Moorland and Meadow Management

Autumn colours are brightening up all areas of the reserve; this Beech tree on the orchard was looking spectacular against the blue sky at the end of last week. The orchard consists of various native apple trees and is designed to provide food for winter thrushes. It won't be long until flocks of Redwing and Fieldfare start to arrive from their breeding grounds in Scandinavia.

The stone circle was also looking splendid in the autumn sunshine.

Mowing and raking continues to be the main job on the reserve. The final corner of the wildflower meadow was cut and is ready to be raked on a dry day.

Regular visitors will notice some new waymarker posts that have been installed here to encourage walkers to stay on the path and to mark out the way when the Bluebell bank and meadow are in full bloom.

This has been an ongoing task with each post being carefully installed at a well thought out location! It has involved a lot of preparation and carrying of heavy tools, cement, water and equipment but the new posts look fantastic and Ian has checked every single one with a spirit level!

Further along the moorland, invasive Gorse has been removed from the edges of Plover's Pool. 

Gathering Gorse isn't the easiest of jobs as it is extremely spikey and unpleasant to handle, it's difficult to believe that the Exmoor ponies enjoyed eating it!

As well as the work mentioned above, volunteers have helped with much more including carrying out bridge repairs along Risedale Beck…

...and painting fingerpost signs.

Foxglove is very lucky to have such a great team of dedicated volunteers.