Wildlife April 2019 by Sussex Wildlife Trust

The magazine of the Sussex Wildlife Trust

Issue 184

â&#x20AC;˘

Spring/Summer 2019

Membership

Meet the team… Debbie Chalmers

I joined the Trust in 2014, having worked in fundraising for other environmental charities including The National Trust and Kew Gardens. I have lived in Sussex for almost 20 years and especially love the rich diversity of its landscapes and habitats.

Jamie Warren

I moved into the charity sector 13 years ago after many years of working in retail and it has proved one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made. I joined the Trust in 2015 as Membership Services and Database Coordinator. In my spare time I play bass in an Elvis tribute band.

Helen Graham

When I joined the team in 2013 I discovered just how passionate local people are about wildlife and the natural environment. I am now a Membership Officer, which is fantastic because I get to talk to our members which I love doing.

Gill Fletcher

Having been connected with the Trust since 1989, when I held the post of Office Manager, I am very pleased to now be continuing in my new role of Events and Engagement Officer, organising the ‘member only’ events. I have lived in Sussex all my life and enjoy daily walks in our beautiful countryside. You can contact our membership department on 01273 497532 or email: membership@sussexwt.org.uk

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No more plastic…

I am sure you will have noticed that your magazine now arrives in a paper envelope (no plastic window) as part of our ongoing campaign to protect marine life in our oceans.

Thank you to all those members who have been in touch to applaud our efforts to find alternatives to the clear plastic envelopes we were using. We are delighted to be able to stop using plastic.

The strength of the packing was an important issue and at first we considered using compostable plastic but not everyone has compost facilities. There was also an issue if it became damp or wet as it could start to break down before delivery. We are delighted with our final choice, a paper envelope that everyone is able to recycle fairly easily and the printing of the magazine cover on the envelope makes it a stand-out delivery on the doormat.

New member packs are also delivered in paper envelopes now and we are delighted to be plastic free in this area of our work.

Wildlife magazine is published twice a year, in April and October. In between issues you can keep up to date with news and events on our website sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk where you can also sign up for our monthly e-newsletter.

Wildlife magazine is now available in a digital format, which you can choose to receive as well as, or instead of, the printed edition. If you'd like to read Wildlife online in the future please contact the membership team to let us know your preferences. We will email you each time it is published, so we will also need your email address.

Our promise

We are committed to keeping the personal details of our members and supporters safe. We store your details securely and use them to manage your membership, including sending this magazine. Sussex Wildlife Trust does not sell, trade or rent your personal information to others. We sometimes use the services of third parties such as mailing houses to issue communications on our behalf, and require them to protect your personal information to the same degree that we do. If you provide your telephone number and email address we may contact you by these methods. We sometimes send information about other aspects of our work such as conservation news, events, fundraising appeals and volunteer opportunities. Should you prefer not to receive this information you can opt-out of mail, telephone or email contact by notifying us on membership@sussexwt.org.uk or telephoning 01273 497532. Our full Privacy Notice explaining how and why we use your personal data can be found online at sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/privacy. Printed copies are available from the Membership team.

From the Chief Executive

There was good news at the start of the year. I was delighted to hear that not only do we have o3ers in Sussex, but that o3ers have now been spo3ed in every county in England.

Inside this issue… REGULARS

Also, a development at Whitehawk Hill Local Nature Reserve in Brighton may not be progressed a%er all – this is a site which was also the ﬁrst Scheduled Ancient Monument in Sussex – important therefore archaeologically as well as criYcal for wildlife and local people.

During the winter we hosted three informal evening events to meet key partner agencies and promote a Wilder Sussex. In total we had 86 people from 43 organisaYons a3ending and we will conYnue to create opportuniYes to build new relaYonships and strengthen exisYng ones.

Our Trustees made a courageous start to the year, signing a £2.5m contract with Baxall ConstrucYon to build the Discovery Centre at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Our sincerest thanks to the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and those of you who are able to make ﬁnancial donaYons, which make it all possible. Our aim is not only to ensure that the Discovery Centre is a great success, but to balance this with a conYnued focus across the rest of Sussex. I’m looking forward to relaxing in the new café at Rye Harbour Discovery Centre with a coﬀee and enjoying some birdwatching with the Friends. I hope many of you will visit.

It is now oﬃcial that the Sussex Wildlife Trust membership is at the highest level that it has ever been in our history with over 33,000 members. Thank you all for your ongoing support and acYon which makes our work possible. Each and every one of you contributes through your membership to the Trust, through your individual acYons and through the collecYve voice and strength which together you give us.

Wildlife News

Welcome to Dr Sean Ashworth, new Chair of Trustees, a hero award for former CEO Dr Tony Whitbread and details of our charity fundraising walk, The Wilderness Wander.

Reserves round-up

News and views from our Land Management team and some recording highlights from Senior Ecologist Graeme Lyons.

Ecology zone

Pond dipping for grown-ups! Enter the mysterious world of water beetles, water bugs and water spiders.

WildCall

Book Review

Those ‘squeaking’ noises in the garden explained. Charlotte Owen reveals the culprits. Enter our free book draw.

A walk around…

Join Volunteer Reserve Manager, Trevor Hince, for ‘A walk around Selwyns Wood’ near Heathfield with birds, butterflies, dragonflies and stunning flora to enjoy.

Local Wildlife Sites explained

All you need to know about Local Wildlife Sites and the exciting discovery of the endangered red hemp nettle and a nationally rare species of spider.

Seaford Community Wildlife Project

The planting of ‘Elms for Armistice’ and a fascinating find at Seaford Head beach – all the way from Maine, USA.

Sussex Flow Initiative

Control flooding the natural way by mimicking the beaver – one of our natural ecosystem engineers.

Risky Play

Sue Curnock reports on the benefits of risk taking on children’s psychological development and overall wellbeing. © Miles Davies

Sussex Life carries a regular monthly section featuring Sussex Wildlife Trust. Copies are available from your local newsagent or by annual subscription. Contact Sussex Life tel: 01858 438832

The aim of the Sussex Wildlife Trust is to conserve the Sussex landscape, wildlife and its habitats, and to use its knowledge and expertise to help the people of Sussex to enjoy, understand and take action to this end. For membership details please telephone 01273 497532 Front cover: Pond dipping © Miles Davies

Tor Lawrence

FEATURES

Wildlife is produced and published by: The Sussex Wildlife Trust, Woods Mill, Henﬁeld, West Sussex BN5 9SD. Tel: 01273 492630 Email: enquiries@sussexwt.org.uk Website: sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk Editor: Amanda Reeves

Design: Barry Sharman Design Tel: 07801 659094 Email: barry@barrysharman.com

Advertising: Amanda Reeves Woods Mill, Henfield, West Sussex, BN5 9SD Email: amandareeves@sussexwt.org.uk

The Sussex Wildlife Trust is a company limited by guarantee. Registered Company No: 698851 Registered Charity No: 207005

Chairman of Council: Dr Sean Ashworth Chief Executive: Tor Lawrence

CBP000121190303155716

Wildlife 3

WildlifeNews

Wetland success An eagled-eyed member of the public couldn’t believe his eyes when he caught sight of what he thought was an otter swimming in a river in central Sussex.

He captured it on camera and sent it to us and our Living Landscape Advisor Fran Southgate was delighted to confirm he had indeed seen an otter.

Fran said ‘Having waited so long for otters to return, we are thrilled with this latest evidence that they are slowly but surely recolonising Sussex. Their natural recovery marks a positive breakthrough in the restoration of healthy river systems across the county. The first live otter was caught on camera two years ago and that marked the return of this shy, nocturnal mammal to Sussex after an absence of five decades. This new sighting confirms that otters have made a comeback in two separate Sussex river catchments.

The otter is a flagship wetland species and its presence indicates the whole aquatic ecosystem is healthy – from plants and bugs to the molluscs, dragonflies and fish – all the way up the food chain to the otter.’

otter © Lisa Geoghegan

RYE HARBOUR DISCOVERY CENTRE We are delighted to report that work has now started on the building of the Rye Harbour Discovery Centre.

Dr Whitbread with his wife Viviane Doussey.

HERO AWARD

Congratulations to Dr Tony Whitbread, former CEO of Sussex Wildlife Trust, who was presented with the Sussex Life Hero Award 2018.

This award recognises someone who has made a difference to Sussex and it is a fitting way to celebrate Dr Whitbread’s 27 years of dedication to our county’s wildlife and wild places. He was at the forefront in promoting the need for the South Downs National Park and alongside his role as CEO he was also the national spokesman on woodland issues for The Wildlife Trusts. 4 Wildlife

Sweet chestnut timber has been purchased for cladding the building inside and out, from managed woodlands in Maplehurst Wood near Hastings (only 12 miles from Rye Harbour Nature Reserve). And the purchase has uncovered a good news wildlife story. The sweet chestnut is 40 year old coppice grown and Maplehurst Wood is the only site in East Sussex where herb-paris, often known as lover’s knot, grows. This flowering plant has been in decline but coppicing helps its recovery by increasing the light it needs to flourish. If you would like to know more about the Discovery Centre, you can request our free monthly newsletter which will also give news of wildlife sightings and events to support the Discovery Centre Appeal. ryeharbourdiscoverycentre.org.uk

herb-paris © Graeme Lyons

Coppicing is an ancient form of woodland management which involves repetitive cutting down of wood from the stump or stool, promoting vigorous regrowth and therefore a sustainable future supply of timber.

