Back in early May we held our "Open day", this was an opportunity for the good folk of the local communities to come along, see the cattle and ask questions about the grazing, and about the nature reserve generally. What a great day it turned out to be, we had something in the region of 80 - 100 visitors to our humble stand, far, far better than we hoped for. Many people who came along had never even been on the Common, or had never ventured out as far before, so my thanks to all those who made the effort to trek over to see us.

Speaking of the cattle, they have settled in well and appear to be doing good work on the grazing compartment, we have already seen tangible results. One of the benefits of grazing cattle that is not immediately obvious is the increase in insect numbers. The cattle themselves and their dung can attract over 100 species of insects. One species is certainly benefiting from this, the Hobby. This is a falcon which feeds mainly on insects. An enigmatic bird which catches insects and small birds on the wing. In a dazzling display of skill the bird swoops and dives in hot pursuit of its' intended victim. We have seen 5 feeding together directly over the cattle grazed area of Ockley Common.

As we enter June I would strongly recommend a visit to the bog areas (Mire) of the reserve. Late May and early June see the flowering of the mire really burst into life.  Swathes of cotton grass, with its white fluffy seed head contrast with the deep magenta of the early marsh orchids. Also take a closer look on the ground to find the sundews. A small plant with a ring of red leaves covered in hairs and what appear to be water droplets. This is in fact a carnivorous plant, those tiny beads of liquid are actually a sticky substance designed to catch unwary insects. The hairs act as a trigger, and the leaf then folds over the unfortunate victim and releases a digestive liquid which slowly dissolves its' prisoner.

One of our real delights are the dragonflies. There has been 26 different species recorded on the reserve. A warm sunny day should bring out good numbers of these flying gems. Another winged beauty to see in June is the silver studded blue butterfly. This can be found on areas where the heather is short, and some bare round nearby. The male, as the name suggest is blue, similar but smaller than the familiar common blue butterfly, the female though is brown with some orange and white markings.

Finally, as the never ending boardwalk replacement goes on, I would like to offer people the chance to lend a hand. I intend to hold a volunteers day on Sunday 7^th June. Meet at the Moat car park for 10.30 am working through until 3 pm ish, or as long as you can spare. Old clothes, food, water and gloves (I have some) should be brought along. I will provide tools and training as needed, please let me know on the contact details below if you can help.

Cheers.      James Giles Reserve manager.

Contact. James Giles or Simon NobesOffice - 01428 685675 Mobile - 07971 974399

The monthly Meeting was brought forward by a week to the 7^th May, in order not to clash with the Meetings of other Village groups, some Members of which wished to go on the trip to Bognor arranged by Sandra.

The trip left at 10 am and 27 Members and friends enjoyed a very enjoyable but windy day at the coast, returning to Elstead at 5.15 pm.

The Meeting on 11^th June, is 'Keep Fit' by Jo Smith.