Byfield Pool
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A secluded pool surrounded by reed beds and willow – a small yet important refuge for wildlife |
This tranquil reserve is a delightful place to watch mallard, tufted duck and other wildfowl. It provides wildlife with a much-needed refuge from the activities taking place on the adjacent Boddington reservoir.
The pool was constructed as a water supply for the Oxford Canal in the 1790s, while the reservoir was built some hundred years later. Water rail and tufted duck breed on the pool, whilst other ducks rest and feed here. Many other birds nest in the abundant scrub and wooded areas around. Listen out for chiffchaffs and sedge warblers.
The quiet waters and surrounding reedbed make this secluded area an excellent site for dragonflies and damselflies, as well as large numbers of frogs and other amphibians.
Birds: Great crested grebe, coot, moorhen, nuthatch |
Amphibians: Common frog, toad Reptiles: Grass snake Birds: Great crested grebe, water rail, tufted duck, nuthatch Mammals: Fox, rabbit |
Plants: Common reed Insects: Dragonflies and damselflies Amphibians: Common frog, toad Reptiles: Grass snake Birds: Willow warbler, sedge warbler, chiffchaff |
Birds: Great crested grebe, coot, moorhen |