Calling all Weed Lovers

I have some good news for all Weed Lovers and those concerned about or interested in the biodiversity of our planet. The AWEG (Audlem Wildlife and Ecology Group) Survey Team for Turnpike Fields have recorded a record number of species in the Fields in 2022. Our enhanced team, with some specialising in particular types of wildlife , have recorded sightings of

• 119 species of Wild Plant (up 12 from the previous year),
• 89 species of Insect (doubling the previous year),
• 31 species of Birds (again doubling the previous year).
• 15 species of Fungi identified.(new category this year).

This gives a picture of the Fields being thoroughly rich in wildlife biodiversity. This was a factor that enabled the community to receive the "Level 5 – Outstanding" award at the RHS NW Britain in Bloom Awards . Our careful management of habitats will enable us to continue to conserve our wildlife and allow us to benefit from this special natural wildlife landscape.

Orchids

The key to flourishing life in the wild is the process of "Symbiosis", a natural partnership of species to the benefit of each and all. One exciting example of this is the sight of our first Orchid plant in the Fields. This is particularly important as Orchids grow in ground unpolluted by artificial chemicals. This is because the orchid seed has no growing power in itself but is totally dependant on a "mother" organism. In this case, a fungi whose mycellia threads in the soil feed the seed. In return when the plant grows, the fungi will receive nutrients from the photosynthesis process in the leaves of the plant.

Fungi

This amazing partnership is typical of life taking place all around us and beneath our feet, of which we are mostly unaware. If only it could be replicated more fully in human life. The advances in micro-technology have made it possible for us to understand more fully the important place and role of fungi in the ecosystem and the potential partnership that could arise for human life in medicine, food production and the recycling of waste. This is one reason why we have included fungi in our survey sightings. Our symbiotic part in this partnership will be to nurture and respect the part fungi plays in the life and health of the planet not always judging it by our narrow human prospective of perceive threat or inconvenience.

Mycellia Path

Come and see for yourself

In the next year , it is hoped that the enjoyment and understanding of what the Fields offer will be made more available through seasonal leaflets and regular updates. We also hope to continue our "Safaris" for different groups. You may also like to join our "wild spies" team – no previous experience necessary but welcome. If this article has peeked your interest that click onto the full report with list of species recorded on the Turnpike Fields page.

For further information contact me on adrianleighton@btinternet.com