Winter on Jubilee Meadow

Our small but dedicated Working Party has been busy over the last few weeks, tidying up Jubilee Meadow in preparation for the Spring.

A number of trees have been transplanted. The western edge of the meadow is quite overcrowded in some places, so five trees were dug out to give more space. The trees were given a nutrient feed and have been well watered since transplanting due to the daily rainfall so far this year. There are no further plans for additional tree planting on any significant scale.

In addition, some 25 bee orchids have been lifted from the Playing Field where they would have been cut back by the regular mowing of the outfield. The orchids were largely grouped together for effect and placed alongside the eastern path and around a couple of the benches.

Other tasks carried out were the trimming of side shoots on the trees, and the base areas around the trees were cleared with work done to the wire guards to enable easier access.  This will make it much easier to add mulch around the trees. This will help the trees if there is another dry spell this year, although we do now have our own bowser and Land Rover for additional watering should it become necessary.

We have been pleased to see a good number of people, both locals and visitors, enjoying the meadow while we have been working.  The team, like many of our regular volunteers and walkers, are now waiting for the Spring to see the results of planting 500 bulbs last autumn with aconites, bluebells, daffodils and snowdrops hopefully appearing. A few snowdrops are appearing already.

Do keep walking and enjoying the Jubilee Meadow and thanks to all our supporters.

Before Christmas, the trees around the boundaries of the Meadow held good numbers of fieldfares and redwings, as well as resident blackbirds and thrushes, stripping the trees of berries.

Winter Visitors

Flocks of up to 50 lapwings are occasionally seen, with a few golden plover mixed in for good measure. Small flocks of meadow pipits are present throughout, and buzzards and red kites are daily visitors. The kestrel has been seen hunting on the Meadow, but, so far, no sign this year of the barn owl.

A stonechat passed through and a woodcock was flushed in early February. It may sometimes look quiet out there, but actually, there is a lot going on.