Applegarthtown Wildlife Sanctuary-the Crown Estate

Overview

Development of Applegarthtown Wildlife Sanctuary began in 1984, when a piece of unproductive agricultural land was identified as an ideal site to convert into a wetland habitat. The intention was to attract, a wide range of native and migratory bird species.

Since the Second World War, much of our wetland habitats have disappeared due to modern farming methods and improved drainage techniques.

Consequently many of the bird species that favour these habitats have diminished in numbers. It was felt that here was a small opportunity to reverse that trend for the benefit of both wildlife and public enjoyment.

Local wildlife enthusiast, Bobby Smith was acutely aware of the problems faced by sand martins when attempting to breed in their natural habitats which can include burrowing holes into river banks and sand quarries. Unfortunately this breeding programme can be seriously affected by events such as flash floods, erosion and predation.

To try and address this issue in a small way, Bobby pioneered the use of purpose built concrete and pipe banks to encourage the nesting of sand martins in a safe environment.

The artificial nesting banks have proved to be extremely successful and the latest addition has an access chamber to the rear to allow for regular scientific and health monitoring of the young sand martins. The banks have proved a prototype for several other projects elsewhere in the UK and around the world.

Water levels can also now be controlled at different times of year by a sluice system to vary the habitat and to encourage a variety of wildlife to visit. An upgraded picnic area, disabled access, and viewing hide have recently been developed.

A ten year research programme which was completed in 2006 has been carried out into parasites and species density, and the annual ringing programme saw the 10,000th sand martin ringed in 2010.

Notable achievements of the sand martin ringing programme include birds which have bred here at Applegarthtown being later recorded in Senegal, only to return here the following year; and one bird, being recorded for the fifth year running here at Applegarthtown - approximately 60,000 air miles - quite a record!

The sanctuary is a good example of how local initiative and a sympathetic landowner can work together to restore waste ground to something which brings pleasure to all who visit it. Being situated next to farm buildings and surrounded by agricultural land, it is also an example of how farming and conservation can work hand in hand without conflict.