Mowbray Fields Local Nature Reserve, Didcot
Mowbray Fields is a green oasis in the heart of Didcot.
Featuring a brook, fill pond, wildflower meadow and a remnant of chalk grassland Mowbray Fields was designated a local nature reserve (LNR) in 2000 due to its existing wildlife value and abundant population of common spotted and southern marsh orchids.
Mowbray Fields is located immediately south of Didcot and northwest of East Hagbourne; the nature reserve and adjoining grassland are perfect for walks, picnics and family activities and are linked by the Sustrans national cycle network and public footpaths. South Oxfordshire District Council has owned the site since the 1980’s and the Northmoor Trust currently manages it on their behalf. A copy of the management plan is available on the South Oxfordshire District Council Website.
Pond area
The fill pond was constructed in 1983 as a flood overflow for the adjacent Hagbourne Brook. The fill pond was designed to prevent the flooding of East Hagbourne during heavy rains with water flowing into the pond via an overspill weir on the western boundary of the site. In the years since its construction the fill pond has developed a varied and interesting ecosystem, containing a number of habitats including a large temporary pool, wet grassland, marsh, a tall herb community, rough grassland and wet woodland. A raised causeway and viewing platform allow access into the heart of the pond and provide a great view of the orchids in spring and of the red kites soaring above.
On the eastern side of the reserve is a former railway line embankment; part of this embankment has been included in the LNR designation due to the chalk grassland growing on it and its potential as a habitat for insects.
Wildflower meadow
A new wildflower meadow was sown in 2001 to try and diversify the number of habitats found on the site. The meadow has been created on former amenity grassland that has relatively nutrient rich soil but is already showing signs of developing into a rich flowery meadow, providing a haven for a wide variety of insects, butterflies, mammals and birds.
Invertebrates
A survey carried out in 1999 found several important invertebrate species including one Red Data Book species, five nationally scarce species and 41 local species; in total 200 invertebrate species have been recorded on the site. Snipe have regularly been recorded over wintering in the fill pond, using the combination of wet muddy areas for feeding and the taller vegetation for hiding in; it is also likely that species such as grass snakes and common frogs are present.
It is our intention to ensure Mowbray Fields continues to provide a fantastic wildlife habitat and a great place for local people to visit and enjoy. Look out for our new programme of events in the forthcoming year.
For more information or to find out about conservation activities and volunteering opportunities on the site please contact the Neighbourhood Wildlife Warden on 01865 409410 or e-mail Lorretta Waters
Mowbray Fields is located south of Didcot at the end of Mowbray Road, off Mereland Road.
