Local May - September 2013 A news and events diary from wildlife and conservation groups in Wildlife the area News

The elusive Nightjar . . . can be found on page 2 and in the Events Diary © Mike Richards (rspb-images.com)

Produced by the Up late with Beasts Of The Night the Nightjar

Thursday Aug 1st 8:30pm – 10:30pm

Sutton Heath South car park (B1083 to Sutton village) Grid Ref: TM306475

Booking event: £4 adults, £2 under 18s, pensioners and students.

Find out how bats catch their food in the dark. How does a bat detector work? What is a Nightjar and where do they come from? Which male and female Owls sing a nightly duet?

Join this Ranger led walk to find out the answers and more. Friday June 14th 2013 Please bring a torch if you have one. Wear stout shoes and bring 9.00 pm – 11.00pm waterproof clothing.

Please contact us to book a place: Sutton Heath South car park 01394 444619 or e-mail: (B1083 to Sutton village) [email protected] Grid Ref: TM306475

Booking event: £4 adults, £2 under 18s, pensioners and students. Blooming Heathland

Join a ranger lead mid-summer night walk to seek out the elusive and rare nightjar. This nocturnal bird, famed for its churring love call and aerobatic courtship dance can provide a magical display. The well camouflaged ground nesting bird enjoys the recently cleared areas of Saturday 10th Aug 10am – 12.30am lowland heathland. Sutton Heath South car park (B1083 to Sutton village) Grid Ref: TM306475 Please bring a torch and insect Booking event: £4 adults, £2 under 18s, pensioners and students. repellent, wear stout shoes and warm clothing. Did you know that the UK’s lowland heathland amounts to 20% of one of the rarest habitats in the world? Join this walk and learn much more about heathland wildlife and Please contact us to book a place: its conservation while enjoying a pleasant walk through 01394 444619 or e-mail: the blooming heather. [email protected] Please contact us to book a place: 01394 444619 or e-mail: [email protected] Welcome Local Wildlife News Welcome to the Summer issue of LWN, produced mainly by the Greenways Project providing a voice for local wildlife, conservation and other ‘green’ groups. 4 In this edition we are sad to be saying goodbye to the Access To Nature Ipswich Project which has done so much to promote the importance of wildlife and open space in the town for the last three years. Please see their article on page 13. We would like to wish all of the staff from the project the very best for the future and hope they will remain

© Matt Berry interested and involved in the sites they have helped to transform. As their article points out, it is the volunteers that have worked with the Project that have made it successful – so a big thank you to volunteers again! We are delighted to report that Ipswich Wildlife Group member Jen Jousiffe won the Green Hero award at the ‘Creating the Greenest County’ awards. Congratulations to Jen and IWG for this important recognition. We are always keen to receive feedback about the publication and look forward to 8 receiving any suggestions for improvement. Contributions We are always happy to receive articles of anything up to 800 words, photographs of local wildlife or conservation work and local sightings or wildlife ‘snippets’ – so please do send in anything which may be of interest to: Greenways Project, Stable Block, Holywells Park, Cliff Lane, Ipswich, IP3 0PG. 01473 433995. [email protected] Mailing lists – Please note We are aware that some who are members of several conservation organisations may well receive more than one copy of the newsletter. If this is the case we would be very grateful if you could pass on the spare copy to someone who will appreciate it and contact the Greenways Project on 01473 433995 or [email protected], 9 stating which organisations you are a member of, so that we can ensure that you receive just one in the future. If on the other hand you don’t currently receive LWN regularly, but would like to, please consider joining one of the groups that distributes LWN to its members (i.e. Wildlife Trust, Ipswich Wildlife Group, RSPB etc).

10 Contents Page 4 Ipswich Wildlife Group 7 © Reg Snook Butterfly Conservation 8 Landguard Partnership 9 19 Orchard Barn 10 Local Wildlife News is published by Greenways Countryside Project. Greenways Countryside Project 12 Editor: James Baker Access to Nature 13 [email protected] Tel 01473 433995 Friends of Holywells Park 14 Production Editor: Colin Hullis [email protected] Friends of Brook Park 14 Tel 01473 728674 Artwork production: Chris Saunders Friends of Christchurch Park 15 [email protected] Tel 01473 721550 RSPB Ipswich Local Group 16 Printed by PJ Print Portal Woodlands Conservation Group 18 [email protected] Tel 01473 276010 IBC Wildlife Rangers 19 Printed on recycled paper Suffolk Ornithologists’ Group 19 The opinions expressed in Local Local Wildlife News Snippets 20 Wildlife News are not necessarily those of the Greenways Project. Events Diary 21

3 Ipswich Group Newsletter

Chairman: David Munday 01473 217310 [email protected] Secretary: Wendy Brown 01473 259674 [email protected] Treasurer: Tony Clarke 01473 741083 [email protected] Newsletter Editor: John Ireland 01473 723179 [email protected] Group contact: [email protected] We are the Ipswich Group of the Suffolk Wildlife Trust. We offer an interesting range of monthly meetings with guest speakers which take place usually on the third Wednesday of the month at 7.30 p.m. in the hall of St Margaret’s Primary School, Bolton Lane, Ipswich. Trust members and non-members are equally welcome. During the summer months we offer a variety of trips, some local, others by coach. Details of these and our monthly meetings can be found in our ‘Diary’ section which follows, or on the SWT website, www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org.

Chairman’s Letter

Communication 1 Coach Trip The Ipswich Group now has its own e-mail address, Why not brighten up a winter’s Saturday on 23rd so if you want to contact the Group to ask a question, November by joining our coach trip to Ely with a chance criticise, comment, or praise! please go to ipswichswt@ to explore its lovely cathedral and then going to Welney gmail.com and one of the committee will reply. But if you to marvel at the arrival of thousands of Bewick’s and still prefer use the old dog and bone, don’t hesitate to Whooper swans coming in to feed; not to be missed! Full ring one of the above numbers where a real live person details will appear in the next edition of the Newsletter. will reply. This is an additional feature, and if you wish to access the excellent SWT HQ web, you can still go to Chalara fraxinea - Ash dieback www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org where you will find details of If you come across signs of dieback on ash trees and all the reserves, the ‘Whats 0n’ feature and much more. wish to report it or find out more, you will find loads of information and a report form at www.forestry.gov/ Communication 2 chalara. Similar information including photos, can be As an ‘Aide-memoire’ you will find a pocket size found at the SWT website www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org. programme guide with your magazine which details On the home page go to ‘search’ and enter ‘ash dieback’. our evening meetings, summer walks, and coach trips. In the new growing season sadly there are likely to be I hope you find this useful for pocket, purse or kitchen more sightings and I’m sure the Trust would also like to noticeboard. (All details will still appear in this magazine know about them on their own reserves. as usual). Dave Munday Many thanks to Committee member Steve Pritchard for (Chairman) his skill, time and effort in bringing these two items to fruition. Ipswich Wildlife Watch

Suffolk Wildlife Trust volunteers have been running a decorations and learning monthly nature club for children in Ipswich, based solely about animal survival. at Holywells Park over the past year. ‘Wildlife Watch’ This spring, the group is the junior branch of the Wildlife Trust and the UK’s has been out discovering leading environmental club for children. The Ipswich the wide range of birdlife group focuses on exploring the natural world with that call the park home, children, through the use of nature themed art and craft, making homemade bird games and wild learning. feeders and building ‘wool hangers’ for birds As one of the Wildlife Watch Leaders who volunteers to use for nest materials. time to run the group, I see at first hand the benefit of using Holywells as a base for the Ipswich Wildlife Watch. For more details see the The variety of habitats and species within the park, mean regular events section of that the group can really explore nature throughout the this newsletter. seasons. ‘Wool hangers’ - Wool and natural materials are loosely Andrew Mackay The group has been very busy over the last 6 months, attached to hanging twine for Ipswich Wildlife with activities including fungi walks, making winter birds to collect. Watch Leader

4 Ipswich Group Newsletter

Coppice

Many will have been fascinated by the talk on the diaries This process is of great benefit to plant and animal life. If of a woodman given at our January meeting the trees are left to grow to their full height their canopy by Pip Wright, in which he showed the importance of cuts down the light at ground level. But coppice brings the practice of coppice. The management of trees has relief. So plants such as primroses, oxlips, bluebells always been an important part of our economy. Today and anemones that do not favour continuous shade most of it is the product of mature softwood trees, the show spectacular displays in the light of a clearing for conifers of the extensive plantations that proliferated a few years, although they also need years of shade to across the country between the two world wars. Conifer suppress the tall grasses and other woodland plants plantations are not very sympathetic to wildlife, partly that would overwhelm them. These spring- and summer- because when the trees are felled the stumps do not flowering perennials are present all the time but come regenerate but simply die off. However, such trees as into flower only after felling. Some, like wood-spurge, ash, oak, hazel, lime, hornbeam and chestnut, (known as shed seeds that lie dormant in the years of shade, hardwoods) coppice. That is to say, if they are cut down germinating only after the coppice is cut. As the coppice their stumps send up shoots and become stools from grows brambles colonise the understory, providing which successive crops of poles can be harvested. habitat for insects and small mammals. When the coppice poles grow taller their dense foliage encourages Man has exploited this source of wood for hundreds, if nightingales and fritillary butterflies, but as the canopy not thousands of years, and it is only in the last ninety eventually closes it becomes unsuitable for these years or so that its importance for the economy has animals. However, if the coppice is maintained, another declined. We should distinguish wood from timber. block nearby will have been cleared to provide the cover Timber comes from the trunks of trees, used in beams they need, and the populations move around, following and planks for building, as for timber-framed houses. the management of the coppice. Sometimes timber baulks can be enormous. For example, the oak beams supporting the lantern of There is a big ‘if’. In Britain most coppices have not been Ely cathedral are 42 feet long. Wood is ‘small stuff’, managed, often for many years. So the coppice stems consisting of logs, poles and rods, the product of grow tall and thick and the canopy becomes dense. The coppice, and for a long time was used largely for coppice is said to be ‘overstood’, and the consequences firewood – we still speak of wood fires. Coppice wood for wildlife are not good. The ground is heavily shaded has always had many other uses, too, for charcoal, and there is little ground vegetation. Animals of fencing, wattles, hurdles and many other applications in open woodland may survive only at the edges of the farming and elsewhere. woodland, if at all, and their numbers are declining. The biodiversity of neglected coppice is low: it lacks open Coppice woodland can be very old, because once woodland, but it is not high forest, containing the dead harvested, the coppice shoots re-grow every time wood of fallen trees, open clearings and trees of varied they are harvested and the process can continue for ages, all of which are wildlife-friendly. centuries. At least one stool in is known to be a thousand years old. A maintained coppice wood In theory the remedies for this situation are simple. is divided into blocks, each of which is clear-felled on Conservation management by reintroducing the practice a cycle of around ten years. The area is thus a sort of of regular and systematic coppice would be one. patchwork, in which successive blocks grow to different Another would be to use selective clearance to thin out heights until it is time for each to be harvested again in the overgrown coppice and encourage standard trees turn. and so establish a form of high forest. The difficulty is how to dispose of the surplus coppice wood in an age that has less use for it. However, the increasing use of wood burning stoves and the cultivation of willow plantations for biofuel is encouraging, and summer barbecues use coppice made into charcoal. Fortunately our area can boast of several places where coppice is practised to excellent effect – the likes of Bradfield Woods near Woolpit, Wolves Wood near Hadleigh, near Kersey and Stour Wood on the way to Harwich are all worth visiting for the wealth of wildlife they support.

