New homes for wildlife at Bellsquarry Wood
Birds, bats and bugs are benefiting from brand new homes in Bellsquarry Wood in Livingston.
Nest boxes, bug hotels and bat boxes, which have been decorated with the postcodes EH54 FLY, EH54 BUG and EH54 BAT, have been installed in the wood by the Woodland Trust Scotland with help from Bellsquarry Primary School pupils and volunteers from People’s Postcode Lottery.
The wildlife homes are part of a project to create a new community orchard next to the wood. The orchard will include features such as wildflowers, heritage fruit trees and mown paths.
Jill Donnachie from the Woodland Trust Scotland said: “Our plans for the orchard have gone down really well with people in Bellsquarry. Installing the wildlife homes is the first step in making this project a reality. The orchard is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who have raised an amazing £1,241,552 to support our work since 2010. Many thanks to all of their players.”
Sanjay Singh from People’s Postcode Lottery said: “Bellsquarry Community Orchard is a fantastic way to get local people involved with the woodland on their doorstep. We’re delighted players’ support is encouraging people to explore their local woods across Great Britain and discover an amazing variety of woodland environments.
Primary 5 pupil Abbie McMillan from Bellsquarry Primary School said: “We helped the Woodland Trust design the orchard and we’re really excited to help give bats and birds somewhere to live. I can’t wait until we start getting apples from the trees!”
Bellsquarry is one of several woods cared for by the Woodland Trust Scotland in Livingston. It is popular urban woodland rich in wildlife with excellent public access and a range of routes to explore.
