Ashington Leads the Way in Wildlife Conservation with Town-Wide Bird Box Initiative
In a continued effort to support local wildlife and engage the community in environmental conservation, Neighbourhood Services Officers Mark Air and Ryan Appleby have installed 160 bird boxes, following funding approval from the Climate Change and Environment Committee, and Bothal and Seaton Ward Cllrs.
Building on the success of their previous project, which involved the development of self-assembly bird box kits for community groups, Mark and Ryan have once again led the charge in supporting nature and wildlife conservation. Their commitment to environmental protection extends beyond their daily duties, as they actively seek out opportunities to enhance the town's biodiversity.
This project has delivered professionally constructed bird boxes strategically placed around Ashington, providing safe nesting sites for various bird species. These efforts aim to support biodiversity, helping to maintain and increase the population of rare or threatened species. Mark and Ryan's initiative not only contributes to preserving local ecosystems but also serves as an example of how small, community-driven efforts can make a lasting environmental impact.
In an article included on the RSPB website the importance of bird boxes is discussed, “It seems so simple, but providing nest boxes is one of the easiest ways to help birds in your outside space. Putting out bird food is great, but if birds don’t have access to nesting sites, they won’t have anywhere to raise the next generation. It’s also key that the nest sites are nearby to foraging locations, where they can find plenty of invertebrates without leaving the nest for too long”. (RSPB, www.rspb.org.uk)
https://www.rspb.org.uk/helping-nature/what-you-can-do/activities/all-about-nest-boxes
Cllr Paul Wright, Chair of the Climate Change and Environment Committee, commented, "Initiatives like this are vital to our broader strategy to combat climate change and protect local ecosystems. We are proud to support Mark and Ryan's innovative and inspiring approach to community-led conservation. Their passion for preserving wildlife reflects our town's commitment to environmental stewardship."
Supporting team members in their efforts to promote sustainability and encourage a closer connection with nature is at the core of Ashington's environmental mission. Mark and Ryan's work is a testament to the importance of enabling team members to champion initiatives that protect the environment and promote wildlife conservation. Together, these initiatives form a vital part of Ashington’s long-term commitment to environmental care, and it’s the collective effort of individuals like Mark and Ryan that helps turn these visions into reality.
The stunning photographs taken by Ryan Appleby, whose keen eye and talent for capturing the essence of nature bring this initiative to life. His images truly showcase the beauty of the local wildlife and the serenity of their natural habitats. Images have been compiled into a video, edited by Gary Holmes and available (via YouTube) using the link below.
We hope residents enjoy these beautiful images and are inspired to connect with the nature that surrounds us. By working together, we can continue to protect and nurture our local environment, ensuring it thrives for the benefit of both wildlife and the community.
Click images to view full resolution
