A couple of days ago, the River Sid Catchment Group joyfully announced the arrival of the Spring Equinox with a lovely video of what’s to see along the Sid: Spring has arrived! What signs of spring have you enjoyed seeing along the river recently?
Indeed, a couple of months ago, the Visit Sidmouth website was already looking at spotting the first signs of spring in Sidmouth:
The Byes, a peaceful riverside parkland running through the heart of Sidmouth, is one of the best places to spot the first signs of spring wildlife. As temperatures rise, daffodils and wildflowers begin to appear along the River Sid, adding colour to the green open space.
Birdsong becomes more noticeable in early spring, with robins, blackbirds and finches active throughout the park. The return of migratory birds is another clear sign that spring in Sidmouth has arrived. Visitors exploring the Byes will often see families walking, cycling and enjoying the renewed energy of the season.
The pages of the Sidmouth Nature website are full of references and information about spring along the River.
So, at Sid Meadow instead of frequent mowing, the meadow is allowed to grow throughout the spring and summer.
In the adjacent Community Orchard just up from the river, the thriving insect population is the engine of the orchard, ensuring the fruit trees are pollinated each spring.
And looking at the River Wildlife, we learn about the River Skater (Aquarius najas) and how in late spring and summer, thousands of these insects can be seen skimming the surface to feed on midges.
Finally, here are some great photos taken over the years of spring along the River: Fabulous photos down by the river in March and April – The Sid
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