We've purposefully not been posting information from Tophill Low on sightings as we feel it unfair to tantalise our regulars (and indeed incite people to visit). We will be adding some trail camera footage now and again but not giving a running commentary. Once some breeding species are firmly established we may put an update on later. Suffice to say all is well - a few scenery shots to show it still exists:
The main point we would like to get across is that whilst Tophill Low Nature Reserve is closed to the public; It is still staffed with site monitoring being undertaken every day.
Whilst getting to see the wildlife is undoubtedly a perk we have a rota of checks to ensure that environmental permitting is upheld, sluices and water controls are working and not blocked or flooded, livestock checked, and our safety and security responsibilities as a landowner upheld. Tophill Low's main purpose is a drinking water supply and as key workers we do not want our process engineers needlessly placed in contact with members of the public that shouldn't be on site. In addition we also have constant updates from residents at Tophill Low keeping a watchful eye and reporting all incursions - suddenly having to drive 3 miles to the nearest village for years has come into its own and they would undoubtly like to keep it that way. We also have the usual CCTV and various trail cameras monitoring all corners of the site.
So all incidents like the couple in a vehicle attempting to drive in off the river bank today (illegal without Environment Agency permission), or these two trespassing and illegally fishing on Watton Nature Reserve on Friday (and potentially disturbing schedule one species) have been reported to Humberside Police.
Whilst it may seem a good place to isolate and exercise 'away from people' please respect the site and its wildlife and particularly those whom live and key work at Tophill Low and stay away. As many have observed this is a once in a lifetime event for wildlife also - and even if not this season we expect some of the increases in species and nesting on site will return for next year if everyone is sensible and is something positive to look forward to out of this.
