Britain's bluebells and beetles are standing up to wild boar September 2011. Britain's beloved bluebell woods appear to be standing up well to the wild boar that escaped from farms and have been breeding here for the past 20 years, new research has found.
Extinct in 13th century
Native populations of wild boar became extinct in the UK during the 13th century but during the last two decades several small, isolated, breeding populations have established from animals which escaped following the start of commercial farming. Often regarded as a pest elsewhere, its effects in Britain have been little studied and because its current distribution is so restricted, it is not yet clear whether its presence should be welcomed, tolerated or prevented.
Dr Ralph Harmer of Forest Research studied the impact of wild boar on UK woodland plants and invertebrates. Working in woods near Rye, East Sussex, which are home to the UK's oldest wild boar population, he identified 12 sites with varying amounts of rooting. By surveying the woodland at the height of the bluebell flowering season and using a specially-designed "armoured" pitfall trap capable of withstanding the wild boar to collect invertebrates at each site, he was able to assess the impact of rooting on the woodland's beetles and bluebells.
According to Dr Harmer: "The most obvious sign of boar in these woodlands is soil disturbance caused by rooting. During spring many of these woods are carpeted in blue and white by luxuriant displays of bluebells and wood anemone and the potential effect of boar on bluebells has raised concerns."
33 species of beetle
His findings should, however, help allay these fears. Some 67,000 invertebrates - including 33 species of ground beetle - were identified from the pitfall traps, which were emptied every two weeks between April and August. Although the mix of beetle species varied between sites, rooting had no adverse effect on either the number of species found or the total number of beetles living in each wood.
There were large differences in the abundance of bluebells and the amount of rooting between woods, and overall there was generally more rooting activity where there were more bluebells. However, analyses found that boar do not strongly target rooting activity at patches of bluebells.
"There was no apparent adverse effect of rooting on either the ground beetle community or the other groups of ground dwelling invertebrates. Overall results suggest that if boar populations and rooting activity remain similar to those of the last 20 years then ground dwelling invertebrates may be largely unaffected and whilst there may be a reduction in the amount of flowering, bluebells are not unduly threatened in the short-term," he says.
http://www.wildlifeextra.com/go/news/britain-boar011.html
Showing posts with label wild boar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wild boar. Show all posts
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
Fears for children from ‘big cat’
Mum frightened to leave her baby in garden after dog was attacked
By Mel Fairhurst
Published: 16/04/2011
A mother living near the home of the mythical Loch Ness Monster claims a real-life killing beast is on the rampage in the area – and warned it could be a threat to children.
Terrified Katrina Wallace says she is too frightened to leave her 12-week-old baby unattended in the garden after her dog was attacked and a lamb was killed by a big cat-like creature which is thought to be prowling woods near her Drumnadrochit home.
Mrs Wallace’s husband, James, 38, first spotted the animal in the family garden at Ancarraig House, Bunloit, and thought it was one of the couple’s two black labradors.
He said it was black with a long, cat-like tail similar to that of a puma or cougar.
Weeks later one of the family dogs, Breargh, was attacked in the garden.
Mrs Wallace said: “There was blood all around her eye and her hind leg was ripped to shreds. The vet said she had been dragged by an animal bigger than a dog.”
Following snow showers in March, large paw prints which measured 4.5in by 3in were photographed by the couple, and a couple of weeks ago, they were horrified to find a lamb from a neighbouring farm had been killed. It had a puncture wound in the back of its neck.
Mrs Wallace said: “The paw prints came from the woods towards the house. A friend of ours who does a lot of shooting and has tracked animals confirmed they were cat prints and a big one at that.
“If I could, I would move. I have been told by police not to scaremonger. They said they needed more DNA evidence, but what more evidence can we give? My children, aged 12 and 14, are terrified and none of us will go outside alone after dark – we go out in pairs with a torch.”
Mrs Wallace added: “This animal attacked my dog which was lucky to escape, but what chance would a child have against an animal like this when they cannot fight back?
“I want this to be taken seriously because children and walkers are at risk.
“We have heard other stories of sightings of one or two big cats – one farmer in Kiltarlity said he lost 20 sheep to two of them.
“I think it could be something to do with the big cats which were released in the 1970s, which may have been breeding every since.”
Northern Constabulary carried out an investigation into the big cat reports, and also looked into complaints from residents at nearby Invermoriston about marauding wild boar in the area.
A police spokeswoman said: “Neither big cats such as pumas, nor wild boars are protected wildlife. In the majority of cases, the animals would not approach to harm humans. They are not known for their aggressive behaviour unless they are young and threatened and even then, there would be few cases. However, if we felt there was a threat to public safety, we would take appropriate action.”
http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/2226731?UserKey=
By Mel Fairhurst
Published: 16/04/2011
A mother living near the home of the mythical Loch Ness Monster claims a real-life killing beast is on the rampage in the area – and warned it could be a threat to children.
Terrified Katrina Wallace says she is too frightened to leave her 12-week-old baby unattended in the garden after her dog was attacked and a lamb was killed by a big cat-like creature which is thought to be prowling woods near her Drumnadrochit home.
Mrs Wallace’s husband, James, 38, first spotted the animal in the family garden at Ancarraig House, Bunloit, and thought it was one of the couple’s two black labradors.
He said it was black with a long, cat-like tail similar to that of a puma or cougar.
Weeks later one of the family dogs, Breargh, was attacked in the garden.
Mrs Wallace said: “There was blood all around her eye and her hind leg was ripped to shreds. The vet said she had been dragged by an animal bigger than a dog.”
Following snow showers in March, large paw prints which measured 4.5in by 3in were photographed by the couple, and a couple of weeks ago, they were horrified to find a lamb from a neighbouring farm had been killed. It had a puncture wound in the back of its neck.
Mrs Wallace said: “The paw prints came from the woods towards the house. A friend of ours who does a lot of shooting and has tracked animals confirmed they were cat prints and a big one at that.
“If I could, I would move. I have been told by police not to scaremonger. They said they needed more DNA evidence, but what more evidence can we give? My children, aged 12 and 14, are terrified and none of us will go outside alone after dark – we go out in pairs with a torch.”
Mrs Wallace added: “This animal attacked my dog which was lucky to escape, but what chance would a child have against an animal like this when they cannot fight back?
“I want this to be taken seriously because children and walkers are at risk.
“We have heard other stories of sightings of one or two big cats – one farmer in Kiltarlity said he lost 20 sheep to two of them.
“I think it could be something to do with the big cats which were released in the 1970s, which may have been breeding every since.”
Northern Constabulary carried out an investigation into the big cat reports, and also looked into complaints from residents at nearby Invermoriston about marauding wild boar in the area.
A police spokeswoman said: “Neither big cats such as pumas, nor wild boars are protected wildlife. In the majority of cases, the animals would not approach to harm humans. They are not known for their aggressive behaviour unless they are young and threatened and even then, there would be few cases. However, if we felt there was a threat to public safety, we would take appropriate action.”
http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/2226731?UserKey=
Monday, January 17, 2011
Top 10 invasive species you can eat
Published: Monday, Jan. 17, 2011
By ROBIN SHREEVES - Mother Nature Network (mnn.com)
After a recent report about invasivores, people who eat invasive species for the express purpose of controlling the species so they don't devastate ecosystems, a representative from Roger Williams University contacted me and told me they had done research on eating invasive species and had come up with a list of invasive species that can be eaten. I thought it would be interesting to share the list with you. I've also tracked down recipes for them.
1. Lionfish. Lionfish Romesco Stew (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) was featured in The Washington Post last summer. It was also called the sustainable "it" seafood conservationists say more people should begin eating.
2. Asian carp. The Bowfishing Association of Illinois has a recipe for Smoked Asian Carp (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) that can be prepared two ways - savory or sweet. You'll have to scroll half way down the page to find the specific recipes.
3. Brassica rapa (aka turnip mustard or field mustard). The Selfsufficientish blog has information about this invasive plant species and a recipe for Simple Mashed Turnips (www.selfsufficientish.com/turnip.htm).
4. American cannonball jellyfish. Apparently eating jellyfish is common in Asia. (I didn't know they were edible.) The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDocument=347) has some instructions on how to prepare jellyfish to be added to salad or served alongside vegetables.
5. Kudzu. I found several suggestions for kudzu on Granpappy's Basic Recipes (www.grandpappy.info/rkudzu.htm). Both the leaves and the blossoms can be used to create teas, salads and even wine.
6. Bullfrog. In France, frog legs are considered a treat. I'm not so sure I'd want to give them a try, but garlic makes everything better so maybe this recipe for Garlic Frogs Legs (www.food.com/recipe/garlic-frogs-legs-14089) might make them seem more palatable.
7. Feral pigs/wild boar. If you're a skilled hunter and want to help thin out the invasive pig and boar population, you might as well make a meal out of your kill, right? Texas Gourmet has a recipe for Sugar Cured Feral Hog (www.texasgourmet.com/cookbook-sub.php?icookId=12) that is cooked in a BBQ pit.
8. European green crab. Green crabs can be used in most crab recipes, although they are smaller than many crabs so getting enough meat can be time-consuming. Try Green Crab Enchiladas (www.bigoven.com/recipe/93371/green-crab-enchiladas) from Big Oven or Green Crab Soup (www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/GREEN-CRAB-SOUP-1201806) from Epicurious.
