In recent years members of the Alnwick Wildlife Group have carried out a number of projects for various organisations, they include :-
- (1) In late 2002 we were approached by Ford and Etal Estates, who asked if we were able to carry out a year long biodiversity survey of Ford Moss and create a base line of data against which to measure the effects of future management. The survey was carried out in 2003 and the report showed 192 plant species, with their distribution and frequency, and 67 bird species.
Copies of this report can be obtained from Richard Poppleton at a cost of £3-00
Contact Richard@greystonecottage.fsnet.co.uk
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(2) A repeat of this survey was carried out five years later, in 2008 to monitor any changes in the intervening five years.
Ford Moss is a fascinating place to walk, with a great deal of interest in both wildlife and archaeology. An attempt is being made to return the Moss to its original condition, after the effects of drainage carried out in the 19th. century.
- (3) In 2004 a count of Grey Partridge was carried out by a team from the AWG. on behalf of Northumberland Estates, prior to them starting a major conservation scheme on a number of farms on the Estate. This scheme is proving to be remarkably successful.
- (4) One member of AWG has been surveying the above area since 1999 and is now able to provide a comparison of “ before and after” the introduction of gamekeeping and the entry of the farms into the Farm Stewardship Scheme. These reports have been used by the Estate in support of some changes to their management.
- (5) A further survey is being planned on an extended area of Northumberland Estates also in connection with the encouragement of Grey Partridges and the effect of their management on the wild bird population. This survey will start later this year.
- (6) In 2007 the group were asked to conduct a long term survey, to check the effects of gamekeeping on five areas of moorland in the Alnwick district, where Northumberland Estates are trying to encourage the population of Red Grouse. A team of volunteers make five visits annually to each of these areas recording bird numbers and also any other interesting wildlife finds. An annual report is presented and data is being collected from which it may be possible to draw some useful conclusions.
Northumberland Estates make a contribution to AWG funds, which is a considerable help to our finances.
New volunteers are always welcome to join the team.
Most of the bird surveys are based on a number of “target species” which are those most commonly found in the area being surveyed. It is therefore not essential that volunteers have a very wide knowledge and experience of bird recognition. There is always someone willing to help and if desired it can be arranged to have a visit with one of the regular volunteers.
If you would like more details or feel that you would like to be involved please contact :-
George Dodds. 01668283848
Richard Poppleton. 01665578346
Jim Clark. 01668217004
If you have an idea for a project let us know but: -
You must be prepared to participate
It must be realistic for members who are not expert
It must be performed over a reasonable time span