(Sources – History of the Countryside by Oliver Rackham; Wikipedia)

Coppicing in action John Ireland

5 Ipswich Group Newsletter

Dates for your Diary - Summer Events 2013

Saturday May 18th 8.30am Coach Outing to North Norfolk ‘Seals and Gardens’ Contact - Pam Ireland 01473 723179

Saturday 8th June 10.30 to 12.30 Guided Walk at Lakes Bird expert Paul Holness will be our guide. We should hear plenty of birdsong perhaps even a nightingale. Bring your binoculars and a picnic lunch if you wish. Meet at Visitors Centre. Toilet facilities available. Location A1101 between and Mildenhall. Post code IP28 6XL £3 donation to SWT. No need to book Contact - Leigh Williamson 01473 785600, [email protected]

Saturday 6th July 10.30 to 12 noon Special Guided Walk at Playford The owner of Hill House, Playford has kindly allowed us access to his farm which is a Special Nature Reserve. It is the home to otters, voles, sand martins and there is a good chance of seeing barn owls, so don’t miss this rare opportunity. Location: Hill House, Hill Farm Road, IP6 9DT Parking available at Playford Village Hall. No need to book. £2.50 donation to SWT Contact - Leigh Williamson 01473 785600, [email protected]

Wednesday 7th August 6.30 pm Summer Walk by the Orwell A social evening starting with a circular walk of about 2 miles near the River Orwell and for those who wish, refreshments at the Butt and Oyster afterwards (Own expense) Meet at the Pay and Display car park at . IP9 1JW. No need to book. No charge. Contact - Leigh Williamson 01473 785600, [email protected]

Wednesday 18th September 7.30pm Garden Wildlife by Geoff Abbott Talk in St Margaret’s School Hall, Bolton Lane, Ipswich £2.50 Disabled Access. There is probably all sorts of wildlife lurking in your garden which you know nothing about, some of it beneficial and some harmful. Geoff will help us to recognise both friend and foe, and perhaps suggest how we might encourage the former.

Advance Notice Coach Outing to Ely and Welney, Norfolk Saturday 23rd November 10am – approx 7pm We will have free time in Ely with the opportunity of visiting the Cathedral and markets and to explore this attractive City. Then in the afternoon the coach will take us to the Welney Wetland Centre to witness the spectacle of the swan feeding at 3.30pm, before we travel back to Ipswich. Cost approximately £22. More details and booking form in the next edition of Local Wildlife News.

© Ron Wragg © Ron Wragg

Pin Mill – Summer Walk by the Orwell, 7th August Lackford Lakes, 8th June

A full listing of all Groups’ events can be found from page 21

6 Ipswich Wildlife Group

Chair: Ray Sidaway 01473 259104 www.greenlivingcentre.org.uk/iwg Ipswich Wildlife Group is a registered charity, relying entirely on volunteers, that promotes interest in, and conservation of, wildlife and habitats in and around Ipswich. We seek to inform and educate the local communities of Ipswich about the wildlife and habitats that can be found in the area, and the issues affecting them, as well as involve local people in practical wildlife conservation. We carry out practical conservation tasks, bid for grants to improve wildlife and green areas around Ipswich and work closely with the Greenways Project, Friends of Belstead Brook Park and other local groups with similar aims.

Kiln Meadow LNR - it’s official ! Belstead Meadows sale The declaration of Local Nature Reserve status for Kiln IWG, along with Friends of Belstead Brook Park group Meadow has finally been made official by the local and Pinewood Parish Council, are monitoring the sale authorities. This is the crowning glory of all the hard fought situation and will continue to press Suffolk County Council campaigning and support from so many IWG members, and the new owners to safeguard the threatened area of over so many years. Congratulations and well done to all the meadows for the benefit of wildlife and people. of you. Members out and about By way of celebration, a Summer Picnic for all members is It has been good to see so many IWG members out and being planned, watch out for the details. A management about during the winter at various events. Over a dozen plan for the meadow has been produced by the members joined other local groups at the Greenways Project that IWG members will be involved in and Purdis Heath megabashes and several more were implementing over the years. involved in the tree planting days on local parks organised by Greenways. Remember, all members are welcome Ipswich Northern Fringe Development to join Gerry Donlon at Spring Wood for a morning’s IWG committee is keeping abreast of this most significant conservation work on the third Sunday of every month - development plan expected to involve construction see Events Diary for details. of 3500 houses on an area between Henley Road and Tuddenham Road. The land in question is currently mainly agricultural so has limited ecological value. The outline plans include retention of major existing trees and ancient hedgerows and creation of various green spaces and a 28ha Country Park, all of which IWG support.

We are concerned however that development of the Country Park area should begin from the very start of the development and not delayed in any way as sometimes happens with such projects. IWG made this point to Ipswich Borough Council within the public consultation period. The full proposal is available at www.ipswich.gov. uk/northernfringe Winter work at Purdis Heath

Jen Jousiffe - Green Hero Following on from the Kiln Meadow success story, IWG member Jen Jousiffe won the ‘Green Hero’ category in the Suffolk County Council ‘Creating the Greenest County 2013’ environmental awards for her work on the ‘Save Kiln Meadow’ campaign.

This is a very prestigious award, recognised by all the county’s environmental and wildlife organisations and creates invaluable recognition for Ipswich Wildlife Group. Many congratulations Jen, this award is thoroughly deserved although as you quickly point out, many others were involved in the campaign over the four years. Jen Jousiffe receiving the ‘Green Hero’ award from Grahame Tinnion of sponsors Below is an extract from the nomination submission that resulted in this outstanding achievement. TA Hotels. “Jen Jousiffe has been the driving force behind the successful campaign to save Kiln Meadow. From 2008 when the meadow was first threatened with development, to the successful saving of the meadow in 2012, Jen has worked tirelessly leading the Save Kiln Meadow (SKiM) campaign.

Her passion for environmental issues, her sense of justice and her dogged determination has involved her in painstaking research into planning and environmental laws; challenging local authorities and developers; making Freedom of Information requests; unearthing and utilising legislation such as Environmental Impact Assessments, the NERC Act and Biodiversity Action Plan; generating support from other environmental groups such as Suffolk Wildlife Trust, RSPB, Natural , DEFRA and independent experts. Jen has also fronted numerous dealings with specialist environmental solicitors and even got to grips with the mechanics of a Judicial Review destined for the High Court.

Finally, in March 2013 Kiln Meadow was declared a Local Nature Reserve saving it in-perpetuity for the benefit of wildlife and people. A victory against all the odds - due mainly to the unstinting voluntary efforts of Jen Jousiffe.”

7 Butterfly Conservation Saving butterflies, moths and our environment

Membership Secretary 01379 643665 www.suffolkbutterflies.org.uk email: [email protected] Butterfly Conservation is dedicated to saving wild butterflies, moths and their habitats throughout the UK. All Butterfly Conservation members who live in Suffolk are automatically members of the branch and receive our newsletter, the Suffolk Argus, three times a year. The Suffolk branch is run by volunteers and we would be very pleased to hear from you if you would like to get involved. Spring and Summer Highlights © Matt Berry We’ve got plenty of events lined up for the spring and summer, including several old favourites, such as the Dingy Skipper or Silver-studded Blue surveys, but also a few new ones which we hope might appeal to new and perhaps less experienced members and those with children. You can find the full programme in the events diary or on our website at www.suffolkbutterflies.org. uk or read on for a few that I’ve picked out as potential highlights.

