Community Nature Reserve

Register your space to help build the Community Nature Reserve

Share your tips and experiences to inspire others.

Connect with like-minded people.

Learn new ways to enhance your space.

Your space can be a garden, allotment or even just a window box – all are welcome.

We now have a Facebook group!

Join the Facebook group to see news and updates, connect with other members and get more out of your community network.

How to register

Complete the online form or download and print the form (link below) and return it to us by email, post or in-person.

Visit us in Town Hall, High Street, Thornbury, Bristol, BS35 2AR (during office hours). Hard copies will also be available at the library and Thornbury Town Hall reception.

While it may appear that we are still in the depths of winter, for the careful observer there are signs that spring is just around the corner. Snowdrops have flowered early this year, but they are being followed swiftly by daffodils, crocuses and hellebores which all provide pollen for early-emerging insects as well as a welcome splash of colour for us.

Hazel catkins are lengthening and brightening up hedgerows. Buds are starting to appear on trees. You may also have noticed an increase in bird song. The robin, who has been singing solo all winter will now be joined by other birds who are looking to attract a mate for the upcoming breeding season. This month plays host to National Nest Box week where you are encouraged to put up a box to support birds in your garden. Follow the link for more information. You might also want to put out some natural nesting materials. Pure wool or pet hair (if you don’t use spot on flea treatments) can be good but avoid putting out human hair as chicks can get tangled in it.

If you are lucky enough to have a pond in your green space, you might begin to spot some amphibian activity this month. If the weather is mild, you could see a convergence of frogs all calling out for a mate, hopefully giving you a good covering of frog spawn.

If you want to warm up whilst outside, there is still time to plant trees and hedges. You even have time to put down some wildflower seeds for the coming summer. If its just too cold and wet, you might want to sit inside and sort out your seeds for the year. Why not consider attending or hosting a seed swap to exchange varieties you have too many of for ones you need?

February can be a cold, dark, wet month, but there are signs of hope on the horizon as the season once again prepares to turn.