Summer is officially here and the meadow at Newton Point is
full of life! Home to Skylarks, Pippits and a multitude of butterflies, it is
also home to a diverse range of wildflower species. At first glance it is a
technicolour sea of buttercups and red clover, but look a little closer and you
might be surprised at what you find.
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| © Kate Bradshaw |
The Northern Marsh Orchids are still in flower, dotted
between clumps of Mouse-ear and the bright blue of Germander Speedwell. The
grassland is also home to at least five types of Vetch but let us know if you
can spot any more.
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| © Kate Bradshaw |
Yellow-rattle is in its prime. A vital meadow plant, it is
semi-parasitic in nature, stealing its energy from the rich meadow grasses that
surround it. Although this sounds rather aggressive, it plays a vital role in
the meadow ecosystem. By reducing the nutrient levels in the soil, it reduces the
competition posed by rich perennials and thick grasses, allowing the wild
flowers to flourish. So we have a lot to thank this little plant for.
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| © Kate Bradshaw |
Pop your head over the bank and down on the rocky shore line
you will find a much more coastal community. Small clumps of Sea Campion and
Thrift contrast with the deep yellow of Bird’s-foot-trefoil, creating a very
different species set to the meadow above.
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| © Kate Bradshaw |
So whether you want to admire the view or sit down with an identification book, it is definitely worth a visit.
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