Heavy rain and strong winds predominated throughout the period. Progressing into December, the weather turned colder with a few bright days.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Some surprising reports of reptiles being active during mild spells. A Slow Worm was seen on the afternoon of the 11th November. A female Adder was spotted by dog walkers on two separate occasions in the same area during the 3rd week of November. Greenfinches, Goldfinches, Chaffinches, Bullfinch, Song and Mistle Thrushes, Redwings, Siskins, Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Long-Tailed/Coal/Blue/Great Tits, Wrens, Goldcrest, Magpies, Crows, Jays, Sparrowhawk and a Cormorant in flight over the Reserve. The wet bog remains an important habitat for Snipe and 10 of these hard to spot birds were seen.
Two Roe Deer were observed grazing in the Wet Wood at dawn.
During the wet, milder conditions many fungi have continued to appear, one being Tricholoma Aurantium (Plums and Custard), which will deteriorate quickly if the cold and/or frosty weather continues.
Tuesday, 15 December 2009
Nature Facts
The Goldfinch is one of the smaller finches found in Britain. It prefers to mainly live in small groups known as "charms" of Goldfinches. A "charm" will rove over the countryside twittering loudly whilst busily working their way from one patch of seed heads to another. They are often seen in garden locations on provided seed feeders.
Adders are the only snake whose range extends as far North as the Arctic Circle. Despite being better adapted to colder conditions than other species, it is still unusual to see them during their typical hibernation period of October to March.
Adders are the only snake whose range extends as far North as the Arctic Circle. Despite being better adapted to colder conditions than other species, it is still unusual to see them during their typical hibernation period of October to March.
Site Management
The nest boxes have been inspected for use/replacement/repairs. Of the 36 installed boxes, 21 had been occupied for nesting, 13 were unused, 1 is missing/removed and one was not inspected. Any repairs and replacements are planned to be carried out before the next breeding season. At the same time of the inspection, squares of white paper were placed on the floors of most boxes so any deposits will confirm birds are using them for overnight roosting. Two camera boxes on the fence line of Hazelwood/Hazel Drive are both occupies each night by Blue Tits.
Woodland management along the edge of Hazelwood continues. Dealing with the branches and logs remains the biggest challenge. Why not join us for the CHRISTMAS WORK PARTY on 29th DECEMBER 11am-3pm to help out?
Leaflet dispensers have been fixed to the notice boards at the Redwood Drive and West Moors Road entrances. Within the dispenser there is a VISITORS BOOK for the recording of wildlife sightings and comments. Dog waste bags are also available.
Woodland management along the edge of Hazelwood continues. Dealing with the branches and logs remains the biggest challenge. Why not join us for the CHRISTMAS WORK PARTY on 29th DECEMBER 11am-3pm to help out?
Leaflet dispensers have been fixed to the notice boards at the Redwood Drive and West Moors Road entrances. Within the dispenser there is a VISITORS BOOK for the recording of wildlife sightings and comments. Dog waste bags are also available.
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
Nature Notes
On the heath and bog, reptiles now retreat to their underground Winter homes called hibernacula. The occasional mild and sunny day may allow for some activity.
Also making use of any warmer days are some of the butterflies. Many species overwinter as eggs, laid on the caterpillar food plants. A few such as the Red Admiral and Tortoiseshell can overwinter as adults and will often shelter hidden in garden sheds or garages. Before hibernating, they build up their food reserves and can be seen feeding on late flowering plants such as Ivy. If you have Ivy on trees in your garden think twice before removing it. Contrary to popular belief it is not a parasite and does not "strangle" trees. For birds and insects it provides all year round shelter, a late nectar source and berries as food. Nesting birds and even bats have been known to use it as a home.
Out on the bog you may be lucky enough to glimpse a Snipe. This is a well camouflaged wading bird that spends most of its time feeding on wet ground. Usually only noticed when disturbed, look for the extra long bill as an identifying feature. Also look out for incoming migrants such as Fieldfare, Redwing, Brambling, Redpole and Siskin.
The occasional dragonfly may still be seen along the boardwalk, usually resting on the boards or rails, trying to absorb the little warmth they can from the weak sunshine. These insects rely for food on new larvae emerging from the bog pools each year. The few adults you now see will gradually die over the coming weeks.
Also making use of any warmer days are some of the butterflies. Many species overwinter as eggs, laid on the caterpillar food plants. A few such as the Red Admiral and Tortoiseshell can overwinter as adults and will often shelter hidden in garden sheds or garages. Before hibernating, they build up their food reserves and can be seen feeding on late flowering plants such as Ivy. If you have Ivy on trees in your garden think twice before removing it. Contrary to popular belief it is not a parasite and does not "strangle" trees. For birds and insects it provides all year round shelter, a late nectar source and berries as food. Nesting birds and even bats have been known to use it as a home.
Out on the bog you may be lucky enough to glimpse a Snipe. This is a well camouflaged wading bird that spends most of its time feeding on wet ground. Usually only noticed when disturbed, look for the extra long bill as an identifying feature. Also look out for incoming migrants such as Fieldfare, Redwing, Brambling, Redpole and Siskin.
The occasional dragonfly may still be seen along the boardwalk, usually resting on the boards or rails, trying to absorb the little warmth they can from the weak sunshine. These insects rely for food on new larvae emerging from the bog pools each year. The few adults you now see will gradually die over the coming weeks.
Sightings
Large White and Peacock butterflies, Common Darter dragonflies, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Jays, Great Spotted/Green Woodpeckers, Nuthatch, Sparrowhawk, Goldcrest and Snipe.
