Category: Wildlife

Badger activity in Brandwood End

It is suspected that Badgers from a local sett have been venturing into the cemetery. They are beautiful creatures but can cause untold damage to graves and lawned areas which would cause great distress to bereaved families, as well as costing a lot to rectify.

If you see a Badger within the cemetery can you note the area and the time and let us know via a message or email. The most likely time to spot them will be early morning and late afternoon (at dusk) but if you live backing onto the cemetery you may spot them at other times. Photographs would be very interesting as well.

The Ranger service and local residents have been aware of several large setts locally so hopefully they are just foraging and not looking for a new home!

Jasmin Fields Nature Reserve appeals to dog owners.

Can we remind everyone that the very local Jasmin Fields Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife and welcomes dog walkers- but one of the volunteers, Pat, drew the lovely poster below. It is just a reminder that, as a dog owner, you have a responsibility to clear up behind your pooch.

Can we also remind everyone that you should be prepared to ‘leave no trace’ if you visit the Cemetery, Jasmin Fields or any other green open space. Please remove your rubbish. Take it home ! Bins are often overwhelmed so be prepared ! Can we also remind you to remove any flower wrapping paper if leaving flowers at a loved ones grave, as the paper helps the flowers blow from the grave in high winds.

New fencing completed.

Pleased to see that the new fencing to the rear of the lodge is completed and looking good. The idea was to avoid reinstalling larch lap panels, that the wind soon damages,  and deter people from walking through the lodge garden to the rear burial section- but maintain an open aspect.

I think you will all agree that these new fences fulfil all of those requirements….but it appears someone or something is continuing their usual route ! Gathering by the snow prints I think its local foxes and pussy cats, but they have been very busy!

Can anyone assist in bird call recognition?

We were walking in the cemetery today. It was very quiet and then an unbelievable whooping sound. Came back and researched it, as it was very distinct and unusual. It sounded owl like and the completely matching sound was…….Eurasian Scops Owl !! Surely this can’t be true. Anyone on here with more knowledge who can suggest another solution? I noticed a few other people stopped dead by the sound. Very distinctive.

I understand that these Owls do occasionally end up in the UK and have been spotted as far north as Northumberland, but usually  by accident or as a result of stormy weather.   They prefer warmer areas.

Can anyone suggest a more logical solution? The call was a loud, fairly deep whooping and did match this Owl call.