Dr Sean Ashworth © Miles Davies

APPOINTMENT

We are pleased to announce that Dr Sean Ashworth has been appointed Chair of Trustees.

Sean is currently Deputy Chief at the Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority. He grew up in Brighton, and his involvement with the Trust has included collaborating on many partnerships and projects over the years. He became a Trustee in 2016. ‘I'm delighted to have been appointed as Chair of the Trustees for the Sussex Wildlife Trust. What I perceive as being the key challenges in the next few years will be dealing with the fallout from political decision-making over Europe and around new legislation such as the new Environment Act. ‘One of the main challenges in front of us is uncertainty. What is certain is that Sussex wildlife will continue to need our help. We will need to muster our strength to campaign, protect, influence, collect evidence and educate to ensure nature's recovery. I am certain we can do it.’ Dr Ashworth will be taking a lead role in the development of the new Discovery Centre at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. The Discovery Centre project is a partnership between the Sussex Wildlife Trust and the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Sussex Wildlife Trust would like to offer thanks to outgoing Chair, Carole Nicholson, for her many years of service.

Please join us for our first charity fundraising walk The Wilderness Wander on 25 May this year at Tilgate Park, Crawley.

Our event is designed to suit everyone â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not about the miles you walk or the hills you climb, but a chance to spend some time out-ofâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; doors; to stop and wonder at the natural beauty around you and learn about the wildlife you will see. Unlike other walks and runs in Sussex, this will give you and your family the opportunity to engage with nature and learn new skills, as well as enjoying the benefits to health and wellbeing. There will be three loop walks

starting and finishing in Tilgate Park, varying in distance. On each walk you will be joined by our Learning and Engagement staff and you can take part in family activities such as bug hunts and join in our exciting wild scavenger hunt on this immersive, interactive walk.

For more details and to register patadventures.com/challenges/ charity-challenges/the-wildernesswander

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David Streeter MBE has been awarded a prestigious nature conservation award by The Wildlife Trusts.

He received the 2018 Christopher Cadbury Medal in recognition of fifty years of leadership â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not only for Sussex Wildlife Trust but for the entire Wildlife Trust movement. He was recognised for a lifelong commitment and contribution to nature conservation in Sussex. He was pivotal in securing the future of key wildlife sites such as Chailey Common and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. At a national level he chaired The Wildlife Trustsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conservation Liaison Committee helping to

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shape the wider movement of The Wildlife Trusts. David was a founder member of the Sussex Wildlife Trust when it was formed in 1961 and served as our President from 2004-2017.

SAVE THE DATE 9 November 2019

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You will find your invitation to our 2019 AGM in the next edition of Wildlife magazine.

Our venue is The Shoreham Centre, Pond Road, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex.

We are delighted that our speaker will be Michael Blencowe, our Senior Learning & Engagement Officer, talking about the work of the Sussex Wildlife Trust. small copper ÂŠ Bob Eade

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ReservesRoundup

A report from Reserves Manager Alice Parﬁ3 species often present in good stands of wild garlic (of which there is plenty at Marline), but this is the first time is has been recorded on one of our nature reserves.

earthstar © Graeme Lyons

RECORDING HIGHLIGHTS

Graeme Lyons, Senior Ecologist, has been busy over the winter identifying specimens collected over the summer survey season and updating the master list of all species recorded on our nature reserve network. The total now stands at a staggering 10,241 species,with 162 being added to the list this year alone. Some of the highlights are as follows. The fungus arched earthstar was discovered at Ebernoe Common, which is amazing when you consider that the fungi list at Ebernoe already stands at 967, so recording new species gets increasingly hard. Plicatura crispa, a species increasing its range, was also recorded new to Ebernoe on the same day.

Other species recorded last year include the box tree moth, at Southerham Farm, including a specimen of the melanic form. This is an invasive species, first recorded in the UK in 2007, but spreading through the South East, so I’m sure it will turn up on some of our other nature reserves soon. We also recorded other migrant moths, including Palpita vitrealis, vestal, delicate, and pale mottled willow. Moth trapping at Southerham Farm also produced the first thyme pug in Sussex since 1925 along-

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Other species recorded new to the nature reserve network include the tortoise beetle Cassida hemisphaerica at Iping Common; the stiltbug Erytinus clavipes, a specialist on restharrow which was seen at Seaford Head and was the first record in Sussex since 1990. A large tortoiseshell butterfly was seen at Woods Mill and the non-native asparagus beetle at Iping Common.

side three Moitrelia obductella which we have never seen before on site.

At Marline Valley the hoverfly Portevinia maculata was recorded. It is associated with wild garlic as the larvae develop in the stem bases and bulbs. It is a widespread but localised

Dan Ross is our new Director of Land Management based at our Southerham Farm office on the outskirts of Lewes.

Dan is a Chartered Environmentalist with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, and has a Masters Degree in Environmental Conservation and a degree in Geography. He has nearly two decades experience of managing land for nature conservation. Most recently Dan joins us from Adur and Worthing Councils, where he was the Parks and Foreshore Manager, responsible for the management of the Council’s frontline grounds maintenance teams and land portfolio including parks, open spaces, and nature reserves. His role within the Trust is to lead the Land Management team and take responsibility for all

More recently, three twite returned to winter at the Rye Harbour saltmarsh after an absence of 14 years, attracting admirers from across the county.

HABITAT MANAGEMENT WORKS AT WOODS MILL

If you have visited Woods Mill recently you may have noticed some changes around the nature

associated operations, including our 32 nature reserves. Dan will be ensuring that these nature reserves continue to be amongst the most special places for wildlife in Sussex, and that our work continues to be underpinned by strong ecological monitoring and evidence. Dan lives in Lewes and is married with two sons who attend a local primary school. In his spare time, he loves to cycle and walk in the Sussex countryside, and spend time with his family in the great outdoors. He has always loved wildlife and has long championed nature conservation through his personal and professional life. He spent several years as a practical conservation volunteer prior to specialising in this area of work. Of his new role with the Trust Dan says ‘It is a great honour to be working for Sussex Wildlife

reed warbler © Lisa Geoghegan

reserve. Habitat restoration work has been taking place, thanks to funding from ScottishPower Foundation. The Mill leat has been cleared of encroaching vegetation along part of its course and will refill when we have some rain. The reedbed at the end of the lake has also been restored by removing silt and vegetation to its original level. We look forward to spring and summer to see what might turn up in these newly restored habitats.

The paths around the nature reserve have also been upgraded to improve access for visitors.

Dan Ross © Miles Davies

Trust, and to lead a fantastic, talented and committed team who are so passionate about conserving and enhancing Sussex wildlife. Sussex Wildlife Trust is an inspiring organisation, and I hope to contribute to its continued success.’

A fond farewell from…

ANNE HYATT VOLUNTEER

A move to Scotland brings to an end my very happy five years volunteering with the Saturday Hit Squad. The volunteers leave Woods Mill every Saturday morning (rain or shine) to visit a different reserve to help with a huge variety of tasks that present themselves throughout the year. Every week there has been a wildlife experience to appreciate. Beautiful wild flowers on Malling Down, amazing fungi at Ebernoe Common or perhaps a vole or two at Seaford Head. It’s an absolute pleasure to visit the reserves and see at first hand the changing seasons and also the surprising impact that a small team of willing volunteers can make in one day. Some of my happiest memo-

l/r Sarah Quantrill and Anne Hyatt

Become a woodland owner in Sussex

ries include fabulous views at Levin Down, skylarks singing on the downs and getting stuck in the mud at Filsham Reedbed, when I was literally hauled out by teammates. A special thank you to Sarah Quantrill, Assistant Reserves Officer at Seaford Head Nature Reserve, who leads our team and has been so supportive, motivating and knowledgeable.

To join the Saturday Hit Squad, email: swtvolunteering@sussexwt.org.uk

NEW VOLUNTEER RESERVE MANAGER AT LEVIN DOWN

Marline Valley woods © Nigel Symington

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Dr Owen Johnson, Volunteer Reserve Manager (VRM) at Marline Valley nature reserve, who has been awarded an MBE for services to the environment.

I am delighted to announce that Bill Young has agreed to take on the role of Volunteer Reserve Manager (VRM) at Levin Down. He takes over from Ann Griffiths who was VRM at Levin for an amazing 37 years, and built the volunteer group up to the great team it is now, organised walks and talks and generally looked after the reserve.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to Ann for all her hard work and dedication over the years and wish her all the best for the future. Bill is already well-known to us having been an active volunteer for 40 years and we thank him for stepping up to take on this new role.

Owen was awarded his honour for his work with another charity the Tree Register, but it seemed like the perfect time to thank him for all the voluntary work he undertakes for Sussex Wildlife Trust too.

He has been VRM at Marline Valley for an amazing 28 years. I think it is fair to say we couldn’t manage the nature reserve without him and he knows the site better than anyone. In addition to his practical work and keeping an eye on the nature reserve, he acts as a lookerer when we have stock on site and also carries out all the botanical recording in the meadows.

