Country life
riverbank habitats , the control of mink populations , and reintroduction schemes have all helped improved numbers of water vole to recover . Over the last few years we at the Wildlife Trust have supported water vole reintroduction schemes on Hampshire rivers . Since 2013 teams of volunteers monitoring the water voles have gathered evidence to show that the individuals are settled and are now breeding at the release sites – which is fantastic news . Water voles and their tracks and signs can be spotted among other places . Look out for burrows , which often feature a nibbled ‘ lawn ’ area of grass around the entrance . As water voles like to sit and eat in the same place , piles of nibbled grass and stems displaying distinctive 45 ° angled-cut at the end may be found by the water ’ s edge . And finally , listen out for the ‘ plop ’ as they slip back into the water ! Find out more at www . hiwwt . org . uk
Photo : Water Vole by Tom Marshall
Nature notes
Photo : Water Vole Burrow by Darin Smith
With Christmas right around the corner , the Wildlife Trust ’ s online shop has a great selection of local products . We have a wide selection of wildlife themed products and local produce ; ideal for those last-minute Christmas presents .
Products range from locally hand-made goats milk soaps , hand-crafted jewellery , and luxury gift hampers . We also stock a great selection of Christmas cards , books and our 2017 Wildlife Calendar , alongside our popular courses . As well as ticking things off your Christmas shopping list , you ’ ll know you ’ re supporting local wildlife . Visit shop . hiwwt . org . uk .
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust , working for a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Island . Phone : 01489 774 400 E-mail : feedback @ hwt . org . uk Website : www . hiwwt . org . uk Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust , Beechcroft House , Vicarage Lane , Curdridge , Hampshire , SO32 2DP
Join us today and enjoy the benefits of being a member of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust :
• Unlimited visits to 57 wildlife reserves in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and 2,500 reserves nationwide .
• A welcome pack when you join .
• Wildlife , Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust ’ s magazine , delivered to you three times a year .
• The chance to take part in local group and community activities , offering you a variety of opportunities to be involved in . More than 350 walks , talks and events throughout the two counties .
• Join by Direct Debit & receive your FREE full colour Local Wildlife Reserve Guide . www . visitilife . com 79