Constructing new habitats for Great Crested Newts was the challenge set for Moorfield Primary pupils this week, as part of the Fiddler’s Ferry Education Resource Centre (ERC) programme of outdoor activity.
Essential maintenance work at the ERC building, part of the SSE power station’s site, meant schoolchildren could instead explore outside and get involved in creating ‘hibernacula’. These structures consist of stone, logs, soil and grass where newts on the nature reserve adjacent to the power station can go to hibernate.
SSE’s Paul Cockcroft said:
“Fiddler’s Ferry ERC enjoys a fantastic working relationship with Moorfield Primary and pupils regularly take part in activities arranged by the SSE team. The ERC itself serves as a permanent positive link between the power station and the surrounding community by promoting hands-on educational support.
“Alongside our ecological expert Eamonn Ritchie and education guide Merril Cummerson, a team of six pupils worked all morning to create two fantastic hibernacula. These are hugely important and beneficial for the great crested newts we have on site so it was not only a very productive day but also one filled with fun and learning.”
Picture: Pupils from Moorfield Primary School with SSE’s ecology consultant Eamonn Ritchie and centre guide Merril Cummerson