The damp, warmer weather is ideal for fungi and more than 50 varieties have been recorded including:- Fly Agaric, Shallow Pored Bolete, Amethyst Deceiver, Ochre Brittegill, The Blusher, Spotted Toughshank, Earpick Fungus, Birch Mazegill, Mottled Egghead, Safron Milkcap, White Coral Fungus, Surprise Webcap, Grooved Bonnet, Sulpher Tuft, Hoof Fungus, Brown Pingill. Other species yet to be confirmed:-
Clitocybe Gilva, Hemimycena Pseudogracilis, Mycena Umbellifera, Cortinarius, Mycena Megaspore, Panaeolus Acuminatus and Hebeloma Sinapizans.
Gorse is now showing a few flowers.
A Slow worm was spotted by Ranger staff on 26th October.
Monitoring of Bats during the last month has continued but no movement has been recorded.
The damp, warmer weather is ideal for fungi and more than 50 varieties have been recorded including:- Fly Agaric, Shallow Pored Bolete, Amethyst Deceiver, Ochre Brittegill, The Blusher, Spotted Toughshank, Earpick Fungus, Birch Mazegill, Mottled Egghead, Safron Milkcap, White Coral Fungus, Surprise Webcap, Grooved Bonnet, Sulpher Tuft, Hoof Fungus, Brown Pingill. Other species yet to be confirmed:-
Clitocybe Gilva, Hemimycena Pseudogracilis, Mycena Umbellifera, Cortinarius, Mycena Megaspore, Panaeolus Acuminatus and Hebeloma Sinapizans.
Gorse is now showing a few flowers.
A Slow worm was spotted by Ranger staff on 26th October.
Monitoring of Bats during the last month has continued but no movement has been recorded.
Nature Fact
Fungi differ from plants, which manufacture their food, and animals, which ingest and internally digest their food, in that they secrete enzymes and digest their food externally. They represent a separate and very large kingdom of their own.
Work on site
Work on site has included the removal of dead and dangerous trees or limbs next to footpaths. Where possible Dorset Countryside will leave standing dead trees for insects, fungi and all who feed on them - nature's takeaway restaurant for species such as the Greater Spotted Woodpecker. Where dead trees and branches pose an obvious hazard to people using the Reserve, they have to be removed. Contractors will be doing more branch pruning over coming weeks so please comply with all signage.
Woodland management work on the edge of Hazel Wood is also ongoing. This work will encourage regeneration of a greater diversity of trees and shrubs in place of the dominant pines being felled Increased light levels will encourage wild flowers.
Other work undertaken include mowing and pruning footpaths and ongoing invasive/exotic plant control
Woodland management work on the edge of Hazel Wood is also ongoing. This work will encourage regeneration of a greater diversity of trees and shrubs in place of the dominant pines being felled Increased light levels will encourage wild flowers.
Other work undertaken include mowing and pruning footpaths and ongoing invasive/exotic plant control
Friday, 16 October 2009
Nature Watch
Dry weather in the latter half of September turned to a short wet spell at the beginning of October. A period with very few sightings on recording visits
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Boardwalk: Common Lizards, Small Red damselflies, Southern Hawker dragonflies.
Hazelwood: Great Spotted/Green Woodpeckers, Chaffinches, Nuthatch, Greenfinches, Goldfinches, Long Tailed/Blue/Great Tits, Wrens, Jays, Buzzards, Blackcap, Willow Warblers.
Central heath: Great Spotted/Green Woodpeckers, Jays, Buzzards.
The screeching of a Tawny Owl heard in Hazelwood West.
The Summer visiting Willow Warblers and Blackcaps are now leaving and beginning their long migratory flight to warmer climates. The flock of Siskins which were resident on site during the Summer have now moved on.
Monitoring of Bats on site during the last month has continued to show readings of Pipistelle.
Fungi is now on the increase aided by the damp, warm weather conditions.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Boardwalk: Common Lizards, Small Red damselflies, Southern Hawker dragonflies.
Hazelwood: Great Spotted/Green Woodpeckers, Chaffinches, Nuthatch, Greenfinches, Goldfinches, Long Tailed/Blue/Great Tits, Wrens, Jays, Buzzards, Blackcap, Willow Warblers.
Central heath: Great Spotted/Green Woodpeckers, Jays, Buzzards.
The screeching of a Tawny Owl heard in Hazelwood West.
The Summer visiting Willow Warblers and Blackcaps are now leaving and beginning their long migratory flight to warmer climates. The flock of Siskins which were resident on site during the Summer have now moved on.
Monitoring of Bats on site during the last month has continued to show readings of Pipistelle.
Fungi is now on the increase aided by the damp, warm weather conditions.
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Thursday, 17 September 2009
Nature Watch
Having experienced weeks of wet, windy weather, this has finally given way to warmer dry days.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Hazelwood: Adder, Grass Snake, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Goldcrest, Willow Warbler, flocks of Siskin, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Long Tailed Tits, Speckled Wood/ Painted Lady/ Comma/ Large White/ Peacock butterflies.
Wet Wood: Song Thrush, Long Tailed Tits, Common Frog, Speckled Wood butterflies.
Boardwalk: Common Lizards, Large White butterflies.
Open Heathland: Kestrel, Buzzards, Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, flocks of House Martins and Swallows in flight, Silver Studded Blue butterflies.
A Tawny Owl has been heard calling from Hazelwood and to the west of the site.
Readings using a bat detector have continued at dusk. Pipistrelle Bats have been recorded feeding in Hazelwood, Wet Wood bridge east and across the open heath.
With the approach of Autumn, nesting boxes are now being selected for Winter roosting. A Blue Tit is already in residence in a camera nesting box situated on the fringe of Hazelwood, arriving before dark at about 7pm each evening.
Over the past month a weekly snake survey has been carried out by a Guardian volunteer who is licensed to do so. In total, 9 Adders, 19 Grass Snakes and 15 Slow Worms have been counted. The survey is undertaken at specified sites throughout the Reserve away from the main paths and tracks.
