WILD NEWS

Last year we carried out more than 250 ecological surveys on 77 nature reserves. The surveys, from orchid counts to reptile refugia checks, help paint a picture of how local wildlife is changing.

The summer’s extreme heat and drought proved exceptionally challenging. Some species, such as hazel dormice, are being badly hit by the effects of climate change and habitat loss. Just one male dormouse was found at Warburg Nature Reserve, a clear indication the population is lower than ever.

There was plenty of good news too though. At Parsonage Moor surveyors found a record-breaking 425 southern damselflies – almost four times the previous highest count for this rare species. A survey of the new channel at Chimney Meadows counted 450 fish of nine species – remarkable for such a new feature. While at Gallows Bridge Farm two breeding pairs of rare redshank reared at least three young between them.

“We are seeing some worrying losses,” says Ecology Officer Colin Williams. “However, we’re also seeing some big wins for nature thanks to our work, and the help of our volunteers.” Indeed, all these recordings are only possible thanks to the fantastic army of volunteer surveyors for whom we are incredibly grateful.

The Nature Discovery Centre at Thatcham reopened in winter following a £125,000 refurbishment. The revamp has created an open-plan layout for the café and shop, new educational table displays and a ‘hide in the sky’ on the first floor where visitors can spy on the lakeside wildlife below.

Local author Lizzie Pepper has released her debut children’s novel The Last Year of the Wild. Set in the year 2060, the adventure story follows a brave wild community of birds as they battle a changed climate. Lizzie is kindly donating 5% of profits to BBOWT. Order your copy at lizziepepper.co.uk

A warm welcome to our newest Investor in Wildlife members: St Anne’s College, Oxford, and Prodec Networks. Huge thanks to A.Menarini Diagnostics, Chroma Group Printing, Ipsen Biopharm, NatureBureau, QuickMoveNow, and University College Oxford for renewing their memberships. And thank you to staff from Chroma Group Printing in Reading for donating £2,000 of printing services for the second year – your swift and wonderful service is so appreciated!

Discover why investing in wildlife makes sound business sense: bbowt.org.uk/business-partnerships

The Wildlife Trusts, led by BBOWT and Future Nature WTC (our ecological consultancy) have teamed up with Jamie Langfords of Oxford Garden Design to create a show garden at May’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival. ‘Wilder Spaces’ will feature wildlife-friendly planting and reclaimed materials. Tickets available at rhs.org.uk