New signs for the Queslett Nature Reserve

At long last new signs which were paid for by the FQNR have been delivered and erected by the Birmingham City Council Parks department. They have been placed near the Old Horns Entrance and the Ashworth Road Entrance.
On the new signs is information about the Queslett nature Reserve its history and wildlife. There is also some information about the FQNR.
WE are looking for new members and if you would like to know more please ring 360 6486

HELP OUR BIRDS NOW

With the near Artic conditions we are facing at the moment please give a little thought for the bird life in the area. They will urgently need your help.
Members of the Friends of the Queslett Nature Reserve like Secretary Brenda Wilson are regularly going into the Queslett nature Reserve to put out all sorts of different food for the birds there but much more id needed.
You can do your bit by putting out some scraps for the birds in your own garden. Check out the RSPB Webb site if you would like more information on the subject

HAPPY NEW YEAR

On behalf of the FQNR Committee I would like to thank all those who have taken an interest in the Queslett Nature Reserve over the last year.
We will be informing members and other interested parties of our activities next year on future posts.

Happy New year to everyone.

Councillor Keith Linnecor
Chair FQNR

DO NOT GO ON THE LAKE IN THE RESERVE IF IT FREEZES OVER

The lake in the Queslett Nature Reserve should be treated with caution at the best of times but in the winter even more so.
The lake is not suitable for swimming in, it is not treated and may have dangerous algae in it. Dogs should not really be encouraged to go in the lake for the same reason.
In the winter when if lake freezes over, it is sometimes tempting to try and stand on it. This can be dangerous even near the edge. One fall and a bad soaking could lead to all sorts of complications. KEEP OFF THE LAKE WHEN IT IS FROZEN.
It is far better and safer to just enjoy looking at the lake and its wild life on the lake from the safety of dry land..


Councillor Keith Linnecor
Chair FQNR

THE WEATHER IS INGNORED AS THE ACTIVITY DAY GOES AHEAD

I would just like to thank all those member who braved the weather and turned up on Saturday to help plant trees, prune bushes and litter pick. You all did a great job.
A number of Oak and Beech trees were planted and with any luck they will live to maturity and help replace many of the trees which are being lost though out the city. The litter in the reserve is now well under control and although more pruning work is needed many of the paths are well pruned back.

Councillor Keith Linnecor
Chair FQNR

FQNR ACTIVITY DAY

There will be an activity day event at the Queslett Nature Reserve on Saturday 28th November.
Group members will meet at 11.30am at the Ashworth entrance .
We will be planting some small trees, doing some basic pruning work and litter picking.
As ever come prepared for the weather and in stout shoes.
Ring 360 6486 for any further details.

FEEDING THE BIRDS IN THE QUESLETT NATURE RESERVE

Now that the winter is approaching you may wish to feed the birds in the Queslett Nature Reserve.. That is fine the birds do need help to survive the winter, but please remember some importatnt things.
Do not feed the birds in the late afternoon of after dusk. The birds will not eat at this time and left over food will encourage rats.
The best time to feed the birds is early in the morning and please do not leave to much food.
Feeding birds regularly is better than to leave a glut of food for them.
Do not leave food on foot paths.
Nuts in bags placed in trees is fine however there is also a chance that the squirrels will get there first and please remove the bags when you notice they are empty.

What foods should you provide?
High energy foods, various nuts and seeds.
Soaked bread (white or brown) – dry bread swells in the stomach.
Leftovers, e.g. cake, cooked rice etc. are fine, but no spicy or salty foods, or "gone off" foods.
Apples, cut in half and put the ground are excellent for blackbirds and robins.
You can also contact the RSPB for advice and don't forget to feed the birds in your garden to.

Please enjoy feeding the birds and remember to take care if you use the reserve in bad weather.

Councillor Keith Linnecor
Chair FQNR