9. Rusty crayfish. The only time I've ever eaten crayfish (also called crawfish) was in New Orleans in an etouffee. I'd try Emeril's Crawfish Etouffee recipe (www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/crawfish-etouffee-recipe/index.html) if you've got an overabundance of rusty crayfish you're looking to cook up and eat.
10. Rabbit. I've eaten rabbit in restaurants. It's got one of those "tastes like chicken" flavors but a bit gamier. The one time it was served on the bone, I could clearly see the shape of the little rabbit leg, and it kind of ruined the dish for me. So, I suggest if you don't want to think about eating rabbit while you are eating it, go boneless. Try this Hassenpfeffer (rabbit stew) recipe (http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/hasenpfeffer-rabbit-stew/Detail.aspx) from allrecipes.com.
Robin Shreeves blogs about finding eco-friendly food options at www.mnn.com/featured-blogs/sustainablefood.
http://www.bradenton.com/2011/01/17/2880900/top-10-invasive-species-you-can.html
By ROBIN SHREEVES - Mother Nature Network (mnn.com)
After a recent report about invasivores, people who eat invasive species for the express purpose of controlling the species so they don't devastate ecosystems, a representative from Roger Williams University contacted me and told me they had done research on eating invasive species and had come up with a list of invasive species that can be eaten. I thought it would be interesting to share the list with you. I've also tracked down recipes for them.
1. Lionfish. Lionfish Romesco Stew (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) was featured in The Washington Post last summer. It was also called the sustainable "it" seafood conservationists say more people should begin eating.
2. Asian carp. The Bowfishing Association of Illinois has a recipe for Smoked Asian Carp (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) that can be prepared two ways - savory or sweet. You'll have to scroll half way down the page to find the specific recipes.
3. Brassica rapa (aka turnip mustard or field mustard). The Selfsufficientish blog has information about this invasive plant species and a recipe for Simple Mashed Turnips (www.selfsufficientish.com/turnip.htm).
4. American cannonball jellyfish. Apparently eating jellyfish is common in Asia. (I didn't know they were edible.) The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDocument=347) has some instructions on how to prepare jellyfish to be added to salad or served alongside vegetables.
5. Kudzu. I found several suggestions for kudzu on Granpappy's Basic Recipes (www.grandpappy.info/rkudzu.htm). Both the leaves and the blossoms can be used to create teas, salads and even wine.
6. Bullfrog. In France, frog legs are considered a treat. I'm not so sure I'd want to give them a try, but garlic makes everything better so maybe this recipe for Garlic Frogs Legs (www.food.com/recipe/garlic-frogs-legs-14089) might make them seem more palatable.
7. Feral pigs/wild boar. If you're a skilled hunter and want to help thin out the invasive pig and boar population, you might as well make a meal out of your kill, right? Texas Gourmet has a recipe for Sugar Cured Feral Hog (www.texasgourmet.com/cookbook-sub.php?icookId=12) that is cooked in a BBQ pit.
8. European green crab. Green crabs can be used in most crab recipes, although they are smaller than many crabs so getting enough meat can be time-consuming. Try Green Crab Enchiladas (www.bigoven.com/recipe/93371/green-crab-enchiladas) from Big Oven or Green Crab Soup (www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/GREEN-CRAB-SOUP-1201806) from Epicurious.
9. Rusty crayfish. The only time I've ever eaten crayfish (also called crawfish) was in New Orleans in an etouffee. I'd try Emeril's Crawfish Etouffee recipe (www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/crawfish-etouffee-recipe/index.html) if you've got an overabundance of rusty crayfish you're looking to cook up and eat.
10. Rabbit. I've eaten rabbit in restaurants. It's got one of those "tastes like chicken" flavors but a bit gamier. The one time it was served on the bone, I could clearly see the shape of the little rabbit leg, and it kind of ruined the dish for me. So, I suggest if you don't want to think about eating rabbit while you are eating it, go boneless. Try this Hassenpfeffer (rabbit stew) recipe (http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/hasenpfeffer-rabbit-stew/Detail.aspx) from allrecipes.com.
Robin Shreeves blogs about finding eco-friendly food options at www.mnn.com/featured-blogs/sustainablefood.
http://www.bradenton.com/2011/01/17/2880900/top-10-invasive-species-you-can.html
Top 10 invasive species you can eat
Published: Monday, Jan. 17, 2011
By ROBIN SHREEVES - Mother Nature Network (mnn.com)
After a recent report about invasivores, people who eat invasive species for the express purpose of controlling the species so they don't devastate ecosystems, a representative from Roger Williams University contacted me and told me they had done research on eating invasive species and had come up with a list of invasive species that can be eaten. I thought it would be interesting to share the list with you. I've also tracked down recipes for them.
1. Lionfish. Lionfish Romesco Stew (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) was featured in The Washington Post last summer. It was also called the sustainable "it" seafood conservationists say more people should begin eating.
2. Asian carp. The Bowfishing Association of Illinois has a recipe for Smoked Asian Carp (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) that can be prepared two ways - savory or sweet. You'll have to scroll half way down the page to find the specific recipes.
3. Brassica rapa (aka turnip mustard or field mustard). The Selfsufficientish blog has information about this invasive plant species and a recipe for Simple Mashed Turnips (www.selfsufficientish.com/turnip.htm).
4. American cannonball jellyfish. Apparently eating jellyfish is common in Asia. (I didn't know they were edible.) The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDocument=347) has some instructions on how to prepare jellyfish to be added to salad or served alongside vegetables.
5. Kudzu. I found several suggestions for kudzu on Granpappy's Basic Recipes (www.grandpappy.info/rkudzu.htm). Both the leaves and the blossoms can be used to create teas, salads and even wine.
6. Bullfrog. In France, frog legs are considered a treat. I'm not so sure I'd want to give them a try, but garlic makes everything better so maybe this recipe for Garlic Frogs Legs (www.food.com/recipe/garlic-frogs-legs-14089) might make them seem more palatable.
7. Feral pigs/wild boar. If you're a skilled hunter and want to help thin out the invasive pig and boar population, you might as well make a meal out of your kill, right? Texas Gourmet has a recipe for Sugar Cured Feral Hog (www.texasgourmet.com/cookbook-sub.php?icookId=12) that is cooked in a BBQ pit.
8. European green crab. Green crabs can be used in most crab recipes, although they are smaller than many crabs so getting enough meat can be time-consuming. Try Green Crab Enchiladas (www.bigoven.com/recipe/93371/green-crab-enchiladas) from Big Oven or Green Crab Soup (www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/GREEN-CRAB-SOUP-1201806) from Epicurious.
9. Rusty crayfish. The only time I've ever eaten crayfish (also called crawfish) was in New Orleans in an etouffee. I'd try Emeril's Crawfish Etouffee recipe (www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/crawfish-etouffee-recipe/index.html) if you've got an overabundance of rusty crayfish you're looking to cook up and eat.
10. Rabbit. I've eaten rabbit in restaurants. It's got one of those "tastes like chicken" flavors but a bit gamier. The one time it was served on the bone, I could clearly see the shape of the little rabbit leg, and it kind of ruined the dish for me. So, I suggest if you don't want to think about eating rabbit while you are eating it, go boneless. Try this Hassenpfeffer (rabbit stew) recipe (http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/hasenpfeffer-rabbit-stew/Detail.aspx) from allrecipes.com.
Robin Shreeves blogs about finding eco-friendly food options at www.mnn.com/featured-blogs/sustainablefood.
http://www.bradenton.com/2011/01/17/2880900/top-10-invasive-species-you-can.html
By ROBIN SHREEVES - Mother Nature Network (mnn.com)
After a recent report about invasivores, people who eat invasive species for the express purpose of controlling the species so they don't devastate ecosystems, a representative from Roger Williams University contacted me and told me they had done research on eating invasive species and had come up with a list of invasive species that can be eaten. I thought it would be interesting to share the list with you. I've also tracked down recipes for them.
1. Lionfish. Lionfish Romesco Stew (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) was featured in The Washington Post last summer. It was also called the sustainable "it" seafood conservationists say more people should begin eating.
2. Asian carp. The Bowfishing Association of Illinois has a recipe for Smoked Asian Carp (www.illinoisbowfishing.net/Recipes.html) that can be prepared two ways - savory or sweet. You'll have to scroll half way down the page to find the specific recipes.
3. Brassica rapa (aka turnip mustard or field mustard). The Selfsufficientish blog has information about this invasive plant species and a recipe for Simple Mashed Turnips (www.selfsufficientish.com/turnip.htm).
4. American cannonball jellyfish. Apparently eating jellyfish is common in Asia. (I didn't know they were edible.) The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDocument=347) has some instructions on how to prepare jellyfish to be added to salad or served alongside vegetables.
5. Kudzu. I found several suggestions for kudzu on Granpappy's Basic Recipes (www.grandpappy.info/rkudzu.htm). Both the leaves and the blossoms can be used to create teas, salads and even wine.
6. Bullfrog. In France, frog legs are considered a treat. I'm not so sure I'd want to give them a try, but garlic makes everything better so maybe this recipe for Garlic Frogs Legs (www.food.com/recipe/garlic-frogs-legs-14089) might make them seem more palatable.