Saturday 4th May Spring, butterfly watching for novices at Barnhamcross Common Join Rob Parker (our Conservation & Recording Officer) and Sharon Hearle (our Regional Officer from BC) for an indoor training session and then put what you have Orange tip learnt into practice during some practical butterfly watching out on the excellent Barnhamcross Common, event with the site Ranger. Activities will include guided located on the southern edge of Thetford. butterfly walks, butterfly fun trail for families, making butterfly masks and window decorations. We also Saturday 20th July or Sunday 21st July (TBC) with the hope to have a stand which will include displays of live RSPB at caterpillars for children (and adults!) to observe and learn We’re teaming up with the RSPB for a weekend of about. recording and family focused fun at their famous Minsmere reserve. The theme for the weekend will be August (date TBC) with the RSPB at their Mill butterflies, moths and dragonflies. The event is timed Wildlife Garden perfectly with the launch of the Big Butterfly Count We’re heading back to the wildlife garden at Flatford so we’ll be there to promote that and to help with again this year, following a successful, if rather wet guided walks and butterfly surveying. There will also be event there in 2012. We’ll lead butterfly walks and have children’s activities available at the discovery centre. information about how you can make your garden attractive for butterflies, moths and a host of other Saturday 27th July with Suffolk Wildlife Trust at wildlife. The RSPB hope to have a range of children’s activities and there are also plans to have a selection We’ll be at one of Suffolk’s newest and largest nature of butterfly larval-host and nectar plants available to reserves for a day of family fun, hosting a collaborative purchase on the day.

Would you like to take part in organising or delivering events?

© Matt Berry If you would like to get involved in the running of these or other events then we’d love to hear from you! All our events depend on volunteers and you can never have enough! You don’t have to be an expert on butterflies or moths, a friendly disposition and an interest in the subject are more than adequate qualifications. The events listed above with the RSPB and SWT are the type of events where more help would be greatly appreciated. For example, being at the stand to speak to people and give out leaflets and membership forms, or helping with craft activities for children.

If you want to chat about getting involved please either email me at [email protected] or phone me on 07599 243026. Silver-studded Blue Matt Berry

8 Landguard Partnership

Landguard Bungalow, View Point Road, IP11 3TW Tel: 01394 675283 Email: [email protected] www.landguardpartnership.org.uk The Landguard Partnership was formed in 2009 to ensure that the Landguard Peninsula in Felixstowe is managed in a sustainable manner, contributing to the nationally important environmental conservation, cultural heritage, educational resources and economic prosperity of the area and adding to the quality of life and enjoyment of the local community and visitors. The Partnership consists of all the organisations and a charitable trust who have either a vested interest in the Peninsula or are concerned about conserving and protecting this valuable resource. The Peninsula incorporates the historic Fort, the important collections of the Felixstowe Museum, the Landguard Nature Reserve and the popular View Point overlooking the .

I am writing this in March with driving snow outside but scarce Sea Pea we are looking forward to a busy spring and summer here is nothing more at Landguard Peninsula. than a tangled heap of dried The wet weather last year benefitted the grassland at out stalks on Landguard tremendously with changing carpets of colour the shingle but as one type of flower succeeded another. We are still soon new bright not sure if the wettest summer on record benefitted the green growth Ringed Plovers by keeping people away from the Nature will appear and Reserve or if the cold and wet resulted in the loss of eggs we hope it will and chicks when the parents left the nest in search of continue to food. spread across the beach with Sadly in 2012 only one its long trailing Ringed Plover survived to stems. fledge at Landguard. We took this wonderful picture The Landguard Volunteers have been busy cutting back of ‘Junior’, as he became bramble from the paths, digging it out of the shingle known, on the day he was where its trailing nature threatens the more delicate ringed by the Landguard shingle plants, hanging gates, helping out at school visits Bird Observatory. Ringed and carrying out regular litter picks as well as the Marine Plovers have their rings Conservation Society’s annual Beachwatch survey of placed above the knee beach rubbish. New volunteers are always welcome at in order to avoid the Landguard – if you are interested please get in touch possibility of the shingle using the contact details in the box above. rubbing off the identifying numbers. As the weather warms up and the evenings get lighter we will welcome more visitors to Landguard. We have plenty As the days lengthen the calls of Great Tits ring out across of events planned at Landguard Fort, the Museum, the the reserve and Robins can be heard staking out their Landguard Bird Observatory and on the Nature Reserve. territory as they sing fiercely to each other from the top These include fun trails, military re-enactments, open- of bramble bushes. Ringed Plovers are still gathering to air theatre, photography workshops, days celebrating roost on the beach (winter behaviour) and pairing up on bugs and beasties and the seashore, moth and migration the beach (spring behaviour). mornings and beach cleans. Further details of all these events can be found on our website or see Events Diary. Despite January’s heavy snow the Yellow Horned Poppy (below) and Sea Kale (above right), typical plants found Regular tours of the Nature Reserve through the spring in Landguard’s shingle habitat, have had rosettes of new and summer will allow visitors a close-up look at the growth consistently since last autumn, pushing their way changes that take place here through the seasons. through the debris of last year’s plant. The nationally From the miniaturized flowers in the grassland to the shingle plants that are well adapted to the dry and salty conditions here, as well as the myriad of animals that live and pass through the Nature Reserve. Sharp-eyed visitors might even get to see Ringed Plover chicks, fluffy masters of camouflage in the shingle! You can follow the Nature Reserve Ranger on Twitter: @ landguardranger Ranger’s Blog: www.landguardpartnership.org.uk/nature_ reserve/rangers_blog Events: www.landguardpartnership.org.uk/what_s_on

Kate Osborne

9 Orchard Barn

Orchard Barn environmental education (OBee) was established as a not-for-profit Community Interest Company in Autumn 2007. Contact Sarah Partridge 01473-658193 / 07766-054042 [email protected] or www.orchardbarn.org.uk Trees to Timber

Orchard Barn has the use of a 1.7 acre site near Ringshall, Mid-Suffolk comprising a ruined 15th C farmstead, a derelict 17th C Suffolk barn, an ancient orchard and moat. OBee’s objective is to create a Rural Crafts Centre focussed on teaching traditional building techniques and environmental education using natural and sustainable methods. Orchard Barn is being established as an exemplar “off-the-grid” centre...i.e. no mains electric, sewage or water connections.

Oak was used from local woods to restore the 17th C barn timber frame and re-build the roof structure also providing great training course opportunities.

The 20thC corrugated iron roof was replaced with a traditional hand-cut wooden framed roof (50 year old oak thinnings from the adjacent village). Local oak logs were also hand cleft to make 20,000+ shingles that now clad the new barn roof. The battens were made from sweet chestnut.

10 Orchard Barn

In the early days we had a large ash tree milled into the most beautiful boards. These were air-dried for three years before being made into new barn doors as part of a traditional carpentry course last summer.

This year the renovation of Orchard Barn continues. If We can offer you courses in how to undertake timber you are interested in getting involved and learning some frame repairs, care and repair for your traditional new skills, whilst making a lasting difference to our building, how to construct a green wood roof, construct training centre, have a look at our website or ring Sarah. traditional barn doors, natural building and more.

Events diary – all courses and workshops to be held at Orchard Barn, near Ringshall, IP14 2LY, places must be booked in advance. Contact details are Sarah Partridge 01473-658193 / 07766-054042 [email protected] or www. orchardbarn.org.uk

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING in partnership with 3-day Rick Lewis, Rory 10-4.30 13-15th May £290 Essex County Council - Care and Repair for Sumerling, Mike inc CPD your Traditional Building - hands-on, talks, McConnell certification demonstrations COMMUNITY WORKSHOP Working with 4 x 1 day Helen 10-4.30 1st, 8th and FREE the wood - Develop new skills to design and Woodbridge 29th June and construct seating. Help make some benches 6th July and a chair or two for our indoor teaching area PROFESSIONAL TRAINING in partnership 1-day Rick Lewis 10.30-4 4th June £95 inc CPD with ECC - An Introduction to Timber Frame certification repairs - the traditional approach from IHBC HOBBY COURSE Timber Framing for 2-days Rick Lewis 10-4.30 10-11th June £90 Beginners and Improvers HOBBY COURSE Traditional Carpentry for 3-days Rick Lewis 10-4.30 17-19th June £135 Beginners and Improvers learn how to make 17th century style barn doors **HOBBY COURSE An Introduction to 1 day Sarah Partridge 10-4.30 27th July £59 Natural Building - including how to use lime mortar and flints in walling/paving **HOBBY COURSE Permaculture Design in 1 day Peta Jane 10-4.30 3rd August £45 Action - learn how to design with nature to Gulliver make life sustainable

**HOBBY COURSE Making and using cob 1 day Sarah Partridge 10-4.30 10th August £59

**HOBBY COURSE Clay render, pargeting 1 day Sarah Partridge 10-4.30 24th August` £59 and sculpting with cob

HOBBY COURSE Greenwood roofs - making 1 day Sarah Partridge 10-4.30 7th Sept £59 oak shingles and sweet chestnut battens

11 Stable Block, Holywells Park, Cliff Lane, Ipswich IP3 0PG Office: 01473 433995 [email protected] www.greenlivingcentre.org.uk/greenways The Greenways Countryside Project exists to protect and enhance the countryside, landscape and open space across an area of about 100 square kilometres in and around the town of Ipswich, and home to around one quarter of the population of Suffolk, for the benefit of wildlife and local people. The project relies on volunteers to complete much of its practical conservation work. The Greenways Project is a very successful and well-established partnership between Ipswich Borough Council, Suffolk County Council, Council, District Council and the local community.

Megabashes District Council – adding this valuable site to the suite of During the winter, the Project ran three very successful existing LNRs that make up one of the most important ‘Megabashes’ – large volunteer sessions bringing together wildlife areas in and around Ipswich. The Greenways local residents and members of conservation groups Project volunteers and Ipswich Wildlife Group will be to make a real impact on one site. The Belstead Brook looking after the site, maximising its wildlife potential. Park event was covered in the last edition of LWN but in January and February we held events at Purdis Heath and River Path Work Martlesham Heath respectively. The Project’s volunteers have been working hard resurfacing two stretches of the river path – from West At Purdis Heath around 30 volunteers turned out in snowy End Road to London Road and West End Road to conditions to coppice and clear silver birch and gorse Alderman Canal. These two parts of the river path are now scrub and they built a substantial dead hedge using the formally recorded as Public Footpaths on the new Ipswich cut material. The dead hedge is also a very valuable Definitive Map – so the improvement works were paid wildlife habitat in itself, providing shelter and food supply for by Suffolk County Council as Highway Authority. In all for insects, birds and small mammals amongst others. about 550m of new aggregate surface have been laid and The dead hedge will also help to steer access around rolled along with new timber revetments being installed to the site along existing paths and help prevent additional help maintain sufficient width of path. unofficial paths being created which would disturb the valuable heathland wildlife.

