Latest News from Beckford Nature Reserve

Canada Geese Families

Two families of Canada Geese were spotted on the Lake, each with at least 3 chicks.

13 May 2012, 9:05am

Plaque installed on Rupert Ellis Hide

Take a look on this page for the updated information on the 'Disabled' Hide.

11 April 2012, 1:59pm

New Dormice Boxes

We have installed a new type of doormouse box that is held on to the tree by wire for easy removal and inspection. You may think that the entry hole looks to be in the wrong place, but the doormice should access it from the branch. Let's hope these new boxes are not occupied by blue tits or woodmice!

16 April 2012, 1:56pm

Low water levels has its advantages

As you will notice from some recent sightings at the lakeside, the low water level has brought in some new birds to the Reserve. Both the Common and Green Sandpipers have been spotted on the mud flats.

2 April 2012, 7:16pm

Nesting Season

Now that the nesting season is in full swing, when visiting the nature reserve please make sure your dog is on a lead. Even the most well-behaved dogs can be attracted to the birds and coming close to a nesting adult bird can seriously affect the nesting process. Thank you.

2 April 2012, 7:11pm

Village Supper - update

What a shame - the Village Supper has had to be cancelled due to lack of support! We will have to now work harder to raise more funds to keep the Nature Reserve going!

20 March 2012, 5:32pm

Bat boxes

Four roosting boxes for bats have been delivered and will be placed in suitable locations throughout the Reserve. Professional advice has been sought to make sure they are located in the ideal places.

12 March 2012, 10:29pm

Village Supper

Following the success of last years' Village Supper, The trustees of the Nature Reserve have organised another Village Supper. Click on the title above for more information.

2 March 2012, 10:21pm

Getting ready for Spring

The first primrose flowers can be seen in sheltered spots near the north-side steps. Nesting boxes suitable for Tawny Owls and Little Owls have been put up in, we hope, owl friendly locations.

12 March 2012, 10:29pm

Memorial tree

Tom Woollard and family have donated and planted a Rowan tree in memory of Anne. Placed close to the Rupert Ellis hide, the tree should produce plenty of berries in the late summer to attract the birds.

14 January 2012, 10:16pm

Water levels

It was less than two years ago that we were worried about the high water levels in the lake, but now after the driest year on record since the quarry was formed we are worried that the low water levels may affect the waterfowl breeding season. With an easy passage for foxes (and uncontrolled dogs!) across to the island, the ducks and swans have lost their safe haven for rearing their young. It will be more important once the breeding season starts to make sure all dogs are kept on leads when visiting the Nature Reserve.

11 January 2012, 10:15pm

Spring 2011 progress report

Why not check out the latest excellent progress report from John Clifford, who spends so much of his time 'looking after' the nature reserve. Use the link on this news item title to see the report.

7 June 2011, 11:10pm

Severn Valley: the evolution of a landscape

Richard Edwards from the Earth Heritage Trust returns for another talk on the geology of the local area. Friday 1st July at 7:30 pm in the Village Hall. Free admission - refreshments available.

1 June 2011, 11:05pm

The Sand Martins are back!

The Sand Martins have been spotted in the old quarry face to the north of the nature reserve. Frantic feeding of their young is not yet in full swing, but you can observe them flying around the lake and popping in and out of their nests.

8 May 2011, 10:50pm

Youngsters helping the Nature Reserve

Archie, Sally and Coco made four birdboxes for the Nature Reserve. Tina provided the materials, then under adult supervision they made, painted and installed them on various trees around the reserve. With any luck they will be in time for birds to nest this year. Great to see the young people getting involved.

9 April 2011, 10:38pm

New disabled hide nearing completion

The new disabled hide is now nearing completion as these two pictures by Trevor McGill show. The walls and seating are complete with only the roof remaining to be added. Why not visit the Reserve and take a look.

6 March 2011, 9:37pm

New steps for Court Farm entrance

New steps have now been created at the northern Court Farm lane entrance. This should make this much safer as in the wet weather this entrance becomes very slippery.

9 February 2011, 9:35pm

Work on the Island

Some of you may have noticed some work going on coppicing the trees at the shore of the Island. Please click on the title link above for more details.

4 December 2010, 9:31pm

Disabled path now complete

The path for wheelchair access is now complete...

9 November 2009, 9:25pm

Gates Installed

The new gates on the public footpath are now in place, making access to the Nature Reserve much easier for those who find stiles a hindrance. We now have two new wooden gates on the public footpath and a disabled friendly gate installed on the northern Rabbit Lane entrance.

12 October 2009, 10:21pm

Extra Seat

John and Sandra Hall have kindly donated a second seat, which has been placed in the small clearing on the north side of the lake. Visitors to the Reserve have already expressed their appreciation of these welcome resting places.

14 August 2009, 8:11pm

Bird Boxes

Two bird boxes have been installed one on the outside of the hide and the second on the peninsula. These are to commemorate Pete Cosh who loved the Reserve.

10 July 2009, 7:58pm