Keele University Arboretum

July 17th

Dave led a group to look at the moth trap and to hunt for butterflies in the Walled Garden.  A range of nice moths was seen including some brought in by Andy from his trap.

They included Poplar and Elephant Hawks, Large and Common Emeralds, Blackneck, Buff Arches, Buff-tip and, best of all, White Satin (last seen here in 1988) and Garden Tiger - another rarity - see photo.

Among the butterflies we saw Small Tortoiseshell, Large White, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Ringlet.

June 5th

Dave Emley led a group to the Sustainability Hub and around the Phase 3 site. We took the opprtunity to look at some of the common springtime flowers which included Herb Robert, Red Campion, Jack-by-the-hedge, Creeping and Meadow Buttercups and a variety of pea flowers. Round by the ponds we saw Ragged Robin, Marsh Marigold and Brooklime. Blackcap, Garden Warbler and Chiffchaff were heard singing while a pair of Lapwings chased a couple of Crows - did they have a nest?

May 1st

Dave Emley and Graham Lees led a lunchtime cherry walk.

Graham explained the variations in cherry flowers and the intricacies of Japanese names - plus much more!

Picture by Galina Smith.

April 25th

Dave Emley led members of the "Grey Matters" group form the Sustainability Hub on a tour of the arboretum.

April 10th

Dave Emley led a group of 20 delegates from the British Zeolite Association conference on a walk around the top 3 lakes.

4th March 2013

New waymarking posts directing visitors to the Woodland Walks have been installed. There are two by Keele Hall/ringroad and one by the Clock House.

15th February 2013

Green Week. Dave Emley led a group on a lunchtime walk. We looked at identifying trees in winter using buds and bark. We also did some measurements of girth to ascertain the ages of a couple of our large oaks.

Photo by Philippa Calver