Countryside Management Association News

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is appalled to report that youths set fire to part of Warwickshires largest reed bed at Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Over 3 hectares, more than a third of the entire reed bed, have been burnt to the ground devastating this nationally important habitat. It took at least three fire engines to put out the fire.

Reed beds are not common or extensive in Warwickshire and few are large in number which is why the Trust feels this particular reed bed is so important. They say the larger the reed bed the better the chance for species such as bittern to breed.

The UK and Local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) identifies reed beds as a key habitat and targets the protection and positive management of existing reed beds. Warwickshire Wildlife Trust manages Brandon Marsh SSSI with this in mind.

Sophie Leszczynska, Conservation Manager at Warwickshire Wildlife Trust said “this could not happen at a worse time of year as birds, such as reed bunting and reed warbler, are just starting to build their nests.”

Many plants, insects and small mammals such as mice and voles will have perished in the fire. This mindless act of vandalism has not considered the wider implications to some of the countys best wildlife habitat.

Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest is Warwickshire Wildlife Trusts flagship nature reserve. It can be found 2km south east of Coventry off the A45 near Toll Bar roundabout.