A drama-filled winter

The battle with the birch continued at The Lodge this winter, with a number of work parties out clearing the heath. As well as the regular work parties, over 70 staff members from our UK Headquarters have taken part in additional shifts, assisting with the burning of the scrub. And the hard work is paying off, with some great views starting to form.

A flyover by a woodlark in December was a nice reward for all of our hard work. Work has now also begun on improving the quality of our woodlands to benefit birds and fungi. A ride was created along 'Jack’s valley' linking the old and new heaths, providing a heathland corridor for invertebrates and natterjack toads.

The reserve has been very busy over the winter. Our Big Garden Birdwatch warm-up event was a massive success, with volunteers giving short guided walks and on hand to help identify the birds on the feeders. As part of the #showthelove campaign we hosted guided walks for visitors to learn how climate change impacts upon the reserve.

In March we hosted our Give Nature a Home festival. There was fat ball and nest box making, owl pellet dissection and mammal trapping. The local RSPB group and Bedfordshire Natural History Society also attended. Even when we aren't running events there are plenty of families out enjoying the reserve and all it has to offer.

The arrival of Storm Doris added some drama to our winter, with gusts of over 60 mph! With large branches falling from trees, and two large trees coming down, the decision was made to evacuate all staff from our UK Headquarters. This is no small undertaking when there are approximately 700 staff members working there, but everyone got home safely.

All the events and conservation work on The Lodge reserve would not be possible without your support - thank you.