Category: Estate News

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

November is a golden month, although the daytime is lessening and light is at a premium, nature tries its best to enable us to experience light through the beautiful colours of the leaves, which are gradually falling away during this penultimate month of the year.

Birds are quiet as they forage for fruit, particularly liking mature ivy berries, just coming into their best time, and providing a rich, full-fat snack. These berries do not fall victim to rot as quickly as others in the dank wet days and provide a firm and juicy source of nutrition right up to Christmas and beyond.

Just as migrating birds leave our winter, we have visitors who come to stay in the UK. These include Redwing and Fieldfare which arrive from Scandinavia, Eastern Europe and other colder areas. They nestle in our hedgerows, woodlands, and vineyards. Their chattering is a welcome sound on quiet days.

Starlings continue to happily provide their spectacular air shows and jackdaws will perform in groups. These beautiful crows are very vocal and form a couple for many years, both in and out of the breeding season. They fly alongside each other in their pairs within the groups.

Our deer may still be rutting and have been more noticeable since the start of autumn. Towards the end of November, they will have completed their rituals and the bucks are exhausted. They will retreat further into the woods and recover from the rush of testosterone and physical exertion of fighting to attract does. Some older individuals will be so weary they will be at the end of their natural lives. Others will take time to find food, which is already scarce, but they will need to replenish nutrients lost during their rut.

A colourful time of year to come to our beautiful estate and kick up some of the many leaves now lining our paths between the vines and in our woodland, banked up under our ancient oaks. Return to our tasting room, The View, sample some wines, ciders and beers and watch the day gradually fade. Take a look at our available tours.

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

October is the culmination of summer fruits and the beginning of autumn fungi on Hush Heath Estate. The berries, acorns, sweet chestnuts and horse chestnuts are in abundance, providing their rich palette of colours as well as nutrients for those species which are fattening up in preparation for winter. Different species of fungus are appearing overnight to pop up in the meadows and woodland, with shaggy ink-caps and parasols adding to the vegetation.

The windfalls from our apple trees will be attracting bright red admirals and comma butterflies which are feasting on them prior to winter. Commas are easily identifiable with their ragged wings and rich orange upper wings marked with dabs of black. They have been on the estate for several months by now, sometimes appearing on the wing in sunny days in February. But in this month, they are having a last ‘fling’ before overwintering in outbuildings during cold months.

October is also the commencement of the rutting season for our beautiful deer on the estate. Generally, the males and females remain in single sex hers, but at this time of year they congregate in rutting stands. This is the males’ annual ritual which they preface by rubbing their antlers on tree bark and other behaviours, to attract the females. Then during the rest of this month and into November the bucks compete for the does’ attention by bellowing or groaning and becoming very competitive towards other males. They use their antlers to charge each other and fiercely fight, which can be very aggressive. A deer will usually live an average of 3-5 years, the females surviving slightly longer.

Around the estate signs of autumn are gradually emerging. Harvest is in full swing, and days are getting shorter and darkness falling earlier. Most species are taking the opportunity to build up their larders and store them before the fruits and nuts die away. Approximately half of British birds migrate, and they too need to store fat for their long journeys. It is in this month that we may see large flocks passing over our estate and the fabulous sight of huge clouds of birds setting out. Every species has its own ‘map’ which they follow rather than randomly flying.

Starling murmurations, the fabulous cloud of thousands of birds, may also be seen at dusk. This is a complex and mathematical display seen as they fly to keep warm and discuss feeding grounds with each other before they bed down for the night. If we are lucky to see this on the estate, it is worth stopping and watching the amazing performance.

October presents so many opportunities, with the crisp days and beautiful class scenery, followed by some delicious wine and food, is not to be missed. Take a look at our available tours.

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

September at Balfour Winery is just magnificent.

The colours of the summer months are gradually giving way to the golds and oranges at the start of autumn. Berries are abundant in the ancient woodland – blackberries and elderberries provide food and moisture to so many species.

Spiders are at their peak and are busy building impressive webs to attract mates. Crane flies are also visible and these ‘daddy long-legs’ are totally harmless to humans, despite their reputation. The most common we see, entering buildings and clinging to windows, is the Tipulidae. This amongst 350 different species of this insect, has a single pair of wings and a navigation system to help it steer in the right direction.

