Larch

Wednesday, November 4th 2020

Stormy weather last weekend caused one of the old Larch trees at the top of the woodland to fall. It was close to the footpath and so although it was caught up on adjacent trees, it was a hazard and had to be removed. This is a shame as they are beautiful trees and of great value to wildlife; the seeds are eaten by squirrels and a number of birds, including Siskin and Redpoll. The caterpillars of many moths feed on the foliage, including the Case-bearer moth and Larch pug. Larch tortrix moth caterpillars eat the cone scales. They are an unusual conifer because their needles turn golden and fall off in Autumn (often they are mistaken to be dying).

Luckily, this one was not too far from where work is being carried out in the woodland. The tree was cut into manageable pieces and the brash went onto the bonfire. In European folklore, Larch was said to protect against enchantment and the wearing and burning of Larch was thought to protect against evil spirits!

Due to its high resin content, it is particularly durable in wet conditions so the tree trunk was used to edge the pathway next to where it had grown. It should last for several years.

Further along on the green route, the footpath is cloaked in fallen needles making the path inviting.

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Wednesday 28th July 2021 | 45 minute sessions on the hour

Come along and find out which animals are living in some of the Foxglove ponds. Book a pond dipping session for your family bubble. There will be a socially distanced brief to set you off and then you can use the equipment for the remainder of the session. You will be requested to use hand gel on arrival and the net handles will be cleaned between sessions. Please call the Reserve Managers on 07754 270980 to book your allocated slot. You are advised to arrive 15 minutes before your allocated time.

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Wednesday 4th August 2021 | 45 minute sessions on the hour

Come along and find out which animals are living in some of the Foxglove ponds. Book a pond dipping session for your family bubble. There will be a socially distanced brief to set you off and then you can use the equipment for the remainder of the session. You will be requested to use hand gel on arrival and the net handles will be cleaned between sessions. Please call the Reserve Managers on 07754 270980 to book your allocated slot. You are advised to arrive 15 minutes before your allocated time.

Booking is essential. A donation in advance (card payment by phone) of £5 per family bubble is required in order to secure your booking.

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