For some years now the Guardians have been monitoring butterfly numbers, particularly the Silver Studded Blue. In Great Britain SSBs are classified as nationally scarce. They are typically found on heathland that has not become too overgrown. Bell heather is a favourite nectar source. This year has been the best yet in terms of total butterfly numbers at Slop Bog including the Silver Studded Blue. It is not easy to ascribe a specific reason for this but the grazing cattle may well be a contributory factor.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Hazelwood: Adder, Grass Snake, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Goldcrest, Willow Warbler, flocks of Siskin, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Long Tailed Tits, Speckled Wood/ Painted Lady/ Comma/ Large White/ Peacock butterflies.
Wet Wood: Song Thrush, Long Tailed Tits, Common Frog, Speckled Wood butterflies.
Boardwalk: Common Lizards, Large White butterflies.
Open Heathland: Kestrel, Buzzards, Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, flocks of House Martins and Swallows in flight, Silver Studded Blue butterflies.
A Tawny Owl has been heard calling from Hazelwood and to the west of the site.
Readings using a bat detector have continued at dusk. Pipistrelle Bats have been recorded feeding in Hazelwood, Wet Wood bridge east and across the open heath.
With the approach of Autumn, nesting boxes are now being selected for Winter roosting. A Blue Tit is already in residence in a camera nesting box situated on the fringe of Hazelwood, arriving before dark at about 7pm each evening.
Over the past month a weekly snake survey has been carried out by a Guardian volunteer who is licensed to do so. In total, 9 Adders, 19 Grass Snakes and 15 Slow Worms have been counted. The survey is undertaken at specified sites throughout the Reserve away from the main paths and tracks.
For some years now the Guardians have been monitoring butterfly numbers, particularly the Silver Studded Blue. In Great Britain SSBs are classified as nationally scarce. They are typically found on heathland that has not become too overgrown. Bell heather is a favourite nectar source. This year has been the best yet in terms of total butterfly numbers at Slop Bog including the Silver Studded Blue. It is not easy to ascribe a specific reason for this but the grazing cattle may well be a contributory factor.
Nature Fact
Many people think Tawny Owls call with a 'tu-whit,tu-who' sound. What we hear is not a single owl but two birds. One of them gives out an eerie 'hoo, hooo, hoo-oo-oo-oo' call and the other, probably a female, answers with a sharp 'ke-wick'. Both sexes hoot and both call 'ke-wick' but these sounds are never uttered together by the same bird.
Site Management
Work on site has included repairs to the livestock fencing. Regular checks of the whole fence line reveal any weaknesses such as rotten posts which have to be dealt with straight away.
Now the bird nesting season has finished, woodland edge management work has begun on the belt of tress that stretch the length of the site. This will include the creation of 2 'bays' to break up the straight edge and the coppicing of a small area of Birch. Rather than reducing the woodland, this work will improve it by allowing regeneration of healthy saplings to replace poor quality trees. This will produce a dense screen of regrowth and allow wild flowers to benefit from the increased light levels.
Now the bird nesting season has finished, woodland edge management work has begun on the belt of tress that stretch the length of the site. This will include the creation of 2 'bays' to break up the straight edge and the coppicing of a small area of Birch. Rather than reducing the woodland, this work will improve it by allowing regeneration of healthy saplings to replace poor quality trees. This will produce a dense screen of regrowth and allow wild flowers to benefit from the increased light levels.
Wednesday, 12 August 2009
Nature Watch
The weather during July to mid August has been mostly wet, only improving in the latter weeks, giving a quiet period for observing the wildlife on site. Along the Hazelwood fringe, families of Tit species have been very noticeable together with adult Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Song Thrush, Wrens, Blackbirds and Robins feeding their young. Large flocks of Greenfinches, Goldfinches and Siskin can be seen along the fence line. Goldcrests are again beginning to frequent the woodland floor. A Sparrowhawk has been observed hunting in the Hazelwood woodland. Not much activity out on the open heathland with only a few sightings of the Stonechat family, Green Woodpeckers, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Magpies, Jays, Crows and Buzzards. Already, the song birds are in good voice claiming feeding territories in preparation for Autumn and Winter.
With the warm, wet weather, a number of fungi have developed including Puffballs.
Butterflies recorded in this period have included Peacock, Painted Lady, Large White, Comma, Brimstone, Small Heath, Gatekeeper, Speckled Wood, Small Copper, Common Blue and Silver Studied Blue.
Four-Spotted and Broad-Bodied dragonflies, Small Red, Large Red and Banded Demoiselle damselflies have been sighted.
A small number of Common Lizards have been seen on the boardwalk as has the first Raft Spider.
With the warm, wet weather, a number of fungi have developed including Puffballs.
Butterflies recorded in this period have included Peacock, Painted Lady, Large White, Comma, Brimstone, Small Heath, Gatekeeper, Speckled Wood, Small Copper, Common Blue and Silver Studied Blue.
Four-Spotted and Broad-Bodied dragonflies, Small Red, Large Red and Banded Demoiselle damselflies have been sighted.
A small number of Common Lizards have been seen on the boardwalk as has the first Raft Spider.
Nature Fact
The Peacock butterfly has a spectacular defence mechanism which it uses if it is disturbed from rest. Opening its wings, it creates an alarming hissing noise as the front and hind wings rub across each other revealing huge "eye-spots". A small bird, startled by the hiss and then confronted by the large owl like eyes, will usually fly off leaving the butterfly to go back to sleep.
Site Management
The July Guardians work party cut back vegetation overhanging footpaths and the boardwalk. As a consequence, previously hidden bog pools have been opened up which are ideal for pond dipping. Scrub has been cleared and extra fencing erected at the eastern end of the boardwalk giving a new area for dipping in Kingfisher Creek.
Dorset Countryside staff have been busy keeping on top of invasive vegetation and garden exotics which are spreading on site. Herbicides are used carefully to kill only troublesome plants in favour of our rarer wild flowers.
The eagle-eyed amongst you may have noticed that the Nature Trail plaques have been changed. This gives the opportunity for new brass rubbings to be done at each location post along the trail.
