Badgers

Here is some more footage from the camera that i have set up in the wood, different location, different main characters.

Lost property

Have you lost a pair of trainers on Wenlock Edge either today or yesterday? A pair were found in one of the car parks this evening, e-mail chris.dunkerley@nationaltrust.org.uk with details and i will get them back to you.

Spycam

I have been trying out a camera trap on the Edge recently as i want to see some of the wildlife acting naturally rather than running off at the sight of me! I also thought it would be good to share with readers of this blog. So far i have caught quite a bit of good footage but it has been rather limited in its species diversity.

When i say acting naturally what i actually mean is eating peanuts that i have dropped strategically near the camera. These are Fallow deer, they are on the increase nationwide and this is no different here on Wenlock Edge. I have now moved the camera in the hope of capturing some different species.

Nordic Walking

There are still a few places available on our Introduction to Nordic Walking session on Saturday 4th May, its a great chance to try out a new activity and see the beautiful woods, full of Spring flowers. It only costs £7 per person for 2 hours instruction, this includes pole hire.
To book or for more info e-mail chris.dunkerley@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 07948072075

Bird news

Its a beautiful day here on Wenlock Edge today, save for the odd shower which fortunately move through quite quickly, being replaced by blue skies, warm sunshine and bird song.
There was plenty of action on the feeders at the bird hide this morning and the breeding season is now under way. I managed to get a few photos too, which was a bonus.

Blue Tit

Greenfinch

Goldfinch (left), Greenfinch (centre), Great Tit (right)

Great Spotted Woodpecker

 

Migrant species now being heard here include, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler and Blackcap and i have just been told that Whitethroat have arrived in Shropshire so they should now be on site too. Chiffchaff can be heard everywhere, but to hear Willow Warbler, Blackcap and Whitethroat you need to look in scrubby areas such as the National Trust car park near Much Wenlock.

 



 

Nordic Walking returns

Now that the worst of the weather seems to have passed and Spring looks like trying again we are giving people the chance to try out Nordic Walking on Wenlock Edge. On Saturday 4th May at 10am two instructors Martin and Sue will be on hand to teach people the basics and lead a Nordic walk through the woods. It is a great fitness activity that is suitable for people of all abilities and will be a great way to blow away any Winter cobwebs. The cost is just £7 and this includes pole hire and 2 hours of instruction and walking. I will also be joining in and will be able to answer any questions about the Edge and point out some interesting flora and fauna whilst we walk. Booking is essential as places are limited, to book either e-mail chris.dunkerley@nationaltrust.org.uk or call Chris on 07948072075

Snow progress

We have now finished all the roadside tree work that was necessary after the heavy snowfall. The worst offenders were next to the B4371 near Longville in the Dale.

It wasn't much fun for the climber going up the trees as he was continually getting covered in snow, for the rest of us it was quite a pleasant day!

We have now moved into the wood and begun clearing the footpaths and bridleways, this may take a while as there are plenty of them and they are all covered in Ivy, this extra weight plus the snow is why they have fallen.

Wondering where to start!

The Lime Kiln walk from Presthope Car Park is now clear of fallen trees, we will do the Lea Quarry walk tomorrow as well as the Jenny Wind walk.
 



Deep drifts along the top of Lea Quarry, its higher than the fence in places.