A small group turned out to the bird feeding area at Staindale this morning to lay some woodchip to surface the area and give better access to be able to fill up the feeders. We have more plans for this area so keep your eyes peeled. The new feeder frame looked to be weathering in well.
We then we did some clearing along the paths around the lake. The orchids were everywhere!
If you are visiting Staindale this Easter, then you will spot the new feeders and bespoke frame which have been installed at the bird feeding area – we are lovingly calling it Seedhenge!
Working to a vague idea from us, the frame was designed and then beautifully crafted by Nigel Watson from Wood With Heart just down the hill in Ebberston.
The Friends are not yet back to volunteering as we are awaiting new guidance from Forestry England, so the frame was installed by rangers earlier this week, with the fittings and feeders added today in a family bubble.
We hope birds like it as much as we do.
Our September work task was in the sun at Staindale and we also welcomed new volunteer Lucy. For the first hour, we cut back and cleared the bird feeding area and erected a new sightings white board. We then crossed to the other side of the lake to block up a path that was eroding the dam and cleared the almost hidden steps to encourage their use. The steps appear to have been railway sleepers and we were intrigued to know where they came from!
Pics courtesy of Rob, our treasurer, who came along later on a bike ride and Judith F, although most of us had gone by the time we remembered to say cheese!
Friends of Dalby Forest 