Moth trapping has taken place regularly adjacent to the Whins this year and 112 larger (Macro) moths have been identified with quite a few new site records this year. There have also been several records of the exotic looking Hummingbird Hawk-moth nectaring on flowers and visiting local gardens too.
Foxes have been seen and occasionally heard throughout the year. Bats have been seen on many evenings throughout the year. With the many mild evenings they should have had a good breeding season. An adult Badger was seen on at least two occasions during the summer months and has been seen foraging in nearby gardens.
As last year only three species of Dragonflies were seen this year. These were the Brown and Migrant Hawkers and Common Darter Dragonflies.
Overall another excellent year, thanks to everybody involved in managing both sites for the benefit of the wildlife and local residents.
Steve Graham
Wildlife Advisor Shelley Conservation Group,
Shelley Village Magazine,
January 2005
