen to the echolocation calls of bats at dusk. It’s already quite lovely to watch them darting back and forth in the stillness of the evening as they pick off their prey, but with a bat detector, an entirely different and thrilling scene reveals itself. The the bats vocalise with incessant high frequency squeaks and clicks that allow them to manoeuvre at lightning speed without crashing into each other, locating the insects with sublime precision. It’s never been more important to protect our wild places, so that the health of our planet’s ecosystems, and ultimately our health, is safeguarded. Each individual can make a real difference; it’s only through individual actions that we can bring about the change our natural world needs to thrive. No matter where you live, you can benefit from our natural world and play
Families all over the UK are going to stay wild this June, no matter where they live. Will you?
a big part in protecting it. The people around you can too, so share your wild experiences with friends and families. Stay wild, stay connected to nature, and have a wonderful summer!
Five ways 1
Take part in a wildlife survey, monitoring some of our most beautiful wildlife, such as water voles, butterflies or barn owls
to stay wild this summer 2
Cut down on plastic. Say no to plastic straws, bags, wrapping and bottles. Instead, invest in reusable alternatives
3
Go on a wild adventure with friends and family. Use the long evenings to explore a nature reserve near you
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Enjoy a day at the beach looking out for rockpool creatures, dolphins offshore or majestic seabirds
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Look for nature on your doorstep: wildflowers on verges, butterflies in woodland glades, bees at window boxes
July - November 2018 ROEBUCK 145 31
UK news
My first Nightjar
david tipling/2020VISION
For the BBCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Security Correspondent Frank Gardner, finding a nightjar in Britain last year was a thrilling experience
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I
of dragonfly as well as lizards, t’s warm. Unusually warm, newts and the occasional even for a summer night in rarity like last year’s pectoral July. Above the peat bogs, sandpiper that was eventually heathland and pine copses of driven off by a swooping Merlin. Thursley Common a full moon On local advice, I turn has risen, casting a ghostly right, still wheeling over the glow over this delightful Surrey boardwalk and heading for nature reserve just off the A3. Frank Gardner is a clump of Scots pines. This The last of the day visitors on Instagram at seems like a good time to have returned to their cars and frankgardner_ nature. His latest check what I’m supposed by 9.30pm I have the place novel, Ultimatum, is to be listening out for. I take to myself, leaving me alone out now. out my phone, open up my to pursue a lifelong ambition: Collins Bird Guide app and to see a nightjar in the wild in type in ‘European nightjar’ (as opposed Britain. These curious, nocturnal, highly to the related Nubian, Egyptian and camouflaged birds have long fascinated Red-necked species that occur on the me and historically, they have attracted Continent). I click on the audio button legends. One of these is that they feed from the teats of sleeping goats, earning and up comes the churring. I memorise it and switch off the phone. them the old English nickname of And it continues. From somewhere, ‘goatsucker’. out there in the darkness, the churring They also have an unmistakable has started up. Yes! I’m in luck. As quietly signature call, known as a ‘churring’, a strange, low vibrating sound that I’m told as possible, I make my way by moonlight towards the pine trees. The noise is can still be heard on summer nights like loud now; it seems to reverberate all this across the heathlands of Britain. around me, electrifying the night-time The wooden planks of the boardwalk atmosphere. I keep very still and scan the night sky where the pine branches lie against the deep purple sky and the silver moon. Suddenly there is a clapping sound followed by the swish of beating wings. There, silhouetted just yards from where I am, a pair of nightjar rears up into the air, chasing moths with their sharp, pointed wings, before vanishing off into the night. creak and groan as I trundle across it And yet the churring continues. I scan in my wheelchair. Thursley Common is the branches and then I see it, halfway a National Nature Reserve comprising up a tree, perfectly silhouetted against 325 hectares of peat bog and woodland the summer moon. I raise my camera for with winding trails and nearly a mile of a chance shot but immediately it’s up raised boardwalk to take you over the and off. Yet I’m overwhelmed by a sense otherwise impassible marshes. By day of triumph: I have seen my first British I have had great views of stonechats nightjar! here, perching on isolated branches. The reserve harbours over 20 species
I keep very still and scan the night sky
The Wildlife Trusts manage many heathland nature reserves that are home to the haunting nightjar: Chobham Common and Wisley and Ockham Commons and Chatley Heath (Surrey); Higher Hyde Heath (Dorset); Roydon Common and Grimston Gsd jygdsvyg Warren (Norfolk); Strawberry Hill sdyvgydgsvsdv Heath (Notts); Cors Bodgynydd (N sdugsdvdsv
Wales); and GreenhamCommon & Snelsmore Common (Berks). Arrive before dusk on a warm, dry evening in June or July and find a spot with open skies. Keep your ears open: you’ll hear the wing clapping and churring before you see them! Many Wildlife Trusts run nightjar events and have wheelchair accessible
nature reserves. ■ Find out more: https:// wtru.st/access
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david tipling/2020VISION
Experience it for yourself
UK news
Top places to see
ocean giants
jospeh pender
If you want to see really big animals in the UK, you need to look in the sea. As it happens, there are dozens of great spots. Here’s a selection
F
rom playful dolphins to the enormous basking shark, our ocean giants offer a rare glimpse into an unseen world. Seals, porpoises, whales, sharks and dolphins can be spotted from our shores, so here are some of our top places to find them. Choose a calm day, with a flat sea and a bit of cloud cover. Bring binoculars, find a high vantage point and make yourself comfortable – patience is essential! Carefully scan the sea for movement, looking for splashes, a fin cutting through the water, or feeding flocks of seabirds.
