| Not
far from the urban area of Southampton
the Testwood Lakes is one of Hampshire's newest nature reserves.
Developed from a gravel extraction site owned by Southern Water
the 150 acre nature reserve has a variety of countryside habitats
including fields of wild flowers. The reserve has a
series of gravel paths around the lakes and you will normally
see plenty of dog walkers (restricted access), picnickers and
bird watchers.
The northern end of the nature reserve has been
designed to re-create wetland habitats for a variety of birds.
There are two bird hides, one of which has good views of the
Sand Martin nesting area.
The reserve is managed by several Reserves Officers
and a team of dedicated volunteers, that also survey the wildlife
around the reserve.
During excavation of Meadow Lake a Bronze
Age rapier and a piece of an ancient bridge was discovered
c1500BC both of which are now exhibited in the Education Centre.
Other artefacts can be found at the Totton and Eling Heritage
Centre.
To celebrate
the discoveries, staff, volunteers and local school children
constructed a Round House. Oak posts were brought in from Royden
Woods in the New Forest together with 48 Ash and Alder rafters.
The walls were made using hazel wattle and daub. more
info |
Disabled
toilet is available in the Education Centre.