EXTENSIVE restoration to ponds at a popular nature trail and working farm has improved habitats for wildlife.

Three ponds at Lower Smite Farm, a 150 acre farm which acts as the operational base for Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, have undergone extensive restoration.

The farm, near Hindlip, is managed with wildlife in mind, with arable fields, woodland and an orchard on site.

The wetland areas on the farm, which consist of two larger ponds, two shallow scrapes and a small pond, are homes for great created newts and grass snakes, as well as a range of aquatic species like dragonfly nymphs and water scorpions.

In recent years, water levels in the ponds dropped as the reed cover has increased - which is thought to have led to fewer sightings of frog and toad spawn, as well as aquatic invertebrates.

The restoration project saw amphibious vehicles called Truxors removing much of the reed cover to increase the volume of open water habitat for wildlife.

Jasmine Walters, wildlife and farming officer for the Trust, said: “To minimise disruption to wildlife, the timing of these works has been vital. At this time of year, amphibians are hibernating on land and birds are not breeding in the vegetation, which means it is the perfect time to manage this habitat.

“We’ve removed about 70 per cent of the reed cover, increasing the amount of open water available to allow insect life to thrive whilst also ensuring habitat for birds like reed warblers to breed in next year.

"We’ve created piles nearby with the removed vegetation, which will provide habitat for wildlife including, hopefully, breeding grass snakes.

“The good news is that, just after the works took place and the cold weather took hold, I spotted a common darter dragonfly laying eggs on one of the restored areas. We can’t wait to see how the life here bounces back.”

In addition to benefitting wildlife, these works will also support the Trust’s education team, who regularly use the pond in outdoor learning sessions with school groups.

Both ponds can be seen on the nature trail at Lower Smite Farm. More information about visiting can be found at www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/nature-reserves/lower-smite-farm.