The Wilder Chesterfield project, led by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, is in full swing, with residents, schools and volunteers already getting involved in a growing programme of activities designed to help wildlife thrive across the town.
Recent highlights include bumblebee surveying training for enthusiastic bee monitors in Staveley, and a hedgehog activity that took place at Duckmanton Miners Welfare Club in May.
Local schools have also been learning about hedgehogs and swifts while helping to create important wildlife habitats in their grounds.
With more insects active, animals emerging after hibernation and birds returning to the UK for the summer, now is an ideal time for people to get outdoors in their garden, allotment or local park and enjoy spending time in nature.
May also marked the return of the UK’s swift population. These remarkable birds spend most of the year in Africa before migrating to the UK in mid-May and leaving again in mid-August. Swifts nest in holes in buildings, but as older buildings are renovated and modern construction methods seal up gaps, suitable nesting sites have declined sharply. As a result, the UK swift population has fallen by 65% in the last 20 years.
Installing a swift box or brick can provide a valuable nesting space during the time when swifts are raising their chicks.
Residents are encouraged to listen out for swifts in their area, as colony nesting means homes on streets where swifts are already present could provide an important habitat.
Half term activities
In February half term, Chesterfield Borough Council teamed up with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust to deliver nest box building and other bird related activities in New Whittington, Duckmanton, Poolsbrook and Mastin Moor.
In total more than 120 bird boxes were made including some swift boxes. To accompany the siting of the nest boxes those making the projects, used a pinecone and wrapped nesting material around it, such as moss, sheep’s wool and bracken, to give the birds a helping hand.
Looking ahead
Looking ahead, a range of Wilder Chesterfield workshops will run throughout the summer in Holme Hall, Mastin Moor, Barrow Hill, Poolsbrook and Duckmanton.
Anyone interested in learning more about spotting local wildlife, spending more time in nature, or getting involved in the project can contact the team at wilderchesterfield@derbyshirewt.co.uk