Spotted in our woodland on a recent walk were common lizards. They too are using the benefit of the recent hot temperatures and are basking in the sunshine. They climb onto our log piles where they absorb the heat from the wood to thermoregulate. The warmer their bodies become, the more active they are and so, this summer, in our unusually high temperatures, they can be seen out and about. A joy to see in the usual cooler UK. They prey on spiders and other small insects and need to build up their nutrients before they hibernate for winter, often happening in October.

Take a look in the woodland and open areas for the start of some spectacular fungi, a sign autumn is coming. Gradually they will increase in quantity and species, but some early examples are common earthball and fly agaric, the perfect child’s drawing, a red toadstool. They like damp and chillier nights so this year they may prove elusive until the end of the month and into October when many other species will also start to show.

Join us for our Autumn Nature Tour on Sunday 25th September or come and visit for a free, self-guided walk of the estate.

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

This is another beautiful month to be walking on the Estate. Summer has become a little ‘untidy’ in some ways, particularly in the heat of the last month. Grasses and wildflowers will be affected by the hot and dry conditions this year and although still providing some cover for many invertebrates and small mammals, their flowers routinely fade in August and seed heads emerge to give a different kind of sculptural effect. This may be speedier this year although there are still plenty of insects foraging amongst them and their droning can be heard during a leisurely stroll.

Likewise, August can become a quieter month for wildlife generally. The breeding season for birds is all but over and cuckoos have long gone back to central Africa. Their offspring has been raised by other ‘host’ birds who then have the task of finding their way during migration for the first time. Approximately 50% of the UK bird species in total migrate, some on the long journey like the cuckoo and some much shorter journeys. Every species has its own route to follow which is a marvel of nature. With a lot of these birds preparing to leave, birdsong is noticeably less in this month.

One sound which will be familiar is that of grasshoppers and crickets. During daylight walks the sound you will most likely hear are grasshoppers rubbing their hind legs against their wings. Later in the day it is probably the sound of crickets, simply rubbing their wings together. They do this to ‘advertise’ themselves to their own species. Both these species also have different dietary requirements – grasshoppers feeding on grass and crickets preying on insects and therefore omnivorous. Bumble bees and hoverflies are also out and about in force as well as many other flying insects and whichever you hear, it is a privilege and sure sign that the ecosystem here is working as it should be and we are fortunate to experience this on our lovely Estate.

A final thought to take away from August is to be aware that wasps, although irritating, are very necessary on our planet. Beneficial as predators in gardens, agriculture and at Hush Heath Estate, they are useful in hunting aphids and a natural controller of other horticultural/agricultural pests. They are also pollinators of some flowers and willingly share their nests with other species, like hoverflies, meaning they are favourable in various ways. To deter their interest in humans, if one approaches it is always best to stay still and not to flap arms or hands as this frightens them and they will become angry. Many wasps in fact do not sting, but those who do are attracted by bright-coloured clothes and various scents.

There is so much to look forward to and we hope you enjoy the lovely experiences of nature in this gorgeous month on our Estate.

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

It is halfway through the year and spring, with its early butterflies and birds chattering in their nests before they fledge, is over.

However, there is still much to see, hear and enjoy during the long summer days. Our beautiful ancient woodlands provide the opportunity to see Silver-washed Fritillaries as well as Meadow Browns and Gatekeeper butterflies. Take a while to pause on your walk and just watch for these fluttering around the brambles. These fabulous insects bask on the warm short grass which enables them to reach their preferred temperature and in doing so, fly faster.

Bumble bees are very relaxed as they buzz from flower to flower. If you pause to watch, they seem to be gently grazing and occasionally lifting a leg – in order to see off predators. Looking closely, you may notice that some have longer antennae and they are usually males. Their main purpose is to fertilise the queens whilst the female workers will be taking pollen. It is thought they are even more efficient than honey bees.

Our froglets have emerged from the ponds by now and you may see toadlets, which have spent up to three months as tadpoles. Tread carefully – they are about the size of a small fingernail. Just like the froglets, few of the thousands of juvenile toads leave their place of birth to survive. Many are pursued by predators including beetles, and birds and some perish just by drying up in the mid-summer sun which dehydrates this moisture-loving species. If they do survive to become adults, they can deter their enemies as they contain a poison called bufotoxin which, when ingested can cause grave results to predators.

Strolling past our wildflower meadows this month you will see several species including field poppies, cornflowers and an abundance of meadow buttercups as well as beautiful coloured grass swaying in the wind. These support our pollinators and also provide a moist refuge for the frogs and toads, newts and other amphibians who have survived to this stage. From the soil up to the top of the plants there will be many invertebrates which also benefit, including butterflies, moths and ladybirds as well as safe places for spiders and other insects to rest. However, they are not completely safe as birds will also be foraging in our meadows and our birds of prey will particularly be hovering to find their next meal. The bird’s binocular vision, which is highly accurate, can spot prey from a distance and you will often see buzzards and kestrels circling for food.

