World Wildlife Day on 3 March, is dedicated to the life thriving on our planet. On a local level, we are celebrating the many species that inhabit our gardens, parks, rivers and other spaces that support these life forms. Nature is in crisis, with 70% of the UK’s ancient woodlands lost, serving as a reminder of our duty to care for and protect the wildlife in our local ecosystem.
From the smallest insect inhabiting plants and flowers to the majestic birds of prey soaring through the skies, there is plenty to see and learn more about within the local landscape.
Starting with the humble bumblebee, their role in our ecosystem is anything but minor. They play a key part in keeping our meadows, heathlands, woodlands, and hedgerows alive by pollinating as they fly. There are 270 species of bee in the UK, including 24 different species of bumblebee. You can celebrate bees and their importance in our lives by learning more about their journey at Chelmsford Museum within Oaklands Park. The bees in the exhibit can visit flowers within the park before returning to the hive, where honey production can take place.
Another flying marvel in our Essex skyline is the barn owl. Barn owls have become more common in Essex after several years of decline, and they are most likely to be spotted hunting over rough grassland. The Owls and Birds of Prey Rescue in Essex and Suffolk have contributed to this positive trend by rescuing and rehabilitating owls that have been injured or left the nest too early. One success story followed a Barn Owl found in Radwinter who, after some tender loving care and attention, was able to be released into the Essex countryside.
Even within the city centre, wildlife is thriving and enhancing the landscape. Often spotted along the River Chelmer, pairs of swans can be seen looking for nesting and feeding opportunities. These icons of love and peace mate for life, and in springtime, we can often see fluffy grey cygnets following their devoted parents in a meandering line. Be sure to keep an eye out for this blissful sight in the coming months.
World Wildlife Day is a time to honour and celebrate all the species that make up our ecosystems but these few examples are just snippets of the thriving nature you can observe in Chelmsford district and further afield. Why not take today as a sign to do your bit for the wildlife around us? This could be making an insect hotel for your garden or creating a bird bath that birds can hydrate in and enjoy.
Find out more and get inspiration on our website : Creating a Greener Chelmsford – Love Your Chelmsford
Author: Issy Lyons (Corporate Marketing Officer)
