In all that glorious weather yesterday I went looking for nibbled nuts in our hazel coppice. At this time of year it’s easier to spot broken shells on the ground under the trees. I was looking for signs of dormice, and I’m pleased to say I found them!

For those who don’t know, dormice are small, ginger coloured “mice” with bushy tails and very black eyes.

They are rare in most parts of the country although not particularly in Devon. Their real importance is in indicating a healthy, diverse woodland community. They are one of the first animals to go if you get things wrong!!

If you want to know what I was looking for in the nuts then have a look at http://www.newport.gov.uk/stellent/groups/public/documents/leaflets_and_brochures/cont151952.pdf

Joy of joys! Martin Hills has finished my English wool combs and has posted them off to me!! I really can’t wait to get these. They are a bit of an indulgence but I think I’ve earned it this year what with one thing and another. I’ve been combing my Bowmont with my small Viking combs which do a really good job but of course do it slowly. These monster combs should increase my output dramatically.  I had hoped to use my Pat Green Debs Deluxe drum carder for the Bowmont but found it caused too many neps. Just too fine I guess.

These are Martin’s combs:    labelled-combs.doc

If you want to know more then he can be contacted on martinhills@woolcombs.orangehome.co.uk