This is a beautiful month at Balfour Winery and the Estate is stunning. Nature really is at its very best.

Visit us on Friday Evenings as we are open until 9pm throughout the summer months. No need to book, just come along. We look forward to seeing you.

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

June brings us the longest days of the year. It is the most prolific of summer months, a great time to walk our beautiful trails on the Estate and admire the explosion of vegetation in our hedgerows and wildflower meadows.

Birdsong has usually peaked by now as parents are busy feeding their young. This gives us the opportunity to hear more of our insects buzzing, droning, humming, and beating their wings to provide a cacophony. Each species has its own sound and these variations may be connected with attracting a mate or simply as a sonic message to their own kind.

The unmistakable noise of a grasshopper is a familiar sound in June. To hear this small, but noisy, species is a positive sign that the ecology of the Estate is working. They are crucial in maintaining our grassy areas in a healthy condition. Along with crickets, which are often evening visitors, they epitomise summer.

Butterflies are starting to emerge in larger numbers and we are regularly fortunate to see Peacock, Comma, Small Tortoiseshell and Cabbage Whites as well as the ornate Red Admirals. Our stinging nettle patches – look beneath the huge oak tree just before the hill branching off on the blue or yellow route – provide an ideal area for them to lay their eggs and pupate before maturing into an adult. They love the nectar from our wildflowers and provide a fabulous rainbow of colours, so good for the environment and for the soul.

The wildflower meadows are beginning to fill and many species will start to bloom. Birds-foot Trefoil is one of the most protein pollen rich flowers and Oxeye Daisies will be everywhere. Common Knapweed and Sorrel are also in abundance as are Buttercups and Cowslips as well as Queen Anne’s Lace. These provide a glorious palette of colour especially when crimson Poppies and blue Cornflowers also appear. We manage the meadows by cutting them after the summer blooms are over and allowing the seeds to drop to provide for the following year’s regeneration.

As these wildflowers grow and become taller they become a summer habitat for small mammals such as voles and shrews. In turn these provide a source of nutrition for our birds of prey with their amazing eyesight and ability to hover and swoop. The circle of life is constant and this is a beautiful place to appreciate the vibrancy of summer.

Book a place on our Summer Nature Tour to witness some of the sights and sounds of Balfour in summer.
Sunday 26th June | 10.30am or 1.30pm | £55pp

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

The explosion of life in the beautiful month of May means a walk on the Estate is a joy.

Spring has finally arrived and a meander through the meadows, orchards, vines and woodland reveals insects buzzing, shrubbery greening, wildflowers blooming and migratory birds returning –all contributing to the abundance of nature in May after a long, dark winter.

Bluebells are in full bloom and our native species grow in great swathes throughout the ancient woodland. They provide a delicate perfume and a shimmering lilac vista – bring your camera! Their range worldwide is very limited as they grow and thrive where the Atlantic damp climate influences their growth and because of this are considered a symbol of ancient woodlands in the UK. The bluebell’s pollen and nectar are rich and pollinated mainly by bumble bees.

Cowslips, buttercups, cow parsley, red campion and foxgloves are also abundant. Take a break to pause and listen to the constant hum as a myriad of insects go about their business amongst them.

As you walk past the orchards and into the woodland, you may encounter a cloud of mayfly which are emerging from ponds where they have lived as larvae until they reach adult life – briefly and solely to mate. The males dance around to attract females and they swoop and dip until they succeed, and the females go back to the water to lay their eggs. It is a brief existence as an adult – they do not have complete mouths and therefore cannot feed so their mating ritual is their last act which we can enjoy as their beautiful delicate bodies float in mid-air. Rich in protein as a source of food and important for their role in cleansing pond water, their short adult existence ensures that their species lives on.

The weather influences buds and blossom but strolling through the apple orchards you may see the leaf buds have unfolded and pink and white flowers have emerged. These are the beginning of the fruit as honeybees brush against the flowers and spread the pollen which germinates and produces fruit.

Birds are in full song and although their dawn chorus begins very early, they can still be heard during the day, reinforcing their territory and communicating with their individual species. Our woodland birds include blackbirds, bullfinches and thrushes plus cuckoos and woodpeckers – all of which have their signature calls and songs.