Levin Down Nature Reserve © Mark Monk-Terry

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Seaford Community Wildlife Project

Cradle Hill Community Primary School pupils with 'Red Storm' ÂŠ Miles Davies

Nikki Hills is the Seaford Community Wildlife Project Officer and her work takes her into schools and to community groups in the area to deliver Sussex Wildlife Trust's own special brand of hands-on environmental education.

Two of the projects she was involved with last year were very different but both piqued the interest of the local community. Last August, she and a colleague found a miniature sailing boat launched by schoolchildren off the coast of Maine USA, washed ashore and stranded under the cliffs at Seaford Head. The five foot craft called Red Storm had left American waters in May 2018 and washed ashore at Seaford three months later after a journey of 3,000 miles. Information inscribed on the boat in French, English, Portuguese and Spanish directed Nikki to a website and she discov8 Wildlife

ered that the boat was launched by Scarborough School, Maine as part of a project studying world exploration and how communities evolve. Nikki took the craft to Cradle Hill Community Primary School where she talked to Year Three pupils in Sea Otter, Penguin and Turtle classes, a similar age to their American counterparts, about its journey and why it was launched. She explained that Red Storm had a small sail but had otherwise been powered only by tidal currents. It was fitted with a GPS tracking device to feed back its whereabouts to the school in Maine. The American children were thrilled their boat had survived the journey to Sussex waters. They sent a parcel of presents to the Seaford school children including postcards of where they lived, illustrations of marine wildlife found where they lived and photos of themselves.

Nikki Hills ÂŠ Miles Davies

‘Elms for Armistice’ Pupils at Seaford Head School © Miles Davies

Following the devastation of elms in the 1970s, when populations were ravaged by Dutch Elm Disease, it has been discovered that surviving elm trees, originally protected by the natural barrier of the South Downs, are now under threat.

Seaford Tree Wardens, supported by Seaford Town Council and the local community, came up with a plan as part of the centenary of the Armistice, to plant a tree

white-letter hairstreak butterfly © Bob Eade

in honour of every name on the Seaford War Memorial. There are 104 names listed of men who lost their lives in the First World War, and a planting programme is planned of specially bred disease-resistant elm cultivars – one for each man and boy who died. Elms for Armistice planting will take place in Seaford school grounds, a local church, and the golf course, as well as in the town, in Alfriston Road, and in Bishopstone village. As well as being a beautiful tree, the elm is well suited to harsh coastal conditions and supports a wide range of wildlife, including the rare white-letter hairstreak butterfly, which relies solely on the elm to complete its lifecycle. Colonies have survived in Seaford but the loss of elms now presents a serious threat to this butterfly. Sussex Wildlife Trust has joined forces to support the Seaford Tree Wardens and the Sussex branch of Butterfly Conservation to protect this butterfly as part of its Seaford

Community Wildlife Project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players. Planting took place at Seaford Head School in Arundel Road, Seaford last December. Nikki Hills said, ‘We met with Margery Diamond and other members of the Seaford Tree Wardens team, and with the help of Assistant Headteacher Rob Handy and a team of volunteer Year Nine pupils, worked hard, digging holes and planting a number of elms.’

Following a generous National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £97,500 we are able to deliver the Seaford Community Wildlife Project thanks to National Lottery players.

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EcologyZone with Graeme Lyons, Senior Ecologist

Pond dipping for grown-ups! Part 1 Graphoderus cinereus

by Graeme Lyons Senior Ecologist Sussex Wildlife Trust

10 Wildlife

All kids love pond-dipping, but now you’re all grown-up, how many of you actually still do it? Yet all you need is a strong, steel-framed net, a white tray and of course, a pond, lake or ditch.

Aquatic invertebrates are really great indicators of water quality and are a great way to evaluate our wetlands. There are lots of different groups though and they can be tricky to identify. Here I will focus on just a few of them; the beetles, bugs and spiders.

Water beetles

Unlike other well-known families of beetles such as the longhorn, leaf or ground beetles, the water beetles are not actually a family in the taxonomic sense. They are several disparate families that are collectively known as water beetles because they inhabit a common niche; they live predominantly beneath the water’s surface. As such, they are pretty much all roughly the same shape – streamlined and oval in outline. They are a big group, around 350 of them and by far the most speciose group of the aquatic invertebrates. The main families are the diving beetles (such as the great diving beetle (Dytiscus marginalis) and the rare Graphoderus cinerus (shown above) that are mainly predatory and the water-scavengers (such as the great silver water beetle (Hydrophilus piceus)) which are mainly vegetarian or omnivorous. This is a great example of ‘convergent evolution’.

great silver water beetle © Graeme Lyons

backswimmer © Derek Middleton

water spider © Stephen Dalton/naturepl.com

water stick insect © Derek Middleton

That is, different families evolving similar shapes to cope with the same environmental challenges, like dolphins and sharks. The great silver water beetle is, weight for weight, arguably our heaviest beetle, heavier even than a stag beetle. There are many others, most much smaller than these heavyweights, such as the noisy screech beetle (Hygrobia hermanni) in a family all on its own, that makes a loud squeaking sound when it’s caught.

Water bugs

Unlike the water beetles, water bugs are a carnival of different shapes and sizes, this plethora of forms reflects the different niches they inhabit. From the pondskaters that live on the surface of the water to the backswimmers that live just beneath, to the water stick-insect (Ranatra linearis) that hides among submerged vegetation; they all look totally different but are all

Heteroptera. Water-scorpions (Nepa cinera), saucer bugs (Ilyocoris cimoides) and water measurers (Hydrometridae) are all water bugs too. It’s a bit more complicated than what we teach the kids though. There is only one species of water-scorpion and water stick-insect but there are four backswimmers (Notonectidae), nearly 40 of their prey, the vegetarian water-boatman (Corixidae) and a further 10 pondskaters (Gerridae). Be careful handling backswimmers and saucer bugs though, they have a very painful ‘bite’ (actually their powerful rostrum – their syringe-like mouth parts they use for piercing their prey) likened to that of wasp sting.

Water spiders

There is technically only one truly aquatic spider, the water spider (Argyroneta aquatica). It’s a fairly positive indicator of water quality. It’s famous for building a ‘diving-

bell’ shaped web that it fills with air that it carried in there on its abdomen. This is very hard to see in the wild but it’s easy to see on the hairs on the abdomen if you catch one. Place it in a container of water and, as soon as it goes under the surface, the matt-grey abdomen will instantly resemble a blob of shimmering liquid mercury. This is the light bouncing off the interface between the water and the air trapped on those hairs, acting not unlike a mirror. Although spiders can’t technically fly, they can ‘balloon’ when younger and as such can readily colonise new waterways, in the same way the aquatic bugs and beetles can. You really get an idea of how readily they disperse if you park a dark car on the Downs in hot weather, you will find water bugs and beetles landing on it, thinking it’s a pond! Most aquatic invertebrates have airborne stages at some point in their life cycles but not the molluscs and leeches who will be dealt with in part 2…

Wildlife 11

Membership

Thanks to the generosity of our members, we have been able to achieve some amazing things in 2018.

A key highlight was confirmation of our first resident otter in central Sussex for at least five decades. Other noteworthy species news included barn owls breeding at Woods Mill for the first time since 2012, and a dramatic increase in wildfowl and waders at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve thanks to the creation of new saltmarsh habitat.

Become a Benefactor

We were delighted to welcome many of our Benefactor members to a special lunch at Woods Mill last October, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the nature reserve. Benefactor membership is offered to members who are able to give £15 a month or more for their membership, whether individually, jointly or as a family.

As a small token of our thanks Benefactors receive a specially commissioned lapel badge, plus our exclusive tote bag, designed by local artist Mark Greco. If you would like to upgrade to Benefactor membership, please contact the membership department.

Cotswold Outdoor offer

Cotswold Outdoor has continued its discount offer for Sussex Wildlife Trust supporters who can enjoy 15% off the full retail value of current season’s product ranges both in store and online. The offer also applies to the company’s other brands: Snow + Rock, Cycle Surgery and Runners Need. Please quote the code AFWILDLIFE-M5 online and quote the same code and show your membership card when buying in store. The offer expires in December 2019.

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We delivered over 1,100 Forest School experiences to children, and trained more than 150 adults to lead Forest School and Wild Beach sessions.

Our WildCall advice service answered over 1,300 wildlife-related questions last year, ranging from species identification to what to do if there’s a snake under your fridge!

The Sussex Flow Initiative, our partnership project delivering natural flood management, has planted 11,000 native shrubs and trees and hedgerows and woodland, and created floodplain scrapes and leaky dams, all to reduce the risk of flooding in vulnerable areas.

Partnership working is key to achieving so much of what we do, and through our Wilder Sussex events we met with 43 organisations to foster stronger links and showcase our work. The Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre, hosted by Sussex Wildlife Trust, is a flagship partnership project, and last year its database exceeded seven million wildlife records. The new Sussex Local Wildlife Sites Initiative completed ecological surveys at 25 sites. Our volunteers and corporate partners carried out 19 beach cleans, collecting around 12,000 pieces of litter, and our Shoresearch team recorded 178 intertidal species, an increase of 25% on the previous year.

