New Ferry Butterfly Park has been supported over the winter months by input from two student groups. Liverpool John Moores University Conservation Society, who have helped several times, and a new group for the Park, Chester Wild Society. It really is a boost to the number of volunteers on our work days, with the October work day having an impressive 24 volunteers. Much can be achieved with these numbers and many more jobs can be tackled.
The student parties got involved in a variety of activities new to them, including scything, coppicing and hedge laying, being taught and safety supervised by our experienced volunteers. All are well catered for with hot drinks, homemade cakes and a communal lunch time BBQ. Yes, winter BBQs are big a hit with hungry students! It is amazing how many burgers they can pack away.
Hilary Ash often delivers an after-lunch tour, giving an overall view of the park and revealing some of the Park’s biodiversity. During winter months, when the students come, much of our wildlife is in hibernation, so the richness of our habitats is not obvious.
“Chester Wild had a wonderful day at the butterfly park. We all learnt something new and were taught the skills by friendly welcoming people. The BBQ was great and Hilary's tour of the Park was very enlightening. We will definitely be back!” enthused Keeley Mc Cabe, Vice President of Chester Wild Society.
“I have learnt loads of new valuable skills in conservation from going to the Butterfly Park, and I always feel like I'm making a positive impact. Everyone is so welcoming and they always keep you well fed with lovely homemade cakes and cups of tea! It is always a great day, and I am already looking forward to my next visit!” added Ella Woodcock Vice President of Liverpool John Moores University Conservation Society.
We are delighted that these groups have got involved, as they give a boost to our intensive efforts to create a superb habitat for butterflies and other invertebrates. The Butterfly Park site being next to Bebington Station makes it easy for students to come along by train. We are always pleased to see them whether it is a big group or just a few.
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