Fresh Arrivals, Changing Cast
Spring has officially arrived, and so has a fresh start at Carlton Marshes and the Broads Area Reserves. The first of March marks the beginning of meteorological spring, and the reserves are bursting with new life.
Lewis Yates, the new Warden for the Broads Area Reserves, has taken on his role with enthusiasm. Having grown up around the Romney Marshes, Lewis has a deep connection with the natural world and is eager to share his knowledge with visitors. Prior to his appointment, Lewis honed his skills working for The Wildlife Trusts in various locations, including Kent, Pembrokeshire sea cliffs, and Midlands fields.
Accompanying Lewis is Gavin Durrant, the new Assistant Warden at Carlton Marshes. A long-time volunteer for the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Gavin brings a wealth of experience and passion to his new role. Gavin's dedication to the reserve is evident in his frequent postings of wildlife photographs online and his regular interactions with visitors.
Both Lewis and Gavin are eager to meet and assist visitors, whether it's to provide information or to show new sights on the reserve. Sightings from visitors are particularly welcome, as wardens can't be everywhere at once. Regulars to Carlton Marshes may already be familiar with Gavin, and he encourages everyone to approach him for a chat.
The reserves are currently undergoing some exciting changes. Habitat creation works have been ongoing, with pools being dug on Peto's marsh, turf ponds being created on Share marsh, and a new ditch being dug by the Tower Hide. These efforts aim to support declining waders such as the lapwing and provide them with essential water for breeding.
A new wind pump is being installed at Oulton Marshes to ensure a steady water supply for the breeding waders and their food sources. This installation is a significant step towards the conservation of the reserve's wader population.
Visitors are encouraged to explore Carlton Marshes and the surrounding reserves, and to share their discoveries. The visitor center and trail guides are ready to share information about the reserve's wildlife, and sightings from visitors are warmly welcomed. Skylarks and Cetti's warblers have already been heard on the reserve, marking the beginning of bird songs.
As always, the Suffolk Wildlife Trust invites everyone to join them in celebrating the beauty of nature and to play a part in its conservation. For up-to-date information about the reserves, it would be best to contact the Suffolk Wildlife Trust or visit their official website.
To enrich their home-and-garden that is the Broads Area Reserves, Lewis Yates and Gavin Durrant have taken on roles as Warden and Assistant Warden respectively, bringing their passion and expertise to revitalize the landscape and support declining waders like the lapwing. Visitors are welcome to join them in exploring this vibrant lifestyle full of new life, bird songs, and picturesque views, with regular updates available from the Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