7. Feral pigs/wild boar. If you're a skilled hunter and want to help thin out the invasive pig and boar population, you might as well make a meal out of your kill, right? Texas Gourmet has a recipe for Sugar Cured Feral Hog (www.texasgourmet.com/cookbook-sub.php?icookId=12) that is cooked in a BBQ pit.
8. European green crab. Green crabs can be used in most crab recipes, although they are smaller than many crabs so getting enough meat can be time-consuming. Try Green Crab Enchiladas (www.bigoven.com/recipe/93371/green-crab-enchiladas) from Big Oven or Green Crab Soup (www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/GREEN-CRAB-SOUP-1201806) from Epicurious.
9. Rusty crayfish. The only time I've ever eaten crayfish (also called crawfish) was in New Orleans in an etouffee. I'd try Emeril's Crawfish Etouffee recipe (www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/crawfish-etouffee-recipe/index.html) if you've got an overabundance of rusty crayfish you're looking to cook up and eat.
10. Rabbit. I've eaten rabbit in restaurants. It's got one of those "tastes like chicken" flavors but a bit gamier. The one time it was served on the bone, I could clearly see the shape of the little rabbit leg, and it kind of ruined the dish for me. So, I suggest if you don't want to think about eating rabbit while you are eating it, go boneless. Try this Hassenpfeffer (rabbit stew) recipe (http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/hasenpfeffer-rabbit-stew/Detail.aspx) from allrecipes.com.
Robin Shreeves blogs about finding eco-friendly food options at www.mnn.com/featured-blogs/sustainablefood.
http://www.bradenton.com/2011/01/17/2880900/top-10-invasive-species-you-can.html
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Welcome to Wildwood's New Year baby – cute baby boarlet is the first arrival of 2011
The new baby is the first piglet to be born to proud parents Pru and Sydney and marked the New Year in style by arriving on New Year’s Day. The baby is as yet unnamed until its sex can be determined.
Keeper Judi Dunn said “I am so excited for Pru and Sydney, this is their first baby and Pru is doing very well as a new mum. It’s lovely to see the piglet starting to go out and about to explore the enclosure and avoiding the puddles after the recent rain.”
Wild boar piglets are born with stripes to help camouflage them in the undergrowth and typically stay in the nest for about 10 days. The young are suckled for about 12 weeks before they are completely weaned, after which they find their food by rooting around the woodland floor with their mother.
Wildwood Trust is campaigning to save wild boar from being hunted to extinction and has asked the Government to legalise the status of this animal and let it take its rightful place in the British Countryside, helping to restore our natural woodlands.
Wild boar form an integral part of the historic landscape of Britain and help woodland flowers, insects, animals and trees regenerate creating countryside richer in wildlife. The Wildwood Trust has been lobbying to ensure that Wild boar are given a chance to regain their natural place in our woodlands to encourage a landscape that’s rich in flowers, butterflies and birds.
Wild boar are just one of the huge range of British animals that can be seen at the Wildwood, near Canterbury , off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 782 008.
Wild Boar Facts
The European Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), ancestor of the domesticated pig, is the largest of the present-day wild hogs - the males or boars sometimes reaching a height of 40 inches at the shoulder and a weight of 350 pounds. A male wild boar is armed with a pair of large sharp strong tusks, the upper canine teeth, which curve outward and upward, reaching a length of ten inches in old age. The female or sow bears litters of 3 to 12 striped young in a nest hidden in thick brush.
Some facts concerning the Wild Boar:
- The Wild Boar has a gregarious nature and is mainly woodland-dwelling.
- Wild boar mainly feed on deer truffles, acorns, nuts, tubers, insects, earthworms and some carrion.
- Vocalisations are very important, and wild boar are constantly grunting and chirruping to each other, and squeal when alarmed.
- Wild boar are usually not dangerous and do not attack other animals and people. However, they can be very aggressive, especially females with young, or injured animals.
- Wild boar are naturally timid and (normally!) run away at the sight of people.
- Wild boar have a life span of between 15 and 20 years.
It is thought that the original British wild boar were probably extinct by the 13th century, and the re-introduced animals became extinct during the 17th century. Between the 17th century and the 1980s, when wild boar farming began, only a handful of captive wild boar, imported from the continent as zoo exhibits, were present in Britain. Until very recently, no free-living wild boar (native or introduced) have been present in Britain for the last 300 years.
Welcome to Wildwood's New Year baby – cute baby boarlet is the first arrival of 2011
The new baby is the first piglet to be born to proud parents Pru and Sydney and marked the New Year in style by arriving on New Year’s Day. The baby is as yet unnamed until its sex can be determined.
Keeper Judi Dunn said “I am so excited for Pru and Sydney, this is their first baby and Pru is doing very well as a new mum. It’s lovely to see the piglet starting to go out and about to explore the enclosure and avoiding the puddles after the recent rain.”
Wild boar piglets are born with stripes to help camouflage them in the undergrowth and typically stay in the nest for about 10 days. The young are suckled for about 12 weeks before they are completely weaned, after which they find their food by rooting around the woodland floor with their mother.
Wildwood Trust is campaigning to save wild boar from being hunted to extinction and has asked the Government to legalise the status of this animal and let it take its rightful place in the British Countryside, helping to restore our natural woodlands.
Wild boar form an integral part of the historic landscape of Britain and help woodland flowers, insects, animals and trees regenerate creating countryside richer in wildlife. The Wildwood Trust has been lobbying to ensure that Wild boar are given a chance to regain their natural place in our woodlands to encourage a landscape that’s rich in flowers, butterflies and birds.
Wild boar are just one of the huge range of British animals that can be seen at the Wildwood, near Canterbury , off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 782 008.
Wild Boar Facts
The European Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), ancestor of the domesticated pig, is the largest of the present-day wild hogs - the males or boars sometimes reaching a height of 40 inches at the shoulder and a weight of 350 pounds. A male wild boar is armed with a pair of large sharp strong tusks, the upper canine teeth, which curve outward and upward, reaching a length of ten inches in old age. The female or sow bears litters of 3 to 12 striped young in a nest hidden in thick brush.
Some facts concerning the Wild Boar:
- The Wild Boar has a gregarious nature and is mainly woodland-dwelling.
- Wild boar mainly feed on deer truffles, acorns, nuts, tubers, insects, earthworms and some carrion.
- Vocalisations are very important, and wild boar are constantly grunting and chirruping to each other, and squeal when alarmed.
- Wild boar are usually not dangerous and do not attack other animals and people. However, they can be very aggressive, especially females with young, or injured animals.
- Wild boar are naturally timid and (normally!) run away at the sight of people.
- Wild boar have a life span of between 15 and 20 years.
It is thought that the original British wild boar were probably extinct by the 13th century, and the re-introduced animals became extinct during the 17th century. Between the 17th century and the 1980s, when wild boar farming began, only a handful of captive wild boar, imported from the continent as zoo exhibits, were present in Britain. Until very recently, no free-living wild boar (native or introduced) have been present in Britain for the last 300 years.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Radioactive Boars Rampaging Through Germany
Published August 03, 2010
FoxNews.com
Wikimedia
Recently, Germany has reported a surge in the wild boar population. According to one recent study, German wild boar litters have six to eight piglets on average, other countries usually only about four or five.
It sounds like the plot of a B-movie, yet it’s bizarrely true: Radioactive boars are on the loose and thriving in Germany’s forests.
A succession of mild winters has left Germany scrambling to deal with a skyrocketing wild boar population. Tales of swarming beasts rampaging through city streets and attacking citizens occur with alarming regularity.
The problem has been aggravated by the lingering effects of the Chernobyl disaster from twenty-five years ago; a large portion of the wild animals are contaminated by radioactivity.
Poisonous radiation leaves the beasts completely inedible (wild boar is considered a delicacy in Germany), and the phenomenon is becoming expensive for the German government. In the last hunting season, 650,000 boar were shot versus 287,000 in the previous year. And due to atomic energy regulations, the government must buy contaminated animals from hunters who catch them.
Berlin compensated hunters to the tune of over $500,000 in 2009, writes German newspaper Der Spiegel -- quadruple the payment in 2007.
Though the Chernobyl explosion happened a quarter century ago, high levels of radiation remain in the region’s vegetation. And wild boars are especially susceptible because of their proclivity for mushrooms and truffles, which are especially efficient at absorbing radiation.
"In the regions where it is particularly problematic, all boar that are shot are checked for radiation," Andreas Leppmann from the German Hunting Federation told the paper. There are 70 measuring stations in Bavaria alone.
While general radioactivity in plants should continue to decrease, levels in fungi may even increase, leaving no end in sight for this issue. One expert told Der Spiegel that the problem will likely remain for at least another 50 years.
Read more at Der Spiegel.
FoxNews.com
Wikimedia
Recently, Germany has reported a surge in the wild boar population. According to one recent study, German wild boar litters have six to eight piglets on average, other countries usually only about four or five.
It sounds like the plot of a B-movie, yet it’s bizarrely true: Radioactive boars are on the loose and thriving in Germany’s forests.
A succession of mild winters has left Germany scrambling to deal with a skyrocketing wild boar population. Tales of swarming beasts rampaging through city streets and attacking citizens occur with alarming regularity.
The problem has been aggravated by the lingering effects of the Chernobyl disaster from twenty-five years ago; a large portion of the wild animals are contaminated by radioactivity.
