So, this weekend, we will have a crack at bringing some deadwood and ‘brash piles’ from surrounding areas to the fire site. These will provide short-term cover and refuge for the lizards and for invertebrates and seedlings – to replace the shelter offered before by the brambles and gorse. The lizards remain at risk, as they are more exposed to predators. These include our kestrels, foxes, crows and magpies but also cats and dogs.
Longer term, we’ll be looking to re-establish what ecologists call “structural diversity” – i.e. a complex mosaic of grassland and shrubs… but this time, smaller parcels of each to reduce the fire risk.
Saturday 17th September – on Hampton Heath
We’ll meet as usual near the goal post behind David Lloyd, but if you miss us at 10, we’ll be focusing on the fire site alongside Uxbridge Road:
WHEN: 10am Saturday (17th Sep)
WHERE: Meet at the goalpost, rear of David Lloyd as usual
WHO: Anyone and everyone. But as always, please bring protective (preferably cut-resistant) gloves, sensible footwear, water etc. and children must be accompanied.
WHAT: General litter-picking (we provide the litter-pickers/bags), and
“Refugia” creation – bring secateurs, loppers and the like, if you have them.
Please be aware the ash is still making everything FILTHY, and there may still be some broken glass – so children especially need to be aware.
Hope to see some of you tomorrow!