nature

Autumn has come early

Our trees have had a bit of a struggle this year. The early cold spells set back the opening of the leaves, and killed a lot of blossom. Then a wet period helped blossom-rot and other fungal and bacterial diseases spread much further than normal. We then had a long hot period without any rain, which led to leaves withering and dropping off. As result of all these set-backs, many types of trees have now gone into an early autumn 'fall.' The birch has dropped its seed much earlier than usual, and many others such as sycamore, beech and horse chestnut are losing leaves early.
Here's hoping that their natural defence systems are working, that the effects are not permanent, and that they'll be back next year to support the bat roosts and birds nests as usual!
Talking of bats, records of them in the city centre are increasing as more people are sending in reports.
Sightings of bats feeding over parks and gardens are interesting, but not as valuable as knowing their roosting (living and sleeping) sites. We have now created a very simple map of the few known roosts in the city, which will be used to inform council staff and developers on the need for bat surveys with planning applications.
Finding and protecting roost sites is difficult. In summer, warm places are used by females and their young. In winter, bats tend to go for places like caves and cellars where they can hibernate and thus avoid the worst of the seasonal weather (and lack of food). Keep recording nature!

Jon Capel, City Ecologist
Tel: 300300
Email: jon.capel2@hullcc.gov.uk