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Wildlife in The Garden

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Anglesey Abbey gardens are in an unique position on the outskirts of Cambridge. In an area renowned for its lack of trees, the gardens have become an oasis for wildlife; the watery environment around also encourages its own microclimate and accompanying wildlife.

The season starts with the amphibians, frogs and toads start heading for water during warm days in February and March with the males singing a chorus to their prospective mates.

This year saw the first successful nesting of Moorhens for several years - they used to be common, often found displaying on the lawns, but feral Mink have depleted their numbers recently. Kingfishers are regular visitors along the Lode and Quarry Pool, feeding on young Chub and Perch in both waters. The banks of the Quarry Pool provide a nesting site for one pair, as do the banks of the Lode further downstream. The Kingfisher's whistling call is more often heard than the birds are seen.

A local pair of Mute Swans has successfully raised seven young this year and can frequently be seen along the river above the Mill.

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