Although the Greenways Project has run Megabashes at Purdis Heath for 10 years or so, this year we were lucky to be funded by a grant awarded to Butterfly Conservation, who have thus been taking the lead – particularly due to the rare Silver-studded blue butterflies whose numbers have been very low in recent years.

Creating the new river path

Summer Wildlife Events In July the Project will be running two family wildlife discovery days – the first on Saturday 13th July at the Local Nature Reserve in . This session will be focussing particularly on butterflies as the site has supported at least 23 species in the past.

Martlesham megabash The second session will be at Burnet Meadow in Belstead Brook Park on Wednesday 31st July. This relatively new At Martlesham Heath as many as 60 local people and open space, managed by Babergh District Council, has regular volunteers came together to clear a large area of considerable wildlife value due to wooded boundaries and gorse scrub as part of a ten year Countryside Stewardship a wonderful wildflower meadow, as well as the connection grant scheme for this valuable Site of Special Scientific to other wildlife sites adjacent. Interest (SSSI). An enormous bonfire disposed of the cut gorse (it is very hard to use gorse for anything else) As well as exploring the site’s wildlife and fun activities and provided more than enough heat to cook the baked for children, the events will create a list of wildlife species potatoes! seen which will help to ensure our management plans are suited to what is there. Details of the events can be found Kiln Meadow Local Nature Reserve! in the Events Diary pages or by contacting the Project on Kiln Meadow has finally been officially declared as a Local 01473 433995 (office hours) or by emailing: greenways. Nature Reserve by Ipswich Borough Council and Babergh [email protected]

12 Access to Nature

The a2nipswich project is coming to an end at the end of May 2013, and we want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has worked with us, especially the staff and volunteers of our partners the Greenways Countryside Project.

Over our three years we have achieved a huge amount – aid, leading guided walks to event management for full facts and figures you can see our evaluation report • We’ve run upwards of 50 conservation work parties, on our website from the end of May. Here’s a little taster of and supported many Greenways conservation what we’ve been up to: activities including Megabashes. • We ran more than 140 events and activities – • We have recruited more than 150 volunteers, with 113 averages out at more than 1 per week currently registered as active. We tracked otters, listened to birds and spotted butterflies. We built dens, made fires, foraged Our biggest thank you has to go to our amazing for wild food and cooked outdoors. We went volunteers. All of the achievements listed above have horseriding, visited national bird reserves, and only been made possible by our volunteers. They do the watched the deer rut. We planted spring bulbs, conservation work, support all aspects of our events and coppiced trees, and built bird boxes activities, present our radio show, design our newsletter, • We’ve broadcast 129 radio shows. make our films, take our photos, and have been the • We’ve written, designed and printed 10 newsletters. lifeblood of the project. We couldn’t have achieved any • We’ve directly engaged with more than 1,900 people of this without them and we’re sure they will continue to through our roadshows, events and activities keep up the good work when we’re gone. If only we had That includes providing 1,674 people with learning space, we would name them all here but as we can’t we opportunities, including 364 schoolchildren, just have to say “THANK YOU! – you know who you from identifying butterflies to building bird boxes, are!” woodcraft to wildlife photography • 60 volunteers have undertaken training and See you around! development, from chainsaw and brushcutter to first Becky, Steve, Jon and Flo – the a2nipswich team

13 Friends of Holywells Park

The Group aims to work in partnership with Ipswich Borough Council to improve and promote the Park. Contact [email protected]

As winter eventually gives way to spring, we anticipate a resurgence of wildlife activity in Holywells Park. After a great deal of work by many people in IBC, and including direct practical support from The Friends of Holywells Park (FoHP), a stage 2 bid for Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) money was put in at the end of February. The outcome of the bid will be announced in early summer. FoHP have been instrumental in making sure that the wildlife-friendly character of the park is retained, even as the park’s heritage is restored, access within the park is improved and more use of the park is encouraged.

If you’ve never visited Holywells Park, or haven’t been recently, you’d be very welcome at one of the park events, or just come and have a wander round, with eyes and ears open. If all else fails, there are three pubs within easy striking distance of the park! On a very practical note, there are Wednesday morning work parties most weeks (meet at 10am at the Stable Block, email FoHP for further details) Robin Gape Chair of FoHP Mystery fungus found during work party in January

Friends of Belstead Brook Park

Temporary Contact: Greenways Project on 01473 433995 or [email protected] The Friends of Belstead Brook Park (FOBBP) was set up in 2002 to help look after the 250 acres of informal country park on the south-western fringe of Ipswich. The group runs practical work parties, helps raise funds for improvements and acts as ‘eyes and ears’, passing information back to the Greenways Project.

The Friends have undertaken a number of conservation leading work parties so that they can continue after May projects around Belstead Brook Park this winter: In with support from Greenways. Many thanks to Gerry January we helped Ipswich Wildlife Group by making Donlon for stepping in to help lead work parties when beanpoles and peasticks from coppiced hazel branches Steve was off sick. in Spring Wood. In February we were in , where we cut the hedge along the back of the site to We’re still waiting to hear from Suffolk County Council encourage it to bush out. Greenways coppiced several about what is happening regarding the sale of Belstead large willow trees to allow more light into the meadow House and the accompanying part of Belstead Meadows. area, and the Friends built a substantial dead hedge with We highlighted to Pinewood Parish Council the need to the cut branches to provide habitat for insects, birds, look at long-term future of Belstead Meadows as a whole, amphibians, reptiles and small mammals. Dead hedges which they have agreed to do. They met with Suffolk were also needed around the edge of the Spring Wood, County Council before Christmas, but are still waiting for and so we spent a pleasant Saturday morning in March answers to questions that they raised. trimming back scrub and building dead hedges. We also cleared scrub, brambles and other debris by the dog If you would be interested in spending the occasional bin entrance, and made a start on a new dead hedge in Saturday morning in the fresh air working around Belstead preparation for Spring Wood Day on 6th May. Brook Park then why not join us from 10am – 1pm on the second Saturday of each month. For the next few months Over the past three years, our work parties have usually the dates are 11th May, 8th June and 13th July. To find been organised and led by Steve Pritchard from Access out where to meet and for further details, please email to Nature. With Access to Nature finishing in May, David [email protected] or phone Greenways on Shemming and Ann Havard have agreed to help with 01473 433995.

14 © Tim Kenny Friends of Christchurch Park

Secretary: Ann Snook 01473 251037 Membership Secretary: Robert Fairchild 01473 254255 Events/Meetings: David Routh 01473 255680 The sole purpose of the Friends Group is to help look after the Park for the public good, and to promote its welfare. Anyone who shares this aim is welcome to join. For a small annual fee of £5 you can join in Friends activities all year round, including Illustrated talks and discussions, Guided Park walks and Practical conservation work. You will also receive an informal seasonal newsletter. Something to crow about... by Reg Snook

It is not unusual to see wildlife enthusiasts in Christchurch Park carrying cameras with telescopic lenses photographing the Park’s more glamorous bird species such as the Mandarins. What was unusual on one occasion was to see a photographer with ‘all of the gear’ gazing up into the trees in the Wildlife Reserve endeavouring to photograph treecreepers. However, in order to attract the treecreepers, this keen birder was using a tape recorder, playing back the call of these small birds to bring them within range of his camera. No doubt the photographer was successful – I hope so. This incident reminded me of someone else who used to call birds to him, but not with the aid of a tape recorder. Percy Edwards was a brilliant mimic of birds and animals, a man who was much in One of the park’s handsome Carrion Crows. demand by the BBC for shows such as ‘Ray’s a Laugh’ and ‘A Life of Bliss’ where Percy played the part of a dog to park life and, although dismissed by birders as being called Psyche. Percy was also a top-class ornithologist. just a crow, it is well worth watching. It is intelligent and often appears to be summing up the situation as to the The family Edwards lived in Fore Street, Ipswich. My best method of seeking food. There used to be a country own family lived nearer to Holywells Park, in an area saying that a ‘flock of crows are rooks and a solitary demolished prior to the Second World War in a slum rook is a crow’. Crows in Christchurch Park are never clearance scheme. My first recollection of Percy was of solitary birds and whether they pair for life I am not sure seeing him in Holywells Park using binoculars whilst my but there are always pairs on the grassy areas of the Park friends and I were being chased by a ‘parky’ having been and in winter small flocks of crows reach double figures. caught illegally fishing in one of its ponds. An uncle of At , there is a huge winter roost of rooks but it is mine, who introduced me to the wonder of birdwatching, not unusual to see in the adjoining fields flocks of crows in 1948 bought me a copy of Percy’s first book entitled numbering fifty or more. Call me at Dawn. In his book, Percy described some of his favourite birds and the areas near Ipswich where he I think we have to ask why our Park’s crows are so used to watch them. It was easy for me to recognise successful. Crows do not seem to have any predators. these habitats; for instance, the chapter on shelduck They nest high in the trees well away from any disturbance was undoubtedly Shores on the River Orwell. by people, dogs and foxes. They seem able to defend The nightingales were in the woods at Nacton where their nests from grey squirrels and will not tolerate Percy spent many hours increasing his knowledge of bird magpies. Their ability to find food is amazing – often the song and, like Percy, I too discovered a snipe’s nest in waste bins near the Mansion are raided by carrion crows a marshy area below the Sanatorium (now the Nuffield with three or four crows managing to get into the bins at Hospital). One of the birds that Percy used to mimic was the same time. After large events which have taken place the raven and apparently Percy first heard ravens calling in the Park in summer, several crows will come together in Christchurch Park – not wild ravens of course but searching through the rubbish that is left behind – but they captive birds which were kept in large aviaries near the are not a match for the lesser black-backed gulls – what Mansion. Of course the cages have long since gone and birds are? Not only do the crows nest in the Park but also so, unfortunately, has Percy. in tall trees in the surrounding gardens and it is from these lofty positions that food put out for other birds is quickly Although ravens are now gradually spreading across located. The downside is that unfortunately carrion crows East Anglia as breeding birds, they are not to be found in will eat almost anything including the eggs and young Christchurch Park – yet. However, another corvid similar of our songbirds. May I suggest that those interested in in appearance to the raven, although much smaller, is the birds of our Park take time to look carefully at our probably one the Park’s most successful birds. This is, crows not just for their beauty but for their ability to be of course, the carrion crow. It has adapted wonderfully Christchurch Park’s most successful species of bird.