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Alderney West Coast and Burhou Islands Alderney Wildlife Trust Internationally important Ramsar site great for grey seals, and common and bottlenose dolphins. Maybe even an ocean sunfish! Where is it? Look from Fort Tourgis nature reserve. Map reference: ST 531 798
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Isles of Scilly Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust Start scanning as you sail to the islands, then look for fins and splashes from the many headlands or boat trips. Common
dolphins, sunfish and basking sharks, plus occasional whales and rarer dolphins. Where is it? 28 miles off Land’s End. Map ref: SV 911 095
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Towan Headland Cornwall Wildlife Trust Good for harbour porpoises, common dolphins and resident bottlenose dolphins. Also minke and even humpback whales. There are regular Seaquest seawatches, and wildlife boat trips from the harbour. Address: Towan Headland, Newquay, TR7 1HN. Map ref: SW 800 627.
Share your experiences Tweet us your best ocean giant photos from your day out @wildlifetrusts #LoveWildlife
What’s out there Grey seal
Like a curious, laid-back, wellfed dog – only much bigger – up to 2.5m long!
Risso’s dolphin
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Spey Bay Wildlife Reserve Scottish Wildlife Trust Bottlenose dolphins all year round, some up to four metres long! Plus seals, otters and ospreys in summer. Where is it? Nr Elgin, Moray, IV32 7PJ Map ref: NJ 325 657
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Cullernose Point Northumberland Wildlife Trust Harbour porpoises, grey seals and bottlenose dolphins all regularly seen. In summer, white-beaked dolphins sometimes venture close, or even humpback whales! Where is it? Nr Craster, NE66 3TJ Map ref: NU 261 187
9 Up to four metres long, criss-crossed with tell-tale white scars.
Basking shark
The world’s second biggest fish: an awesome sight. Fin shape identifies individuals.
Bottlenose dolphin
What common dolphins lack in size they make up for with dazzling swimming and aerial skill
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Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Wildlife Trust for S&W Wales Join the Wildlife Trust team on the harbour wall to spot the resident bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals. Or join a Dolphin Survey Boat Trip. Address: Glanmor Terrace, New Quay SA45 9PS. Map ref: SN 389 598
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Isle of Man Manx Wildlife Trust See basking sharks between Peel and the Calf of Man. Risso’s dolphins are also
Flamborough Head Yorkshire Wildlife Trust See minke whales in mid to late summer as they follow mackerel and herring inshore. These magnificent mammals can grow to 10m. You can even go on a sea safari from Whitby! Address: North Marine Road, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO15 1BJ Map ref: TA 239 720
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Lyme Bay Devon Wildlife Trust So important for cetaceans, like whitebeaked dolphins, we are campaigning for a Marine Conservation Zone here. Also harbour porpoises and common dolphins often spotted from Berry Head. Post code: TQ5 9AP Map ref: SX 940 561
Big, strong and usually seen in small groups. Grows up to 4m.
regular summer visitors. Where is it? SW side of the island. Map ref: SC 242 844
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North Antrim Coast Ulster Wildlife The waters between Malin Head, Donegal, and Rathlin Island are some of the best for spotting basking sharks, with feeding and breaching a regular sight in summer. Shark-watching boat trips run from Portstewart Harbour. Post code: BT55 7AD Map ref: NV 996 982
For a more extensive list of places to see marine megafauna visit wtru.st/ oceangiants
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my mother nature â&#x20AC;&#x201D; MY WILD LIFE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Leon, 7 months, Gosforth
Discover your wild life with your Wildlife Trust. nwt.org.uk
image: simon greener
At the age of 7 months Leon Grainger is already being introduced to the wonders of nature by this mum, Magdalena. Daily visits to his local green spaces have a calming influence on him as he watches the birds in the trees and delights in the colours of the flowers all around him. Who knows, he may grow up to be a leading conservationist and champion of our native wildlife!