Dorset Countryside staff have been busy keeping on top of invasive vegetation and garden exotics which are spreading on site. Herbicides are used carefully to kill only troublesome plants in favour of our rarer wild flowers.
The eagle-eyed amongst you may have noticed that the Nature Trail plaques have been changed. This gives the opportunity for new brass rubbings to be done at each location post along the trail.
Slop Bog Celebration Event
Saturday 1st August turned out to be very wet but the event was well attended despite the inclement weather. Pond dipping was a success and an underwater camera gave a subterranean view of life below the surface. Studies were made of the 40 different species caught in a moth trap over the two previous nights. There were displays by the Moth Group, Dorset Countryside, The Urban Heath Partnership, Butterfly Conservation and the Slop Bog Guardians. A besom maker also demonstrated his skills. The Photographic Competition generated a good number of entries providing some wonderful images taken on site. The overall winner was a photograph of a male Crossbill taken by Keith Wilcox shown above.
Tuesday, 14 July 2009
Event at Slop Bog Saturday 1st Agust 2009
FREE NATURE FUN AFTERNOON
* Moth trap opening 12.00pm
* Traditional Crafts
* Pond dipping with underwater camera
* Wildlife Guided walk 1.00pm
* Wildlife information and displays
* Refreshments (small charge)
* Results/Awards of photographic competition 3.00pm
* Tombola
* Meet some of our reptiles
Well behaved dogs welcome.
Children to be accompanied by an adult at all times.
No event parking available. Please have consideration for our neighbours.
* Moth trap opening 12.00pm
* Traditional Crafts
* Pond dipping with underwater camera
* Wildlife Guided walk 1.00pm
* Wildlife information and displays
* Refreshments (small charge)
* Results/Awards of photographic competition 3.00pm
* Tombola
* Meet some of our reptiles
Well behaved dogs welcome.
Children to be accompanied by an adult at all times.
No event parking available. Please have consideration for our neighbours.
Nature Watch
Fine weather with occasional thunderstorms for this period.
The ongoing Butterfly Transects undertaken indicate that, over the last 3 weeks, numbers of Silver Studded Blues have increased compared to the corresponding period last year.
A Tawny Owl reported calling along the west side of Slop Bog.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Kingfisher Creek: China Mark Moths, Large Red/Small/Azure/Azure Blue Damselflies, Four Spot Chasers/Broad Bodied/Common Hawker/Emperor Dragonflies.
Western Enclosure: Stonechats, Tree Pipits, Green Woodpeckers, Fox, Broad Bodied/Four Spot Dragonflies, Small Red Damselflies.
Beaufoys Bog: Stonechats.
Wild Wood: Buzzards, Chiffchaffs, Green/Great Spotted Woodpeckers.
Hazelwood: Siskins, Wrens, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Songthrush, Nuthatch, Tree Creeper, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Chiffchaff, Blue/Great/Coal/Long Tailed Tits, Buzzard, Magpies, Jays.
Wet Wood: Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Songthrush, Chiffchaff, Jays, Blackcaps, Male and Female Roe Deer.
Nightjar Twirl: Grass Snakes, Azure Blue Damselflies.
Eastern Enclosure: Adder, Tree Pipit, Jay, Green Woodpecker.
Boardwalk: Two Common Lizards, Keeled Skipper/Four Spot Chaser Dragonflies.
Flowering Plants: Common Cudweed, Dwarf Gorse, Bell Heather, Cross-leaved Heath, Cotton Grass, Bog Asphodel, Cat's Ear, Tormentil, Cinquefoil, Hedge Woundwort, Hedge Bindweed, Bird's Foot Trefoil, Common Vetch, Black Medick, Smooth-sow Thistle, Ragwort, Groundsel, Herb Robert, Marsh Beadstraw, Water Lily, Sheep's Sorrel, Common Chickweed, Wall Speedwell, Herb Bennet, Enchanter's Nightshade, Stinging Nettle, Nipple Wort, Smooth Hawksbeard, Curled Dock.
The ongoing Butterfly Transects undertaken indicate that, over the last 3 weeks, numbers of Silver Studded Blues have increased compared to the corresponding period last year.
A Tawny Owl reported calling along the west side of Slop Bog.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Kingfisher Creek: China Mark Moths, Large Red/Small/Azure/Azure Blue Damselflies, Four Spot Chasers/Broad Bodied/Common Hawker/Emperor Dragonflies.
Western Enclosure: Stonechats, Tree Pipits, Green Woodpeckers, Fox, Broad Bodied/Four Spot Dragonflies, Small Red Damselflies.
Beaufoys Bog: Stonechats.
Wild Wood: Buzzards, Chiffchaffs, Green/Great Spotted Woodpeckers.
Hazelwood: Siskins, Wrens, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Songthrush, Nuthatch, Tree Creeper, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Chiffchaff, Blue/Great/Coal/Long Tailed Tits, Buzzard, Magpies, Jays.
Wet Wood: Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Songthrush, Chiffchaff, Jays, Blackcaps, Male and Female Roe Deer.
Nightjar Twirl: Grass Snakes, Azure Blue Damselflies.
Eastern Enclosure: Adder, Tree Pipit, Jay, Green Woodpecker.
Boardwalk: Two Common Lizards, Keeled Skipper/Four Spot Chaser Dragonflies.
Flowering Plants: Common Cudweed, Dwarf Gorse, Bell Heather, Cross-leaved Heath, Cotton Grass, Bog Asphodel, Cat's Ear, Tormentil, Cinquefoil, Hedge Woundwort, Hedge Bindweed, Bird's Foot Trefoil, Common Vetch, Black Medick, Smooth-sow Thistle, Ragwort, Groundsel, Herb Robert, Marsh Beadstraw, Water Lily, Sheep's Sorrel, Common Chickweed, Wall Speedwell, Herb Bennet, Enchanter's Nightshade, Stinging Nettle, Nipple Wort, Smooth Hawksbeard, Curled Dock.
