Category: Education and community

Natural Connections – Dragonflies, a sight to behold

, by Cumbernauld LL
It has felt like the last vestiges of summer have been trying their hardest to cling on and keep autumn at bay last week.  What beautiful weather we had!  All summer I have been concerned that the temperature was just too cold for our dragonflies to emerge but in the past 2 weeks thanks to the good weather we have seen a burst of activity from these incredibly beautiful creatures. Thankfully the larvae stage can remain in the water for a number of years, waiting for the perfect conditions in which to hatch, if you ever go out looking for them and you are lucky you might even find an exuvia, the empty larvae case of newly emerged dragonfly.

Natural Connections – On the right path

, by Cumbernauld LL
The Cumbernauld Living Landscape weekend volunteering programme kicked-off to a fantastic start.  Recently, we were in Cumbernauld Glen helping to support new path works that had been completed thanks to funding from North Lanarkshire Environmental Key Fund. By simply clearing away vegetation, laying weed matting and adding a layer of stones, we can help to reduce the volume of herbicide needed to control weeds and prevent paths from becoming over grown. In the four hours we were working (ok three, it was hot and we needed breaks) we managed to support 60m of path.

Natural Connections – Time to spot wildlife

, by Cumbernauld LL
It has been a really busy summer here at the Cumbernauld Living Landscape. As autumn is creeping up on us you would think that it would be a time of slowing down the pace but, like nature things are still going full tilt.  Soon the leaves will be turning from the crisp emerald greens to umbers and crimsons, returning as much of the remaining nutrients to the tree before they become dormant in the winter ahead. Bats will be busy fuelling up during this time of plenty since the damp weather has been good for those pesky midges!

Natural Connections – Carbrain Gala day

, by Cumbernauld LL
I’ve received some really great comments on my column, so thanks to everyone for being so positive. It’s great to know that our community is so interested in nature. My job for the Cumbernauld Living Landscape is to try to engage and connect people with the wonderful wildlife that we share our town with. That’s one reason why you’ll find me at the Cumbernauld Living Landscape stall on 18 August at the Carbrain Gala Day, 11.00-15.00 at the St Margret of Scotland Primary School.

Natural Connections – Dragon Finder

, by Cumbernauld LL
While we are all waiting for ‘Game of Thrones’ to come back to our screens we can get involved with a little bit of Dragon Finding ourselves! Froglife in partnership with the Cumbernauld Living Landscape will be running an event on the 8th of August, 11-3pm at Palacerigg Country Park on the hunt for reptiles, amphibians (things that go ‘rebit’) and other wildlife.  There will be a reptile walk at 1:30pm to look for common lizards and slow worms. Good sturdy walking boots or wellies are required due to the terrain this walk is not suitable for under 10’s however there will be crafts and activities on the day.

Natural Connections – Costly wildlife invasion

, by Cumbernauld LL
Invasive non-native species…urgh! This is the term used for any plant or animal that has been introduced to an area, either accidentally or on purpose, that has taken hold and started to outcompete local wildlife. They are a massive headache to us all; from damage to property, health issues, soil erosion and flooding, they cost the Scottish Government £250 million a year.

Natural Connections – Lots of bugs and beasties

, by Cumbernauld LL
I’m always amazed by the fascinating range of people I meet in Cumbernauld. Last week, during the Living Landscape team’s first Wildlife Watch taster session, we had a great group join us and take part in a range of fun activities, from pooter and mask making to identifying lots of bugs and beasties. What a surprise it was to meet one resident who happens to be an entomologist (someone who specialises in the study of insects). It made me appreciate what a rich community we live in and how nature can unite so many people from different walks of life.

Natural Connections – Meeting newborn deer

, by Cumbernauld LL
With a week of relative heat and sunshine, it finally feels like summer has arrived! When you’re out and about enjoying the sunshine, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for wildlife. Last week, whilst out walking my dogs, I caught site of a roe deer in the woodland close to St Maurice’s Pond. On closer inspection I saw that the deer wasn’t alone; twin fawns reminiscent of Bambi were alongside the doe. These tiny deer were probably only a day or two old and the fact that there were twins suggests that last year must have been a bountiful year, with plenty of food around for the mother to eat.

How To Make A Pooter

, by Cumbernauld LL
This summer, get out into your garden or local greenspace and get your Sherlock Holmes inspired natural investigation on!  We’ve got a “how to” make pooters here – a great little tool you can make from a recycled materials in no time at all.  Use it to suck up minibeasts for an up close and personal inspection!

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