Mark Bradfield of BBOWT (Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust) led a walk this morning as part of the Atom Science and Technology Festival. Passing through the lock he showed us a leaflet with paw prints so that we may now be able to tell a badger from a dog, and a mink from an otter. Mark was also interested to find that two of the earliest Lock keepers on the heritage board were Bradfields – possibly his ancestors.

He told us a lot of things on the way including what BBOWT is doing to control invasive animals like mink that are a real danger to Water Voles.

At the weir near swift ditch he identified some otter spraint (droppings), probably left as a territory marker. Otters are starting to make a comeback, and often eat the American Signal Crayfish (an invasive creature).

Mark also told us how important backwaters are for protecting fish from getting swept away. Backwaters and reed beds also help prevent flooding as not all the water goes down one fast channel.

He praised the reed beds over the other side of the river where a heron was stalking fish.

There was light snow falling throughout the day, and it was chilly. So after the ninety minute walk it was good to get back in the warmth. I visited the Community Shop (Free Space) where lots of children were enjoying making crystals as part of the Science Festival. The Market Place activities were not possible today because of the wind, but there are still lots of indoor talks and activities for the next week. See http://www.atomfestival.org.uk/

Please correct anything I got wrong in quoting Mark.