Help with hedge planting at Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is working with Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project to hold a hedge planting event on Wednesday 16 March at the Sanctuary’s Sidmouth site from 10am till 4pm.

As part of their Higher Level Stewardship scheme with Natural England, The Donkey Sanctuary actively manages hedgerows to improve conditions for farmland wildlife, enhance landscape character and protect the natural and historic environment.

Following on the success of their hedgelaying event in February, The Donkey Sanctuary is inviting people to help with hedge planting and fencing.

Ruth Angell, Wildlife and Conservation Coordinator, says: “Join us and the Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project and enjoy an invigorating day working outdoors, learning about bats and improving your practical skills”.

Devon is home to one of the UK’s rarest bats, the greater horseshoe bat, and this fascinating species needs our help to increase its population to secure its future. Like much of our wildlife, it is under pressure due to habitat loss and fragmentation, so one of the ways we can help is to make sure that it has what it needs to carry out its nightly activity of hunting for insect prey.          

Hedgerows are natural linear features which provide bats with connectivity between roost sites and foraging areas, and allow them to navigate their way across the landscape. As well as providing flightlines for bats, healthy hedges provide food and shelter for other wildlife.

This is a free event, however, booking is essential. Bring a packed lunch or lunch can be purchased from the Sanctuary’s Hayloft restaurant. Hot drinks will be available throughout the day.

For further information and to book a place, please contact Ruth on 01395 573162 or ruth.angell@thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk