Radley Lakes Trust
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radleylakestrust.bsky.social
Radley Lakes Trust
@radleylakestrust.bsky.social
Radley Lakes is an area of former gravel quarries close to the River Thames, between Abingdon and Radley in Oxfordshire. It is a thriving area for nature, looked after by Radley Lakes Trust.

radleylakestrust.org/

Profile photo credit: Amanda Hartley
This project was completed by Abingdon Naturalists with advice from Barn Owl Conservation for Oxfordshire and was funded by a grant from Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment. Great teamwork everyone!
November 26, 2025 at 10:02 AM
Barton Fields is a fantastic wildlife site, comprising unimproved grassland and lowland fen - an ideal habitat for voles and mice, the main prey of owls. The provision of suitable nest boxes will now allow these species to take advantage of the site, helping to reverse their decline.
November 26, 2025 at 10:02 AM
Bonus picture of this beautiful Common Blue Butterfly that was spotted. They can sometimes be found into late October, particularly following hot summers.
October 9, 2025 at 12:28 PM
Some of the area remains to be scythed and we hope to arrange for another group of enthusiastic scythers to finish the job later this autumn. If you are interested let us know in the comments and we will send you some more info.
October 9, 2025 at 12:28 PM
The plant diversity of the meadow is developing nicely as we continue to scythe it each year. Unfortunately the Lapwing that used to nest there have not done so now for two years, but we are hopeful they will come back soon.
October 9, 2025 at 12:28 PM
Then over drinks and nibbles we'll discuss your thoughts on Radley Lakes and how we can do our very best to protect and enhance this special area for the local community.

Please RSVP to info@radleylakestrust.org so we can organise refreshments appropriately.
September 8, 2025 at 1:39 PM
The late mowing allows plants to shed seed and insects to complete their life cycles. To maintain low fertility, the cut hay is raked off the grassland and stacked in compost heaps. Heat generated by decomposition of the herbage makes ideal sites for grass snakes to lay their eggs!
August 30, 2025 at 3:08 PM
Annual mowing keeps the meadow healthy and full of wildflowers. It:
🌼 Stops scrub & trees taking over
🌼 Helps wildflowers outcompete coarse grasses
🌼 Boosts biodiversity for bees, butterflies & birds
🌼 Keeps soil nutrients balanced
August 30, 2025 at 3:08 PM
Hi Martin nice to see you too! Good point we'll add the Bluesky link to the website. See you at Lakes and Cakes!
June 1, 2025 at 7:58 AM