CROW (Conserve Reading on Wednesdays)
Wednesday, 1st April 2015
Decoy Heath, Silchester ~ Willow scrub clearance

This was CROW's first visit to this BBOWT reserve where we were to clear willow scrub growing around a recently excavated pond.

John, out of view, gives instructions for the day.

By coffee a considerable impression had already been made.

Typical of the conditions in which we found ourselves working. Decoy Heath is best known for its dragonflies but is also home to adders one of which we were lucky enough to see as we entered the site, basking on a pile of brash. No photo's on this occasion but click here to see photo's of the adders taken by John on previous visits to the site.

Clearing along the pond edge.

Gorse in full bloom; clumps were scattered across the site.

Willow and alder growing along the pond's banks was making access difficult.

Cleared banks .....

Alder stump, note colouration.

Wildlife refuge created from cut branches.

Job done .....

Thanks to all who joined us, Judith, Terry, Peter S, Peter E, Marcus, John W, John L, Jan, David, Dave, Bob, Barry and Alan.

Created: Thursday, 2nd April 2015
Photographs: Alan Stevens, John Lerpiniere