Steve Finch
'I let the reserve officer know of any changes or new species found, and sometimes suggest work to be undertaken. I suppose I'm the eyes and ears of the place!'
Tony Saunders
Tony is the Honorary Warden at our Brown Robin Nature Reserve in Grange-Over-Sands. He's an invaluable long-term volunteer who's helped to shape this wonderful place.
'What I love about Brown Robin is the fact it's close to town and yet still so peaceful. The views across to Morecambe Bay are beautiful and it's a little haven for wildlife and even rare species, like the amazing hawfinch and fritillary butterflies. As Honorary Warden, I've had the privilege of seeing it develop over the last 20 years.
I mainly take care of the grazing and keep an eye on the cattle – with careful grazing management, the hay meadows have come on beautifully. I also look after the Woodland Workshop, which is used by Cumbia Wildlife Trust and other groups, too. I help with work parties and even run some on occasion. Importantly, I let the reserve officer know of any changes or new species found, and sometimes suggest work to be undertaken. I suppose I'm the eyes and ears of the place!
The biggest challenge over the years has been scrub clearance, but after about ten years of hard work we seem to be winning that battle, thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers. A highlight is finding new species on the reserve and seeing all the wildlife taking benefit of the place all year round. I love doing the guided walks too. Last year, Brown Robin was chosen as a donor site for other hay meadow projects in the area, which was fantastic.
I think nature should become second nature in a way, especially as far as education is concerned. I am hoping to be helping with a rewilding project on my street with the community and the land owners this autumn.
It has been an honour and a privilege to be involved with Brown Robin and seeing it as it is now thanks to volunteers and staff. I am looking forward to seeing the butterflies and other insects again this year as well as other wildlife, too.
Night-Time Wildlife Adventure at Brown Robin Nature Reserve
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