Bioblitz celebrates 30th anniversary of Foxglove Covert

The 100-acre reserve of moorland edge is situated in the middle of MoD property at Catterick Garrison. It was created out of a vast wilderness and is now home to a remarkable mix of habitats and species.

In its anniversary year, the reserve’s aim is to discover 30 new species of wildlife to add to the existing 2,700 on the list of natural residents.

Staff and volunteers of all ages took part in walks and activities throughout the day’s celebration.

Volunteers recording species

First on the program was the moth recording which began at dawn. Cool temperatures on Friday night meant that the numbers of moths caught was lower than expected, however more than 70 different species were seen, two of which were new for the site.

Bird ringers also had an early start and were well-rewarded; a sedge warbler was the first bird to land in one of the mist nets. Another surprise was a juvenile reed warbler which hadn’t been observed at Foxglove since 2018.

Many natural historians and specialists came along to deliver guided walks and talks.

Volunteers recording moths

Hands-on activities such as making butterfly feeders and leaf bunting were enjoyed by the adults as much, if not more, than the children.

There was plenty of opportunity to learn about wildlife photography and with many of the meadows and glades still in bloom there was plenty to capture.

Out on the heathland, entomologists searched for new invertebrates and back at the Field Centre, members from Richmondshire District Beekeepers’ Association were on hand to promote the importance of their subject.

A mycologist demonstrated the process of fermenting fungi to create Kombucha. Walks also took place to find wildflowers, dragonflies, damselflies, lichens and mosses.

Tanks helping create Foxglove Covert Nature Reserve from a wilderness

Senior reserve manager Sophie Crease said: “Foxglove would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of the volunteers.

“So much work goes on behind the scenes including preparing the site ahead of the big day. Everywhere received a bit of TLC to show the reserve off at its best.

“We have our fingers crossed for some additional new species to get to our target. With 13 still to go, why not come along and help get us there.”

Foxglove Covert, postcode DL9 3PZ, is open to the public Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm; weekends and bank holidays, 10am to 4pm. Access is via Cambrai Lines front gate.

Visitors will be asked to show photographic ID on entry to the barracks.