The summer of 2026 has been the hottest and driest since the Doorstep Green was established 22 years ago. We have lost both new and old tree and shrub planting and the grassland areas have been tinder dry. But the importance of the site as a wildlife refuge continues to grow.

We are very pleased to note that our population of Common Lizard appears to be growing, with more regular sightings throughout the year. This year we have been pleased to record Lesser Whitethroat on the site and believe they have bred, along with Common Whitethroat, Cetti’s, Garden and Willow Warbler, Chiff Chaff and Blackcap. Stonechat was also recorded and a Redstart was also heard.

We were also thrilled to encounter a hedgehog on the site. This is the first time one has been seen on the site although we have suspected they visited.