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The  South Essex Natural History Society is
Registered Charity 231981
The Society was formed in 1934 as a direct result of the move to have Hadleigh Great Wood preserved as a nature reserve for the enjoyment of future generations.
The AIMS are to further the study and conservation of the flora and fauna, particularly in South Essex, and to create an awareness of the importance of local wildlife.The Society takes an active interest in local affairs relating to natural history.  It holds meetings both indoors in Southend and outdoors.

If we are to continue to protect our natural heritage we need your support. Membership is open to anyone interested in natural history or who wishes to learn more.

Contact us

 

 

Talks and Walks

WALKS with the SOUTH ESSEX NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY (SENHS)

on the BELTON HILLS Local Nature Reserve

The Flora and Fauna there are precious and interesting.

Free: No Charge        Start time: 11am       Duration: 1 hour approximately

Starting point: In Marine Parade, at the top of the stairs leading down to Leigh-on-Sea Rail Station

     

 Days

      

May

      

June

      

July
     

 Wednesdays

      

 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

      

 5, 12, 19, 26

      

 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
     

 Saturdays

      

 

      

 3, 15

      

  13
     

 Sundays

      

  5, 12

      

  30

      

   7, 21
                                                         

Book on: 01702 588115

Mobile only on the day 07505463162

Participants must make themselves aware of Health and Safety factors, especially on the footpaths.

 

“On our first walk it was a beautiful sunny day. Chaffinches were in full song, accompanied by a recently arrived chiffchaff. An Orange Tip Butterfly and a Bee Fly were foraging among the Alexanders, which were giving off quite a perfume. There was no sign of the Deptford Pink plants, where they were last year in a recess designated for them by some steps. Instead, the space was overgrown with a tremendous thatch of dead plants, two feet high. Both the numerous Alexanders and the overgrown area emphasise how the nature reserve changes. Alexanders, because of their relentless spreading habit, shade out other plants. Coarse grasses, too, can overwhelm other plants for which the Belton Hills are prized. With no grazing, inappropriate mowing is not the answer. The Management Plan is in need of revision, especially at a time when the Borough Council is experiencing cut backs and this affects how management is carried out. 

The Local Biodiversity Action Plan is dependent primarily on local official contribution in the form of conservation measures. However, the Borough Council is turning, encouraging greater participation by volunteers in looking after this important wildlife heritage. It would like to see the FRIENDS OF THE BELTON HILLS reinstated, with people taking a real interest in the welfare of this site. There is scope to be innovative in dealing with management problems. Volunteers can help in a practical way to make improvements in the situation.

Would-be new FRIENDS and volunteers in the community are invited to join in with the necessary activities together with members of the South Essex Natural History Society.  Contact 01702 588115, or pjwortley@btinternet.com.

Next Indoor Meeting: Thursday 23rd May 2013. For further details see 2013 Indoor Meetings

Next Field Meeting: Saturday 18th May 2013. For further details please see 2013 Field Meetings

 

 

Contact Information

Pat Wortley
01702 588115

v.tring@virgin.net