Poisonous radiation leaves the beasts completely inedible (wild boar is considered a delicacy in Germany), and the phenomenon is becoming expensive for the German government. In the last hunting season, 650,000 boar were shot versus 287,000 in the previous year. And due to atomic energy regulations, the government must buy contaminated animals from hunters who catch them.
Berlin compensated hunters to the tune of over $500,000 in 2009, writes German newspaper Der Spiegel -- quadruple the payment in 2007.
Though the Chernobyl explosion happened a quarter century ago, high levels of radiation remain in the region’s vegetation. And wild boars are especially susceptible because of their proclivity for mushrooms and truffles, which are especially efficient at absorbing radiation.
"In the regions where it is particularly problematic, all boar that are shot are checked for radiation," Andreas Leppmann from the German Hunting Federation told the paper. There are 70 measuring stations in Bavaria alone.
While general radioactivity in plants should continue to decrease, levels in fungi may even increase, leaving no end in sight for this issue. One expert told Der Spiegel that the problem will likely remain for at least another 50 years.
Read more at Der Spiegel.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas dinners for the animals at Wildwood
As we all rush around trying to find a Christmas Turkey and plan the most important meal of the year, the keepers at Wildwood have been creating their own recipes to give the animals in the park a special treat. Feeding time is like stepping into the kitchen of a London restaurant with stacks of fresh fruit, vegetables and meat being prepared to the highest standards.Pomegranates, bananas, oranges and clementines are just a few of the healthy options that greet the smaller mammals and birds this Christmas, ‘It gives them something to work on,’ said Christine, one of Wildwood’s keepers, ‘especially the pomegranates where they have to think about how they are going to get at the seeds.’ But there are a few treats in store as well, as the occasional doughnut can be seen inside the Fallow Deer Paddock.
Though Wildwood buys in a much of the food it uses for the animals it also receives donations of out of date food from a supermarket.
‘We are lucky that Sainsburys is very generous to us with their donations of out of date food’ commented Martyn Nicholls, Head of Press and Marketing in the park. ‘In these difficult times they have really made a difference to our animals.’Wildwood is only closed on Christmas and Boxing day and will be open over the rest of the Christmas holiday so why not walk off your Christmas dinner around the park?
Wildwood's 'Wildlife Conservation Park' is an ideal day out for all the family where you can come 'nose to nose' with British wildlife. Wildwood offers its members and visitors a truly inspirational way to learn about the natural history of Britain by actually seeing the wildlife that once lived here, like the wolf, beaver, red squirrel, wild boar and many more.
Wildwood is situated close to Canterbury, just off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. 01227 712111, www.wildwoodtrust.org.
Christmas food facts
Eating mince pies at Christmas dates back to 16th century Britain, where it is still believed that to eat a mince pie on each of the Twelve Days of Christmas will bring 12 happy months in the year to follow.
At lavish Christmas feasts in the Middle Ages, swans and peacocks were sometimes served for dinner.
A traditional Christmas dinner in early England was the head of a pig prepared with mustard.
The Christmas turkey first appeared on English tables in the 16th century, but didn't immediately replace the traditional fare of goose, beef or boar's head in the rich households.
In Victorian England, turkeys were popular for Christmas dinners. Some of the birds were raised in Norfolk, and taken to market in London. To get them to London, the turkeys were supplied with boots made of sacking or leather. The turkeys were then walked to market. The boots protected their feet from the frozen mud of the road. Boots were not used for geese: instead, their feet were protected with a covering of tar.
During the Christmas season, over 1.76 billion candy canes will be produced. Candy canes started out as straight white sticks of sugar candy used to decorate Christmas trees. A choirmaster at Cologne Cathedral decided have the ends bent to depict a shepherd's crook and he would pass them out to the children to keep them quiet during the services. It wasn't until about the 20th century that candy canes acquired their red stripes and if you turn it upside down, it becomes the letter J symbolizing the first letter in Jesus' name.
In Armenia, the traditional Christmas Eve meal consists of fried fish, lettuce, and spinach. The meal is traditionally eaten after the Christmas Eve service, in commemoration of the supper eaten by Mary on the evening before Christ's birth.
In the Ukraine, they bake a traditional Christmas bread called "kolach". This bread is braided into a ring, and three such rings are placed one on top of the other, with a candle in the centre of the top one. The three rings symbolize the Holy Trinity. They also set the table for Christmas Eve dinner with two tablecloths: one for the ancestors of the family, the other for the living members as in pagan times, ancestors were believed to be benevolent spirits who, when shown respect, brought good fortune.
The Ukrainians also prepare a traditional twelve-course meal at Christmas time. A family's youngest child watches through the window for the evening star to appear, a signal that the feast can begin.
Man dressed in animal skin shot dead during hunt
A Greek man dressed in animal hide was mistakenly shot dead while out hunting wild boar for a Christmas dinner.
By Paul Anast in Athens
Published: 4:57PM GMT 20 Dec 2009
Police said members of a shooting party made up of families opened fire when Christos Constantinou, 49, moved through the undergrowth.
They are thought to have been confused by the fact the victim was disguised in dark goat skins, which are used to camouflage and to mislead their prey.
The groups had fanned out in pairs of two to track down an animal for the traditional festive dinner when the accident happened.
Police in the northern Greek town of Nemea, Chalkidiki, said Mr Constantinou was pronounced dead upon arrival at hospital.
Two unidentified men, aged 25 and 28, were detained and were being questioned.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/greece/6850972/Man-dressed-in-animal-skin-shot-dead-during-hunt.html
(Submitted by Kyle Moffat)
By Paul Anast in Athens
Published: 4:57PM GMT 20 Dec 2009
Police said members of a shooting party made up of families opened fire when Christos Constantinou, 49, moved through the undergrowth.
They are thought to have been confused by the fact the victim was disguised in dark goat skins, which are used to camouflage and to mislead their prey.
The groups had fanned out in pairs of two to track down an animal for the traditional festive dinner when the accident happened.
Police in the northern Greek town of Nemea, Chalkidiki, said Mr Constantinou was pronounced dead upon arrival at hospital.
Two unidentified men, aged 25 and 28, were detained and were being questioned.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/greece/6850972/Man-dressed-in-animal-skin-shot-dead-during-hunt.html
(Submitted by Kyle Moffat)
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Alladale Estate applies for zoo licence
By Caroline McMorran
Published: 17 December, 2009
CONTROVERSIAL plans by Alladale Estate owner Paul Lister to introduce wolves to a wilderness reserve already established on his land, have taken a major step forward.
Alladale Wilderness Reserve manager Hugh Fullerton-Smith this week publicly announced his intention to apply to the local authority for a zoo licence.
European elk and wild boar are already roaming in enclosures on the 23,000 acres estate, located near Ardgay. And, if the zoo licence is granted, then wildcat and wolves - not seen in the wild in Scotland for thousands of years - could be added to their number.
The move is expected to raise enormous concerns locally.
Both Mr Lister and Mr Fullerton-Smith were out of the country and unavailable for comment this week. They are expected to return to Alladale next week.
But Highland Council officials confirmed that they had received a "Notice of Intention" from Alladale Wilder-ness Reserve as required under the Zoo Licencing Act 1981. That Notice of Intention is now also available for members of the public to read.
Golspie based environmental health officer Andy Hirst said: "I think this is a once in a lifetime situation and I certainly have never experienced this type of application before."
Millionaire businessman Paul Lister, son of the co-founder of the MFI furniture chain Noel Lister, bought Alladale Estate, which covers five glens and two river systems, in 2003.
Shortly afterwards he announced plans to create a wilderness reserve.
He has since invested massive sums towards achieving his aim of introducing Scotland's so-called "big five" to the estate - grey wolves, brown bear, lynx, boar and bison.
Two years ago the estate successfully applied for a Dangerous Wild Animal Licence to introduce European elk and wild boar into specially constructed enclosures.
And now Mr Lister and Mr Fullerton Smith are apparently ready to take their plans a step further and introduce wolves and wildcats.
In background papers lodged with the local authority, estate manager Mr Fullerton-Smith states: "The Alladale Wilderness Reserve facility will be unlike any present conventional UK zoo, both in types of enclosures it uses and ways in which only a limited number of resident visitors and environmental education groups will view the animals."
According to the papers, it is intended to introduce three European wolves and eight European wildcats onto the estate along with another six wild boar and two elk.
The animals will be housed in three separate fenced areas each of which will contain animal accommodation, management facilities and service buildings. The highest fence - a two-metre high deer fence - will surround the European elk enclosure. The wolves will be fed on a range of "natural" carcasses and game off-cuts.
Only guests staying at Alladale will be allowed on to the wilderness reserve. The maximum number of visitors on the reserve will be limited to 35, although school parties are expected to increase that number to around 70 on some days.
The papers state: "Visitor access to the wolf enclosure will be from the service road through a locked gate and along a fenced footpath and across a bridge to a roofed viewing area."
Meanwhile Highland Council officials say that strict procedures will be followed in determining the estate's application, including a public consultation period.
Inverness-based senior animal health officer Gillian Bain said: "The zoo licence regulations are fairly proscriptive in the way they work."
And local environmental health officer Chris Ratter said: "The estate has to follow certain procedures and part of the procedure is to put an advert in a local and national newspaper and also put signs up around the area of Alladale to say that the intention is to apply for a zoo licence."
http://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/6970/Alladale_Estate_applies_for_zoo_licence.html
(Submitted by Lindsay Selby)
Published: 17 December, 2009
CONTROVERSIAL plans by Alladale Estate owner Paul Lister to introduce wolves to a wilderness reserve already established on his land, have taken a major step forward.
