Conservation
Welcome to this section, where we talk about the wildlife, nature, and other factors and challenges faced in our beautiful part of the world.
Not only do we promote the natural things around us, but we also look at the the things we can do to make the lives of the creatures and plants living here with us, more sustainable for future generations to enjoy.
Things like making sure that grass cutting, tree pruning and plant and insect species monitoring are carried out to provide healthy and balanced environments for the naturalised creatures present. Also things like pollutants and litter are monitored.
But we cannot do all of this alone, we need your help as volunteers, to help us carry out these tasks. The newlands development is in excess of 600 hectares, which is a huge chunk of real estate, and it can only be kept beautiful if we all work together.
So please consider becoming a volunteer, it doesn't cost anything but a little time, but your contribution is crucial to the future.
Just click this link if you're interested. VOLUNTEER NOW!
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Lets Start with this really helpful and handy nature friendly planner, giving advice, tips, and things to do to help nature thrive.
Knowing about nature helps us care for nature
This beautiful place we live in, Which was once part of the Great Forest of Bere (pronounced, Beer) was often a favourite hunting ground for Henry VIII, and his daughter, Elizabeth I. They would visit to hunt Deer, as well as many game birds, During the period when the Royal Navy was berthed more towards Portchester Castle. It has always been a wonderful place to have grown up in, and is home to a diverse variety of creatures large and small. We at Newlands Community Group feel passionately that this should be a home, a community for all, including animals, plants and other living creatures. Newlands and Berewood should be a place to thrive and grow together.
Because of the diversity of wildlife in the area, we have teamed up with other recognised organisations who have the specialist knowledge to advise and help in the maintenance of the green spaces and habitats surrounding us. They also provide training and education so that we can all get involved in keeping the area fruitful.
Swifts and Swallows
These awesome flying machines have been seen widely across the area over the spring and summer months. They perform amazing aerial displays as they feed on the wing.
They have now departed on their long journey to Africa for the winter, but I for one am eagerly awaiting their return in the spring.
FYI, the strange towers you may have noticed dotted about are part of the national conservation programme, helping to re-populate this endangered species.
SEE HOW MANY BUTTERFLIES YOU CAN SPOT DURING THE SUMMER
HOW TO HELP
POLLINATORS THRIVE
Without insects to feed on the nectar of plants, our wild world die.
Theses beautiful creatures, bees, butterflies, moths and other small flying insects, are a vital link in a chain of events.
By feeding on the nectar, they inadvertently pick up pollen from one plant and carry it to the next plant, maintaining a cycle of life which is essential for plants, insects, animals and mankind to survive.
NOT EVERYTHING
IS FRIENDLY
Not all insect are friendly to us humans, some carry and spread diseases by probing our blood.
So it may be occasionally beneficial to keep some bugs away, particularly Fleas, Mosquitos and Flies.
In the adjacent page are some plants which can be used as repellents.
Be wary of keeping spiders away though, although they freak a lot of people out, they actually do a good job of keeping other insects at bay.
White Butterflies
As you walk around the lanes and pathways, or even in your garden and around your hedgerows, you will have seen many different coloured butterflies, brown, blue etc.
But spare a thought for the white ones which are in decline across Europe.
Roe Deer
These timid, beautiful animals can be seen wandering the area grazing and exploring their surroundings.
Please be aware that this is their home too.
Badgers
There have been several sightings of badgers, particularly towards the Town Park area.
These creatures went into decline due to culling I believe, so it is great to hear that they have decided to settle here with us.
Bats
Newlands is home to three species of bats.
If you are lucky on a clear peaceful summers evening you will see these tiny creatures flying around hunting for food.
I love watching them dart around from one place to another.
They will now be beginning to hibernate for the winter, so please leave them in peace wherever they are.
Frogs and Toads
As you sit enjoying your summer wine, in the warmth of the evening, or really at any random time. You will have heard the strange, almost magpie like call, sometimes it even sounds as though they are laughing.
That will be the Frogs calling to attract a mate.
The Great Crested Newt
This area is also a home and conservation area for the Great Crested Newt.
Another of our native species which has fallen into decline and is now being brought back to life.
Funny enough, I had one on my balcony, and they are so tiny and shy. Lovely
These are just some of the beautiful creatures who share this home with us. If you have photos or stories about anything to do with the wildlife or conservation in the area, please share it with us and we will feature your articles or blogs or galleries on our conservation pages