The ponds in the centre of the site have existed for a number of years but became overgrown with bulrushes and other vegetation. In 2023 the ponds were dredged and the island in the centre was formed with existing trees transplanted into this space. This area has attracted a large number of birds and other wildlife and we hope that by re-establishing the varied wetland habitats and restricting public access to the boardwalk this wildlife will continue to visit.
A bird recorder has been set up on the island which will allow us to monitor the species visiting the area. You can download the Bird Weather app or view the monitor at the following link.
Kingfisher Lake :: BirdWeather
A second monitor has been installed along the canal which can be found at the following link:
Kingfishers have been spotted in the area and the nesting boxes have been added to the island to encourage them to visit and make the island their home.
The dredging has increased the area of shallow water where the Grey Heron and Little Egret prefer to hunt. This will also support foraging for species such as House Martin and Swift.
The water levels in the southern pond in particular will fluctuate throughout the year. The area forms part of the Elcombe Brook floodplain and the boggy nature of the land in Winter is one of the reasons the path has been built as an elevated boardwalk.
