When we began to convert our home and smallholding into a Retreat Centre and camp site, we knew that we wanted to ensure that all our grounds would encourage and support bio-diversity, whilst being sensitive to the environmental impact of all our activities. To this end we have taken significant steps to encourage the flora and fauna. We have been rewarded by a growth in the local bat population, our engagement with the Devon Bat Project has given an insight into the number of different species passing though our smallholding, we have also added bat boxes and made provision for bats to roost. With the help of our local Scout group we have installed several bird boxes and owl boxes in various locations. Following advice from the Devon Wildlife Trust, we have ensured that our meadow field is kept at a suitable length to provide the perfect habitat for field voles that make up a large proportion of a barn owl’s diet.
Since 2019 we have been able to cut the meadow field with a special mower which ensures that the wildflower seeds are spread and the grass cuttings are removed. This will encourage the flowers and reduce the vigour of the various grasses across the meadow. This month we have introduced yellow rattle, a semi parasitic plant that also reduces the strength of the grasses, thereby increasing the diversity of flowering plants. Each year we enjoy watching the natural developments in the meadow field, last year we were delighted to see a great number of swallows darting across the field in the summer evenings. This month we have spotted our first stoat, this small mammal is just 25 cm long but easily identified by its black tipped tail. It was leaping above the grass, perhaps chasing field voles or mice!
Social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic has meant that our usual activities have ceased but the opportunity to spend more time with our lambs, our hens, and in developing our grounds has been a very positive outcome - not just for our wellbeing but also for the biodiversity of the area.