15 Ipswich Local Group

Membership Secretary: c/o 19, Marlborough Road, Ipswich, IP4 5AT Email: [email protected] www.rspb.org.uk/groups/Ipswich Ipswich RSPB Local Group is for everyone interested in finding out more about the birds and other wildlife to be found in the Ipswich area and beyond. Why not come along to one of our indoor talks, held monthly between September to April at Sidegate Primary School, or (throughout the year), get out and experience nature first hand on one of our regular field meetings, visiting some of the best spots for wildlife in the area. Received by members three times a year the ‘Orwell Observer’, keeps readers abreast of the latest developments at the nearby Suffolk RSPB Reserves as well as news of Group activities, along with members’ photographs and accounts of birding exploits from both home and abroad. Annual Membership costs just £3 per year (£1 for Juniors). For more information please see the Events Diary in this magazine, visit our website or write to the Membership Secretary, all as per details above. Meetings, Visits and Trips by Stephen Marginson © Chris Courtney The RSPB Ipswich group continues to run an active programme of field meetings and indoor meetings, all of which are well attended by members and others who care to come along. We do not take bookings for the field trips, you just turn up on the day at the allotted place and time and off we will go.

The main feature of the last four trips is that they have been cold or very cold, and wet. However do not go away with the idea that this does not make them enjoyable, a group of us gather and always seem to have a good time.

December saw us down at Mistley Walls and Quay on the River Stour for wading birds and wildfowl. This area never fails to disappoint in this respect and it was only a north Pintail east wind that made the day rather chilly. From most other wind directions this area is well sheltered and the walking Mistley, although Holbrook Bay is the best place to find is easy on tarmac footpaths. Birds noted included flocks them. After a good couple of hours of birding we decided of Dunlin, Knot, Redshank, Golden Plover, Lapwing and to head for the warmth of our homes. Avocet. The latter have grown in numbers over recent years. There was also a large flock of Black Tailed Godwit January saw us at Holbrook Bay on a day with a raw which gave excellent close up views as the tide came east wind. The wind and river conditions made looking in. Wildfowl included Wigeon, Teal, Mallard and superb for grebes and saw bills virtually impossible. However a views of Pintail and Goldeneye . Both these ducks are rising tide gave spectacular views of the waders as they winter visitors from the high arctic and have spectacular gathered on the saltings and old barge dock mud banks. plumages. We scoped for Divers and the rare grebes in We watched as large flocks of Dunlin, Knot and Grey the main river but none were to be found on this occasion. Plover came in to roost on the banks and were pushed The Stour does hold numbers of Slavonian and Red up by the tide. The noise and whirring of wings as these Necked grebes in Winter. They can be found as far up as flocks took to flight are one of the great sights and sounds

© Malcolm Hunt (rspb-images.com) of the winter estuaries and there is no where better than Holbrook Bay to get first-hand experience of this on a Winter’s day in Suffolk. On the saltings were large flocks of Brent Geese, Curlew, Oystercatcher and Black Tailed Godwit again making a spectacular display for us. Smaller groups of Teal, Wigeon, Pintail and Shelduck were also noted. Black Tailed Godwit numbers significantly decreased with the onset of freezing conditions after our trip as they moved south to warmer climes. Another bird which departs in the cold weather and was not noted on this visit is the Little Egret.

Another estuarine location was the place for our February trip. We met at Woodbridge for a walk along the Deben to Kyson point. Due to the wind conditions we chose to head up river towards Melton where it was more Red-necked Grebe, winter plumage sheltered. Again flocks of Dunlin, Redshank, Avocet,

16 Ipswich Local Group © Chris Courtney Lapwing and Knot made for good viewing along with a supporting cast of Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal and Little Grebe. The bird of the day was the wintering Greenshank noted about half way up to Melton. One or two of these birds have become frequent over-wintering birds in this area in recent years. For our March trip we proudly advertised Meadow, Spring Wood and for spring birds. No such luck - cold and wet with winter in full swing. We splashed and slipped our way around Bourne Park, Bobbits Lane reed beds and Spring Wood . We decided to shorten the walk as the conditions across the fields and through Wherstead woods were extremely muddy. We enjoyed the birds we did see with the highlights being Little Egret, Kingfisher, Gadwall, Common Buzzard and a large flock of Siskins which were accompanied by members of the finch and tit families. It Wigeon was an eye opener for a few that this area exists right on the outskirts of Ipswich, available for all, accessible by bus (BBS) also continues in the Summer months. Again if you and full of wildlife. The extensive work of the Greenways fancy doing a tetrad go to the BTO website. All it needs Project and their volunteers was clear for all to see with is four visits, two early Summer , and two late summer to the board walks, signage and bird tower along the reed record all birds seen. I have being doing a tetrad near Earl beds and much coppicing work and deer fence work in Stonham for over 20 years now and it is interesting over Spring Wood and Millennium Wood. We owe much to the years to see the changes in the Birdlife. Birds such them for keeping these places in tip top condition for as Turtle Dove, Cuckoo, Willow Warbler, yellow Wagtail wildlife. If you have not visited this area it is a must. The and red Legged Partridge have all declined, whilst others biodiversity of the area is impressive so one day forget have remained steady. Few have increased with the most Minsmere and North Norfolk and just see what is on the noticeable being the Common Buzzard which twenty edge of Ipswich. You will not be disappointed. years ago was a great rarity. What has happened around Earl Stonham is reflected generally across the county. May sees us at Heath for birds of the Sandling Heaths on the 4th. Later in the month we are at Alton The subject of the decline in farmland birds was the Water for summer birds and in particular the Nightingale subject of the March talk to the Ipswich Group by Simon for which this site has become a stronghold in recent Tonkin, a senior conservation officer with the RSPB. It’s years. Our trip to hear and hopefully see the Nightjar will a sobering thought that at the current rates of decline again be to Heath, this around 12th June subject of birds such as Turtle Dove could be lost to the English to weather. Please email me if you are interested so I can countryside. Changes in farming practises, both in this confirm the date the week beforehand. country and in their wintering areas in Africa, are the cause of much of the decline. Hopefully there is the time The group’s mid-week walks based on the parks in and the will to make the changes necessary to ensure Ipswich continue with visits to , Orwell Country healthy populations of these birds remain. They are also a Park and Christchurch Park all in the diary for the next very good indicator of the state of the overall biodiversity couple of months. These precious habitats right in and in farmland. around Ipswich have a wide biodiversity and a good range of birds and other wildlife can be seen. Living in Suffolk Stephen Marginson E mail: [email protected] it is easy to get carried away and visit the great RSPB RSPB Ipswich Group Field Meetings Organiser

reserves at Minsmere, North Warren and Lakenheath © Chris Courtney but we do have such a lot of habitat and wildlife right on our doorstep. The Parks, Bobbits lane, Spring Wood, Rushmere and Purdis Heaths are all biodiversity gems , easily accessible and right here in Ipswich. Do get out and visit them.

Lastly it is bird survey season again. This year it is the 10 year survey of breeding Woodcock . I shall be doing a couple of squares near Ipswich. All it needs is two or three visits at dusk to check for roding or flighting Woodcock in suitable habitat. Nil sightings are as valuable as actual sightings as this tells where they are not as well as where they are. If you fancy getting involved, go on to the BTO website and you will be allocated an area based on the Ordnance survey tetrads. The Breeding Birds Survey Knot

17 Portal Woodlands Conservation Group

Enquiries: Martlesham Parish Council 01473 612632 www.pwcg.onesuffolk.net or email [email protected] The group was formed to conserve the woodlands west of the Suffolk Police HQ and alongside the A1214. Volunteers meet each month to work on a variety of projects. Anybody is welcome to join this friendly group. Training and tools are provided.

Volunteers helping Nature Explorers spreading chippings on a very cold day.