Alladale Wilderness Reserve manager Hugh Fullerton-Smith this week publicly announced his intention to apply to the local authority for a zoo licence.
European elk and wild boar are already roaming in enclosures on the 23,000 acres estate, located near Ardgay. And, if the zoo licence is granted, then wildcat and wolves - not seen in the wild in Scotland for thousands of years - could be added to their number.
The move is expected to raise enormous concerns locally.
Both Mr Lister and Mr Fullerton-Smith were out of the country and unavailable for comment this week. They are expected to return to Alladale next week.
But Highland Council officials confirmed that they had received a "Notice of Intention" from Alladale Wilder-ness Reserve as required under the Zoo Licencing Act 1981. That Notice of Intention is now also available for members of the public to read.
Golspie based environmental health officer Andy Hirst said: "I think this is a once in a lifetime situation and I certainly have never experienced this type of application before."
Millionaire businessman Paul Lister, son of the co-founder of the MFI furniture chain Noel Lister, bought Alladale Estate, which covers five glens and two river systems, in 2003.
Shortly afterwards he announced plans to create a wilderness reserve.
He has since invested massive sums towards achieving his aim of introducing Scotland's so-called "big five" to the estate - grey wolves, brown bear, lynx, boar and bison.
Two years ago the estate successfully applied for a Dangerous Wild Animal Licence to introduce European elk and wild boar into specially constructed enclosures.
And now Mr Lister and Mr Fullerton Smith are apparently ready to take their plans a step further and introduce wolves and wildcats.
In background papers lodged with the local authority, estate manager Mr Fullerton-Smith states: "The Alladale Wilderness Reserve facility will be unlike any present conventional UK zoo, both in types of enclosures it uses and ways in which only a limited number of resident visitors and environmental education groups will view the animals."
According to the papers, it is intended to introduce three European wolves and eight European wildcats onto the estate along with another six wild boar and two elk.
The animals will be housed in three separate fenced areas each of which will contain animal accommodation, management facilities and service buildings. The highest fence - a two-metre high deer fence - will surround the European elk enclosure. The wolves will be fed on a range of "natural" carcasses and game off-cuts.
Only guests staying at Alladale will be allowed on to the wilderness reserve. The maximum number of visitors on the reserve will be limited to 35, although school parties are expected to increase that number to around 70 on some days.
The papers state: "Visitor access to the wolf enclosure will be from the service road through a locked gate and along a fenced footpath and across a bridge to a roofed viewing area."
Meanwhile Highland Council officials say that strict procedures will be followed in determining the estate's application, including a public consultation period.
Inverness-based senior animal health officer Gillian Bain said: "The zoo licence regulations are fairly proscriptive in the way they work."
And local environmental health officer Chris Ratter said: "The estate has to follow certain procedures and part of the procedure is to put an advert in a local and national newspaper and also put signs up around the area of Alladale to say that the intention is to apply for a zoo licence."
http://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/6970/Alladale_Estate_applies_for_zoo_licence.html
(Submitted by Lindsay Selby)
Monday, December 14, 2009
Wild boars chase Germans into waste container
December 14, 2009
BERLIN - German police have rescued four frozen walkers who called up from a waste container begging to be saved from roving wild boars.
Police in Darmstadt, south of Frankfurt, say they received an emergency call at nearly 3 a.m. Sunday (0200 GMT Sunday; 9 p.m. EDT) from a man who said he and three companions had fled into the container after being surprised by a group of boars during a nighttime walk in the woods. He said they didn't dare to emerge.
A police statement Monday says that a patrol found the four shivering in the metal container and escorted them from the scene.
The boars already had disappeared.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/WeirdNews/2009/12/14/12146071-ap.html
BERLIN - German police have rescued four frozen walkers who called up from a waste container begging to be saved from roving wild boars.
Police in Darmstadt, south of Frankfurt, say they received an emergency call at nearly 3 a.m. Sunday (0200 GMT Sunday; 9 p.m. EDT) from a man who said he and three companions had fled into the container after being surprised by a group of boars during a nighttime walk in the woods. He said they didn't dare to emerge.
A police statement Monday says that a patrol found the four shivering in the metal container and escorted them from the scene.
The boars already had disappeared.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/WeirdNews/2009/12/14/12146071-ap.html
Wild boars chase Germans into waste container
December 14, 2009
BERLIN - German police have rescued four frozen walkers who called up from a waste container begging to be saved from roving wild boars.
Police in Darmstadt, south of Frankfurt, say they received an emergency call at nearly 3 a.m. Sunday (0200 GMT Sunday; 9 p.m. EDT) from a man who said he and three companions had fled into the container after being surprised by a group of boars during a nighttime walk in the woods. He said they didn't dare to emerge.
A police statement Monday says that a patrol found the four shivering in the metal container and escorted them from the scene.
The boars already had disappeared.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/WeirdNews/2009/12/14/12146071-ap.html
BERLIN - German police have rescued four frozen walkers who called up from a waste container begging to be saved from roving wild boars.
Police in Darmstadt, south of Frankfurt, say they received an emergency call at nearly 3 a.m. Sunday (0200 GMT Sunday; 9 p.m. EDT) from a man who said he and three companions had fled into the container after being surprised by a group of boars during a nighttime walk in the woods. He said they didn't dare to emerge.
A police statement Monday says that a patrol found the four shivering in the metal container and escorted them from the scene.
The boars already had disappeared.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/WeirdNews/2009/12/14/12146071-ap.html
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Cute boarlets at Wildwood
Photo: Wildwood Harriet, Wildwood's wild boar, has produced a litter of two boarlets a few weekends ago.
Proud father, Boris, a magnificent 400 lbs Wild Boar, is something of a local celebrity after his many TV appearances on 'Richard & Judy', Sir David Attenborough's 'The Life of Mammals', National News, Blue Peter and many more.
Wildwood Trust is campaigning to save the wild cousins of Boris the wild boar from being hunted to extinction. Wildwood Trust has asked the Government to legalise the status of this animal and let it take its rightful place in the British Countryside, helping to restore our natural woodlands.
Wild boar form an integral part of the historic landscape of Britain and help woodland flowers, insects, animals and trees regenerate creating countryside richer in wildlife. We have been lobbying hard to ensure Wild boar are given a chance to regain their natural place in our woodlands to help our children enjoy a woodland landscape rich in flowers, butterflies and birds.
Last year saw some success for the lobbying on the status of wild boar in the UK with DEFRA publishing its "wild boar action plan" which set down clear guidelines as to the control of wild boar in the countryside.
If you make a visit to Wildwood over the next few days, you should be able to see the piglets.
Our sow, Harriet, prepared to give birth by constructing a nest of branches into which the babies were be born. The first piglets born choose a teat near their mother's head so that they had a better chance of attracting her attention.
The piglets are be born with stripes and these help to camouflage them in the undergrowth. The litter stays in the nest for about 10 days. The young are suckled for about 12 weeks before they are completely weaned onto food, which they find while rooting around with their mother.
Wild boar are just one of the huge range of British animals that can be seen at the Wildwood Discovery Park, for more information visit the website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 7820087.
Wildwood is an ideal day out for all the family where you can come 'nose to nose' with British Wildlife. Wildwood offers its members and visitors a truly inspirational way to learn about the natural history of Britain by actually seeing the wildlife that once lived here, like the wolf, beaver, red squirrel, wild boar and many more.
Wildwood is situated close to Canterbury, just off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 782008.
Photo: Ian Taylor
Wild Boar Facts
The European Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), ancestor of the domesticated pig, is the largest of the present-day wild hogs - the males or boars sometimes reaching a height of 40 inches at the shoulder and a weight of 350 pounds. A male wild boar is armed with a pair of large sharp strong tusks, the upper canine teeth, which curve outward and upward, reaching a length of ten inches in old age. The female or sow bears litters of 3 to 12 striped young in a nest hidden in thick brush.
Some facts concerning the Wild Boar:
- The Wild Boar has a gregarious nature and is mainly woodland-dwelling.
- Wild boar mainly feed on deer truffles, acorns, nuts, tubers, insects, earthworms and some carrion.
- Vocalisations are very important, and wild boar are constantly grunting and chirruping to each other, and squeal when alarmed.
- Wild boar are usually not dangerous and do not attack other animals and people. However, they can be very aggressive, especially females with young, or injured animals.
- Wild boar are naturally timid and (normally!) run away at the sight of people.
- Wild boar have a life span of between 15 and 20 years.
It is thought that the original British wild boar were probably extinct by the 13th century, and the re-introduced animals became extinct during the 17th century. Between the 17th century and the 1980's, when wild boar farming began, only a handful of captive wild boar, imported from the continent as zoo exhibits, were present in Britain. Until very recently, no free-living wild boar (native or introduced) have been present in Britain for the last 300 years.
Cute boarlets at Wildwood
Photo: Wildwood Harriet, Wildwood's wild boar, has produced a litter of two boarlets a few weekends ago.
Proud father, Boris, a magnificent 400 lbs Wild Boar, is something of a local celebrity after his many TV appearances on 'Richard & Judy', Sir David Attenborough's 'The Life of Mammals', National News, Blue Peter and many more.
