water voles

Water Voles are declining nationally and are one of our most threatened mammals. They are now given full protection and thus their presence here is consequently, extremely welcome and important.

Some people may perhaps question the validity of publishing any details of their whereabouts here, but suffice it to say, very few local residents are even aware of their presence here, let alone their fully protected status.

Several times in the past, irresponsible dog-walkers have allowed their dogs to cause considerable damage to Water Vole habitat here and the public need to be made aware of the potential threat to existing numbers. An additional threat comes from potential habitat destruction/disturbance from agricultural machinery and herbicide/pesticidal spray-drift during the course of the growing season.


Where and when Although the population here appears to be small (I have done little work on their actual numbers) they are reasonably easy to see if you know when and where to look and have appeared to do quite well over recent years. They favour the slower moving stretch of The Beck at Eakring Flash and are often easier to see during the first half of the year when vegetation is short.

The best place to see them, is from the foot-bridge at the northern end of Eakring Flash. Early morning often offers the best viewing and patience will be rewarded with stunning views. They are often best found by looking for their movement in the water or the tell-tale signs of chewed grass at the base of the small banks alongside The Beck. Find these and Water Voles are not far away. These photos were taken at the end of February 2003 and the individual pictured was enjoying the early morning sun. Protection / Advice to visitors If visiting this site, please keep to the footpath and the bridge alongside The Beck only. It is an offence to disturb these mammals and dog walkers are asked to pay particular attention to their dogs, not letting them swim in the water.