Hot times

                 It has been a very hot and rainless summer. Like all our gardens, Crow Wood is parched and showing signs of heat strain. Most trees are rooted deep enough to access moisture in the ground even after extended drought but weak or diseased trees can be pushed over the edge by the harsh conditions. Losing their leaves early is one way that trees can try to retain moisture and there are signs that this is indeed happening. Its a very tough time too for mammals and birds as most small ponds and streams have dried up months ago. I have been putting special feed out to help our small population of Turtle Doves. As the days got hotter I started putting water out for them in an old bucket. The remote camera has revealed just how important this small water supply has become. 

                Grey Squirrels manage the water shortage by taking to accessing the sap under tree bark. They also enjoy the sugars contained in the sap. Stripping the bark away eventually leads to the browning of the leaves and death of that tree or branch. There a lot of dead branches this year.........

                The heat is not all bad news, however. Although the wet and cold Spring was dismal for butterflies this fine summer weather has been a boon with many species appearing in good numbers, including those great travellers, the Painted Ladies - a species that migrates from North Africa in thousands when the weather is right.

Birch tree showing the impact of bark stripping by squirrels

more dead or dying branches on sycamores and oaks

The Fleabane is in flower and loved by butterflies

 A Painted Lady enjoying the Fleabane

This one is showing the damage resulting from a long migration

Caught on camera - a Badger taking a drink from the bucket

The water has also brought in a group of Fallow Deer, including a very dark stag