But the one statistic without which none of the above would be possible, is our growing membership of over 33,000 people, all supporting our work to ensure a future for our wonderful wildlife and habitats across Sussex. On behalf of everyone at Sussex Wildlife Trust – thank you. We are so fortunate to be able to count on your support.

PASS IT ON

When you have finished reading this copy of Wildlife why not pass it on to a friend, or to your local doctor’s surgery for their waiting room? We want as many people as possible in Sussex to know about our work, and to support their local wildlife charity, and anything you can do to spread the word would be very much appreciated.

NEW CONTACT DETAILS FOR MEMBERSHIP EVENT BOOKINGS

We now have a dedicated email address and telephone number for booking members-only events. To book for these events, or to get in touch with any queries on member events please email membershipevents@sussexwt.org.uk or telephone 01273 497533. Email is usually the best way to get in touch, as the telephone lines can sometimes be busy.

NOT YET A MEMBER?

Sussex Wildlife Trust is the only charity working throughout the whole of Sussex to stop the decline of wildlife and restore a living landscape.

We couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do it without our members, whose support helps us care for more than 30 nature reserves, ensuring that they remain havens for wildlife and people. Your support also allows us to improve conditions for rare and threatened wildlife such as the otter, the Adonis blue butterfly, and the black poplar tree. We also educate and inspire thousands of local people and visitors about the wildlife of Sussex.

If you are not already a member of Sussex Wildlife Trust, please join today. As a member you will receive this magazine twice a year, a membership handbook introducing our nature reserves, and discounts on hundreds of courses and events. You can join online at sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/join or tel 01273 497532.

CONTACTING THE MEMBERSHIP TEAM

If you have any queries about your membership, please contact the Membership team by phone on 01273 497532 or email: membership@sussexwt.org.uk

It helps us if you have your membership number handy; this can be found on your membership card. barn owl ÂŠ Andy Rouse/naturepl.com Wildlife 13

Wildlife Legacies and gifts in memory Dr Jean Byatt

Dr Jean Byatt always had a fascination with the natural world, spending much of her time outdoors, looking at wildlife, collecting fossils and instilling a love of nature in her young family.

She initially studied History and began her career as a housing manager for London City Council, before becoming a history teacher when her children started school. As her family grew up, Jean started to turn her attention to another passion; botany, achieving a degree in Botany and then continuing her studies, completing a doctorate on hawthorns.

In later years she moved to Sussex from her home county of Surrey, to be closer to her family. Here she became a member of Sussex Wildlife Trust and continued with her prolific botanical recording.

Legacy pledgers Cattle grazing at Southerham Farm © Miles Davies

We appreciate that writing a Will is a very private matter and if you decide to leave a gift to Sussex Wildlife Trust, there is no obligation for you to let us know.

However, we would love to have the opportunity to say ‘Thank You’ to supporters who have remembered the Trust in their Will and we hold a dedicated event for our legacy pledgers each year; an exclusive insight into the kind of work your legacy may help to fund in the future, and an opportunity for us to say thank you in

bank vole on hawthorn © Lisa Geoghegan

Between 2004 and 2011, Jean submitted almost 20,000 records to the Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre (SxBRC), which collects environmental data and makes it accessible for informing planning, decision-making and nature conservation across the county. Her records comprised around 800 different species, including many rare plants such as pheasant’s eye, chamomile and the critically endangered red hemp nettle. Her contribution to SxBRC’s database will certainly be an invaluable source of information for very many years to come.

After being a valued member of the Trust for nearly 20 years, Jean sadly passed away in 2017. We were touched that Jean had chosen to leave a gift to the Trust in her Will. Her legacy will help to support both the Trust’s conservation work and the vital work of SxBRC in protecting species across Sussex, which she had devoted so much of her time to supporting. 14 Wildlife

person. This summer we will be visiting Southerham Farm Nature Reserve at Lewes for a guided walk and to learn about the work of our grazing team and how vital it is in supporting the management of our nature reserves.

If you have pledged to leave a gift to Sussex Wildlife Trust in your Will and haven’t already let us know, we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact Gemma Pratt on 01273 497566 or email: gemmapratt@sussexwt.org.uk

DONATIONS IN MEMORY

We would like to thank the family and friends of the following people who have recently made donations to Sussex Wildlife Trust in memory of their loved ones: Maisie Vaughan Mr Constable June Townley Roger Bailey Hugh Clark Jeffrey Snell Sheila Kempton

Brian Newman Trevor Forward Robin Tofts Michael Phillips Jean Rowell Margaret Barker Joan Walters

Many in memoriam donations are made online via our website, or sent direct to us at our Woods Mill office. However, funeral directors are often happy to arrange a collection ‘in lieu of flowers’, which they will then send on to us. If you would like the Trust to provide you with donation envelopes for a loved one’s funeral service please do get in touch. Our envelopes also include a Gift Aid declaration, enabling us to increase the value of donations we receive from donors who pay income tax.

sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/inmemory

Legacies, no matter how large or small, make a crucial difference to the work we achieve. We would like to acknowledge the generosity of the supporters from whom we have recently received a legacy gift: Sheila Baldwin Gwendoline Mary Sadler Bertha Joyce Gosden Joyce Hasdell Frances Bainbridge Marion Julia Gardner Winifred Joyce Bonnett Margaret Hulmes

If you would like to find out more about leaving a gift to Sussex Wildlife Trust in your Will, please feel free to contact Gemma Pratt on 01273 497 566 or email: gemmapratt@sussexwt.org.uk for a copy of our legacy leaflet. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/legacy

SUSSEX BY THE SEA

We are delighted that Sussex Wildlife Trust has been awarded a development grant of £59,000 by the National Lottery Heritage Fund for its Sussex by the Sea project, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players. The project is about positively influencing human behaviours that are contributing to the decline of marine life off the Sussex coast. Working with four project partners, Marine Conservation Society, Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority, National Trust and Sea Life Centre, Brighton, the project will focus on the marine and coastal environmental heritage of Sussex.

Wilder Sussex © David Tipling

by Henri Brocklebank, Director of Conserva+on At the time of writing, the future of environmental policy in the UK is still very uncertain. We don’t have a new Environment Act yet (though the Prime Minister has committed to this) and there is no clarity regarding what the future holds in terms of Brexit.

But what I do know is that I love wildlife and I am not alone. In my experience, most people, especially our members, supporters and volunteers, agree that wildlife and wild places are precious and must be cherished, and that we all need to do our best to help wildlife. We also know from global research that a healthy, wildlife-rich natural world is essential for our wellbeing and prosperity. We depend on nature for everything from the food we eat, to the air we breathe, to the beautiful wild places we enjoy spending time in. We know that wildlife is in crisis (yes, in

Sussex too), so rather than get bogged down in uncertainties about the future, Sussex Wildlife Trust wants to set a trajectory for a more positive future, a Wilder Future and a Wilder Sussex. We know that Sussex Wildlife Trust will not be creating a Wilder Future on our own, but we do know that we need more people on nature’s side and more space for nature to thrive – Wilder Sussex is our new campaign which aims to make this a reality. We need people to be talking about the importance of wildlife and our natural world. We need people to be demonstrating to those in power that there is an appetite and urgency to create a better future for nature. We also need people to be taking whatever action they can, on their own or collectively, to help create a Wilder Sussex. Please visit our website to find out how you can play your part in giving nature a voice: sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/wildersussex

ASH DIEBACK UPDATE from Charlo"e Owen, Conserva+on Oﬃcer

short-snouted seahorse © John Newman Seahorse Trust

Special marine and coastal habitats in Sussex include internationally threatened blue mussel beds and vegetated shingle which is globally rare. Marine species to be found include black seabream, the rare short-snouted seahorse and the endangered undulate ray.

Through the project, we will link people to the wealth of amazing marine life to be found in Sussex waters and show how it can be protected and how we can all play a part in the recovery of our seas.

Pete Crawford, Director of Learning and Engagement at Sussex Wildlife Trust said, ‘We are delighted to be working together in a partnership with other concerned organisations to protect the sea in Sussex. The project will work with communities to encourage them to take action and positively impact their local sea and coast.’

Ash dieback poses a serious threat to ash trees and woodlands in Sussex and throughout the UK. Some trees can tolerate or resist infection but there is no cure for this disease, which is likely to decimate the UK’s ash population.

At Sussex Wildlife Trust we are assessing the health of ash trees on our nature reserves and planning our response to this disease. Ash trees in the middle of woodland will generally be left alone for nature to take its course but due to the very real risk of falling branches and collapsing trees, infected ash trees growing beside roads and footpaths can pose a significant threat to public safety and will need to be removed.

There will be an emphasis on the stretches of coastline adjacent to the communities of Hastings, Bexhill, Eastbourne, Brighton and Worthing.

ash dieback © David Bole

We will be undertaking a careful programme of unavoidable tree removal work in locations where safety is a priority, and you can find out more about our ash dieback strategy at: sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/campaign/ash-dieback

Stuart McLeod, Head of National Lottery Heritage Fund South East said, 'We are delighted to support this project, which, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, will mean that more people will be able to get involved with, protect, and learn about the exciting heritage right on their doorstep.'