Nature Watch
Grass Snakes are excellent swimmers and can stay under water for up to one hour at a time
Site Management
Much of the work recently has been done by the cattle. You may have noticed that the grass this year seems less vigorous within the grazing unit. This is due to the cattle grazing it down and creating lawn like areas in places. This allows light to reach the soil giving the heather and more delicate seedlings the chance to germinate.
Friday, 26 June 2009
Site Management
May's volunteer work party had no attendees unfortunately as many of the group were on holiday or had conflicting plans. However, Ranger staff removed the remaining debris on the dry heath previously raked up by volunteers. This will allow light and warmth to the ground so that seedling heather can germinate. June's work party saw some sensitive clearance of small invasive birch scrub in the bog area. It is hoped the grazing cattle will keep any new shoots in check.
Event
The 3rd West Moors Brownies paid another visit to Slop Bog whereupon Ranger staff led a reptile walk and pond dip. Over 20 Brownies were lucky to see Grass Snakes and and the pond dip resulted in close up views of dragonfly larvae and young newts. An underwater camera gave a tadpoles eye view of life in the bog.
Thursday, 18 June 2009
Nature Watch
Several weeks of fine, warm weather resulted in water evaporation from the acid peat pools. They were partially replenished as a result of recent thunderstorms.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Hazelwood - Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs, Nuthatches, Treecreeper, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Goldfinches, Greenfinches, Siskins, Willow Warbler, Wrens, Bullfinch, Swifts, Speckled Wood/Painted Lady butterflies, Pipistrelle bats.
Silver Studded Heath - Swifts, Broad Bodied/Large Hawker/Common Hawker/Emperor dragonflies, Small Red/Azure Blue damselflies, Painted Lady butterflies.
Western Enclosure - Tree Pipits, Stonechats, Jays, Pipistrelle/1 Daubenton's bats, Fox, Broad Bodied/Four Spot Chaser dragonflies, Small Red/Azure Blue damselflies.
Beaufoys Plantation - Mistle Thrush, Jays, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Pipistrelle/1 Daubenton's bats.
Dragonfly Drop - 3 young Grass snakes, Jays, Green Woodpecker,Chaffinch, Mistle Thrush.
Wild Wood - Buzzards, Chaffinches, Chiffchaff.
Wet Wood - Chiffchaffs, Blackcaps, Wrens, Jays, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, Roe deer.
Beaufoys Bog - Stonechat.
Kingfisher Creek - Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Long Tailed/Great/Blue/Coal Tits,Treecreeper, Nuthatch,Great Spotted Woodpecker, Song Thrush,Speckled Wood butterflies, Large Red/Azure Blue damselflies, Female Roe deer, Smooth snake.
Nightjar Twirl/Boardwalk - Four Spot & Broad Chaser dragonflies, Azure Blue damselflies, Common Lizards.
Although no Common Lizards have been seen by recorders or reported by visitors in other warm periods this year, two were observed on the 6th June, a noticeable drop on previous years.
There have been no recorded sightings of Raft Spiders as yet.
No sightings or the sound of Nightjar so far and no sign of Dartford Warblers in the past two months. On a more positive note, two singing male Tree Pipits are resident on site as are a number of Siskins which are likely to remain for the Summer in the pine trees bordering Hazelwood and Beaufoys Plantations. Many fledgling birds have been spotted over the past few weeks.
Regular Bat recordings have continued which has identified a Daubenton's Bat, picked up on the detector on a different frequency to the Pipistrelles.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Hazelwood - Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs, Nuthatches, Treecreeper, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Goldfinches, Greenfinches, Siskins, Willow Warbler, Wrens, Bullfinch, Swifts, Speckled Wood/Painted Lady butterflies, Pipistrelle bats.
Silver Studded Heath - Swifts, Broad Bodied/Large Hawker/Common Hawker/Emperor dragonflies, Small Red/Azure Blue damselflies, Painted Lady butterflies.
Western Enclosure - Tree Pipits, Stonechats, Jays, Pipistrelle/1 Daubenton's bats, Fox, Broad Bodied/Four Spot Chaser dragonflies, Small Red/Azure Blue damselflies.
Beaufoys Plantation - Mistle Thrush, Jays, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Pipistrelle/1 Daubenton's bats.
Dragonfly Drop - 3 young Grass snakes, Jays, Green Woodpecker,Chaffinch, Mistle Thrush.
Wild Wood - Buzzards, Chaffinches, Chiffchaff.
Wet Wood - Chiffchaffs, Blackcaps, Wrens, Jays, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, Roe deer.
Beaufoys Bog - Stonechat.
Kingfisher Creek - Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Long Tailed/Great/Blue/Coal Tits,Treecreeper, Nuthatch,Great Spotted Woodpecker, Song Thrush,Speckled Wood butterflies, Large Red/Azure Blue damselflies, Female Roe deer, Smooth snake.
Nightjar Twirl/Boardwalk - Four Spot & Broad Chaser dragonflies, Azure Blue damselflies, Common Lizards.
Although no Common Lizards have been seen by recorders or reported by visitors in other warm periods this year, two were observed on the 6th June, a noticeable drop on previous years.
There have been no recorded sightings of Raft Spiders as yet.
No sightings or the sound of Nightjar so far and no sign of Dartford Warblers in the past two months. On a more positive note, two singing male Tree Pipits are resident on site as are a number of Siskins which are likely to remain for the Summer in the pine trees bordering Hazelwood and Beaufoys Plantations. Many fledgling birds have been spotted over the past few weeks.
Regular Bat recordings have continued which has identified a Daubenton's Bat, picked up on the detector on a different frequency to the Pipistrelles.
Nature Fact
Swifts are the most aerial of all birds. They usually land only to nest. The legs are very short, all toes point forward and the claws are curved to enable the bird to cling to vertical surfaces. The Swift is unable to walk, movement is restricted to shuffling within the nest chamber. This amazing bird is the only one known to sleep, mate and feed on the wing.
