New seating was installed on West Common in late spring, which may come in handy for those of us who like to sit and enjoy the views whilst exploring the area. For those who haven't already discovered them all, the bench locations are: Victorian Pond - across the pond from the existing seating.Long Leys Road - just to the right of the main entrance as you enter the … [Read more...] about West Common Update: New Seating Locations
West Common and Burton Ridge Nature
Hobbler’s Hole July Nature Notes
By Caroline Steel, former Head of Conservation at Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. Between West Common and Yarborough Road and Burton Road, the slopes of the Burton Ridge are buzzing now we’re well into summer. Hobbler’s Hole is turning pink and purple with flowers of great willowherb, rosebay willowherb and thistles. The wildflowers provide abundant pollen and nectar … [Read more...] about Hobbler’s Hole July Nature Notes
West Common in June
By Caroline Steel, former Head of Conservation at Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. On West Common, the showy meadow flowers are coming out. The sheep’s sorrel is giving views across the common a lovely russet tinge and you can find tormentil, cat’s-ear and heath bedstraw on the lighter soils. Where there is deeper soil you can find meadow crane’s-bill, betony, … [Read more...] about West Common in June
West Common In May 2020
By Caroline Steel, former Head of Conservation at Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. West Common has kept me sane over the last few weeks and it’s amazing how much there has been to see. For a week or so last month, two little ringed plovers frequented the temporary pond and yellow wagtails were around too: I saw six one day on the playing field. The common has now … [Read more...] about West Common In May 2020
House Martins, Swifts & Swallows in Long Leys/West Common
One activity that most of us can still do during the extended lockdown is keep an eye out for birdlife. In the last day or so the first signs have been seen of House Martins and Swallows returning to the area from Africa. Swifts usually follow a few weeks later; they seem to like slightly warmer weather. Since all these summer migrant visitors spend most of their time in … [Read more...] about House Martins, Swifts & Swallows in Long Leys/West Common