If you would like a morning out working with fellow (classes start on April 13th). Be sure to book your place conservationists please come and join us. We meet for Nature Watch Club and Nature Explorers by sending once a month alternately on Saturday and Sunday. an email to [email protected] There are lots of projects to help with including planting a hazel area for dormouse habitat, renovating wartime At the recent AGM the well attended meeting heard the features and ancient tumuli, and marking out signed Group’s annual report, and a presentation on the history paths, as well as general maintenance of paths to keep of the group was given by Duncan Sweeting. The them open and safe for users. committee was re-elected for the coming year. Colin Webb was proposed to the Parish Council as the new You may have noticed that trees have started to be Chairman and Stephen Corley was thanked for all his felled in the woods. The reason for this is that the work as chairman over the past 5 years. Plans for the trees were planted too close together in lines as a Nature Explorers Award were unveiled. This is a scheme plantation in the 1970’s. However they have not been which enables the Nature Explorers to record the work thinned out over the years as they should have been they do in conserving the woods and the skills that so are now too close and rather than growing healthy they learn. The Explorer who contributes the most to and strong they are short of space and so becoming conservation in the Martlesham Parish over the year will spindly and prone to blowing over in the wind. The be presented with a trophy and an award. The record group has been granted permission to carry out these they keep of their work will be a valuable document works under the Tree Preservation Order which is on to add to their personal statement for whatever career the woods. Where possible the trees to be removed they choose to pursue. are the “stonkers” - that is a lovely name for trees with defects. In addition, the group has been granted Information and dates for 2013 Work Mornings, Nature permission to gradually remove all the trees from the Watch and Nature Explorers are now available at http:// two Bronze Age tumuli over the next few years. This is pwcg.onesuffolk.net/ For more information about needed so that the roots do not damage these ancient PWCG and its activities or if you have any questions monuments, resulting in the creation of two additional please email us at [email protected] or phone lovely open grassy glades, and protecting the tumuli for Martlesham Parish Council on 01473 612632. the generations to come. Work Days meet at the Education Area from 10.00am The Nature Explorers, who are young people aged 11 – 12.00noon on Sunday 21st April, Saturday 18th May, and over, enjoyed surveying and maintaining the bird Sunday 16th June, Saturday 20th July. boxes in January in the snow. They found that over three quarters of the boxes had been used including Nature Explorers meet at the Education Area from a cheeky squirrel living in the owl box. The Nature 9.00am to 11.00am on Saturday 18th May and Saturday Explorers have also been helping with the maintenance 20th July. of the footpaths by covering them with wood chippings – the paths are in desperate need of this as in places Nature Watch meet at the Martlesham Heath Control they have become mud pools. Younger children aged Tower from 9.00-11.00 on Saturday 13th April, Saturday 5-11 can join our educational Nature Watch Club 11th May, Saturday 8th June, and Saturday 6th July.

18 Wildlife Rangers

Office : 01473 433993 [email protected] Stable Block, Holywells Park, Cliff Lane, Ipswich IP3 0PG The Wildlife & Education Rangers are responsible for the management of wildlife areas within the town’s parks and other green spaces. As well as carrying out practical management, the team runs an events programme and works with many local schools to engage and inspire the public about the wildlife Ipswich has to offer.

Spring has sprung, the sun is shining (hopefully) and the Wildlife Rangers have a programme of events planned that will appeal to anyone hoping to get out and about to enjoy the wildlife around the borough. Whatever appeals to you we hope to have something you can get involved in.

Some of the highlights on offer in 2013 include the ever- popular solstice cruise (Friday June 21st 7 – 9.30pm), where you can enjoy a relaxing cruise on the ‘Orwell Lady’ with local experts describing the scenery. This may include the chance to see Peregrine Falcons, nesting Terns and even seals. We also run a winter cruise on Saturday in the undergrowth, our guide will bring a bat detector- November 9th, 11am – 1.30pm; where the more hardy bird allowing us to hear the sonar frequencies emitted by enthusiasts will enjoy a real spectacle of winter waders hunting bats. and wildfowl using the river (remember the thermos!). If you want to get stuck-in and help us improve our river, For those of a more nocturnal disposition, in August we on Saturday 21st September, from 10am – 2pm we will will run two ‘Park in the Dark’ events (Friday 9th, 8.30 – be holding a river clean-up as part of the national ‘Beach- 9.45pm and Friday 16th, 8 – 9.30pm); where those who watch Big Weekend’. Come along and we’ll issue litter- tread quietly have a chance to view some of the night time pickers and all enjoy a walk along the foreshore with an park wildlife. As well as hedgehogs and foxes rustling added purpose and feel-good factor!

Secretary Phil Whittaker, Oak Barn, Pipps Ford, Ipswich IP6 8LJ [email protected] Membership Secretary Matthew Deans, 49c, Hollesley, IP12 3JY www.sogonline.org.uk Twitter: suffolkbirds1 SOG is the Group for people interested in the birds of Suffolk, and provides a network and a voice for birdwatchers in the county.

The group manage an active website www. sogonline. project with Viridor Waste Management will continue org.uk and can now also be followed on Twitter. in 2013; supporting a national environmental waste Membership of SOG is open to anyone with an interest company to meet its biodiversity action-plan in a number in the birds of Suffolk. Membership is £15 for singles and of key areas. £17 for families. A joint membership with Suffolk Naturalists Society is available for £28 for singles and We will also continue our support at the new Suffolk £32 for families representing a saving of £2 on combined Wildlife Trust Knettishall Heath Reserve leading Dawn membership rates and entitling members to a copy of Chorus Bird Walks in April. We are working with RSPB the annual ‘Suffolk Bird Report’ as well as to the SNS at Minsmere to provide a family day at the reserve for bulletin ‘White Admiral’, published three times a year. Ipswich Community Services Direct on April 20th.

Surveys this year will include involvement in: SOG is always keen to attract more members and have RSPB Breeding Little Terns project a lot to offer anyone of any age who has an interest BTO Nightingale Project (continued from 2012) in birds and wildlife at whatever level. Recent SOG BTO Breeding Woodcock Survey Guided Fieldtrips for our members have included : BTO Webs counts: counters are needed on the River and Trimley, , Breckland, Orwell from September to April (contact Mick Wright and Benacre. Please see website for details of our (01473) 721486) future outdoor meetings. Our work in lobbying hard for increased protection of birds in Suffolk is on-going and SOG offers its services as bird surveyors who can make increasing and one of our aims is ensuring that the local biodiversity recommendations to companies; especially ornithological community’s voice continues to be heard those attempting to meet conservation targets. Our loud and strong.

19 Local Wildlife News Snippets © Creative Nature Media Roe deer near Ipswich

Work in Spring Wood one Sunday morning in March was disrupted by a little black velvety mole foraging on the surface and just under the leaf-litter. He was to-ing and fro-ing for about two hours and took no notice of us. He didn’t even mind me stroking his back.

Gerry Donlon © Goran Cakmazovic

On a snowy January day my walk along the Fynn valley between Tuddenham and Rushmere was interrupted by a woman on the other side of the river, loudly calling her dog. This ‘spooked’ four roe deer in dark winter pelage, out of cover. Their flight along the snowy field was blocked by another woman and dog approaching them, so they turned © Martin Fowler right and with long bounds headed for the East Suffolk railway line. They jumped in turn over the fence and down onto the line, where I lost sight of them. It was my third sighting of roe deer in this area, all within tetrad TM 1947, which is less than a mile from the Ipswich boundary. Since roe do not live in large herds like red and fallow deer, they should be able to survive Sunday 10th March - Siskins and alder trees here, as there is an abundance of copses and small belts of Within a stone’s throw of the shops that spill westwards from woodland. Ipswich town centre, I spotted a flock of about 30-40 siskins. Richard Stewart They were calling and feeding on the catkins and seeds of Italian alders planted at the upper end of Bramford Road. With some birds on the ground feeding on the fallen catkins and cones, some calling, some in the trees and some flying off on © Matt Berry First Ipswich butterflies a short circular flight only to return and re-alight it was quite a of 2013? spectacle. Monday March 4th midday: River Gipping Path opposite the Siskins can often be seen in winter feeding on alder and this old Harris Meat Factory site, flock may well have been moving between other Italian alders two peacock butterflies sunning at the nearby Handford Road car park and native common themselves. With blue skies, alders at Christchurch Park and Alderman Park. Like their sun and warmth I mistakenly larger and stockier relative, the greenfinch, siskins will feed on thought spring had arrived! peanut feeders. Did this flock visit anyone’s garden – what a Peter Scotcher sight that would have been! Peter Scotcher

Dormouse Update Further to the dormouse survey reported in the last Local Wildlife News (p11 Dormice Galore!) the Greenways Project is pleased to report the discovery of another two dormouse summer nests in the dormouse’s “new” area west of Spring Wood, southern Ipswich. The summer nests were found in the course of winter management work; one in brambles at Burnet Meadow, (for those with local knowledge the meadow with play and exercise equipment, south of Marbled White Drive and Ellenbrook Road); and the other in the Ipswich side of the A14 tree belt south of Belstead Meadows and about 700m west of Spring Wood and 700m east of the Interchange.

The dormouse is rare and protected in law with top designation as a European Protected Species. It is hoped that management work will improve the local habitats for this endangered mammal and other wildlife too.

20 Events Diary

Thursday 2nd May 7pm - 8.30pm IBC Rangers DUSK CHORUS Take a walk in the tranquil settings of Gainsborough Lane and Elm Hill listening to birdsong. Pick up knowledge on both resident birds and summer migrants such as the nightingale. Adults £2 children £1. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Saturday 4th May 4.30am - 6am IBC Rangers DAWN CHORUS Join the Rangers in Holywells Park for an early morning walk. A wide range of birds will be seen and heard in the many habitats this park has to offer. A cooked breakfast will be available as part of the cost of the event. Adults £5, Children £3. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Saturday 4th May 8am RSPB FIELD MEETING Upper Hollesley Heath for birds of the Sandling Heaths. 3 hrs, 5 miles. Meet Upper Hollesley Heath car park. TM335471. Leader Stephen Marginson 01473 258791

Saturday 4th May 10am Butterfly Conservation SPRING BUTTERFLY WATCHING FOR NOVICE RECORDERS An indoor training session, followed by practical butterfly watching on an excellent site. Meet Barnham Village Hall, moving on to Barnhamcross Common Map Ref: TL868790, TL865815 Leaders: Rob Parker, Sharon Hearle. Enrol in advance with Rob Parker 01284 705476

Saturday 11th May 9am - 11am Portal Woodlands Conservation Group NATURE WATCH Meet at the Martlesham Heath Control Tower. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Saturday 11th May 10am - 4pm Landguard Partnership COMMUNITY OPEN DAY 2013 Special open day with guided tours and stalls. For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Saturday 11th May 12noon - 3pm Friends of Holywells Park SCARECROW PICNIC IN THE ORCHARD Bring old clothes and enjoy making and dressing scarecrows on the Maze. For details contact Robin Gape 07711 793804, [email protected]

Saturday 11th May 2pm - 3.30pm Landguard Partnership Suffolk Walking Festival - THE POINT OF SUFFOLK Nature Reserve tour - part of the Suffolk Walking Festival 2013. For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Tuesday 14th May 10am RSPB MIDWEEK WALK Pipers Vale. Meet at car park at Vale entrance TM178419. Leader Kathy Reynolds 01473 714839

Wednesday 15th May 10.30am Butterfly Conservation START OF DINGY SKIPPER WEEK Help with surveys for Dingy Skipper. First count at King’s Archery site. Please contact Rob Parker in advance to notify availability for other dates. Survey will continue until 22nd May. Meet King’s Forest. AssembleMay at access track to John O’Groats cottages on west side of B1106. Map Ref: TL826738 Leader Rob Parker 01284 705476

Wednesday 15th May 6.30pm RSPB FIELD MEETING Alton Water for Nightingales and summer birds. 2-3hrs, 3 miles. Meet at Lemons Hill north car park, . TM137377. Leader Stephen Marginson 01473 258791

Sat 18th May to Sun 26th May Butterfly Conservation SAVE OUR BUTTERFLIES WEEK!

