Four grants since 2016 totalling £23,180
Before receiving grants from TOE, a special site outside Bicester had become less attractive to the rare species that lived there. The site is home to dingy skipper, grizzled skipper and five hairstreak species of butterfly, as well as nightingales and seven species of warbler. This project has rejuvenated habitats by opening up new spaces in scrub to achieve the mosaic of vegetation required by these species.
The land is owned by the MOD and work is carried out by volunteers and some service personnel. Typical activities include grassland and woodland management, clearing and removing mature scrub to make glades and encourage new growth, opening previously dark and overgrown 'rides' to create perfect basking spots for butterflies and reptiles; and making habitat piles of branches and twigs for invertebrates and small mammals.
The photo shows some of the many volunteers from community groups who have given their time helping at the six regular work party sessions which happen every winter. Volunteer groups include the Bicester Green Gym, Butterfly Conservation, Bucks Bird Club, Duke of Edinburgh’s award candidates and others.