In early June, James Byrne, Chairman of Cardiff Bat Group, helped us conduct a Bat Survey in Cefn Onn. A number of members/ families turned up for what turned out to be a very successful evening. We spotted at least three species in the Park: The Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle, and the Noctule. Pipistrelles are the smallest and commonest bat in the UK and Europe, weighing around 5 grams (less than a £1 coin) and may consume up to 3,000 insects in one night! The rarer noctule bat is one of Britain’s largest bats (18g – 40g) and can fly at an amazing 30 miles per hour. All of these species have declined in the UK, mainly due to loss of habitat and changes in farming practices. James suggested the Park would benefit from some bat-boxes and a number of suitable locations were identified. Our next step is to try and secure some funding for these boxes, and the Bat Group will assist us further with their installation.

This July’s heavy rains have claimed a casualty or two in the Park recently. The most prominent of which was the toppling of the large tree on the banks of the Top Pond. I bet the goldfish got a shock !

Friend’s member, Peter Kent, lead a a very interesting and humorous guided walk around the Park pointing out nearly 80 of the fascinating botanical specimens. He wove his route and talk into all corners of the Park incorporating descriptions of trees from the smallest to tallest, and from the most common to one which is only one of five in the entire UK. (Hopefully after the very high winds the following weekend they are all still there!) For those who attended and would like a record, or those who may like to do the walk themselves, Peter’s descriptions and maps 1 and 2 of their locations are here.

Park Cefn Onn Tree Walk

Parc Cefn Onn tree walk – map 1         Parc Cefn Onn tree walk – map 2

In additon to the link to information about the old station below you may interested in more old photos at the iRazoo website.

Lisvane Old School, Lisvane, Cardiff, from 7 – 8 pm.

We hope you will be able to attend our AGM this year. Top of the bill will be the Council Principal Landscape Officer who has very kindly agreed to tell our members the fascinating history of the Park. A crowd of 30 or so enjoyed the historic walk she did last summer (after which even the kids present were asking her to repeat it for their class mates) so this time it is indoors – with historic photos!

This is only our second AGM and it will be a good chance for members to hear what we have been up to this year, for your Committee to outline what our vision is for the year ahead, and, assuming that our latest grant application is successful by then,  informing members of our exciting project for 2012. Most of the current Executive Committee have agreed to stand again so please don’t worry about the usual stuff in AGMs of being roped into something if you turn up! As members you have every right to influence the direction of the Group and we very much look forward to meeting you if you are able to attend.

We are pleased to announce that the Friends Group will be hosting a stand at this years’ CARDIFF OUT OF THE WOODS FESTIVAL  on Sunday 21st August, 10.30–16.30, Coopers Field, Bute Park. Admission is FREE. This is a woodland event for all the family run by the Council Parks Department. Attractions include a free fun dog show from 12.30, woodland arts and crafts, nature trails, paddling your own coracle and many other fun activities. Locally crafted products will also be available and as an added bonus you can enjoy a leisurely home made treat at the Hardwood Café.