Wildlife 15

WildCall Officer Charlotte Owen runs our dedicated wildlife advice and information service. If you would like to report an interesting wildlife sighting, find out more about the creatures that live in your garden, raise concerns over planning issues or have any wildlife related enquiry, then Charlotte is here to answer your questions or put you in touch with someone who can help.

by Charlo+e Owen

Regular calls come from people who have discovered sick or injured wildlife. The Trust does not offer a rescue service or take in injured or sick creatures but Charlotte will be able to put you in touch with exactly the right person to help. If you would like more information on any of these topics contact Charlotte on 01273 494777 (9am to 1pm weekdays) or email wildcall@sussexwt.org.uk

I’ve been hearing strange squeaking noises in the garden at night since early May. What could be making them and why? This is the sound of tawny owl chicks demanding to be fed. It’s such a distinctive and persistent sound that they are often called ‘squeakers’. The chicks emerge from their tree-hole nests while they are still pale and fluffy, long before they can fly, and spend a few weeks climbing, jumping and fluttering around the treetops at night until they are fully fledged. This activity is known as ‘branching’ and the owlets make regular contact calls throughout their nocturnal adventures so that their parents know where they are. The acrobatic owlets work up a huge appetite and if the rate of their squeaky ‘feed-me’ calls is anything to go by, they are almost constantly hungry. Their parents supply a steady stream of small mammals like mice and voles, which make up most of the menu, but tawny owls will also eat small birds, amphibians, insects and earthworms. The chicks will sometimes get a bit boisterous as they try to grab hold of the tastiest morsels, so you may also hear an annoyed ‘yickering’ sound as they push and shove each other out of the way. One of the parents will usually step in to enforce some calm before things escalate too far and someone takes a tumble. Adventurous owlets do sometimes lose their footing and may fall to the ground. They are surprisingly good at climbing back up again though, so if you spot a fluffy tawny owlet at the base of a tree, don’t worry – there’s usually no need to intervene. It’s quite normal for them to spend some time on the ground and tawny owl parents are extremely attentive, so won’t be far away. They will be kept busy looking after their unruly owlets until early summer, bringing them regular meals and driving off potential predators until the juveniles are ready to disperse and find a territory of their own, typically between August and November. 16 Wildlife

tawny owl fledgling © William Osborn/naturepl.com

Wildlife 16

Wild Flower Lawns & Meadows

Learning new skills Jordan and Luke © Tamara Jewell

by Alexis Pym

Youth Rangers is a programme of volunteering opportunities for 16-25 year olds. We have groups in Brighton and Crawley carrying out conservation work at green spaces, improving those areas for both the wildlife and the people using the space. By volunteering with us, Youth Rangers gain valuable experience which sets them in good stead for job and other volunteering opportunities and they learn new skills while having great fun. No experience is necessary and everybody is welcome. We meet mid-week so we can engage with students and young people who might not be in other education and training programmes as well as those who have an interest in the environment. Weekly tasks are varied and may include coppicing, hedge planting, green woodworking, growing food and composting, meadow planting, surveying and monitoring wildlife, pond maintenance or making and erecting bird and bat boxes.

Unique wild flower seed mixes with wild orchids Wild flower turf with wild orchid seed – nationwide delivery Wild flower plants and plant plug collections Yellow Rattle seed and plugs Advisory service for creating and managing wild flower areas and much more… SEE THE WEBSITE below:

www.wildflowerlawnsandmeadows.com Tel: Colin 01435 810446 email: contact@colinreader.com

JORDAN

Jordan joined Youth Rangers last January. He wasn’t in school or work at the time because his Autism Spectrum condition caused him high levels of social anxiety. To begin with, he attended sessions with oneto-one support. By June he felt able to attend on his own as he built up his confidence and skills. He took his driving test and started a new job in October, working five days a week for three hours a day. His family are convinced that his experience of attending the Tilgate Youth Rangers was instrumental to this life-changing success.

LUKE

Luke attended Youth Ranger sessions as part of his study for a BTEC in Countryside and the Environment. He volunteered for a year with Youth Rangers and then continued to support our work by volunteering with one of our adult groups. This led him to help with our Wildlife Rangers – our practical conservation group for 12-16 year olds. He has now secured a job with the Environment Agency in water quality testing. In his spare time he still volunteers, doing river fly surveys for the Gatwick Greenspace Partnership.

Interested in finding out more about Youth Rangers or Wildlife Rangers, or know someone who might be? Then please visit our website where you can watch a video which gives a real flavour of our work in this area.

sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/youthrangers

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NatureReserves

Selwyns Wood A walk around…

with Trevor Hince, Volunteer Reserve Manager

“I have been lucky enough to be the Volunteer Reserve Manager at Selwyns Wood for fourteen years and to have had a fantastic and constant group of loyal volunteers to help look after this delightful Wealden wood. It is wonderful to see the wood change through the years, not only with the seasons, but also as a result of the work that we do such as restoring the health of the heather area, or opening up new areas by the paths. Working in the wood brings us closer to its wildlife and enables us to appreciate its beauty and charm even more.”

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nuthatch © Chris Barnett

large red damselfly © Bob Eade

marsh tit © Lisa Geoghegan

wild angelica © Graeme Lyons

speckled wood butterfly © Bob Eade

Selwyns Wood is a small, mixed seminatural woodland near the town of Heathfield, mainly oak, birch and sweet chestnut, but with a few old beech trees.

It is nestled in a south-facing valley with three streams running through it, one of which has developed into a typical Wealden ghyll stream. There is also a small open area dominated by heather, a characteristic feature of woodlands in this part of Sussex. In spring, bluebells and wood anemones can be seen carpeting the woodland floor, while wet areas along the stream have a distinctive flora with cuckoo flower, wild angelica and marsh thistle present. The ghyll stream itself supports a range of bryophytes, though no rarities are found in this particular stream. And listen for the call of the cuckoo. While the majority of the sweet chestnut is not currently coppiced, the local volunteer group has opened up some of

the paths and rides to provide structural diversity, and nice sunny conditions with plenty of nectar sources for a range of invertebrates. Butterflies love these sheltered conditions and several species can be seen utilising the paths including brimstone and orange-tip in the spring and silver-washed fritillary and speckled wood later in the year. The woodland supports a good range of the common woodland birds, with breeding willow warbler, chiffchaff, nuthatch and marsh tit. The rides are also important for the nationally scarce coralroot, discovered on site a few years ago and now thriving. The heather area is kept free of bracken and bramble by the volunteers, and the heather is cut in small patches to maintain a diversity of age ranges. Slow worms can often be seen in this area. Also common is the day flying moth, the speckled yellow whose food plant, wood sage is found around this area. In summer, look for butterflies including silver-washed fritillary or white admi-

ral and later in the season look for migrant hawker dragonflies feeding around the edges of the open areas. Streams attract other dragonflies and damselflies, so look out for blue-tailed or large red damselfly or an emperor dragonfly.

GETTING THERE…

Grid ref: TQ551205 Nearest postcode: TN21 0QN

Selwyns Wood is one mile south of Cross-inHand, two miles west of Heathfield. The single access point to this 11 hectare reserve is marked by a Trust sign at the entrance to a track off Fir Grove Road, next to a house called White Lodge.

There is a small car park from which several good paths make circular routes around the reserve. Some tracks are rather muddy but they are mainly flat, except for the steepsided ghyll. There are some steps.

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Investing in Nature

Louise Collins, Corporate and Community Fundraising Officer

To find out how your group or business could benefit from working more closely with the largest nature conservation charity in Sussex, please email: louisecollins@sussexwt.org.uk or telephone 01273 497522.

NEW BUSINESS PARTNERS No Plastic Shop – Hastings-based retailer No Plastic Shop is donating 50p per sale (via the link on our website) to Sussex Wildlife Trust. They are also kindly offering Sussex Wildlife Trust Members a 15% discount online, simply enter SUSSEXWILDLIFE at the online checkout. All their products are zero-plastic, with zero-plastic packaging, sent out in fully recyclable boxes, sealed with fully recyclable and zero-plastic tape. noplasticshop.co.uk

One eyed artist – Eastbourne based wildlife artist Jennifer Harper is kindly donating 5% of her sales to Sussex Wildlife Trust. To see her work visit: oneeyedartist.com

Thank you to Kent and Sussex Holiday Cottages, who are offering a 5% discount to all Sussex Wildlife Trust members. Enter the code SWTRUSTM5 in the Promotional Code section when booking online or through any of their local branches.

originalcottages.co.uk

20 Wildlife

Bags of help Wild Beach © Miles Davies

Thanks to the Tesco Bags of Help scheme two schools in East Sussex have been able to take part in our Wild Beach sessions, with both teachers and children learning about the Sussex coastline and marine wildlife.

Wild Beach is a pioneering outdoor education programme run by our experienced education team. Pupils from both Annecy School and Alfriston School had great fun building pebble towers, learning about tides as the towers were knocked over. They made beach art out of natural and other discarded items they found, provoking discussions about what should be found on a beach. They finished their session with a beach clean, leaving the area cleaner than they found it.

