Page 10 - Oundle Life October 2023

In terms of nature news at Barnwell, the Kingfishers, Alcedo alto, have been busy on
the middle lake raising their young, fishing but seem to avoid the times when most visitors are about! Sadly, Barnwell is down to one family
of Mute Swans, Cygnus olor, due to suspected avian flu in the parents which led to the cygnets being left orphaned. Luckily one cygnet was rescued by a wildlife sanctuary and is living life to the fullest. The remaining family are going strong with seven cygnets, although one was ill and has been rescued to be treated and we are hopeful it will be returned after a little more tender loving care.
Now the summer has gone for another year and the children are back at school attention has turned once again to habitat creation, viewpoint opening and continuing with general repairs to the country park after the busy season.
If you would like to get out and enjoy the countryside our brilliant education rangers continue to run Weekly Wednesday Wellbeing Walks throughout the winter months. If you would like to join in please come along every Wednesday at 1.30pm to the Kingfisher Café.
There are also volunteering opportunities
so if you would like to get involved or
know someone who does then please email: barnwellcountrypark.NCC@northnorthants.gov.uk Liam Claris – Barnwell Country Park Ranger www.northnorthants.gov.uk/country-parks
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