The old meanders remain full to the brim in early May but as soon as a prolonged summer dry spell prevails (if it does) the level will drop rapidly and by July, what are now deep ponds, could be as dry as a bone. It is tempting to think that ponds should have water in all year round for them to be of benefit to wildlife but surprisingly that is not so. Newts and frogs especially, can benefit from such ephemeral habitats as it ensures there are no fish present to predate on their tadpoles. There is also a type of tiny shrimp called Chirocephalus which tolerates prolonged dry conditions and which proliferates in early spring when the ponds are full. These are closely related to Artemia that are sold dry in toyshops as “Sea Monkeys”.

I’ve said many times that the meadow is important for Turtle Doves but their absence (and that of Cuckoo) is worryingly in tune with their national decline and yet Willow Tits remain regular here.