Lindsey Hudson, Head Teacher at Alfriston School said ‘Our Wild Beach sessions were so valuable to the class. Not only did these days extend our curriculum, but they provided invaluable opportunities for our children to experience our world in a handson and natural setting. Thank you so much to the team at Sussex Wildlife Trust and the Tesco Bags of Help scheme.’ The Tesco funding has allowed us to run a number of sessions for children who would otherwise not have the opportunity to experience outdoor learning. We are lucky enough to have been chosen again this year as one of the beneficiaries of this scheme. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible, and voted with the blue tokens in-store.

FOOD BANK

Thank you to everyone who chooses to feed the birds with Vine House Farm bird food. Not only are you helping birds to survive the winter months when food is scarce, but you are also raising vital funds to help our work. Vine House Farm is dedicated to supporting the work of The Wildlife Trusts and generously donates 4% of their local sales to us. This has resulted in a donation of over £59,000 over the past 11 years. We also receive a £10 donation for every new customer who lives in Sussex who buys food from them – it doesn’t have to be a member

goldfinch © David Plummer

of Sussex Wildlife Trust. You can order online for next working day delivery. vinehousefarm.co.uk

Hove Park Students Valley Challenge 2018

WALK RAISES £2,000

Last year Hove Park School held a sponsored walk for us, raising nearly £2,000. The walk took in some of the South Downs’ wonderful scenery and using our wildlife and nature spotter sheets they were able to identify any creatures seen on the route.

Despite the heat, every student kept up an amazing pace and finished the 26 mile walk in high spirits. Alex Mack, PE Teacher said; ‘It was a fantastic event and we were proud that Hove Park School was able to help support

the amazing work of the Sussex Wildlife Trust. Our students' efforts over the two days were amazing. We hope their involvement in and enthusiasm for the event inspires them to protect this fantastic National Park and its wildlife in the future.’

Thank you to all the staff and pupils who took part. If you would like to find out how your school could take part in similar events and help support our work please contact Louise Collins.

louisecollins@sussexwt.org.uk

YOUR COUNTY

NEW BUSINESS MEMBERS Hellingly Parish Council Visit their website for information about all the activities and services provided.

hellingly-pc.org.uk

Moore Law Moore Law is a commercial and intellectual property law firm. They are a member of the Legal Sector Alliance, an inclusive movement of law firms committed to working collaboratively to take action on climate change by reducing their carbon footprints and adopting environmentally sustainable practices. moore-law.co.uk

Sinclair & Saffron Sinclair & Saffron is a new sustainable online one stop wedding shop. All suppliers are handpicked and believe that weddings shouldn't cost the earth, both figuratively and literally.

sinclairandsaffron.co.uk

GET THE MOST OUT OF

The Secret Campsites The Secret Campsites run three unique camping sites near Lewes, Battle and Haywards Heath. All sites are focussed on wildlife with the chance for you and your family to connect with nature.

by subscribing to Sussex Life WHERE YOU LIVE Discover the county’s towns and villages TOP PROPERTY All the best in the county PART OF THE COMMUNITY Meet local people worth celebrating

thesecretcampsites.co.uk

Gwiz Training Gwiz Training provides accredited training courses and coaching in both the private and the public sector, focusing on interpersonal skills and self-awareness.

OUT & ABOUT Pictures from social events HOME STYLE Gardening and interiors inspiration

gwiztraining.com

Wildlife Travel

A huge thank you to Wildlife Travel for a donation of over £3,000 to support our work. Each year they make a donation based on the number of people living in Sussex who book tours with them.

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www.subsave.co.uk/TPSUS or call 01858 438840 quote WMMTP19A Lines are open 8am-9.30pm Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm Sat. T&Cs: Savings are based on the cover price and Direct Debit is a UK only offer. After your first term, print subscription rates continue at a 35% saving every 6 months. Digital subscriptions continue at £19.99 by annual Direct Debit. Please call +44 (0)1858 438840 for overseas delivery rates. Subscriptions may not include promotional items packaged with the magazine at the newsstand. Offer ends 31/12/2019.

Wildlife 21

Local Wildlife Sites meadow pipit © Bob Eade

by Dan Watkins

Many of the nature reserves and landscapes that we enjoy visiting in Sussex have a number of national or international designations. You may be familiar with National Parks and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and recently Sussex Wildlife Trust has been campaigning for more Marine Conservation Zones along the Sussex coast. But did you know that Sussex also has 637 Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) spread across the entire county?

22 Wildlife

Uloborus walckenaerius © Graeme Lyons

From hidden meadows to quiet churchyards, LWS are some of our most valuable wildlife areas. They are identified and selected locally for their conservation importance and form a key component of our ecological networks. Although LWS are not protected by law, their importance is recognised in national planning policy and we want to make sure that these wildlife havens are put firmly on the map. As the new Local Wildlife Sites Officer for Sussex, I am delighted to be able to introduce the Sussex Local Wildlife Sites Initiative, a new partnership which the Sussex Wildlife Trust has had a leading role in establishing. During this first year much of my time has been spent in the field conducting surveys of existing and potential LWS. Highlights for me have been numerous. I started in my new role last June and was excited to discover the critically endangered plant red hemp nettle on the shingle beach at Normans Bay LWS. This beautiful little plant used to grow in many sites across England and Wales, but is now increasingly rare.

Record Centre

Seven million…and still counting

At Tide Mills LWS, which includes the Ouse Estuary Nature Reserve, I found a great diversity of birds including curlew, redshank, linnet, kestrel, stonechat, Cetti’s warbler, skylark, meadow pipit and a single whinchat seen on its migration south to Africa. A site of particular note is Fir Toat LWS located between Ambersham Common SSSI and the Sussex Wildlife Trust reserve at Graffham Common. I visited the site with our Senior Ecologist Graeme Lyons. Here Graeme discovered a nationally rare species, the spider Uloborus walckenaerius. It appears that a corridor of heathland vegetation through the LWS was enabling the movement of this spider from Ambersham Common SSSI to the recently restored heathland of our Graffham Common reserve. These examples not only demonstrate the vital role LWS play in providing a home for some of our rarest species, but also their role as important corridors for the movement of wildlife through the landscape. LWS are also important for our wellbeing as many are important green spaces across the urban environment giving us the chance to engage with nature in our villages, towns and cities. After so many days in the field enjoying some of the most beautiful places Sussex has to offer, I still have to pinch myself that I am fortunate enough to be involved with such an important and rewarding project that will make such a big contribution to the conservation of biodiversity in Sussex.

The Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre (SxBRC), housed at Woods Mill is now holding an incredible seven million wildlife records. The seven millionth species was a goldcrest, found at Pannel Valley near Rye, submitted by the Sussex Ornithological Society. SxBRC is the hub of biological recording in the county and an amazing resource of information. They’ve been collecting data since the mid-90s, in fact, ‘since Sussex Wildlife Trust first got a computer’

Biodiversity Data Lead, Bob Foreman told Wildlife magazine.

Sussex has a vibrant and energetic biological recording community, with many independent recording groups and societies who send in information on a regular basis. The iRecord app has proved to be a very useful resource for people wanting to get involved. SxBRC receive up to half a million records a year.

Sussex Biological Recorders' Seminar

The 30th Sussex Biological Recorders’ Seminar, held in February, was a huge success again this year as the county’s naturalists, wildlife recorders and volunteer recording groups flocked together for a day of talks and catching up over tea and celebratory cupcakes.

The seminar was also publication day for ‘Adastra’, the annual review of wildlife recording in Sussex published by Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre. Now in full colour! All the better to showcase the beautiful

photographs and fascinating written accounts supplied by Sussex’s biological recording community. Speakers at the seminar included Dr Tony Whitbread with an overview of the past 30 years and Fran Southgate, talking about otters returning to Sussex.

For more information, or to subscribe to SxBRC’s ‘Sussex Biological Recording News’, please visit: sxbrc.org.uk

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As a passionate conservationist and advocate for ecosystem restoration, I take great delight in explaining to others that much of my role entails mimicking the things that a beaver – one of our natural ecosystem engineers – would do! Rina Quinlan

If you would like to know more about this project, please visit our web page sussexflowinitiative.org 24 Wildlife

A natural way to w

Natural Flood Management (NFM) is a way of working with nature which seems to engage with almost every person and organisation that we speak to. It’s a nononsense, easy approach to finding places where ‘good flooding’ can help to reduce flooding we don’t want.

