June 2020 Out and about on my own patch ~ So satisfying

Even though the severity of Lock-down has been lifted to some extent, I still enjoy getting out and about on my own patch.  It is so satisfying when you can put some work in to improve the environment and also see the results.  In February 2019 I planted some oak trees.  I used large 1.8m guards to protect them from the the local deer.  I have always had in mind that once one of them breaks out above the guards this would lead the way for the others and really start things happening.

February 2019

Seemed a big ask for a slow growing oak

Often as I drove past I would glance over and also comment that we need one to lead the way and this will be the start.  I know that they will never be mature trees in my life time, but having them above the guards would do me.
Well this the last week in June just sixteen months later and I got this result.  To say I was chuffed would be an under statement.

Leading the way

How can I be so excited with such a small tree stem!

Common Spotted Orchid

Grassland looking radiant

The more I look the more I enjoy the grassland and seeing all the different species that live there.  It is so much more satisfying that a monoculture of rye grass.

Meadow Browns sharing a nectar from a thistle

Local Buzzards doing well

Vixen hunting voles in the grass

I may be getting a right stay at home ~ or maybe I have found beauty in my own back yard!