With plans changing daily to suit scheduled work and deliveries that fail to arrive, we decided to build a hide. Several of our visitors have asked about the possibilities in the past, so it wasn't new to me when one of our latest visitors said similar. (We do already have a makeshift hide but it isn't, currently, accessible to visitors.) So here goes...
What is a wildlife hide?
Our hide is basically a little patch of land, partially hidden from site by a wooden fence, some weather protection and a bench inside for wildlife watchers or photographers.
One of the
Friends of Frugaldom brought along some camouflage netting and black tarpaulin to make blinds and a door covering so the whole structure now resembles a medieval knight's helmet or, as some have suggested, Count Binface. This past weekend was spent wildlife watching and some great photos were captured from the hide.
We have had numerous wildlife photographers visiting, including some fairly well known and respected individuals.
The pine martens are firm favourites with our wildlife watchers, especially when these shy little mustelids arrive during daylight. Ronnie also asked about an easily accessible wildlife hide so I hope he is happy with this latest one.
Geoff managed to capture many photos of badgers and pine martens over the weekend, filming from both the hide and hut 2. Other visitors will be returning in their campervan soon for another episode of 'Badgers by the Back Door'. 🦡🦡😆
Who can visit Frugaldom?
Anyone. Frugaldom operates as a social enterprise and, as such, is run by Susan King and Harvey Mayson. Harvey is the artist who creates almost all of the environmental art sculptures that can be seen here. The surrounding land is home to several rescued, retired and rehomed ponies and goats, as well as the feral and stray cats who have found there way here.
The project is primarily about nature and the environment, having been rewilded over the past 12 years. We are not a charity, but we do accept donations and tips to help us cover the costs of animal feed. 😊 We are licensed by the Caledonian Touring Club, so we can provide parking for up to 3 campervans or motorhomes (max. 7.5m). We currently charge £15 for 1 night or £25 for 2 nights. Frugaldom is partially funded by these site fees, along with membership fees from our Friends of Frugaldom support group, details of which can be found at
www.ko-fi.com/Frugaldom Group members are welcome to come along anytime but it is always best to message ahead of arrival to let us know to expect you. Likewise if you want one of the wildlife watching park-up spots - choose from Badger's Holt, Pine Marten View or the Bird Garden.