Sussex Wildlife Trust support the Sussex Flow Initiative (SFI) Natural Flood Management project based in the River Ouse and on the Powdermill Stream catchments. Formed as a partnership between the Environment Agency, Woodland Trust and Sussex Wildlife Trust, SFI works at a landscape scale with landowners and local communities to create natural features that slow flood flows, store water, and help to reduce local flooding. The reason that so many people are engaging with NFM seems to be that it offers an opportunity to work with nature rather than against it, as well as using a range of practical techniques to help slow and store water upstream, and reduce flooding downstream. Another reason is that NFM doesn’t just

offer benefits for flooding – it provides a multitude of other ‘natural capital gains’, such as carbon sequestration, pollination services and water purification. By creating ‘leaky’ woody dams, planting trees and hedgerows, creating ponds and washlands, flood peaks can also be reduced and delayed, reducing the flood risk to homes and businesses. Crucially this also makes our landscapes more resilient to drought by storing more water for longer on the land. Over the last 200 years much of our landscape has been extensively drained for agriculture and housing, and engineered to channel water out to the sea as quickly as possible. A large network of drainage ditches, combined with a dredged and deepened river channel means that extreme rainfall results in a rapid rise and fall in floodwater levels, creating a large flood surge with potentially devastating results. This historic degradation of our rivers and streams, with uniform deep sided channels that lack many natural features and habitats (like riparian vegetation and in-channel wood), are often no longer suf-

Powdermill Stream Catchment Project Officer – Rina Quinlan

Email: sussexflowinitiativepm@gmail.com

ficient to support healthy and fully functioning aquatic ecosystems. Increasingly we understand that a healthy landscape and river network are vital for human health and wellbeing, providing a range of different services such as clean water, fuel, as well as for wildlife and

biodiversity. Our natural 'ecosystem services' have largely been taken for granted in the past, however understanding their value is becoming vital for local communities and wildlife in gaining more traction and support for their protection, from stakeholders in the UK.

In April 2018 I started my role as a Natural Flood Management project officer for the Powdermill Stream catchment in East Sussex. The Powdermill Stream runs between historic Battle to the north and Crowhurst village to the south. It sits within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and its undulating hills, wild flower meadows, ancient and ghyll woodlands are familiar characteristics of this landscape. Water, however, flows rapidly down these steep valleys, causing streams to overflow and high surface water run-off from hard urban surfaces such as roads and houses. My job is to work with local landowners and residents in the parish to help alleviate the rising amount of localised flooding, by using natural measures such as hedgerow planting and creating leaky dams to slow the flow. As a passionate conservationist and advocate for ecosystem restoration, I take great delight in explaining to others that much of my role entails mimicking the things that a beaver – one of our natural ecosystem engineers – would do! This year, we've already worked closely with local RSPB volunteers and community groups to install 60 leaky dams, and to plant over 1.5km of hedgerow, with plenty more planned for next year.

River Ouse Catchment Project Officer – Matt Turley Email: sussexflowinitiative@gmail.com

I work for the Sussex Flow Initiative project in the Ouse catchment, building relationships with organisations and landowners, and forging new collaborations in Natural Flood Management. This year, with the help of volunteers, we’ve planted over 12,000 trees, installed over 100 leaky dams, restored 1.3 ha of washland and created a number of floodplain storage ponds and wildlife scrapes. Behind this practical delivery is a host of catchment modelling, surveying and reporting; working closely with land owners, regulatory agencies and NGOs, to ensure that we use the right techniques in the right places, with the right consents.

This is an exciting time to be involved with NFM, particularly following the recent support and advocacy from the Environment Agency which now recognises NFM as an important approach for tackling flood risk. With my background in freshwater ecology and hydrology research, this is an ideal role to put theory into practice, and start restoring our land and watercourses – providing benefits to both wildlife and downstream communities.

Wildlife 25

Photo Tribute to Hugh Clark FRPS We were saddened to hear of the death of Hugh Clark last year. Hugh was a great friend to Sussex Wildlife Trust regularly sending us his stunning wildlife images to use in this magazine and to generally support the work of the Trust.

His close friend, wildlife photographer Roger Wilmshurst B.Sc. FRPS told us, ‘Hugh was always interested in wildlife from an early age. Stopping action always had a fascination for him and he became a leader in using high voltage flash units to photograph birds in fight. I remember him being awarded the Royal Photographic Society’s gold medal for a stunning picture of a green woodpecker flying into its hole. ‘He was a modest man, always generous to his friends and very much an English gentleman.’ Our sincere condolences to his family.

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Wildlife 27

Risky play by Sue Curnock Nature Tots Officer

One of my highlights this year was working with Ryan Greaves on three ‘Risky Play’ sessions as part of a study by the University of Sussex on the benefits of risk-taking on children’s psychological development and overall wellbeing.

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The sessions took place at Woods Mill. The children involved were all three years old, and new to this kind of play experience. The activities were similar to those we do with our regular Nature Tots groups and included balancing on planks and logs, fire lighting using strikers, cooking over the campfire, sawing, drilling, den building and climbing along the low ropes. The study was led by Dr. Kathryn Lester, Lecturer in Developmental Psychology, and PhD student Alison Lacey from the University. They were interested in challenging the children’s normal fears around heights, dangerous tools, and fire, and showing they can be faced confidently with the appropriate safety measures in place. It was hoped the children would learn to manage their own anxieties, and build self-esteem, which would lead to greater wellbeing and resilience when facing future life challenges. The study is part of a growing interest in the potential causal link between children’s play experiences and their mental health. This is more important today than it has ever been because opportunities for this kind of play have dramatically declined over the past 50 years. And during the same time period the prevalence of mental health concerns amongst children and adolescents has steadily and significantly increased. With our children now facing health risks such as ‘Facebook depression’, physical inactivity and social isolation; a grazed knee is a small price to pay for all the potential benefits of ‘Risky Play’. The activities were all thoroughly risk assessed and designed to provide opportu-

nities for the children to experience risk and challenge in a relatively safe environment. The new experiences and benefits to be examined were: mastering physical skills, team working and building confidence. This would involve learning to associate nervous feelings such as accelerated heart rate in a positive way; as excitement rather than fear. As children take cues from their accompanying adult, it was helpful if they also modelled confident behaviour, and followed the safety guidelines about keeping a safe distance from others when using tools. The University staff were also interested in the impact of parents on their child’s play and how they interacted with them in the face of new challenges – whether encouraging or discouraging, allowing freedom to attempt challenges alone or stepping in to over-control. The study measured both par-

They were interested in challenging the children’s normal fears around heights, dangerous tools, and fire… ents’ and children’s emotional wellbeing: anxiety, avoidance of risk, temperament and attitudes, both before and after the play session. This included any concerns about being judged by other parents for letting their child take risks. Some children are pretty fearless and will have a go at anything, others take a lot more encouragement, and they may not actually enjoy the experience to start with, but get a lot out of managing to do it in the end. It was such a pleasure to see one particular boy who started off on the low

ropes holding on to his mum’s hands for dear life, who after some gentle and persistent encouragement from me and his mum, gradually let go and held on to the rope for himself. He then went across the rope several times on his own and the boost to his self-belief was a complete joy to watch, and I could also see the change in his mum’s attitude, seeing how capable her son could be under his own steam. We hope the University will return next year with a new set of participants, giving them the opportunity to attend a series of repeated sessions over several weeks, as we know this should have a much deeper and more lasting effect.

If you are interested in taking your own child along to one of our regular Nature Tots sessions near you for ages 3-5, please visit: sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/naturetots

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WildlifeNews

From… Carole Nicholson

As I relinquish the reins of Chairman and Trustee I can now reflect with pride on the rewarding and positive past seven years.

I joined the Board, initially as Honorary Treasurer, at a time when the charity sector was struggling with a weak economic background. My first job,

therefore, was to work with Trustees and the CEO to tighten financial budgetary controls. With a much stronger financial base, it was a natural progression to work with the CEO to lead the development of the Trust's new Vision and Strategy. Our ‘shared endeavour' approach has resulted in Trustees, senior management,

staff and volunteers having the opportunity to fully engage with the future of the Trust. My mantra, regarding our Annual General Meetings, has been not only to make them more interesting for members, but informative, to allow a good understanding of what the Trust does and its aspirations in its Vision and Strategy. I also worked hard to improve relationships with key strategic partners such the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Through close partnership working, the Trust is now in a strong position to activate a key part of its Vision to develop its first visitor centre at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. But success can only be achieved by working with people. During my term of office with the Trust, I had the pleasure and honour of working alongside David Streeter, former President and a founder of the Trust, as well as former CEO Dr Tony Whitbread whose infectious enthusiasm was a delight. I have also enjoyed working with motivated and passionate staff and inspiring volunteers. I wish the Trust and everyone involved a continuing successful future.

When trees could speak

A magical immersive storytelling show about trees, friendship and the importance of nature in our lives is coming to Woods Mill in May as part of the Brighton Fringe Festival.

Fern the Folklorogist lives in the woods and has secrets and stories to tell. There was a time when trees could speak but the Great Storm changed all that ….or did it? Funny and heart-warming, with original songs and puppets, the show is aimed at 3-8 year olds but will inspire and delight all ages.

Performances from Forest School theatre company Brambledash will take place at Woods Mill nature reserve, Henfield on the first two weekends in May. Entry by ticket only – Saturdays 4 and 11 May and Sundays 5 and 12 May. All performances at 2pm. Tickets are available from the Brighton Fringe Box Office. boxoffice@brightonfringe.org tel:01273 917 272

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As the event will take place in a woodland, please wear appropriate clothing and footwear and bring folding chairs if required. Free parking available.

WHAT’S ON?

Why not take a look at our up and coming courses and events from spring through to December. There’s something for everyone and members receive a discount. You can learn about everything from butterflies to bats, mindfulness to moths and willow weaving to warblers.

There are events to suit everyone, including for adults, families and Nature Tots for 3-5 year olds, childrens' Holiday Clubs and Wildlife Watch for 6-11 year olds.

