Working with Ed Drewitt is truly fascinating. Our ecological survey of the park and surrounding area got off to a great start on Friday.  We were astonished to discover the variety of wild flowers already present in the wetland areas of the park and also on the Green next to Emersons Green Lane. The Green has developed a rich showing of wild flowers this year.

And as you walked through the grass you discovered that the place was alive with insects. We discovered some extraordinary creatures with our sweep nets, but this one you will recognise.

Grasshoppers have apparently been around on earth for about 250 million years! They look a bit like ancient monsters, don’t they?

We shall be continuing our survey on August 24th and 25th when we will be studying local moths and bats. I will let you know more nearer the time.

Meanwhile I am glad to report that this Saturday July 18th, with lockdown easing, we plan to have our first orchard working party. 10-12 noon as usual. Please let me know if you can come because numbers are limited by government and South Glos guidelines.

I am also pleased to report that I think we have found a home for the painted stones – more shortly.