This little fella is proving quite elusive in South Derbyshire at the site of the 'Connect2 project' on the edge of Conkers. The Great crested newt is native to the UK and is a protected species so when evidence of its presence in the ponds at the bottom of Reservoir Hill,Moira was found progress with the 'Conkers Circuit' was halted. The newts have had to be encouraged to upsticks and move away from the course of the new path before the heavy plant can be bought in.
The Newts-if there are any- have another month to leave and a barrier has been erected to ensure they can't return (green plastic sheeting!). The carpet tiles are not there by accident they provide a sheltered haven for the newts and are checked regularly for activity.
Thankfully no newts (pissed or otherwise!) have been found of late so work can continue in around 4 weeks time to complete the final off road link on 'The Conkers Circuit' hopefully by mid July. Too late for our Festival of Leisure lead rides but welcome all the same. At the top of the hill the view across Albert village lake is worth the effort of the climb. Even a 5 year old (Bens youngster Emma) can appreciate it!
2 comments:
The two fellas in picture 3 are Mike Ballantyne chair of the National Forest Charitable Trust(L)and Dave the Newt man and Work Manager. The little fella in picture 4 is one of the elusive GC Newts!
I had seen the green plastic and wondered what it was for. Now I know. Thanks.
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