As spring is springing and we are out and about please be aware birds are nesting and some birds nest on or near the ground. You can protect them by sticking to the paths and keeping your dog on a lead.
Most are very well hidden for protection against crows and foxes but did you know there was a pheasant’s nest just outside the ladies toilets at Flatford a year or two ago, not the quietest place! We’ve also seen them nesting in the wildlife garden near our new mud kitchen.
Skylarks are one of our commonest ground-nesting birds and on the coast, our gulls, terns and waders, such as the oystercatcher and ringed plover are all nesting around where feet may tread.
Chiffchaffs are one of our first summer migrants to return to the garden. Have you heard one yet? Their 2-syllable distinctive song can be heard from high up in the trees about now but their nests are close to the ground too.
Watch out too for hungry hedgehogs. They will have lost a third of their bodyweight over winter so they will be out and about looking for food. A little bowl of water and some dog or cat food would be very much appreciated. See if you can spot our little hedgehog house next time you visit our wildlife garden.
We are open for Mother’s Day weekend of 26/27 March and then from 1st April 10.30-4.30pm until the end of October every day. We look forward to seeing you soon.