Saturday 18th May 8.30am SWT COACH OUTING TO NORTH NORFOLK ‘Seals and Gardens’ Contact Pam Ireland 01473 723179

Saturday 18th May 9am - 11am Portal Woodlands Conservation Group NATURE EXPLORERS Meet at the Education Area. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Saturday 18th May 10am - 12 noon Portal Woodlands Conservation Group WORK PARTY Meet at the Education Area. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Sunday 19th May 10.30am - 1pm SPRING WOOD WORK PARTY Join Ipswich Wildlife Group and Friends of Belstead Brook Park for a morning of work in Spring Wood. Meet at the stepped entrance to the wood in Bobbits Lane. Details from Gerry Donlon 01473 726082.

Sunday 26th May 10am Butterfly Conservation COASTAL BUTTERFLIES Walk around the / Benacre/ Kessingland area looking for butterflies and other wildlife. Long walk possible but reasonably easy terrain and gradients. Meet TM 522818 (nr Covehithe Church). Contact Bill Stone 07906 888603

Saturday 8th June 9am - 11am Portal Woodlands Conservation Group NATURE WATCH Meet at the Martlesham Heath Control Tower. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Saturday 8th June 9.30pm Butterfly Conservation MOTH NIGHT AT PURDIS HEATH Meet Road lay-by Map Ref: TM212423 Leader Tony Prichard 01473 270047 mobile 07871 478631

Saturday 8th June 10.30am to 12.30 SWT GUIDED WALK AT LACKFORD LAKES Bird expert Paul Holness will be our guide. We should hear plenty of birdsong perhaps even a nightingale. Bring your binoculars and a picnic lunch if you wish. Meet at Lackford Lakes Visitors Centre. Toilet facilitiesJun available. Location A1101 between Bury St Edmunds and Mildenhall. Post code IP28 6XL £3 donation to SWT. No need to book. Contact Leigh Williamson 01473 785600, [email protected]

Sunday 9th June 2pm - 4.30pm Friends of Holywells Park TEA PARTY IN PARK IBC event, tea and cakes with music in the Walled garden plus History Walk. For details contact Robin Gape 07711 793804, [email protected]

21 Sunday 9th June 2pm - 3.30pm Landguard Partnership NATURE RESERVE DISCOVERY TOUR Free guided tour with the Ranger. For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Wednesday 12th June (subject to variation) RSPB FIELD MEETING Blaxhall Heath for birds of the Sandling Heaths and Nightjars. Meet 7pm at car park or 9pm for Nightjars. TM384565. Leader Stephen Marginson 01473 258791

Friday 14th June 9pm – 11pm Suffolk Coastal UP LATE WITH THE NIGHTJAR Sutton Heath South car park (B1083 to Sutton village) Grid Ref: TM306475.Join a ranger-led mid-summer night walk to seek out the elusive and rare nightjar. Please bring a torch and insect repellent, wear stout shoes and warm clothing. £4 adults, £2 under 18s, pensioners and students. Please contact us to book a place: 01394 444619 or email: [email protected]

Saturday 15th June 10am - noon IBC Rangers TREE WALK Enjoy a walk around Christchurch Park with Rangers, learn how to identify trees and discover the fascinating age-old beliefs associated with them. Ideal for those with a genuine interest in trees and their history, or those who would like to identify more species. Adults £2 children £1. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Sunday 16th June 10am - 12 noon Portal Woodlands Conservation Group WORK PARTY Meet at the Education Area. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Sunday 16th June 10.30am - 1pm SPRING WOOD WORK PARTY Join Ipswich Wildlife Group and Friends of Belstead Brook Park for a morning of work in Spring Wood. Meet at the stepped entrance to the wood in Bobbits Lane. Details from Gerry Donlon 01473 726082.

Tuesday 18th June 10am RSPB MIDWEEK WALK Christchurch Park, meet Soane Street entrance. Leader KathyJun Reynolds 01473 714839

Friday 21st June 7pm - 9.30pm IBC Rangers SOLSTICE CRUISE Enjoy a relaxing trip along the Orwell estuary. Learn about the natural environment of this internationally important wildlife area with our local experts. Adults £12, Concessions £10, Children £8. Please phone for further information 01473 433994

Wednesday 24th June 1pm - 3pm IBC Rangers POND DIPPING Part of ‘Wildlife Day’ in Holywells Park. Search for bugs and creepy crawlies using nets and our underwater camera. What is lurking in the depths of the pond? FREE EVENT. For further information Tel 01473 433994

Wednesday 26th June 6.30pm RSPB FIELD MEETING Purdis Heath, Ipswich for summer birds. 2hrs, 3 miles. Meet opposite TrinityPark, Bucklesham Road TM213424. Leader Stephen Marginson 01473 258791

Friday 28th June 10am Butterfly Conservation SILVER-STUDDED BLUE SURVEY Minsmere RSPB reserve. Meet at wardens lodge just before RSPB car park. Map Ref: TM470671 Please register in advance. Leader Rob Parker 01284 705476

Friday 5th July 10am Butterfly Conservation SILVER-STUDDED BLUE SURVEY RSPB Minsmere (part 2). Meet at Warden’s Lodge just before RSPB car park. Map Ref: TM470671 Please register in advance. Leader Rob Parker Tel: 01284 705476

Saturday 6th July 7am - 9am Landguard Partnership MOTH MORNING Learn more about these flying minibeasts.For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Saturday 6th July 9am - 11am Portal Woodlands Conservation Group NATURE WATCH Meet at the Martlesham Heath Control Tower. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Saturday 6th July 10am - 11.30am Landguard Partnership NATURE RESERVE DISCOVERY TOUR Free guided tour with the Ranger. For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Saturday 6th July 10.30am to 12 noon SWT SPECIAL GUIDED WALK AT PLAYFORD The owner of Hill House, Playford has kindly allowed us access to his farm which is a Special Nature Reserve. It is the home to otters, voles, sand martins and there is a good chance of seeing barn owls, so don’t miss this rare opportunity. Location: Hill House, Hill Farm Road, IP6 9DT. Parking available at Playford Village Hall. No need to book. £2.50 donation to SWT. Contact Leigh Williamson 01473 785600, [email protected]

Sunday 7th to Tuesday 9th July Butterfly Conservation VISIT TO ARNSIDE KNOTT, CUMBRIA Target species: High Brown Fritillary, Large Heath, Northern Brown Argus and others. Contact Peter Maddison for details 01473 736607

Saturday 13th July 9am RSPB FIELD MEETING Jul The Grove and north Felixstowe for summer birds. 3hrs, 6 miles. Meet at the Grove car park TM 303358. Leader Stephen Marginson 01473 258791

Saturday 13th July 11am - 2pm Friends of Holywells Park MINI BEAST SAFARI See what we can find in the meadows, woodland and ponds (follow signs from Stable Block).For details contact Robin Gape 07711 793804, [email protected]

Saturday 13th July 2pm - 4pm Greenways FAMILY WILDLIFE HUNT Free event at Sandlings Local Nature Reserve, Rushmere St Andrew. Join us and local experts (Butterfly Conservation) to explore the reserve, looking particularly at butterflies. There will be children’s activities (things to make and take home) as well as the opportunity to learn about and record the plants and animals present - helping to make sure our management plan for the reserve is right. Meet on site in front of the Water Tower. The site has no specific parking.Call 01473 433995 office hours for more details of location.

Sunday 14th July 10am Butterfly Conservation PAKENHAM WOOD FOR SILVER-WASHED FRITILLARY A chance to look for this recently returned fritillary. Meet Pakenham Church car park. Grid Ref: TL930670. Leader: Mike Dean 07754 115368

22 Saturday 20th July 9am - 11am Portal Woodlands Conservation Group NATURE EXPLORERS Meet at the Education Area. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Saturday 20th July 10am - 12 noon Portal Woodlands Conservation Group WORK PARTY Meet at the Education Area. For details contact 01473 612632 email [email protected]

Saturday 20th July 11am - 4pm Butterfly Conservation BIG BUTTERFLY COUNT AT RSPB MINSMERE Joint event with RSPB – butterfly walks, displays, information and children’s crafts and activities. Map Ref: TM473672 Phone to confirm Matt Berry Tel: 07599 243026

Sunday 21st July 10.30am Butterfly Conservation VISIT TO DOWNE BANK See chalkland and other species such as Silver-washed Fritillary, White-letter Hairstreak, Dark Green Fritillary, Chalkhill Blue and Marbled White. The event will entail five miles walking along good paths but with some steep ascents and descents. Meet centre of Downe village, by the church. Map ref: TQ431616. Please pre-book by contacting Paul Johnson [email protected] Tel: 01892 516384

Sunday 21st July 10.30am - 1pm SPRING WOOD WORK PARTY Join Ipswich Wildlife Group and Friends of Belstead Brook Park for a morning of work in Spring Wood. Meet at the stepped entrance to the wood in Bobbits Lane. Details from Gerry Donlon 01473 726082.

