Nature: The Tranquility of Nature

Just outside of Riverhead sits a pioneering nature reserve; a hidden gem of Sevenoaks. It is renowned for its expansive array of birds and breathtaking views. A 135-acre serene environment, the reserve boasts five stunning lakes and a mixed habitat of ponds, surrounded by vast woodlands. Over 2000 species of plants, fungi and animals have been discovered in the area; the figure is ever expanding. 

The area started out as farmland but was converted to a series of gravel pits, by Kent Sand & Ballast Company in the 1930s. The doctor brothers James and Jeffery Harrison conceived a vision of converting the site for wildlife, approaching the Kent Sand and Ballast company with the plan; in 1956 the project was launched. A joint venture carried out with many wildfowl associations and trusts, its primary aim was to increase the breeding and feeding habitats available to wildfowl and waders. This was the first British attempt to develop a series of gravel pits for the purpose of nature conservation; meaning that much of the work was experimental. In addition to their primary interest of creating an avian habitat, they knew that they had to create a completely thriving and sustainable community. Habitat management work took place to broaden the range of plants, insects and mammals on the site. The team was comprised entirely of volunteers who learned as they went along, adapting their approach and methods. Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve still relies on the help of it’s dedicated volunteers to this day, working as an effective team around the reserve’s small permanent staff. 

The Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve is mostly manmade, virtually all of the 13,000 trees around the nature trails were planted by hand. Lakes and ponds were created by excavating gravel pits, then flooding them with water from the River Darent. Reeds, rushes and sedges were planted around the margins of the lakes to provide food and cover for wetland bird species and insects. By 1980 a peaceful nature reserve stood in place of an industrial quarry. 

Unfortunately Jeffery Harrison didn’t live to see his vision completed, dying in 1978 at the relatively young age of 56. The Jeffery Harrison Memorial Trust was created following his death, running the site with the help of many benefactors until it was it was taken over by the Kent Wildlife Trust in 2005, at which point the site became open to the public. The visitor centre is still named after Jeffery Harrison to note his remarkable contributions to the site. 

A guided walk around the lakes and woods takes place once a month on a Sunday, showcasing birds and plants that can be found on the routes. The routes can be slightly rough so sensible footwear is advised and binoculars will be essential to fully enjoy the wildlife. You can also walk around the grounds at your own leisure five days a week, Saturday to Wednesday. You may be lucky enough to spot the elusive Great Spotted Woodpecker! In warmer weather, you are likely to see dragonflies and damselflies near the lakes. Keep an eye out for the Clustertop Vervain, with its beautiful purple flowers and alluring scent. 

The reserve has an enthusiastic education team, who encourage young children to discover the reserve and its inhabitants, putting it right at the heart of the local community. There are regular talks on the habitats and behaviours of animals that can be found around the region. Pond dipping experiences are a monthly activity, exploring the habitat of ponds and studying the many dragonflies and damselflies that can be found there. Nature trails take children into the wild, exploring how the animals live at the reserve. Mini beast sessions allow children to handle some of the creatures. 

The site features the world’s largest solitary bee house. Bees are a genus at risk, with many species in serious decline and the hive was created to house solitary bees that pollinate flowers. It was hoped that the hive would remind people of the plight of bees, encouraging them to create simple bee houses for their own gardens.

The Sevenoaks Nature Reserve is a fantastic location to see a wide range of wildlife, especially of the avian variety, and a plethora of flora. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing day out, strolling through the nature walks or trying a spot of bird watching. 

The reserve is currently open daily, dawn to dusk, and the visitor centre is open Saturday to Wednesday, 10am-5pm. n Call 01732 456407 for further information on events and visiting the reserve

Let's Go Birdwatching

One of Britain’s favourite birds and the unofficial national bird of the UK. As well as being visually stunning, the birds are known to be very people friendly, so you may be lucky enough to have it feed from your hand. 

A small bird, with quite an ornate plumage. A migratory bird, you should be able to catch them in the Spring time foraging for food in muddy areas. Enjoying a modern lifestyle, both the males and females take turns to incubate the eggs. 

These beautiful birds will often be found in trees, foraging for food. Often they lay their eggs in the second half of May, so have a listen out for the chirping of their young. 

One of the smaller birds of prey, the Eurasian Sparrowhawk has a blue-grey colouring with light orange underparts. Males tend to prey on smaller birds, such as tits and finches. The females can be up to 25 percent larger and as such are capable of taking down birds weighing over 500 grams. 

A breed of finch, the Siskin has greyish green plumage, with grey-streaked white underparts and black and yellow wings. The male has more of a yellow colouring with a distinctive black cap. Their chicks are often born in the period between April and June, making this a great time to look for them. 

Fascinating Flora

European Dwarf Elder (Sambucus Ebulus) n This plant has green leaves and stems, flowering in white or pink, it has been known to grow as tall as 2 metres. Each year the stem terminates producing a dense cluster of dark red berries. The stem and leaves turn red in autumn, causing it to be associated with blood and battles. 

Slender Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus Angustissimus) n Featuring small yellow pea-flowers on a very short stalk covered in small hairs, the plant derives its name from the shape of its seed pods. When ripe its pods are stiffly splayed like the claw of a bird’s foot. 

Small Cudweed (Filago Minima) n Small and slender with clusters of three to six woolly, white flowerheads. The plant was originally grown as food for cows who had lost the ability to chew cud, hence the name cudweed. Cudweed often grows in dry, arid areas. 

Clusterop Vervain (Verbena Bonariensis) n Tall, narrow, sparsely-leafed stems bear flattened heads of bright lavender-purple flowers. Originally native to South America, the flower became popular in England for its beautiful appearance and fragrant scent, which is similar to lavender. 

[Originally published for Vine Magazine]