Trust plants reeds to attract birds

Tuesday 24th April 2012

More than 3,000 reeds have been planted to encourage birds and wildlife to a newly-created wetland.

Staff and volunteers from Wiltshire Wildlife Trust have planted the reeds at Langford Lakes nature reserve near Salisbury.

They now line the banks of newly-dug water channels that are transforming a field into a rustling reed bed.

In total, 30,000 reeds will be planted and more volunteers are needed to help complete the project. Two complex trench systems, a large pool and numerous scrapes, which are areas of shallow water and marshland, have been dug into the 25-acre field to create a variety of habitats for what is already seen as an important centre for resident and migratory birds.

The next planting session takes place on April 25 and volunteers are welcome to help out.

Reserve warden Chris Riley said: "You will be able to return in years to come and get great satisfaction from seeing the reeds swaying in the breeze, thronging with wetland bird species such as the reed warbler. The reeds we are planting are common reed, which will develop over the years into an expansive reed bed."

To volunteer for the project call Chris on 01722 790699.

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