Wildwood Trust is campaigning to save the wild cousins of Boris the wild boar from being hunted to extinction. Wildwood Trust has asked the Government to legalise the status of this animal and let it take its rightful place in the British Countryside, helping to restore our natural woodlands.
Wild boar form an integral part of the historic landscape of Britain and help woodland flowers, insects, animals and trees regenerate creating countryside richer in wildlife. We have been lobbying hard to ensure Wild boar are given a chance to regain their natural place in our woodlands to help our children enjoy a woodland landscape rich in flowers, butterflies and birds.
Last year saw some success for the lobbying on the status of wild boar in the UK with DEFRA publishing its "wild boar action plan" which set down clear guidelines as to the control of wild boar in the countryside.
If you make a visit to Wildwood over the next few days, you should be able to see the piglets.
Our sow, Harriet, prepared to give birth by constructing a nest of branches into which the babies were be born. The first piglets born choose a teat near their mother's head so that they had a better chance of attracting her attention.
The piglets are be born with stripes and these help to camouflage them in the undergrowth. The litter stays in the nest for about 10 days. The young are suckled for about 12 weeks before they are completely weaned onto food, which they find while rooting around with their mother.
Wild boar are just one of the huge range of British animals that can be seen at the Wildwood Discovery Park, for more information visit the website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 7820087.
Wildwood is an ideal day out for all the family where you can come 'nose to nose' with British Wildlife. Wildwood offers its members and visitors a truly inspirational way to learn about the natural history of Britain by actually seeing the wildlife that once lived here, like the wolf, beaver, red squirrel, wild boar and many more.
Wildwood is situated close to Canterbury, just off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 782008.
Photo: Ian Taylor
Wild Boar Facts
The European Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), ancestor of the domesticated pig, is the largest of the present-day wild hogs - the males or boars sometimes reaching a height of 40 inches at the shoulder and a weight of 350 pounds. A male wild boar is armed with a pair of large sharp strong tusks, the upper canine teeth, which curve outward and upward, reaching a length of ten inches in old age. The female or sow bears litters of 3 to 12 striped young in a nest hidden in thick brush.
Some facts concerning the Wild Boar:
- The Wild Boar has a gregarious nature and is mainly woodland-dwelling.
- Wild boar mainly feed on deer truffles, acorns, nuts, tubers, insects, earthworms and some carrion.
- Vocalisations are very important, and wild boar are constantly grunting and chirruping to each other, and squeal when alarmed.
- Wild boar are usually not dangerous and do not attack other animals and people. However, they can be very aggressive, especially females with young, or injured animals.
- Wild boar are naturally timid and (normally!) run away at the sight of people.
- Wild boar have a life span of between 15 and 20 years.
It is thought that the original British wild boar were probably extinct by the 13th century, and the re-introduced animals became extinct during the 17th century. Between the 17th century and the 1980's, when wild boar farming began, only a handful of captive wild boar, imported from the continent as zoo exhibits, were present in Britain. Until very recently, no free-living wild boar (native or introduced) have been present in Britain for the last 300 years.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Wildwood Goes Nuts
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Wildwood are asking wildlife lovers to help us harvest the autumn nuts that fall on the paths around our unique Woodland Discovery Park!Unfortunately, the acorns and sweet chestnuts are falling out of the trees faster than Wildwood's animal keepers can collect them, and Wildwood are asking for help collecting them to make sure we have enough to feed our animals this coming winter.
Wildwood's wild boar adore the sweet chestnuts and acorns that fall on the forest floor and our red squirrels can't wait to get their paws on this season's hazel nuts. But they need your help. As a big thank you we are giving away a free children's return ticket, or a special prize for members, for every carrier bag full we receive.
TV celebrity Boris the big wild boar, star of Blue Peter and Sir David Attenborough's Life with Mammals, loves acorns and cannot wait to be fed the acorns that visitors to Wildwood pick up.
As a charity we have to save every penny so we can spend it on our innovative conservation projects, that is why it is so important that we get help to harvest our natural food source.
All children handing in a bag of nuts will be given a FREE ticket to come to Wildwood again.
Wildwood's 'Wildlife Conservation Park' is an ideal day out for all the family where you can come 'nose to nose' with British Wildlife. Wildwood offers its members and visitors a truly inspirational way to learn about the natural history of Britain by actually seeing the wildlife that once lived here, like the wolf, beaver, red squirrel, wild boar and many more.
Wildwood is situated close to Canterbury, just off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 782008.
KEEP SAFE!
- Don't feed any of the animals. Some of them may bite and if an animal is given the wrong food or too much food it can make them very ill.
- Don't eat any of the nuts; they could make you feel very sick!
Top 10 Acorn and Oak Tree Facts
- Pigs love Acorns and up until recently many farmers allowed their pigs to run through woodlands in the autumn eating this excellent food which helps fatten them up so they can survive the winter.
- Oak trees don't have acorns until they are at least 50 years old.
- The Anglo-Saxon name for oak was aik, so the seed was known as aik-com. English oaks bear them on stalks, sessile acorns are stalkless.
- In a good year a mature oak tree may produce around 50,000 acorns.
- Oak trees are an important habitat for wildlife and provide a home for more species of wildlife than any other European tree. Squirrels and many birds shelter, feed or nest in the canopy and many insects eat the leaves. Mosses, lichens and algae and insects live on or in the bark, and acorns feed all sorts of animals such as deer, squirrels, rabbits, mice and birds. Even when a tree dies it continues to provide food and shelter for wildlife as it slowly decays. In fact an oak tree is really just like a big wildlife hotel!
- Oak trees are deciduous which means they lose their leaves in winter. Like other deciduous trees, oaks have wide flat leaves from which water is easily evaporated. In winter when the ground is cold or frozen, it is difficult for trees to take up enough water through their roots, so in autumn as the days become shorter and darker, trees lose their leaves and 'sleep' through the winter. Then in spring as the days become longer and brighter, the tree produces a whole new set of leaves.
- In May oak trees also produce two types of flowers. Male flowers hang in long catkins from the twigs and female flowers appear at the tips of the twigs. Pollen from the male flowers is carried to the female flowers by the breeze and the female flowers eventually turn into seeds called acorns. By the autumn the acorns are ripe and fall to the ground. Many are eaten by animals such as deer, squirrels, mice and rabbits and by birds such as jays and rooks. But hopefully some will land or be dropped on the soil and germinate the following spring.
An oak seedling may reach a height of 30cm in its first year but it has a long way to go! Oak trees are very long lived and can live for 1000 years or more! - There are two species of oak native to Britain:
- The English Oak (Quercus robur) is a massive tree and can grow up to 40 metres in height. It has a short trunk, long branches and a huge crown. The leaves have 4 or 5 lobes (rounded wiggles) on each side and don't have stalks. The acorns of English oaks are attached to the twig by long stalks.
- The Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea) can also grow up to about 40 metres in height. It has a longer trunk than the English Oak. and a fan shaped crown. Its leaves are also a rounded wiggly shape in outline, but unlike the English oak, leaves of the sessile oak grow on stalks. The acorns are stubbier and they don't have stalks.
Top 10 conker facts
- In some countries, like Corsica, where wheat does not grow well their staple food is a flour made from chestnuts (sweet chestnuts and not horse chestnuts) which can be baked into cakes and bread.
- A conker is the seed of the horse chestnut tree (not the sweet chestnut tree where we get edible chestnuts from). It is a hard brown nut which is found in a prickly casing. They fall from the tree when they are ripe during the autumn months. Conkers is the name given to a game played between two people at a time.
- The World Conker Championships take place at Ashton near Peterborough every October. 'Conker' is a corruption of the word 'Conquerer'.
- Conkers are eaten by deer and cattle but not necessarily by horses. The horse part of the name means they are unsuitable for human consumption.
- The horse chestnut is a native in the Balkan Peninsula. (This peninsula is in SE Europe, bounded by the Adriatic, the Aegean and the Black Seas.)
- Britain is believed to be the only country in the world where the game of conkers is traditionally played with horse chestnuts in the autumn.
Prepare your conker for playing
The best conkers to play with are uncracked, firm and symmetrical. Make a hole through the middle of your chosen conker. Thread a strong piece of string about 25cm long, through the hole and tie a knot at one end, so that it doesn't pull through.Each player has a conker hanging on its string. Players take turns at hitting their opponent's conker. If you are the one whose conker is to be hit first, let it hang down from the string which is wrapped round your hand. The conker is held at the height your opponent chooses and is held perfectly still.
Your opponent, the striker, wraps his conker string round his hand just like yours. He then takes his conker in the other hand and draws it back for the strike. Releasing the conker he swings it down by the string held in the other hand and tries to hit his opponents conker (yours) with it.
If he misses he is allowed up to two further goes.
If the strings tangle, the first player to call "strings" gets an extra shot.
If a player drops his conker, or it is knocked out of his hand the other player can shout 'stamps' and jump on it; but should its owner first cry 'no stamps' then the conker, hopefully, remains intact.
The game goes on in turns until one or other of the two conkers is completely destroyed.
Hints on how to make your conkers harder
- Soak your conker in vinegar.
- Bake your conker in the oven.
- Use an old conker from previous years.
