Homes for Bats

I have been away for a week in the snowy Peak District. After the snows we have floods with water flowing everywhere today. Despite the coldest winter for many years there are signs of life. Snowdrops are looking at their best at the moment and should last for another couple of weeks if the cold weather sticks around.

Hazel bushes are beginning to flower, especially those in sheltered south-facing spots. The yellow catkins are lengthening and releasing their pollen. If you look closely on the twigs you will see the tiny red female flowers ready to receive the pollen and grow on as hazel nuts.

Next week is half-term and we are holding our first children's activity of the year with Thornham staff. The bat-box building activity will be held here at Thornham Walks on Monday 16th February at 2pm. It is aimed at 5 to 11 year olds and the cost is £3 a child with accompanying adults free. We will be building bat boxes from kits and the boxes can either be put up at Thornham or taken home for an additional £3. Please call me on 01379 788008 for more information.

We have lots of bats around here including these Long-eared Bats: