In the lead up to March, this spring brings hopes of new life as a wider variety of wild bird species have been spotted in and around Putney Common, and on the adjoining Wimbledon Common, in years past. There are regularly between 90 and 100 bird species in the area, surplus to those who call the Commons home. However, without the public’s cooperation, hopes of encouraging Buzzards to start nesting here could be crushed unless park-goers start to respect the outdoors more.
The public should heed instructions to keep their dogs on a lead between the 1st of March until the 31st of July in allocated zones, mainly on the plains where birds are suspected to be breeding. Dogs must categorically be kept away from ponds between the 1st April until the 31st of August, as waterfowl breed during this time.
This 25th March, the Wimbledon and Putney Commons society have organised a spring walk with their Senior Management team. As a Special Area of Conservation and Scientific Interest, its 1,140 acres are bound to uncover some fascinating facets of nature.
The protection of wildlife has long been a focus in Putney’s urban locality. The nearby Wetland Wildlife Centre has long-standing sustainability initiatives to increase and protect London’s wildlife population, and reduce society’s destructive impact on the environment. This upcoming March, they will unravel plans for a year-long art installation, woven throughout the reed beds and ponds of their nature reserve. Artist Anne Deeming has produced a series of sculptures which will float on the ponds of the wetlands, and will mimic bird migratory patterns through their changing colours.
Madeleine McClean