Wildwood Goes Nuts
Wildwood are asking wildlife lovers to help us harvest the autumn nuts that fall on the paths around our unique Woodland Discovery Park!Unfortunately, the acorns and sweet chestnuts are falling out of the trees faster than Wildwood's animal keepers can collect them, and Wildwood are asking for help collecting them to make sure we have enough to feed our animals this coming winter.
Wildwood's wild boar adore the sweet chestnuts and acorns that fall on the forest floor and our red squirrels can't wait to get their paws on this season's hazel nuts. But they need your help. As a big thank you we are giving away a free children's return ticket, or a special prize for members, for every carrier bag full we receive.
TV celebrity Boris the big wild boar, star of Blue Peter and Sir David Attenborough's Life with Mammals, loves acorns and cannot wait to be fed the acorns that visitors to Wildwood pick up.
As a charity we have to save every penny so we can spend it on our innovative conservation projects, that is why it is so important that we get help to harvest our natural food source.
All children handing in a bag of nuts will be given a FREE ticket to come to Wildwood again.
Wildwood's 'Wildlife Conservation Park' is an ideal day out for all the family where you can come 'nose to nose' with British Wildlife. Wildwood offers its members and visitors a truly inspirational way to learn about the natural history of Britain by actually seeing the wildlife that once lived here, like the wolf, beaver, red squirrel, wild boar and many more.
Wildwood is situated close to Canterbury, just off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at www.wildwoodtrust.org or telephone 0871 782008.
KEEP SAFE!
- Don't feed any of the animals. Some of them may bite and if an animal is given the wrong food or too much food it can make them very ill.
- Don't eat any of the nuts; they could make you feel very sick!
Top 10 Acorn and Oak Tree Facts
- Pigs love Acorns and up until recently many farmers allowed their pigs to run through woodlands in the autumn eating this excellent food which helps fatten them up so they can survive the winter.
- Oak trees don't have acorns until they are at least 50 years old.
- The Anglo-Saxon name for oak was aik, so the seed was known as aik-com. English oaks bear them on stalks, sessile acorns are stalkless.
- In a good year a mature oak tree may produce around 50,000 acorns.
- Oak trees are an important habitat for wildlife and provide a home for more species of wildlife than any other European tree. Squirrels and many birds shelter, feed or nest in the canopy and many insects eat the leaves. Mosses, lichens and algae and insects live on or in the bark, and acorns feed all sorts of animals such as deer, squirrels, rabbits, mice and birds. Even when a tree dies it continues to provide food and shelter for wildlife as it slowly decays. In fact an oak tree is really just like a big wildlife hotel!
- Oak trees are deciduous which means they lose their leaves in winter. Like other deciduous trees, oaks have wide flat leaves from which water is easily evaporated. In winter when the ground is cold or frozen, it is difficult for trees to take up enough water through their roots, so in autumn as the days become shorter and darker, trees lose their leaves and 'sleep' through the winter. Then in spring as the days become longer and brighter, the tree produces a whole new set of leaves.
- In May oak trees also produce two types of flowers. Male flowers hang in long catkins from the twigs and female flowers appear at the tips of the twigs. Pollen from the male flowers is carried to the female flowers by the breeze and the female flowers eventually turn into seeds called acorns. By the autumn the acorns are ripe and fall to the ground. Many are eaten by animals such as deer, squirrels, mice and rabbits and by birds such as jays and rooks. But hopefully some will land or be dropped on the soil and germinate the following spring.
An oak seedling may reach a height of 30cm in its first year but it has a long way to go! Oak trees are very long lived and can live for 1000 years or more! - There are two species of oak native to Britain:
- The English Oak (Quercus robur) is a massive tree and can grow up to 40 metres in height. It has a short trunk, long branches and a huge crown. The leaves have 4 or 5 lobes (rounded wiggles) on each side and don't have stalks. The acorns of English oaks are attached to the twig by long stalks.
- The Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea) can also grow up to about 40 metres in height. It has a longer trunk than the English Oak. and a fan shaped crown. Its leaves are also a rounded wiggly shape in outline, but unlike the English oak, leaves of the sessile oak grow on stalks. The acorns are stubbier and they don't have stalks.
Top 10 conker facts
- In some countries, like Corsica, where wheat does not grow well their staple food is a flour made from chestnuts (sweet chestnuts and not horse chestnuts) which can be baked into cakes and bread.
- A conker is the seed of the horse chestnut tree (not the sweet chestnut tree where we get edible chestnuts from). It is a hard brown nut which is found in a prickly casing. They fall from the tree when they are ripe during the autumn months. Conkers is the name given to a game played between two people at a time.
- The World Conker Championships take place at Ashton near Peterborough every October. 'Conker' is a corruption of the word 'Conquerer'.
- Conkers are eaten by deer and cattle but not necessarily by horses. The horse part of the name means they are unsuitable for human consumption.
- The horse chestnut is a native in the Balkan Peninsula. (This peninsula is in SE Europe, bounded by the Adriatic, the Aegean and the Black Seas.)
- Britain is believed to be the only country in the world where the game of conkers is traditionally played with horse chestnuts in the autumn.
Prepare your conker for playing
The best conkers to play with are uncracked, firm and symmetrical. Make a hole through the middle of your chosen conker. Thread a strong piece of string about 25cm long, through the hole and tie a knot at one end, so that it doesn't pull through.Each player has a conker hanging on its string. Players take turns at hitting their opponent's conker. If you are the one whose conker is to be hit first, let it hang down from the string which is wrapped round your hand. The conker is held at the height your opponent chooses and is held perfectly still.
Your opponent, the striker, wraps his conker string round his hand just like yours. He then takes his conker in the other hand and draws it back for the strike. Releasing the conker he swings it down by the string held in the other hand and tries to hit his opponents conker (yours) with it.
If he misses he is allowed up to two further goes.
If the strings tangle, the first player to call "strings" gets an extra shot.
If a player drops his conker, or it is knocked out of his hand the other player can shout 'stamps' and jump on it; but should its owner first cry 'no stamps' then the conker, hopefully, remains intact.
The game goes on in turns until one or other of the two conkers is completely destroyed.
Hints on how to make your conkers harder
- Soak your conker in vinegar.
- Bake your conker in the oven.
- Use an old conker from previous years.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Wildwood welcomes new arrivals - two new wild boar
Photo by Nandy SoumyajitWildwood has taken delivery of two new wild boar who arrived after a long journey from Cheshire.
The youngsters an unrelated pair (as yet unamed) are about 5 months old and are pure bred wild boar from European stock.
The two are settling in to their new surroundings in an enclosure next door to Boris, Harriet and Billy the other wild boar resident at the park.
"They are very feisty" commented Paul Wirdnam, head keeper at Wildwood,"visitors have already seen them snuffling around and they have made themselves right at home".
The new additions will be part of the woodland management around the park. Areas of non native tree plantation will be cleared and a temporary enclosure will be built and the boar will turn the area over encouraging the seeds of British species plants to grow and begin to regenerate the woodland.
Wild boar form an integral part of the historic landscape of Britain and help woodland flowers, insects, animals and trees regenerate creating countryside richer in wildlife. We have been lobbying hard to ensure Wild boar are given a chance to regain their natural place in our woodlands to help our children enjoy a woodland landscape rich in flowers, butterflies and birds.
Wild boar are just one of the huge range of British animals that can be seen at the Wildwood Discovery Park, for more information visit the website at http://www.wildwoodtrust.org/ or telephone 0871 7820087.
Wildwood is an ideal day out for all the family where you can come 'nose to nose' with British Wildlife. Wildwood offers its members and visitors a truly inspirational way to learn about the natural history of Britain by actually seeing the wildlife that once lived here, like the wolf, beaver, red squirrel, wild boar and many more.
Wildwood is situated close to Canterbury, just off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at http://www.wildwoodtrust.org/ or telephone 0871 782008.
Photo by Martin WerkerWild Boar Facts
The European Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), ancestor of the domesticated pig, is the largest of the present-day wild hogs - the males or boars sometimes reaching a height of 40 inches at the shoulder and a weight of 350 pounds. A male wild boar is armed with a pair of large sharp strong tusks, the upper canine teeth, which curve outward and upward, reaching a length of ten inches in old age. The female or sow bears litters of 3 to 12 striped young in a nest hidden in thick brush.
Some facts concerning the Wild Boar:
- The Wild Boar has a gregarious nature and is mainly woodland-dwelling.
- Wild boar mainly feed on deer truffles, acorns, nuts, tubers, insects, earthworms and some carrion.
- Vocalisations are very important, and wild boar are constantly grunting and chirruping to each other, and squeal when alarmed.
- Wild boar are usually not dangerous and do not attack other animals and people. However, they can be very aggressive, especially females with young, or injured animals.
- Wild boar are naturally timid and (normally!) run away at the sight of people.
- Wild boar have a life span of between 15 and 20 years.
The date at which wild boar finally became extinct in Britain is unclear due to subsequent attempts at re-introduction. In continental Europe, wild boar were (and still are) widely distributed and attempts were made in the 18th and 19th centuries to re-introduce animals to Britain from abroad, initially into private estates for hunting purposes. James 1st released animals firstly from France and then from Germany into Windsor Park in 1608 and 1611 respectively. His son, Charles 1st (reigned 1625-1649), also released boar into the New Forest from Germany.
