April 2024

11 Buckden Roundabout April 2024 Village News Spring Walks – April 2024 The Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust invites you to come along to the following walks in April. The first walk will be at Portholme Meadow on Saturday 20 th April beginning at 10.30 am. Dr. Pat Doody will lead this walk and will focus on one of Portholme ’ s specialities, the snakeshead fritillary. We also hope to see and hear corn bunting and skylark. Please meet at the entrance to the mead- ow at Godmanchester Lock, TL241704. What3words: amused.finishing.bulky. Nearest postcode PE29 2NB. This will be followed by our annual bluebell walk at Brampton Wood on Sunday 28th April at 10.30am. The walk will be led by George Cottam and other Wardens, depending upon de- mand. We will look at the rich variety of spring flora, focusing on the bluebells. We also hope to see and hear the wonderful birdsong at this time of year. Please meet at the Visitors ’ Barn, near Brampton Wood Car Park, Grafham Road, Brampton, nearest postcode PE28 0DP. GR TL 184699. What3words:skinning.rhino.headboard. Both walks take approximately 2 hours. Please note that paths at both sites are very uneven and likely to be wet. Everyone is most welcome to attend. There is no charge, but donations are welcome. For more information please contact George (01480 450809 or georgecottam@virginmedia.com ). Part of the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. Registered Charity No: 1000412 Hedgerow Importance and Management Hedges play a crucial role in supporting wildlife in the UK, providing various ecological benefits for both flora and fauna. Here are some key reasons why hedges are valuable to wildlife in the UK: • Habitat and Shelter: • Nesting Sites: Hedges offer secure nesting sites for a variety of bird species, such as sparrows, robins, and blackbirds. The dense structure of hedges provides protection from predators. • Small Mammals: Hedges serve as ideal habitats for small mammals like hedgehogs, voles, and mice, offering shelter and protection from predators. • Insects: Many insects, including butterflies, moths, and beetles, find refuge in hedgerows. These insects, in turn, attract insect - eating birds and bats. • Biodiversity: • Plant Diversity: Hedges often consist of a mix of plant species, contributing to overall biodiversity. Different plants provide varied food sources and habitats for different wildlife species. • Insect Diversity: Hedges support a wide variety of insects, including pollinators such as bees and butter- flies. This contributes to the overall health of ecosys- tems by promoting pollination and supporting food chains. • Corridor for Wildlife Movement: Connectivity. Hedg- es act as green corridors, connecting different habi- tats. This connectivity is essential for the movement of wildlife, allowing them to travel between frag- mented areas, find food, and locate mates. • Food Sources: Berries and Fruits. Many hedgerow plants produce berries and fruits that provide a vital food source for birds and small mammals. This con- tributes to the overall food web in the ecosystem. • Seasonal Variation: Hedges undergo seasonal chang- es, with different plants flowering and fruiting at vari- ous times of the year. This provides a continuous and diverse food supply for wildlife throughout the sea- sons. • Wind Protection: Hedges act as windbreaks, creating more stable microclimates within their vicinity. This can be especially important for insects and small ani- mals that may be vulnerable to harsh weather condi- tions. • Predator Habitat: Hedges provide habitats for natural predators of pests, helping to maintain a balance in the ecosystem and reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Efforts to conserve and manage hedges in the UK, such as the creation of wildlife - friendly farm- ing practices and maintaining hedgerow networks, are essential for ensuring the continued benefits of hedges to wildlife. These efforts contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainability of ecosystems. Managing a deciduous hedge Managing a deciduous hedge involves various tasks to ensure its health, appearance, and functionality. Deciduous hedges are composed of plants that lose their leaves in the autumn. Here are some general guidelines for managing a deciduous hedge: • Pruning • Timing: Perform major pruning during the dormant season, typically late winter before new growth starts, or birds start looking for suitable nesting sites. Lighter pruning can be done throughout the growing season. • Frequency: Regular pruning is essential to maintain shape and size. How often you prune depends on the hedge type, but annual pruning is common. • Tools: Use sharp, clean pruning tools to make precise cuts. Hand pruners are suitable for small branches, while hedge trimmers work well for larger hedges. Loppers and pruning saws may be needed for thicker branches. I don ’ t like the (Continued on page 13)