OUWG Surveys

Each year, in the warmer months we undertake a series of surveys of areas of interest in Oxford.  These include areas of great wildlife value like the fritillary meadows, our own Boundary Brook site where we monitor the plant life, have moth trapping evenings or look at the pond life.

To take part, previous experience is not essential.

Please contact us if you would like more information.Last year we took part in surveys of Wytham Woods, Stow Wood, part of Cowley Marsh, the Bus Station Field and Oxpens Meadow.  This year we are helping to survey the fritillaries in Osney Mead (see events page) and the new northern extension of Boundary Brook Nature Park.

Environmental activities

Over the years we have taken part in many environmental activities in Oxford including ragwort pulling in Port Meadow, Operation Sparrowhawk (an environmental play-scheme for children) and litter blitzes in the Lye Valley and Trap Grounds. Individual members have had a significant impact on Oxford wildlife by becoming involved with the Forest of Oxford, Rivermead Nature Park, plans for a City Farm, creation and maintenance of Pat Hartridge's Churchill Hospital Wildlife Gardens, management of Holywell Cemetery, Litter Blitz at the Trap Grounds.

Garden Pond Survey

In 1995, our Garden Pond Survey publicised the importance of garden ponds in providing habitats for amphibians. Our advice line for frogs and toads resulted in an 'official' toad crossing in South Oxford and persuaded Oxford City Council to be the first local council to lower kerbstones to allow easier passage for migrating toads in North Oxford.

Spreading the Word!

At events, we give advice on conservation and wildlife gardening in Oxford and have broadcast on local radio and television and had pieces in the local press about wildlife matters.

We sell suitable plants and seeds to plant in people's garden to attract wildlife.  These must now grace many Oxford gardens.