Saturday 27th July 11am Friends of Holywells Park History WALK IN THE PARK Enjoy learning about your local park. Meet at Stable Block. ForJul details contact Robin Gape 01473 000000 Saturday 27th July 11am - 4pm Butterfly Conservation BUTTERFLIES ON THE HEATH Joint event with SWT at their Knettishall Heath reserve. Butterfly walks, displays, information and children’s crafts and activities. Map Ref: TL956807 Contact Matt Berry 07599 243026

Sunday 28th July 10.30am Butterfly Conservation WILDLIFE GARDEN VISIT An invitation from BC member Trudie Willis to visit her 10 acre garden, including a Buddleia and Honeysuckle collection. Park car at Priors Oak, Road, (B1122 Leiston to Aldeburgh Road). Map Ref: TM452591 (Landranger 156).

Wednesday 31st July 2pm - 4pm Greenways FAMILY WILDLIFE HUNT Free event at Burnet Meadow, Pinewood (Belstead Brook Park). Join us to explore this new green space to look at the wildflowers and the insects they support along with the other wildlife in the area. As well as recording what we see to help with future management plans, we will have children’s activities with things to make and take home. Meet at Burnet Meadow (access off Burnet Close). The site has no dedicated parking. Call 01473 433995 office hours for more details of the event or location.

Thursday 1st August 11am - 12.30pm IBC Rangers SCALES & TAILS A totally awesome chance to get up close to our native and exotic lizards, snakes and insects at . Learn about these exotic creatures, what they like to eat and where they live? . Adults £2 children £1. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Thursday 1st August 8:30pm – 10:30pm Suffolk Coastal BEASTS OF THE NIGHT Sutton Heath South car park (B1083 to Sutton village) Grid Ref: TM306475. Find out how bats catch their food in the dark. How does a bat detector work? What is a Nightjar and where do they come from? Which male and female Owls sing a nightly duet? Join this ranger-led walk to find out the answers and more. Please bring a torch, wear stout shoes and bring waterproof clothing. £4 adults, £2 under 18s, pensioners and students. Please contact us to book a place: 01394 444619 or e-mail: [email protected]

Saturday 3rd August 10.30am Butterfly Conservation SURVEY OF LORD CRANBROOK’S ESTATE Meet Gt Glemham Farm’s gate off the /Gt Glemham road. BC Vice-President Lord Cranbrook has invited us to survey his land (farmland and nature reserve). Possible visit to the Woodland Trust’s nearby Pound Wood pm. Map Ref: TM331613. Leader Rob Parker Tel: 01284 705476

Wednesday 7th August 6.30 pm SWT SUMMER WALK BY THE ORWELL A social evening starting with a circular walk of about 2 miles near the River Orwell and for those who wish, refreshments at the Butt and Oyster afterwards (Own expense). Meet at the Pay and Display car park at Pin Mill IP9 1JW. No need to book. No charge. Contact Leigh Williamson 01473 785600, [email protected]

Friday 9th August 8.30 - 9.45pm IBC Rangers PARK IN THE DARK Walk with stealth and softness as darkness falls in Chantry Park to see the creatures of the night. Learn more about the secret lives and habits of our nocturnal wildlife. Adults £2 children £1. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Saturday 10th August 10am – 12.30am Suffolk Coastal BLOOMING HEATHLAND Sutton Heath South car park (B1083 to Sutton village) GridAug Ref: TM306475. Join this walk and learn much more about heathland wildlife and its conservation while enjoying a pleasant walk through the blooming heather. £4 adults, £2 under 18s, pensioners and students. Please contact us to book a place: 01394 444619 or e-mail [email protected]

Sunday 11th August 1pm - 5pm Landguard Partnership THE SECRET SEASHORE Free family fun day on the Nature Reserve. For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Sunday 11th August 3pm RSPB FIELD MEETING Levington Creek and lagoon for migrant waders. 2hrs, 2miles. Meet at Lane, Trimley TM245384. Leader Stephen Marginson 01473 258791

Friday 16th August 8pm - 9.30pm IBC Rangers PARK IN THE DARK Walk with stealth and softness as darkness falls in Christchurch Park to see the creatures of the night. Learn more about the secret lives and habits of our nocturnal wildlife. Adults £2 children £1. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Saturday 17th August 11am - 3pm Butterfly Conservation GARDENING FOR BUTTERFLIES A joint event with RSPB. There will be butterfly walks, plus displays, information and advice about gardening for butterflies and other wildlife. Plants will also be available for purchase from RSPB. Venue: RSPB wildlife garden Map Ref: TM077332. Contact Matt Berry Tel: 07599 243026

2323 Saturday 17th August 11am - noon IBC Rangers POND DIPPING Join Rangers for an hour of fun in Holywells Park. Search for bugs and creepy crawlies using nets and our underwater camera. What is lurking in the depths of the pond? Adults £2 children £1. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Saturday 17th August 8pm - 9.45pm Friends of Holywells Park BAT WALK Look and listen for the bats at dusk in the evening warmth. Meet at Stable Block. Exit main gate in Cliff Lane after event. For details contact Robin Gape 07711 793804, [email protected]

Sunday 18th August 10.30am - 1pm SPRING WOOD WORK PARTY Join Ipswich Wildlife Group and Friends of Belstead Brook Park for a morning of work in Spring Wood. Meet at the stepped entrance to the wood in Bobbits Lane. Details from Gerry Donlon 01473 726082.

Sunday 18th August 2pm - 3.30pm Landguard Partnership NATURE RESERVE DISCOVERY TOUR Free guided tour with the Ranger. For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Thursday 22nd August 1pm - 2.30pm IBC Rangers MINI BEAST SAFARI Children go on a magical mini beast hunt in the Chantry ParkAug meadow, carefully collect some mini beasts and study them in magnifying pots. What can we find in the long grass? Adults £2 children £1. Booking essential Tel 01473 433994

Sunday 25th August 10am Butterfly Conservation LATE SUMMER BUTTERFLIES Explore the south shore of Alton Water reservoir for butterflies and dragonflies (option to explore north shore after lunch or move to another location nearby). Map Ref: TM 156355 (Car Park off B1080 in Stutton village). Leader Bill Stone 07906 888603

Wednesday 28th August 2pm - 5pm Landguard Partnership BUG AND BEASTIE TRAIL A children’s tour on the Nature Reserve. For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

Thursday 12th September 7.30pm Suffolk Ornithologists Group FACING EXTINCTION: The Race To Save The World’s Rarest Birds A talk by Paul Donald of the RSPB. Holiday Inn, London Road, Ipswich. £2 members £3 non-members. Details from Phil Whittaker [email protected]

Wednesday 18th September 7.30pm SWT TALK Garden Wildlife by Geoff Abbott St Margaret’s School Hall, Bolton Lane, Ipswich £2.50 Disabled Access. There is probably all sorts of wildlife lurking in your garden which you know nothing about, some of it beneficial and some harmful. Geoff willSep help us to recognise both friend and foe, and perhaps suggest how we might encourage the former. Details from Dave Munday 01473 217310 Regular Events

TUESDAYS 9.30am Greenways CONSERVATION WORK PARTY Meet at the Stable Block Holywells Park to visit one of over 40 sites around Ipswich for a day’s practical task. If you have not been out with the Project before, you must contact us first to arrange an induction.Contact 01473 433995

THURSDAYS 10am – 4pm Greenways CONSERVATION WORK PARTY If you have not been out with the Project before, you must contact us first to arrange an induction.Contact Greenways on 01473 433995

FRIDAYS 9.30am Greenways CONSERVATION WORK PARTY As well as Tuesdays, the Greenways Project, has a smaller but just as welcoming group of volunteers most Fridays. Meet at the Stable Block, Holywells Park from where we travel to one of our sites around Ipswich for a day’s practical task. If you have not been out with the Project before, you must contact us first to arrange an induction. Please contact us before coming to check that we are holding the work day.Contact 01473 433995.

MOST SATURDAYS 10.30am - 1pm IWG Northgate Allotments WOODCRAFT & WILDLIFE Get involved in coppicing and woodland skills at the Wildlife area. Call Geoff Sinclair to confirm dates 01473 327720

SECOND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH 8pm ‘Green Drinks’ Dove Inn, Ipswich DRINKS AND CHAT Join us at the Dove Inn for a drink, a chat and a bit of networking with other environmentally-minded people. Look out for the ‘Green Drinks’ sign on the table. All welcome. Details from Steve Pritchard on 07724 004272

THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 10.30am - 1pm SPRING WOOD WORK PARTY Join Ipswich Wildlife Group and Friends of Belstead Brook Park for a morning of work in the wood. Meet at the stepped entrance to the wood in Bobbits Lane. Details from Gerry Donlon 01473 726082

WEDNESDAYS 10am HOLYWELLS PARK WORK PARTIES Besides doing positive work as part of a small team of volunteers your time will be matched by cash from the Lottery enabling further work in the Park. Meet at the Stable Block located down the driveway from Cliff Lane.Contact Martin Cant for details 07858 436003

SATURDAYS 9.30 - 11.30am 25 May, 22 June, 20 July, 17 August, Landguard Partnership MONTHLY BEACH LITTER PICK Join us for the monthly beach litter pick For more information call 01394 675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk

SECOND SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH 10am - 12noon SWT Holywells Park IPSWICH WILDLIFE WATCH Children aged 6-12 are invited to come and explore the natural world through nature themed art and craft, games and wild learning. Parents welcome. For more information contact Andrew Mackay (Wildlife Watch leader) [email protected] or on 07767 384409.

SECOND SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH 10am - 1pm Friends of Belstead Brook Park CONSERVATION WORK PARTY Come and join us for a morning working in the fresh air. For further details contact Greenways 01473 433995 or email [email protected]

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