January Notes

by David Tidmarsh - 11:55 on 23 January 2015

Unfortunately the Cider production didn't go as well as planed, it seems to have produced ACV or to you and me Apple Cider Vinegar. This may well contain useful properties with regards to weight loss etc. but as far as a good drink is concerned it certainly is not. Consulting my books it seems to have been contaminated by acetic acid bacteria which is in the air, even though it was covered by a lid it will  be beneficial  to have an air tight valve next time. Yes there is always next years harvest to try again.

Boxing day, I had a pleasant walk and saw some proper Boxing day Dippers, I observed one Dipper which I love seeing dipping under the water whilst feeding, they certainly have settled into the area in the last few years hopefully this is a sign of the water in the Burn is much cleaner than before, thanks to the work of the  Wear Rivers Trust.

More tree planting has taken place and with dozens of more young trees to plant before late Spring, these will be planted over at Woodstone wildlife area. It is a balancing act trying to organise planting by checking for frost free days, and when volunteers are available, otherwise you end up planting out on your own, its not as good but you just get on with it but it is a slow process.

Now into January, I have just been out for a windy walk down Brecon Hill, I travelled along the lower path to the hairpin bend and returned via the high path back to the Floaters Mill pub. Plenty of mallard ducks about all paired up, Trees were thrashing about during the walk as there bare branches brushed and banged at each other with the force of the wind, they must have a good root hold in the bank sides as they were still intact.

Greenery is provided by the robust Ivy which clings to their host trees giving some cover for roosting birds at this time of the winter.

The delightful snow drop clump which seems to be diminishing is flowering well

This is in the Churchyard and is always a cheerful sight on these cold grey days. Other signs of bulb activity are slowly showing, especially where some cover of leaves or debris have sheltered the growth, all waiting to burst forth with new and exciting flowers.

Last month I learned of a word which was new to me, Redds, this word describes disturbance to the gravel in a stream bed where fish will lay their eggs. These nests are called redds. The female then lays her eggs while the male fertilizes them, while both fish defend the redd if necessary from other members which may eat these eggs.

As I am not a fisherman nor do I know may variations of fish this was quite an education. You need a very sharp eye to notice these redds in a fast flowing stream, as other animals could have disturbed the gravels ie dogs. So as the old saying goes, you are never too old to learn.

Looking forward to lighter nights and warmer days!

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