Concern over nearby housing developments and woodland felling has prompted Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary to try to offset the damage to the local wildlife. They purchased a 3.5 acres area of pastureland opposite the sanctuary entrance with the aim of creating a wild flower meadow and pond which would increase biodiversity and create a conservation area for multiple species, along with a small resource area.
They were awarded £36,310 in funding by Valencia Communities Fund in March 2018 which was used to not only purchase seeds, plants and trees, but to create a wildlife pond and an amazing bat folly – an artificial roost for endangered species, protecting them from local predators. The group has also been able to build a shelter filled with information about wildlife for visitor and volunteers alike. What started out as a plain grassy area has now been transformed into a wildlife haven – the pond has already attracted birds, frogs and several species of dragonfly. Further seed sowing and planting will be carried out in 2019 ensuring the meadow’s longevity.
