PROTECTING GOOLE'S NATURAL HISTORY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Oakhill Pond
PROTECTING GOOLE'S NATURAL HISTORY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Oakhill Pond
OAKHILL POND
The main pond at Oakhill Nature Reserve is a central feautre of the site, surrounded by flat walking paths and natural vegetation. It forms part of a network of wetlands and former brick ponds, now managed to support wildlife. The pond provides a calm, reflective settings where visitors can often see birds such as ducks and swans, as well as insects like dragonflies in warmer months. The deep expanse of water is the largest body of water on the reserve. Great-Crested Grebe, Mallard, Coot and Moorhen are usually visible from a number of specially constructed dipping platforms which trace the edge of the circular walk. In winter months see how many tufted ducks you can count.
WHAT YOU'LL NOTICE
Around the pond at Oakhill Nature Reserve, you can see a really good mix of wetland wildlife. It changes a bit with the seasons, but you’re likely to spot ducks, swans and various other water birds. Songbirds and the occasional bird of prey and special species like the willow tit, which is nationally declining. The area is know for having a rich bird life.
You will see bright dragonflies and damselflies, the site is one of the best in Yorkshire for them. The site is rich in butterflies and other insect life such as beetles and bees. On warm days the pond edges are often buzzing with activity.
Because the area is a wetland you’re also likely to spot frogs and newts near the water, in and around the aquatic plants. As well as a host of grass snakes and other shy reptiles that live amongst the vegetation.
