Hale Farm Visit
After a brief introduction to moths by expert Marc Botham (there are apparently 2500+ moth species in the UK, compared with 60 butterfly species), we opened the moth traps at 9am to see what had been attracted to the lights during the night.
To the delight of the assembled 25 adults and children it was without doubt our most impressive haul ever, including Elephant and Privet Hawkmoths galore and the brilliantly disguised Buff Tip. Many flew away in the warm morning air before stopping to be identified, but nevertheless 260 individuals of 40 species were counted in only one of the two traps.
The combination of deep tap roots and hairy roots breaks up compacted soil and allows water to penetrate. It includes a mix of deep-rooted herbs and nitrogen-fixing legumes. that work together to improve soil health, increase biodiversity and provide a resilient and nutritious, mineral rich food source for livestock.
Dairy-cross cows now graze the area which is divided by electric fences into a number of small paddocks. They are moved to a new paddock every day, taking 40 days to cover the whole area. Cow pats attract dung beetles that drag organic matter back into the soil.
In addition, 70 acres on the Warborough side of the field have been planted with a bird seed mix under a different government scheme, attracting large numbers of ladybirds and farmland birds such as linnets.
A huge thankyou to Rupert and Katherine for introducing us to their farm and for their fantastic work to improve biodiversity locally.
Note: The beef is sold as “Belchers Beef”. Phone Katherine for enquiries and orders on 07804 305681.
Photo credits:
Val Siddiqui, Imogen Parker, Edel McGurk
There followed a short walk up to the field at the end of Hale Road, where farmer, Rupert Belcher, explained the regenerative practices the farm has phased in over the last few years, replacing the practice since 1958 of rotating wheat and barley crops. As the soil is silt over sand it doesn’t retain moisture so grass doesn’t grow well. To overcome this problem the field is sown with a mix of 13 drought tolerant plant species in a herbal ley designed for rotational grazing and cutting.
Benson Eco Fair
The moths and breakfast got the Eco Fair at Benson church off to a very good start. BANG and the scythers added interest to the day as well as maintaining the churchyard’s wildflower area.
Many visitors said how much they had enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and the opportunities to learn more about our local environment and the diversity of wildlife around us. The moths were mentioned frequently on the evaluation forms (with or without the subsequent bacon rolls!), as did the bees, crayfish and scything. One comment summed it up: ‘The best thing was talking to so many people who are passionate about nature’.
The listing of moths identified will be displayed on a board in the Canons’ Room too, so that the congregation and hall users will be aware of them.
Broad Arboretum Visit
Our visit to Broad Arboretum was led by horticulturalist John Brannon. Broad Arboretum is a living library of the 49 native tree species found in Oxfordshire. John was involved in the project from the beginning and helped plan, grow, plant and manage this remarkable collection.
We learned about the history of this unique project, plans for the future and the similarities and differences between species such as beech and hornbeam, pendunculate and sessile oak, silver and downy birch.
If you missed this tour, you can find out more, by visiting their website https://earthtrust.org.uk/visit/broad-arboretum/. The arboretum is accessible 365 days a year.
Photo credits: Tracey Comber, Edel McGurk
Broad Aboretum (Earth Trust) Visit
National Emergency Briefing Film
This collaboration with Watlington Environment Group and Watlington Climate Action Group was a sell-out with over 120 people attending the event in St Leonard’s church.
The 45-minute film, showing the potential devastating impact the Climate and Biodiversity Crises will have on our economy, health, food security and national security was followed by various small discussions around the film’s content, people’s reactions and things we can all do to help. There was a real buzz amongst the audience as lively discussions took place. As a result, several other groups came forward to offer to screen the film.
Given the support and interest, it is possible more local screenings will take place later this summer. Watch this space for more information
Diary Dates (Cont'd)
16th July: Tree Watering, Benson School
We need help to water the saplings we planted at the school playing fields last winter. Look out for more details on social media.
13th August, 7.30pm BANG Committee Meeting
We will be holding a meeting/social at the Home Sweet Home, Roke Meadow, Roke Marsh, OX10 6JD. Please join us to exchange your ideas, thoughts and feedback.
1st September, 7.30pm: Otters talk – Warborough.
Due to the popularity of the talk earlier this year, we are repeating it in Warborough.
We will continue our focus on wildlife recording too throughout the summer. Look out for e-mails and social media posts.
Diary Dates
19th July, 1pm – 5pm: Watlington Wildlife Open Gardens.
Guide dogs are welcome in all gardens. Some gardens welcome well-behaved dogs on a lead (see map). Please park responsibly (also see map) and car share if possible.
Watlington Wildlife Gardens 2026 - Map