From inside the community I have at times written about how our linked gardens can provide a green corridor for wildlife, for birds, small mammals, butterflies, dragonflies, bees, bats foraging etc. There seems to be growing recognition of this among nature writers and presenters, who are promoting a degree of wilding our gardens, whether it is simply leaving seed heads as winter food, planting bee and butterfly friendly flowers to those pollinators, or actually dedicating a portion where nature looks after itself. Although this has the objective of doing something to help conserve wildlife, it also has the great benefit of bringing nature into our gardens and boosting our own health and wellbeing. When we take those few moments to look out, we might see more than sparkling frosts and setting suns, we might spot other creatures going about their business. I reflect on the fleeting glimpse of blue wings of the holly blue butterflies, the honey bees busying round the lavender, the sun’s sparkle on the gossamer wings of dragonflies seen from my favourite bench. I heard or read someone say recently that when they are in their garden they regard themselves as just another creature amongst the rest! Pete Hewitt 21
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA4ODM=