Page 6 - Oundle Life October 2021

COUNTRY PARK
Meadows to field mice...
The rangers and volunteers had a very busy summer pulling up some of the Himalayan Balsam that has been taking over
the riverbank and lake
edges. Himalayan Balsam
(Impatiens glandulifera) is a relative of Busy Lizzies, but unlike the garden favourite it is classified as a non-native invasive species.
It spreads rapidly and chokes out other vegetation. When it dies back in the winter it can leave riverbanks bare and exposed. It is easy to pull up but will likely take a few years to get it under control, and visitors to the park can help by not popping the explosive seed pods. It may be fun to watch them burst, but it helps the plant to spread and will only make the problem worse.
September heralds the beginning of the ‘winter work’ programme in the parks. The wildflowers have bloomed and gone to seed, the birds, insects and mammals have raised their young, and the leaves on the trees are changing colour. As nature begins to prepare for its winter slumber the ranger and volunteers leap into action. The colder months are the ideal time for conservation work and visitors will hopefully see the hedge in the main carpark has had its annual ‘short back and sides’!
The meadows have had their hay cuts, and most of the hay has been raked up and left in piles. Removing the cuttings improves the
meadows for the wildflowers, and the large piles of hay make great habitat for grass snakes.
One of the best things about working in the park is the rich variety of wildlife it supports. You never know what you’ll see next, or where! Recent highlights include a Lesser Stag Beetle found in the carpark, and a Field Mouse checking what time the overflow meadow closed.
Looking for something to do during half term week? There is always plenty to do in the park, with activities for both children and adults, many run by our Active Parks Team.
Visit our website at
www.northamptonshireparks.co.uk
and check our Events Page for all the latest information.
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