Autumn, a time of colourful change
Autumn is a magical season that transitions us from the warmth of summer to the chill of winter. As the days grow shorter, trees transform into a brilliant spectacle of colour, with leaves turning shades of orange, red, and gold.
This change in the environment signals a time of preparation for many animals as they gather food and make plans for the colder months ahead.
During autumn, wildlife becomes increasingly active. Many animals are busy collecting food to store for winter.
For example, squirrels are often seen scurrying around parks and gardens, burying acorns and nuts in the ground. This behaviour is crucial, as the food will provide them with energy when food becomes scarce during the winter months. Likewise, birds such as geese begin their migration to warmer climates.
In conclusion, autumn is a vibrant and essential season that plays a crucial role in the life cycles of many animals. As they gather food, prepare for hibernation, the animals of autumn remind us of the importance of preparation and adaptation. The colourful landscapes we enjoy during this time serve as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of nature.
Embracing these changes, both in the wild and within ourselves, prepares us for the challenges and blessings that the coming winter holds.
Wild Pond Build
written by RTN lead Mark Bolton
The wild pond is now boasting life. Our plans for a biodiverse environment are coming to fruition. Currently we have seen aquatic insects such as water boatmen, a variety of smaller aquatic life that we are studying. We have resident newts although it is believed that these are not the protected great crested newts. On the banks and in the created habitats we found toads. This is a great development so soon as the build is not fully complete. We are still growing from seed all the accompanying vegetation and plants. We even have some bull rush seed to try and grow this valuable water plant in situ.
Initially we had a disaster; we had what is best described as tadpoles in the pond - I say best described as we were unsure if these were frogs/toads or newts. Whatever they were, an
unannounced visit from a couple of ducks sadly saw them eradicated. We now have pond weeds on the water surface, and this offers protection for future generations. We will keep you posted as the project develops further.
Visited by Dragons
Some would say that Dragons are real some would say not. What we do know is Dragon and Damsel flies are very real.
On some of our projects around the county we have been visited frequently by these amazing creatures, including the new pond at Shipley Park. Their size alone is impressive as is their manoeuvrability in flight. They are very voracious creatures and eat live prey. It is understood that there are over 3,000 species of dragonfly throughout the world mostly living in tropical regions although a few species live in more temperate climates such as the UK.
The sad loss of wetland habitat is contributing to a decline in numbers. At many of our sites we have been introducing small wetland areas such as the wild pond at Shipley Park. Although we are not going to save the world, we are going some way to offer a suitable habitat for these creatures to thrive and as we are visited regularly by them, our work seems to be
doing some good.
Dragonflies are often seen as a spiritual creature, this idea is found in many cultures in the world. As a spirit animal, the dragonfly represents having the wisdom and resilience to adapt to change. Because the dragonfly changes form throughout its life, it represents becoming your true self which I guess is an apt creature for us to showcase here as recovery requires change to be your true self.
My Words - by Matt
When I first came to RTN, I felt lost, overwhelmed and afraid. The guys here listened without judgement, shared their own experiences and showed me that recovery is possible. They've helped me rebuild my confidence and continually encourage me to keep it moving forward.
If you're struggling, I can't recommend RTN enough. You'll find people who genuinely care and who will help you believe in yourself again.
Swadlincote gets RTN
The concept of “Recovery Through Nature” offers a compelling opportunity to enhance the valuable work being done at the Rosliston Forestry Centre in Swadlincote. This initiative aims to provide therapeutic benefits through nature-based activities while simultaneously supporting vital conservation projects.
The connection between recovery from substance misuse and the natural environment has become increasingly recognised in recent years, highlighting how nature can serve as a powerful tool for recovery.
So it is with great excitement that I can announce our new Recovery Through Nature project which will be based at the Rosliston Forestry centre in Swadlincote. This opportunity will not only allow us to operate our successful RTN project for people seeking support with substance misuse issues, it will give those people a massive opportunity to be a part of the conservation of an amazing local natural environment.
With links to the forestry centre's education teams, participants will have access to some amazing learning opportunities with a wealth of knowledge and environments at our fingertips. This is thanks to our friends at the education centre within the Rosliston forestry centre.
We have forestry and water based conservation activities that we will support with. On top of this, with access to an amazing bird hide and wildlife spotting systems, we can learn more about wild birds and other local wildlife. Sensory gardens and butterfly gardens offer even more access to amazing activities. We even have the opportunity to participate in other activities such as den and bivvi building.