BBC and Kent partnership breathes new life into wildlife oasis
The BBC Springwatch Action Team (SWAT) has transformed an oasis for wildlife at a neglected meadow in Queenborough on the Isle of Sheppey thanks to the support of Kent Wildlife Trust, Swale Borough Council and Groundwork Kent and Medway.
As part of the BBC’s nationwide Breathing Places campaign, Radio Kent enlisted the support of Kent Wildlife Trust to act as advisors, to carry out a habitat and species survey to assess the wildlife value of the site, and to organise a range of family nature activities for the event held on Sunday 8th June to coincide with the Springwatch TV series.
Scores of volunteers, young and old, turned out in the bright sunshine to remove tons of litter and debris from the ditches and marshy grassland that provides a haven for newts, frogs, butterflies, dragonflies and all manner of bird life.
The Kent Wildlife Trust team entertained with pond dipping and grass sweeping sessions and helped children identify and learn about the mini-beasts found there. Bird and bat boxes were installed in the surrounding trees courtesy of the firemen based at the station adjacent to the site.
An old wooden boat at the entrance to the site was planted up with a colourful array of wild flowers to encourage more wildlife and to create a highly visible and welcoming landmark.
The Trust’s Media & Events Officer, Ray Lewis, said: “Our survey revealed that some very interesting and, indeed, scarce species of flora and fauna colonise the site and that - with careful maintenance - it has the potential to attract more.
“The main challenge, however, was to get local people to appreciate this valuable recreational asset on their doorstep, to take pride in it, and, of course, have fun in the process! I must say that it was a great privilege to work with such dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers. A huge thanks to all those who took part and achieved so much.”
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