Conservationists and electricity workers joined forces to boost wildlife habitats at Chesworth Farm, Horsham, installing new nesting boxes for birds and bats.
UK Power Networks’ overhead lines team, including Ritchie Mulhall, engineer Ben Parkes, and apprentice Jamie Wakefield, installed a total of six boxes – two owl, two bat, one kestrel, and one swift box – at the 90-acre wildlife haven off Chesworth Lane. The new kestrel box replaced an older one previously installed by UK Power Networks, which has been successfully used by nesting kestrels since 2019.
The project was completed through the company’s Donate a Day initiative, which allows staff to volunteer up to two days a year with local charities and community groups. The installation aims to address the ongoing loss of nesting sites for birds and bats in the UK, a concern highlighted by Elizabeth Jordan, countryside warden for Horsham District Council.
Elizabeth explained: “The team were brilliant. Work like this supports wildlife because habitats in the UK are degrading for these kinds of birds so it’s harder for them to find places to nest and breed.”
Praise for team
Nest boxes can help experts monitor breeding success through licensed bird ringing, contributing valuable scientific data on local populations. She praised the UK Power Networks team for their expertise and efficient work, even in the challenging weather. “The team are used to working at height as part of their jobs and had all the equipment to complete the work quickly and safely. We’re really grateful for their support.”
Ritchie Mulhall, who led the team, said: “We worked in poor weather conditions at times, but we got the job done and we’re delighted they were happy with the results. We are aiming to return next year to carry out further work.
“Great work is happening at Chesworth Farm to promote wildlife. It’s a popular area, lots of people walk their dogs there and plenty of volunteers look after the area. It’s an important place.”
Benefitting a range of species
The new nesting boxes will benefit a range of species at Chesworth Farm, a popular place for walking, riding, cycling, and seeing wildlife in its natural habitat. The farm’s diverse landscape of wildflower meadows and ancient hedgerows provides valuable habitat, making it an important asset for conservation and the community.
“What I like about volunteering is how it builds team cohesion and supports our local communities and good local causes. It’s great for the team and good for personal development, ” added Ritchie.
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