Site Management
Cattle watch is proving a success. A number of Slop Bog visitors are involved in regular checking on the well being of the eight Dexter cattle on site.
Tuesday, 12 May 2009
Nature Watch
The weather has been very mixed since the last report. The sound of bird song has filled the air along the path bordering Hazelwood eg Song Thrush, Blackcaps and Chiffchaffs. Many of the nesting boxes are occupied with the majority of birds at the egg sitting stage but a few early starters are feeding young. The Blue Tit observed roosting in the camera box chose not to nest in that location.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Hazelwood- Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs, Song Thrush, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Jays, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Wrens, Siskins, Buzzard, Heron, Pipistrelle Bats, Holly Blue/Speckled Wood/Small Tortoiseshell/Orange Tip/ Peacock/ Small & Large White butterflies.
Wet Wood- Jays, Song Thrush, Chiffchaffs, Blackcaps.
Nightjar Twirl- Male and female Roe Deer, Chiffchaffs, Treecreepers, Nuthatch, Speckled Wood butterflies, Bog beacon in stream east of the bridge.
Beaufoys Bog- Pair of Stonechats, Kestrel, Cotton Grass, Lousewort.
Western Enclosure- Pair of Tree Pipits, Pair of Stonechats, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Lousewort in flower.
Beaufoys Plantation- Pair of Mistle Thrush, Goldcrests, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Green Woodpecker.
Boardwalk area- Common Lizards, Adder, Grass Snakes, Slow Worms.
Dragonfly Drop- Chiffchaffs, Buzzards.
Eastern Enclosure- Female Tree Pipit.
A pair of Grey Lagged Geese were observed flying over the site.
George and Mark Dunkling have again begun a Summer of observing, photographing and compiling a list of spiders and insects resident on site. It is important to record and log this information as it assists in the understanding of the food chain within the Slop Bog habitat.
Recording by Christine Wilcox and George Dunkling
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Hazelwood- Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs, Song Thrush, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Jays, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Wrens, Siskins, Buzzard, Heron, Pipistrelle Bats, Holly Blue/Speckled Wood/Small Tortoiseshell/Orange Tip/ Peacock/ Small & Large White butterflies.
Wet Wood- Jays, Song Thrush, Chiffchaffs, Blackcaps.
Nightjar Twirl- Male and female Roe Deer, Chiffchaffs, Treecreepers, Nuthatch, Speckled Wood butterflies, Bog beacon in stream east of the bridge.
Beaufoys Bog- Pair of Stonechats, Kestrel, Cotton Grass, Lousewort.
Western Enclosure- Pair of Tree Pipits, Pair of Stonechats, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Lousewort in flower.
Beaufoys Plantation- Pair of Mistle Thrush, Goldcrests, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Green Woodpecker.
Boardwalk area- Common Lizards, Adder, Grass Snakes, Slow Worms.
Dragonfly Drop- Chiffchaffs, Buzzards.
Eastern Enclosure- Female Tree Pipit.
A pair of Grey Lagged Geese were observed flying over the site.
George and Mark Dunkling have again begun a Summer of observing, photographing and compiling a list of spiders and insects resident on site. It is important to record and log this information as it assists in the understanding of the food chain within the Slop Bog habitat.
Recording by Christine Wilcox and George Dunkling
Nature Fact
In Spring male Roe Deer, having grown their antlers, rub off the soft velvet covering against tree trunks which exposes the hard core. The picture below shows this has happened with one antler, the other remaining in velvet.
Site Management
Repairs to damaged fencing has been undertaken. Eight cattle are now on site. "Dogs on leads" signs have been installed at the gate entrances to the fenced enclosure and will remain for the duration of cattle grazing and the ground nesting bird season. Part of the permissive path through the centre of the heathland suffered erosion during the winter and is now closed to allow a period of recovery.
Thursday, 9 April 2009
Nature Watch
The past month has delivered several weeks of warmer weather albeit with frosty nights. As a consequence wildlife has been more noticeable.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Chiffchaffs have returned from their winter habitat and have been seen and heard at Wet Wood, Old Peat Cuts, Wild Wood and Dragonfly Drop areas. Bramblings have also frequented Dragonfly Drop.
Several Crossbills were spotted in the north west of the site feeding on pine seeds.
Green Woodpeckers, Dartford Warblers and Stonechats have been seen and/or heard on the open heathland.
Great Spotted Woodpeckers seen and heard drumming throughout the Reserve thereby pronouncing their presence and claiming their territories.
The large flock of Siskin have returned to their breeding grounds in the north. A few remain and are still to be seen feeding in gardens in Hazel Drive.
Herons and Buzzards are regularly in flight over the Reserve.
Tit species are visiting bird boxes on site.
The Blue Tit observation has continued. The bird returns each night and roosts until first light but there is no sign of nest building.
The first bat activity reading was recorded on 15th March and nightly since.
Comma, Brimstone, Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock butterflies seen along the Hazelwood/Hazel Drive fringe.
Bog Myrtle in flower, also Catkins showing, viewed from the boardwalk. Primroses in flower in Wet Wood as is Gorse on the heath.
Again, no recordings of frogs, toads or their spawn this year.
SIGHTINGS/OBSERVATIONS
Chiffchaffs have returned from their winter habitat and have been seen and heard at Wet Wood, Old Peat Cuts, Wild Wood and Dragonfly Drop areas. Bramblings have also frequented Dragonfly Drop.
Several Crossbills were spotted in the north west of the site feeding on pine seeds.
Green Woodpeckers, Dartford Warblers and Stonechats have been seen and/or heard on the open heathland.
Great Spotted Woodpeckers seen and heard drumming throughout the Reserve thereby pronouncing their presence and claiming their territories.
The large flock of Siskin have returned to their breeding grounds in the north. A few remain and are still to be seen feeding in gardens in Hazel Drive.
