THE POND AND WILDLIFE
Before the restoration work began in 2016, the pond was barely visible, due to the invasive Spanish Laurel which had rooted, mangrove like, into and around the pond. The water was sinisterly dark, still and lifeless. Within a few days of the first clearance a Greater Diving Beetle was spotted. These insects discover new areas by spotting the reflection of the moon in the water. Soon it was joined by numerous other species of insects plus frogs and newts.
GREY WAGTAIL
(Motacilla cinerea)
Similar size to the Pied Wagtail which is also found at the site, the very long tail of this bird is constantly moving. Look for it on the rocks near the fast-flowing water catching midges, other insects and invertebrates.
GREAT DIVING BEETLE
(Dytisus marginalis)
Blackish-green in colour and one of the largest beetles
in the U.K., this voracious predator of ponds feeds on many small invertebrates, tadpoles and small fish. They can be spotted coming to the surface, pointing the tip of their abdomen out of the water to replenish the air supply stored beneath their wing cases.
DEMOISELLE
(Calopteryx virgo)
During the period of May to August, Demoiselles may be observed near the banks of the small fast-flowing river. This damselfly is one of only two British damselflies with obviously coloured wings. The dark-coloured wings of the male are set against bright metallic blue-green body. The female has brown wings and green body. The male rests on bank side vegetation awaiting passing females. He then uses a fluttering flight in a courtship display.
FROGS & NEWTS
Try spotting the COMMON FROG (Rana temporaria) almost anywhere on the
site between May and
October blending into their surroundings. Like frogs, the COMMON/SMOOTH NEWTS
( Lissotriton vulgaris) are nocturnal but during Spring and Summer spend the day hiding in and around the pond and bog garden.
Both hibernate during the Winter under leaves, stones and logs.
DRAGONFLIES
Of the many dragonflies enticed to the still watersof the pond, the Emperor Dragonfly (Anax imperator) is the most impressive. It may be seen zig-zagging across the water catching insects especially during the months of July and August. Males are pale-blue with an applegreen thorax and a black stripe running along the body which can be up to 8cm in length.