Tracks to Nature
Panel 1 - Introduction
Explore the Tracks for Nature, where nature has started to reclaim the post-industrial landscape and created corridors of biodiversity which have been impacted by the history of industry.
The Italian Alder is native to southern Italy, but one seed travelled across the sea and then made its way by rail to the Goods Shed yard and now there stands a mature tree. One of its properties is that is it nitrogen fixing and makes the land around it more fertile for other plants to thrive around it.
The Goods Shed land is an example of an open mosaic habitat – which means that is it like a patchwork quilt, where different types of plants and animals can thrive. This mix is important because it provides them with a varied home with a healthy and balanced environment.
Alongside the different kinds of habitats, the history of the Goods Shed has meant that plants from as far afield as Italy and North America have managed to grow without any human interference.
Some of the wildlife shown on these panels are seasonal and we do get some unusual visitors. You never know what you might see!
Panel 2 - Pollinators
Pollinators are nature’s helpers and play a vital role in helping plants reproduce. Butterflies, bees and other insects are attracted to brightly coloured plants and collect pollen as they fly from flower to flower. When they take pollen from one flower to another of the same kind, they help the plants to produce new seeds and fruits, which in turn lead to new plant growth.
The Small Blue Butterfly is the smallest native British butterfly with a wingspan from 16mm-28mm. It has seen a decline in population due to loss of habitat but has been spotted in the grounds on the Kidney Vetch. You can spot the Kidney Vetch’s distinctive round clusters of bright yellow flowers which almost resemble small pom-poms.
Other notable pollinators that have been spotted include the brightly coloured Cinnabar Moth – its caterpillar is black with orange strips and its adult form has striking red wings with black spots. These bright colours are a warning sign to predators – warning them that they don’t taste good as they enjoy eating plants like ragwort and groundsel and store toxins from those plants in their bodies.
Bees enjoy flying from plant to plant and are vital for a balanced ecosystem.
We aim to provide a safe space for them to thrive.
Panel 3 - Wildlife/Habitats
Slow worms are legless lizards, resembling snakes but closely related to lizards. They are often found in gardens and outdoor spaces. Look for slow worms in cool, damp places—under rocks, or in compost heaps. Keep an eye out for them enjoying the warmth of the sun. Slow worms are harmless to humans and beneficial for ecosystems. They contribute to a healthy environment.
As well as the different kinds of habitat on our site – piles of stones, trees, wood piles and grassy areas – we have also worked with our community to build bug hotels using recycled materials. Bug hotels provide shelter during different seasons, helping insects during winter and giving them a cool retreat in the summer.
There is Goat Willow growing on the land, and it is an example of how it’s more than just a tree but is a versatile habitat for wildlife. It is a great nesting tree for birds, including songbirds, and the leaves are a staple food for caterpillars. Insects love to hide away in Goat Willows, and they are an amazing source of early pollen for bees.
The tough but beautiful Buddleia is also called the Butterfly Bush, and blooms in the summer. It has long, cone-shaped flowers which are like landing pads for butterflies who are attracted by its sweet scent.
What will you see… on the tracks to nature?