It is truly beautiful and a privilege to stop and listen as well as stop and look. Slow down and take in nature at its absolute best in the glorious month of May.

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

We welcome April with optimism as the days get longer.

This month, wildlife must manage the changing weather, as just one day can bring April showers, night frosts and warm sunshine within the space of a few hours. Acclimatising is a challenge.

In the ancient woodlands, the wood anemones are still carpeting the floor and there are signs that bluebells are coming. Wild garlic has been used in medicine and as a popular ingredient in cookery for centuries. Their bright green leaves are also a welcome sign of early Spring and are so important for the pollinators and other insects which are braving the mixed weather.

Mid-April may bring the unmistakable sound of the cuckoo. These clever birds have returned from their overwintering in Africa, flying from the Congo and neighbouring countries to lay their eggs in the nests of other birds. They have become very scarce as their population has declined significantly and so are a welcome sound to hear when walking the estate. They are shy birds but if we are lucky, we might spot them as they move from tree to tree. They are the size of a dove and can easily be mistaken for one of our kestrels with their long grey upper bodies and pointy wings.

Many bugs are emerging from their winter shelters as it becomes warmer. Bugs are important for our ecosystem as they are essential for pollination, turning the soil and dispersing seeds in addition to providing an essential part of the food chain for other species. Butterflies, moths, bees and beetles can all be seen in April with many others, heralding the onset of Spring.

There is much to see this month, join us for a tour or come along to our Nature Walk and Easter Brunch event on 17th April*, which combines nature with delicious food!

*booking required

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

March is a month of regeneration and there are signs of spring and summer around the corner. On the Estate the early nesting birds will be very active and may be spotted flying back and forth with twigs and other nesting material. The transfer from winter to spring can be on and off and insects and amphibians must accommodate the variations in weather from one day to the next. In the cold and harsh March days, these will stay at ground level sheltering and still in semi-hibernation. On a sunny day queen bumble bees and butterflies including peacocks and commas are out and about and landing on catkins and any early blooming flowers including wood anemones in the ancient woodlands, which are now in full bloom and providing the nectar they crave.   

Beautiful gorse, often not tolerated by landowners due to its encroachment if not managed, can be spotted along the paths on the estate, showing its bright yellow flowers and spreading its coconut aroma. Providing shelter and food for many invertebrates and birds, it is a cheerful reminder of the summer, still only a promise. 

The buzzards which are a regular feature in the skies above the estate often make use of the warm thermals towards the end of the month.  These beautiful birds of prey will start their mating ritual, the female is larger than the male, and when he approaches they will often be seen performing acrobatics to start their breeding season.  They mate for life and buzzards are one of the most common native species of raptor and their familiar ‘mewing’ is a welcome reminder of spring.   

Pondlife is gathering pace, with small insects like water bugs and pond skaters hovering just below the surface and frog spawn developing into tadpoles.  On a mild March day, the pond skaters will be visible skimming across the surface. These are valuable contributors to the aquatic food chain and predate insects and even small fish.   

March is truly a month when we can look forward to beautiful days to come on Hush Heath Estate. The woodland is turning a pale hue of green and there are signs of life everywhere.   

An update from Lindy – our Tour Guide Manager and Conservationist

February is statistically the coldest month of the year, and as the days slowly but surely begin to lengthen, there are new signs of life on the estate.

We know spring is on the way when we start to see the first signs of flora. Snowdrops will begin pushing their white heads through the woodland undergrowth ahead of the daffodils and primroses. A carpet of pretty wood anemones will also greet you if you take a walk through our woodland this month. These beautiful flowers spread very slowly, as little as six feet in a century, an indication of how ancient these woods are.

The pheasants are ubiquitous on the estate this time of year. The close season that begins in February allows them to roam further afield with no threat from predating humans.

Although there can be snow at this time of year, there are often sunny days too and in sheltered areas, it is possible to see a solitary bumblebee or butterfly which has bravely left its winter hiding place in search of nectar.

Our ponds will be most active at this time of year. Amphibians are starting their annual mating ritual and frogspawn are showing clearly under the surface. The adult frogs may have spent the winter in the mud at the bottom of our ponds, but can now be spotted in the woodland, where they also hibernate in our woodpiles and in ruts under leaves. The frogs emerge on a mild February day to return to the water when the breeding season commences.

February has surprisingly much to offer on our Estate and with increasingly lengthening light and just 28 days, it is a shame to miss it.