News
Wednesday 26 May 2010Oldbury Power Station Zones In On Hawks And Owls
Oldbury Power Station has created a hawk and owl conservation zone in its surrounding woodlands.
The site has worked closely with local experts and contractors to develop an environment suitable for these particular birds. Areas of woodland have been thinned to allow access to large birds and a barn owl box installed, with further kestrel nesting boxes planned.
In addition, areas of grass around the woodland have been allowed to grow to promote vole habitats and provide a feeding ground for the birds.
Further work to develop a habitat suitable for kingfishers is planned, with the intention of including local school children in the conservation work where possible.
The development of the woodlands to accommodate hawks and owls follows a recent project centring on the Power Station nature trail and orchard.
Hedges were re-laid to allow air to circulate around the trees and aid pollination, and expert advice saw trees damaged by ring barking removed and replaced with local cider apple varieties and crab apple trees to improve cross fertilisation.
Owl and bird nesting boxes were also put up in the orchard, with a bird feeder that is regularly stocked – especially during colder weather to help smaller birds survive.
Oldbury Power Station recognises the natural beauty and variety of wildlife in the surrounding area and continuously works to improve biodiversity. Kate Baxter, Environmental Engineer from Oldbury Power Station said: “Over the past few years we have been constantly striving to improve the diversity of species present and we aim to increase these activities during 2010 in recognition of the United Nations international year of biodiversity.”