Herons and Buzzards are regularly in flight over the Reserve.
Tit species are visiting bird boxes on site.
The Blue Tit observation has continued. The bird returns each night and roosts until first light but there is no sign of nest building.
The first bat activity reading was recorded on 15th March and nightly since.
Comma, Brimstone, Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock butterflies seen along the Hazelwood/Hazel Drive fringe.
Bog Myrtle in flower, also Catkins showing, viewed from the boardwalk. Primroses in flower in Wet Wood as is Gorse on the heath.
Again, no recordings of frogs, toads or their spawn this year.
Nature Fact
Frogs lay their spawn in shallow, still water forming large clumps of eggs which rapidly swell as they absorb water. Toads tend to spawn in deeper water, forming ropes of eggs which wind round plant stems.
Site Management
The felling of selected trees last Autumn created new clearings within the enclosure. Ground debris is now being cleared from these areas to enable the heather to recover and promote growth.
Monday, 16 March 2009
Nature Watch
A month of very mixed weather for our area. Heavy snow fall, frost, wet and windy, with only a few dry milder days.
SIGHTINGS
Hazelwood- Nuthatch, Wrens, Chaffinches, Siskins, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, all Tit species, Goldcrests, Blackbirds, Robins, Song Thrush, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Male Pheasant, Female Tawny Owl.
Wet Wood- All Tit species, Nuthatch, Tree Creeper, Song Thrush, Blackbirds, Robins, Sparrowhawk, Wrens.
Beaufoys Plantation- Great Spotted Woodpecker, Siskins, Goldcrests.
Western Enclosure- Green Woodpecker, Dartford Warbler.
Eastern Enclosure- Pair of Snipe, pair of Stonechat, Dartford Warbler, Green Woodpecker, first sighting of Pond Skaters on the surface of the acid pools(12/3).
Beaufoys Bog- Pair of Snipe, Dartford Warbler, female Roe Deer.
Buzzards Carr- Buzzards.
Wild Wood- Jays, Bramblings.
Dragonfly Drop- Flock of Redwing, Buzzards.
Roe Deer footprints found in snow and soft mud. Several Raptor strike remains have been found on site.
The Blue Tit study is ongoing. Daylight activity has increased to 12 hours and the bird continues to night roost. Will it choose to use this box for nesting with a partner?
The spider shown this month is the Heath or 4 Spot Orb Weaver, another specie observed during the Summer 2008 survey. This large brightly coloured spider lives on grassland, heathland and hedgerows. The abdomen may be yellow, orange, green, red or brown. It spins a large vertical orb-web built low down among ground vegetation. It catches mainly grasshoppers, crickets and other jumping insects
SIGHTINGS
Hazelwood- Nuthatch, Wrens, Chaffinches, Siskins, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, all Tit species, Goldcrests, Blackbirds, Robins, Song Thrush, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Male Pheasant, Female Tawny Owl.
Wet Wood- All Tit species, Nuthatch, Tree Creeper, Song Thrush, Blackbirds, Robins, Sparrowhawk, Wrens.
Beaufoys Plantation- Great Spotted Woodpecker, Siskins, Goldcrests.
Western Enclosure- Green Woodpecker, Dartford Warbler.
Eastern Enclosure- Pair of Snipe, pair of Stonechat, Dartford Warbler, Green Woodpecker, first sighting of Pond Skaters on the surface of the acid pools(12/3).
Beaufoys Bog- Pair of Snipe, Dartford Warbler, female Roe Deer.
Buzzards Carr- Buzzards.
Wild Wood- Jays, Bramblings.
Dragonfly Drop- Flock of Redwing, Buzzards.
Roe Deer footprints found in snow and soft mud. Several Raptor strike remains have been found on site.
The Blue Tit study is ongoing. Daylight activity has increased to 12 hours and the bird continues to night roost. Will it choose to use this box for nesting with a partner?
The spider shown this month is the Heath or 4 Spot Orb Weaver, another specie observed during the Summer 2008 survey. This large brightly coloured spider lives on grassland, heathland and hedgerows. The abdomen may be yellow, orange, green, red or brown. It spins a large vertical orb-web built low down among ground vegetation. It catches mainly grasshoppers, crickets and other jumping insects
Nature Fact
The Common Pond Skater moves rapidly over the surface of still, slow moving water using the front legs to grab other insects. Winged individuals often fly far from water to hibernate.
Site Management
The application of the wire netting to the surface of the boardwalk has now been completed. Repairs to several nest boxes has been undertaken ahead of the nesting season.
Tuesday, 17 February 2009
Nature Watch
During the severe weather conditions , the following sighting were made on monitoring visits:-
Female Grey Wagtail, male and female Sparrowhawks in chasing flight, Blue/Coal/Great/Long tailed Tits, Robins, Blackbirds, Chaffinches, Great Spotted and Green Woodpeckers, Jays, flock of Redwing, flock of Siskin, Goldfinch, Nuthatch, Wrens, Goldcrests, Song Thrush, 6 Reed Buntings, female Stonechat, Buzzards, Heron, Woodcock, Red Admiral butterfly(seen on a much milder January day), female Roe Deer, Yellow Brain fungus.
Look and listen for the flock of Siskin. They favour roosting in trees in the area around the enclosure gate where the interpretation board is located, also along the Hazel Drive fence line. The flock are frequent visitors to a feeder situated in a Hazel Drive garden.
Many tracks and foot prints of birds, foxes and Roe deer have been apparent in the soft mud and snow covered ground.
The study of the winter roosting Blue Tit in a nest box has continued. Departure and arrival times have been variable. Departures are now between 7-7.15am but on particularly dark mornings it has been as late as 7.45am. The most significant change is in the afternoon return to the box - now as late as 5.15pm. It's noticeable this occurred when snow was laying which may give a reflection, thereby increasing light levels, thus delaying return to the roost.