Senior Community Engagement Officer Michael Blencowe, who masterminds the events programme, says, ‘Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the wildlife living on your doorstep. All our courses and events are well attended, so my advice is, book early. We look forward to seeing you.’

To request a paper copy of our What’s On brochure please email: membership@sussexwt.org.uk or tel: 01273 497532 sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/ whats-on

What’s on Rye?

Learning and Engagement Officer Lucy Bowyer manages the events programme at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. You can book online, or pick up a brochure from the Information Centre. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/ whats-on/category/rye

Sussex Art Fairs

Sussex Art Fairs is the perfect place to begin your art collection, or indeed add to your collection if you are already a seasoned art enthusiast.

Look out for the Sussex Wildlife Trust stand selling work kindly donated by the exhibitors with all proceeds going to support our work. The inaugural Sussex Art Fairs (West) takes place at the world renowned Goodwood Racecourse in the heart of the picturesque Sussex Downs. There will be 100 exhibitors with 1000s of artworks from over 160 artists available

TRIP TO PANTANAL, BRAZIL Join Mike Russell on a trip to the Pantanal, Brazil, this September to explore the largest and most diverse wetland in the world.

You will have the chance to see some of the resident mammals such as giant otter, giant anteater, lowland tapir, a range of different monkeys, capybara (the largest rodent in the world) and hopefully some cats such as ocelot. There is even a chance to see jaguar.

There's a huge variety of birds to see including the endangered hyacinth macaw,

plus a whole variety of other parrot species. We also hope to come across the flightless greater rhea and toco toucan plus another speciality of the Pantanal, the red-legged seriema.

for purchase. You will be able to meet many of the artists to make the experience that little bit more special. Prices start from as little as £50 for prints and smaller works, to over £5,000 for an outstanding masterpiece, so there will be something to suit every budget. Facilities include a coat check on arrival, a full café serving teas, coffees and snacks over the weekend and excellent toilet facilities. The venue is wheelchair accessible. Small dogs are welcome, but please carry them whilst inside the venue. Further details: sussexartfairs.co.uk

Sussex Art Fairs (West), 17th – 19th May 2019 Goodwood Racecourse, Selhurst Park Road, Chichester PO18 0PS Friday 17th May – 6pm to 9pm – The Private View Tickets £12 Saturday 18th May – 10am to 6pm – Public Day Tickets £5 Sunday 19th May – 10am to 5pm – Public Day Tickets £5

For free Public Day Tickets please visit: eventbrite.co.uk and register using the code WILDFREE

At the lodges there will hummingbird feeders so you can enjoy these stunning birds. The wetlands themselves are home to whole range of herons, egrets, ducks, waders and kingfishers. For further details contact Wildlife Travel at: wildlife-travel.co.uk

Sunny Holiday Bungalow in East Sussex near Rye Sleeps 4 comfortably in 2 bedrooms (up to 3 extra at a pinch). Central heating, sunny sitting/dining, patio and grassy garden. Quiet location close to the sea and in beautiful countryside. Miles of lovely walks and great birdwatching at Pett Pools and Rye Harbour. Badgers, rabbits and foxes visit the garden.

Weekly let throughout the year from £240 to £250. Sorry No dogs. Please phone Judy Whitehead 01243 572215 for more details. Wildlife 31

PhotoCompetition

Picture Perfect WINNER: South Downs Sunrise by Jamie Fielding

Our photographic competition to find 12 stunning photographs capturing the best of the wildlife and landscapes of Sussex for our 2019 online calendar has once again revealed some awe-inspiring images. The theme was the joy of nature and in addition to featuring in our online calendar we displayed the winning images at our AGM.

From the hundreds of images submitted, the final 12 were selected by our judges, international wildlife photographer David Plummer and Wildlife magazine editor Amanda Reeves. After choosing the 12 finalists, the winner was selected by public vote.

Congratulations to Jamie Fielding, who won the public vote, and runner-up Matthew Downes with Brighton Fox.

Thank you to everyone who entered, and please look out for our 2020 competition in July this year, when our theme will be Wilder Sussex. 32 Wildlife

Nature’s Picture Frame © Tom S B Lee An exhibition showcasing these 12 stunning photographs is taking place at the Booth Museum of Natural History until September.

The photographs were all finalists in the Trust’s online photographic competition. Each one represents a different month of the year and can be downloaded as a screen saver direct from sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/ calendar

Booth Museum of Natural History 194 Dyke Road, Brighton BN1 5AA

Opening times Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 10am5pm (closed 12-1.15pm) Sunday 2-5pm. Closed Thursdays

FREE ADMISSION

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BookReview

Ploughing a New Furrow by Malcolm Smith

Common farmland birds have declined by 54% since 1970, with farmland invertebrates declining by 40% in a few decades. Since the 1930s a staggering

97% of our once flower-rich meadows have been lost.

Ploughing a New Furrow examines these stark figures and in the context of Brexit, considers the unprecedented opportunity for wildlife once again to be nurtured by Britain’s farmers alongside food production, reversing the enormous plant and animal losses our farmland has suffered.

This book is based to a significant extent on conversations with farmers and on the achievements and experiences of some farmers who have made good use of agrienvironment payments to reinstate lost habitats and manage their remaining wildlife more sensitively.

Published by Whittles Publishing, this title is available to Wildlife readers for £15.99 (a saving of £3 from the RRP) plus £1.50 p&p. To purchase your copy at this special price please contact Sue or Jenna tel: 01593 731333.

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Day Walks on the High Weald by Deirdre Huston

Join author Deirdre Huston on a journey to explore the High Weald. Whether you are venturing out alone or in a group this book features 20 circular routes between 6.5 and 13.9 miles (10.5k– 22.4km) in length spread across this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the south-east of England. Walk down old coach roads, clamber through deserted woodland and along riverbanks, march past castles and skirt battlefields or linger in meadows. See the countryside that inspired A.A. Milne and Rudyard Kipling. Together with stunning photography, each route features OS maps, easy to follow directions, details of distance and navigation information and refreshments stops and local information.

Please quote code for readers of Wildlife magazine HIGHWEALD20 which will entitle you to a 20% discount. v-publishing.co.uk

FREE BOOK DRAW

Don’t miss your chance to win one of these four fabulous and unusual books with ‘press-out’ sections that ‘transform’ each title into a work of art.

Panto success

Many thanks to E3 for choosing Sussex Wildlife Trust to receive donations from a charity bucket collection after two performances of Jack and the Beanstalk last December. Over £270 was raised to support our work in the county.

They also donated some free tickets for Trust members and congratulations to Karen Steele from East Grinstead who was first ‘out of the hat’ in our free draw to receive four complimentary tickets. E3 is already planning for this year’s pantomime, Peter Pan, to be staged at the Hilton Brighton Metropole between 19-28 December 2019.

The Tree by Steve Marsh celebrates the beauty and abundance of the forest with beautiful illustrations of leaves, branches and fruits.

The Flower Garden by Michael Scott celebrates the diverse colours and scents of a variety of flowers with exquisite botanical illustrations.

The Butterfly Pavilion by James Lowen describes a kaleidoscope of butterflies with delightful illustrations of both familiar and exotic species.

The Aviary by Matt Merritt celebrates beautiful birds and boasts stunning ornithological illustrations of over 50 species from around the world.

brightonpanto.eventbrite.com

BOOK DRAW WINNERS

Congratulations to the winners of our autumn/winter 2018 magazine free book draws.

The Flora of Sussex was won by David Griffiths from Midhurst.

Freckles and Friends was won by Pam Waters from Bexhill-on-Sea.

All four books are published by Carlton Books. RRP £20 each. Special offer for readers of Wildlife £16 per copy and free postage until 10 July 2019. Use discount code paperscapeswildlife when ordering at: carltonbooks.co.uk

To win one of these four titles please send your name, address and telephone number to Amanda Reeves, Editor, Wildlife, Sussex Wildlife Trust, Woods Mill, Henfield, West Sussex, BN5 9SD by 2 May 2019.

Alternatively you can email (please include your postal address and title of the book) to: amandareeves@sussexwt.org.uk

Old Snufflegrunt’s Prickly Night Out was won by Stephanie Swaysland from Burgess Hill.

Seahorses A Life-size Guide to Every Species was won by Sallie Sullivan from Lewes.

Please remember to include the title of the book you would like to win. You may enter the draw for all four titles which will be drawn separately. The Draw will take place on 8 May 2019 and the winners will be announced in the autumn/winter edition of Wildlife. If you do not wish your name and the town you live in to be published please indicate clearly on your entry.

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presented by:

Nominations now open for an individual young person who has made an outstanding contribuঞon towards any of the following in Sussex:

Ŏ the study of natural history Ŏ prac ঞcal nature conservaঞon Ŏ biological recording Ŏ or advocacy for conservaঞon The winner will receive £250 in Natural History Book Service vouchers or the fees paid for a weekend Field Studies Council course.

Make your nominaঞon today at: sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/ DavidStreeterAward l-bѴĹ v |1;oL1;Šv vv; |ĺou]ĺ h Nominees should be aged 11-25, closing date 31 July 2019. See website for full Terms & Condbঞons.