January’s work party will be focusing on the area around the Hide Pond, and in particular removal of bramble regrowth on the sunny bank above the pond. There is also the job of removing old typha and willowherb stems from the shallows and island. For members hoping for a more ornithological-oriented task, the annual survey and cleanout of the reserve’s nest boxes awaits you. The weather is forecast to be cooler than of late so wrap up well.
To help out at the work party, meet at the reserve on Saturday, 16th January at 9:30 am. We will finish around lunchtime. All members are welcome and no previous experience is necessary. Please wear appropriate work clothes, stout shoes, boots or wellies, and thorn-proof gardening gloves or equivalent. Your favourite secateurs and a spade or fork would all be useful tools to bring, though some are available at the reserve. Recording materials for the nest box survey will be provided.
Organised work parties take place at the Jim Mart reserve on the morning of the third Saturday in every month, except in December. For further information about the reserve visit the Jim Mart NR pages on the Ogston Bird Club website https://ogstonbirdclub.co.uk/ , or contact Peter Faulkner by email ([email protected]).