The Wasp Spider (Argiope Brucennichi as pictured below) was another specie found on the 2008 summer survey. Females grow to 25mm, males to 7mm. This spider spins a large vertical orb-web usually with a zigzag band down the middle. It is built low down in vegetation eg heather and purple moor grass. They feed on grasshoppers, crickets and low flying insects. The female spins a large egg sac before dying in the Autumn. The eggs hatch in the Spring.
Female Grey Wagtail, male and female Sparrowhawks in chasing flight, Blue/Coal/Great/Long tailed Tits, Robins, Blackbirds, Chaffinches, Great Spotted and Green Woodpeckers, Jays, flock of Redwing, flock of Siskin, Goldfinch, Nuthatch, Wrens, Goldcrests, Song Thrush, 6 Reed Buntings, female Stonechat, Buzzards, Heron, Woodcock, Red Admiral butterfly(seen on a much milder January day), female Roe Deer, Yellow Brain fungus.
Look and listen for the flock of Siskin. They favour roosting in trees in the area around the enclosure gate where the interpretation board is located, also along the Hazel Drive fence line. The flock are frequent visitors to a feeder situated in a Hazel Drive garden.
Many tracks and foot prints of birds, foxes and Roe deer have been apparent in the soft mud and snow covered ground.
The study of the winter roosting Blue Tit in a nest box has continued. Departure and arrival times have been variable. Departures are now between 7-7.15am but on particularly dark mornings it has been as late as 7.45am. The most significant change is in the afternoon return to the box - now as late as 5.15pm. It's noticeable this occurred when snow was laying which may give a reflection, thereby increasing light levels, thus delaying return to the roost.
The Wasp Spider (Argiope Brucennichi as pictured below) was another specie found on the 2008 summer survey. Females grow to 25mm, males to 7mm. This spider spins a large vertical orb-web usually with a zigzag band down the middle. It is built low down in vegetation eg heather and purple moor grass. They feed on grasshoppers, crickets and low flying insects. The female spins a large egg sac before dying in the Autumn. The eggs hatch in the Spring.
Nature Fact
Siskins are mainly winter visitors to our area with northern breeding birds moving south and others arriving from Europe. They feed on seeds found on Spruce, Pine, Alder and Birch trees. Feeders stocked with Niger seeds will attract these birds into your garden.
Site Management
The boardwalk, situated at the east end of the site, has had wire netting applied to the boards. Only a small length remains to be completed at the next work party. This improves visitor safety as the surface was previously very slippery during wet or frosty conditions.
Thursday, 15 January 2009
Nature Watch
The severe temperatures in the latter part of December and into the new year forced much of the wildlife on the Reserve to keep a very low profile. The landscape has offered many stunning Winter views with heavy frost on the ground, trees and foliage whilst the peat bog channels were frozen over. The feeding stations at Kingfisher Creek have been regularly supplied with appropriate food for the season in a bid to support the many tit species and woodland birds in that area. There has been good news concerning the foxes earth in Hazelwood as it appears to have been dug out recently, enlarging the inner chamber, with all signs of prospective parents being in residence.
All the Winter resident birds seen have been recorded in the woodland area and on the open heath. A pair of Reed Buntings were spotted at the West end of the boardwalk. Despite the harsh weather conditions, a Dartford Warbler and a Stonechat were sighted on a cold but sunny morning in the first week of January. Wrens and Goldcrests are much in evidence with their very distinctive sounds being heard. A small flock of Crossbills appeared fleetingly over the enclosure near Redwood Drive and a Jackdaw was seen flying across the heath.
The mammals are still proving elusive.
This month we feature two more spiders found on the 2008 spider survey undertaken by George and Mark Dunkling:-
The Water Spider(Argyroneta Aquatic) lives in a bell shaped home attached to underwater plants. They only venture out to collect air or capture food which consists of tadpoles, small fish and other small aquatic insects.
The Raft Spider(Dolomedes Fimbriatus) is most often seen along the boardwalk from April to October. The females grow to 22mm and the male to only 10/13mm. They usually wait for insects to alight nearby then run swiftly along and grab them. Another tactic is to sit on a floating leaf with its front legs on the surface of the water waiting for vibrations caused by struggling insects thereby locating its prey
All the Winter resident birds seen have been recorded in the woodland area and on the open heath. A pair of Reed Buntings were spotted at the West end of the boardwalk. Despite the harsh weather conditions, a Dartford Warbler and a Stonechat were sighted on a cold but sunny morning in the first week of January. Wrens and Goldcrests are much in evidence with their very distinctive sounds being heard. A small flock of Crossbills appeared fleetingly over the enclosure near Redwood Drive and a Jackdaw was seen flying across the heath.
The mammals are still proving elusive.
This month we feature two more spiders found on the 2008 spider survey undertaken by George and Mark Dunkling:-
The Water Spider(Argyroneta Aquatic) lives in a bell shaped home attached to underwater plants. They only venture out to collect air or capture food which consists of tadpoles, small fish and other small aquatic insects.
The Raft Spider(Dolomedes Fimbriatus) is most often seen along the boardwalk from April to October. The females grow to 22mm and the male to only 10/13mm. They usually wait for insects to alight nearby then run swiftly along and grab them. Another tactic is to sit on a floating leaf with its front legs on the surface of the water waiting for vibrations caused by struggling insects thereby locating its prey
Nature Fact
During a recent study of an overnight roosting Blue Tit in a nesting box along the Hazel Drive fringe, it was recorded that in November, December and into January roosting commenced on the dot of twenty past four each afternoon. The bird vacated the box each morning between 7.20 and 7.40. It was established that weather conditions did not change the times but it was noted morning departure was connected to light levels as on darker days departure was delayed. An overall time of fifteen hours roosting was the norm. The photograph of the Blue Tit, as above, shows that a bird really does tuck the head under its wing when asleep.
Site Management
The Christmas/New Year work party continued burning brush in Hazelwood from trees felled in the Autumn.
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