Friends Holmebrook Valley Park Nature Report 13 May 2013

One brood of 12 Mallard chicks on the lake – Bluebells coming into bloom – spring has finally sprung! The cold winter spell has delayed the emergence of the spring flowers ( see display in the pavilion ). The cowslips have been spectacular as usual and plenty of daffodils.

I have seen 5 species of butterfly so far: Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Comma, Orange Tip and Green-veined White.

I have one bit of bad news to share – there were no sightings of Water Vole during 2012 and none so far this year. Some decades ago Mink bread for their fur, escaped into the countryside. They have been steadily been killing off native species, especially the Water Vole which have been reduced by 90%. In Holmebrook Valley Park the population appears to have been reduced to zero. Let me know if you see anything to the contrary.

On the positive side, The management and staff are to be congratulated for all the improvements they are making in the Park.

Tony Marron