It is thought that the original British wild boar were probably extinct by the 13th century, and the re-introduced animals became extinct during the 17th century. Between the 17th century and the 1980s, when wild boar farming began, only a handful of captive wild boar, imported from the continent as zoo exhibits, were present in Britain. Until very recently, no free-living wild boar (native or introduced) have been present in Britain for the last 300 years.
Wildwood welcomes new arrivals - two new wild boar
Photo by Nandy SoumyajitWildwood has taken delivery of two new wild boar who arrived after a long journey from Cheshire.
The youngsters an unrelated pair (as yet unamed) are about 5 months old and are pure bred wild boar from European stock.
The two are settling in to their new surroundings in an enclosure next door to Boris, Harriet and Billy the other wild boar resident at the park.
"They are very feisty" commented Paul Wirdnam, head keeper at Wildwood,"visitors have already seen them snuffling around and they have made themselves right at home".
The new additions will be part of the woodland management around the park. Areas of non native tree plantation will be cleared and a temporary enclosure will be built and the boar will turn the area over encouraging the seeds of British species plants to grow and begin to regenerate the woodland.
Wild boar form an integral part of the historic landscape of Britain and help woodland flowers, insects, animals and trees regenerate creating countryside richer in wildlife. We have been lobbying hard to ensure Wild boar are given a chance to regain their natural place in our woodlands to help our children enjoy a woodland landscape rich in flowers, butterflies and birds.
Wild boar are just one of the huge range of British animals that can be seen at the Wildwood Discovery Park, for more information visit the website at http://www.wildwoodtrust.org/ or telephone 0871 7820087.
Wildwood is an ideal day out for all the family where you can come 'nose to nose' with British Wildlife. Wildwood offers its members and visitors a truly inspirational way to learn about the natural history of Britain by actually seeing the wildlife that once lived here, like the wolf, beaver, red squirrel, wild boar and many more.
Wildwood is situated close to Canterbury, just off the A291 between Herne Bay and Canterbury. For more information visit our website at http://www.wildwoodtrust.org/ or telephone 0871 782008.
Photo by Martin WerkerWild Boar Facts
The European Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), ancestor of the domesticated pig, is the largest of the present-day wild hogs - the males or boars sometimes reaching a height of 40 inches at the shoulder and a weight of 350 pounds. A male wild boar is armed with a pair of large sharp strong tusks, the upper canine teeth, which curve outward and upward, reaching a length of ten inches in old age. The female or sow bears litters of 3 to 12 striped young in a nest hidden in thick brush.
Some facts concerning the Wild Boar:
- The Wild Boar has a gregarious nature and is mainly woodland-dwelling.
- Wild boar mainly feed on deer truffles, acorns, nuts, tubers, insects, earthworms and some carrion.
- Vocalisations are very important, and wild boar are constantly grunting and chirruping to each other, and squeal when alarmed.
- Wild boar are usually not dangerous and do not attack other animals and people. However, they can be very aggressive, especially females with young, or injured animals.
- Wild boar are naturally timid and (normally!) run away at the sight of people.
- Wild boar have a life span of between 15 and 20 years.
The date at which wild boar finally became extinct in Britain is unclear due to subsequent attempts at re-introduction. In continental Europe, wild boar were (and still are) widely distributed and attempts were made in the 18th and 19th centuries to re-introduce animals to Britain from abroad, initially into private estates for hunting purposes. James 1st released animals firstly from France and then from Germany into Windsor Park in 1608 and 1611 respectively. His son, Charles 1st (reigned 1625-1649), also released boar into the New Forest from Germany.
It is thought that the original British wild boar were probably extinct by the 13th century, and the re-introduced animals became extinct during the 17th century. Between the 17th century and the 1980s, when wild boar farming began, only a handful of captive wild boar, imported from the continent as zoo exhibits, were present in Britain. Until very recently, no free-living wild boar (native or introduced) have been present in Britain for the last 300 years.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Mythical beast is ‘spotted’ in Windermere
15:19, Wednesday, 23 September 2009TALES of a mythical creature rumoured to be lurking in the depths of South Lakeland waters have been causing a stir.
Click here to see the footage
The so-called “Bownessie” is fast becoming part of modern Lake District folklore, as reported sightings of the fabled creature continue to be made.
Footage that some people believe appears to show the creature causing ripples in the surface of Windermere was shot by Lakes TV cameraman John McKeown on Saturday.
It has since appeared on Sky News on Sunday evening and American TV network giant CBS is also interested in the story.
People in Windermere are not convinced Bownessie actually exists.
But they believe it could be good for the town’s tourist economy if the legend can capture the imagination of visitors in a similar way to the Loch Ness monster.
Councillor Bill Smith, mayor of Windermere, said: “If they believe it’s actually there, I’m sure it will attract them to come and see.
“Anything that draws interest and awareness to the Lake District has to be a positive opportunity.
“I don’t think the term monster is the best expression of an animal living in the lake that could be of interest.
“It suggests something nasty, not something that could be attractive and positive.
“Bownessie conjures up something that’s a bit more cute.
“The people that have seen it believe genuinely they have seen something, even if there is no real proof yet.
“But let’s be honest, it’s far better for Loch Ness that they’ve never located it because it helps perpetuate the belief.”
Paul Holdsworth, Windermere town centre manager, says the Bownessie phenomenon is the latest in a long line of Lake District mythologies.
He said: “Probably the longest standing one is Tizzie Wizzie, which was first spotted by a Bowness boatman around 1900 and he used to tell stories of this extraordinary creature.
“It was said to have the body of a hedgehog, tail of a squirrel and a pair of bee-like wings and was a shy, water-loving creature.
“So, for the sceptics who think Bownessie is something to get the tourists in, this tale has already been around for over a hundred years. There is nothing new under the sun perhaps.”
Jacqui O’Connor, press officer for Windermere Lakes Cruises, said: “Our vessels sail up and down the lake 364 days a year and we have never seen anything unusual.
“However, our skippers remain alert as always.”
Windermere myth and legend
GYLPIN’S wild boar – A wild boar is said to have terrorised pilgrims who entered the woods between Kendal and Windermere in the 12th century.
Richard de Gylpin killed the boar and was rewarded with the manor of Kentmere.The white horse of Windermere – It is said a ghostly white horse walks on the water from shore to shore when harm is about to come to the homes around the lake.
The Crier of Claife – Centuries ago, ferrymen at Ferry Nab often heard strange calls for the boat to come across the water, but were too afraid to go. A monk exorcised the ghost and confined it to the quarry and woods. But there are still tales of walkers being followed by a hooded figure at Claife.
http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/mythical_beast_is_spotted_in_lake_windermere_1_614951?referrerPath=news
Mythical beast is ‘spotted’ in Windermere
15:19, Wednesday, 23 September 2009TALES of a mythical creature rumoured to be lurking in the depths of South Lakeland waters have been causing a stir.
Click here to see the footage
The so-called “Bownessie” is fast becoming part of modern Lake District folklore, as reported sightings of the fabled creature continue to be made.
Footage that some people believe appears to show the creature causing ripples in the surface of Windermere was shot by Lakes TV cameraman John McKeown on Saturday.
It has since appeared on Sky News on Sunday evening and American TV network giant CBS is also interested in the story.
People in Windermere are not convinced Bownessie actually exists.
But they believe it could be good for the town’s tourist economy if the legend can capture the imagination of visitors in a similar way to the Loch Ness monster.
Councillor Bill Smith, mayor of Windermere, said: “If they believe it’s actually there, I’m sure it will attract them to come and see.
“Anything that draws interest and awareness to the Lake District has to be a positive opportunity.
“I don’t think the term monster is the best expression of an animal living in the lake that could be of interest.
“It suggests something nasty, not something that could be attractive and positive.
“Bownessie conjures up something that’s a bit more cute.
“The people that have seen it believe genuinely they have seen something, even if there is no real proof yet.
“But let’s be honest, it’s far better for Loch Ness that they’ve never located it because it helps perpetuate the belief.”
Paul Holdsworth, Windermere town centre manager, says the Bownessie phenomenon is the latest in a long line of Lake District mythologies.
He said: “Probably the longest standing one is Tizzie Wizzie, which was first spotted by a Bowness boatman around 1900 and he used to tell stories of this extraordinary creature.
“It was said to have the body of a hedgehog, tail of a squirrel and a pair of bee-like wings and was a shy, water-loving creature.
“So, for the sceptics who think Bownessie is something to get the tourists in, this tale has already been around for over a hundred years. There is nothing new under the sun perhaps.”
Jacqui O’Connor, press officer for Windermere Lakes Cruises, said: “Our vessels sail up and down the lake 364 days a year and we have never seen anything unusual.
“However, our skippers remain alert as always.”
Windermere myth and legend
GYLPIN’S wild boar – A wild boar is said to have terrorised pilgrims who entered the woods between Kendal and Windermere in the 12th century.
Richard de Gylpin killed the boar and was rewarded with the manor of Kentmere.The white horse of Windermere – It is said a ghostly white horse walks on the water from shore to shore when harm is about to come to the homes around the lake.
The Crier of Claife – Centuries ago, ferrymen at Ferry Nab often heard strange calls for the boat to come across the water, but were too afraid to go. A monk exorcised the ghost and confined it to the quarry and woods. But there are still tales of walkers being followed by a hooded figure at Claife.
http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/mythical_beast_is_spotted_in_lake_windermere_1_614951?referrerPath=news
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