Stapeley in the snow

After all the weather warnings the snow finally arrived, with the knowledge I was going to be working outside I put on as many layers as physically possible!  With the snow still falling I made sure all our outdoor patients had plenty of food and water available- not covered over by snow or ice.

                          

    

Luckily the swans are on their pool most of the time preventing the water from freezing over, I think they are brave going for a swim in this weather!  One option for people at home is to put a ball on the water which can prevent the water from freezing.

                                

       

Although the snow has caused havoc, staff and members of public have remained undeterred battling through to bring in wildlife casualties unable to cope. Unfortunately the one thing that the snow does put a halt on is our releases until the weather improves to make the transition back into the wild easier.

                    

     

Wildlife needs help during these conditions. I had a flock of pigeons ‘hungrily’ follow me as I carried trays of seed out to the aviaries and witnessed a cheeky grey squirrel taking opportunity to help itself to some of the swan’s available food.  At Stapeley we have bird feeders (donated by CJ Wildlife) that we keep topped up, they very quickly get many grateful customers.

                         

 

If you also want to help the wildlife in your garden providing them with unfrozen fresh water, food such as seeds, fruits and nuts (unsalted) as well as garden waste can make all the difference.  For more information on how to support wildlife in your garden take a look at the RSPCA website: http://bit.ly/aLVAlH

Supporters of Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre