Nod towards nature

A european water rail photographed at Noddle Hill Lakes

© Bill Hipkiss of North Carr Conservation Group

An area the size of 30 football pitches on the edge of the Bransholme housing estate could become the city's first official local nature reserve.
The Noddle Hill Lakes area is made up of a fishing lake, woods, marsh and grasslands, and is home to wildlife including deer, grass snakes, water voles, buzzards and kingfishers.
Hull City Council has now enlisted the help of the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust in applying to Natural England, a body which advises the government on the natural environment, for Local Nature Reserve Status.
A decision is expected by the end of 2009.
"For many years we've been running a scheme for primary school children where they go to the lakes area to learn about nature," says Howard Flitton of the council's Urban Park Ranger Team.
"Having the status would mean the area's wildlife, flora and fauna would be protected for generations to come."

Meanwhile, park rangers are organising a winter fishing league at the lakes on the following Sundays: 13 December, 10 January, 14 February, 14 March and 11 April. The draw for pegs will be at 8am on each day, with trophies and vouchers for the winners. All ages and abilities welcome. Also, the North Carr Conservation Group is inviting people to take part in a bird watch in the area on Sunday 31 January, meeting at 10.30am in the car park of the Noddle Hill playground. Participants are advised to bring binoculars, bird books, warm clothes and a warm drink.