The proposed hibernacula will be positioned between these two ponds and the quarry access road to the south, forming part of a wider habitat creation scheme. On the far side of the road lies Neil’s Moss, where early restoration work is already evident through recent tree planting and ground regrading. The area to the south of the ponds has been levelled in preparation for the construction of the hibernacula, indicating the initial phases of the project are underway.

The second pond, lying to the west, is noticeably larger and shows more established areas of natural reeding. The proposed hibernacula and earth bund will occupy the strip of land between the two ponds and the quarry access road, forming a sheltered habitat corridor within the wider restoration scheme.

The proposed bund and hibernacula will occupy the triangular area of land to the south of both ponds, bounded by the quarry access road. In this view, the site lies between the ponds (upper ground in the image) and the road below, forming a contained space for habitat creation within the wider restoration scheme.

Neil’s Moss lies on the far side of the quarry access road, opposite the Hardendale ponds. This area of rough moss and scattered stone is bypassed by the Coast to Coast path, which skirts its northern edge on the approach towards Oddendale. The surrounding landscape is rich in prehistoric remains, with numerous stone circles and cairns set among the limestone pavements around Hardendale Nab and Oddendale. Notable sites nearby include the stone circles at Seal Howe and the alignment of Wicker Street, the line of a Roman road crossing this ancient landscape.

There are 4 different types of Hibernaculum. They are often created close to earth bunds. Log hibernaculum consist of loosely piled logs and earth (and sometimes clean rubble) to provide an abundance of cavities and easily burrowed ground, in which creatures can shelter and keep warm during the winter. If the ground is permeable a hibernacular can be created in a small pit, which would afford better protection from winter frost; if impermeable it should be above ground to prevent it being flooded.

Log hibernacula are typically constructed in two main forms: horizontal stacks and upright log arrangements, each providing different shelter conditions for a range of species. Stacked designs are built in alternating layers, often laid at right angles to create a stable structure with multiple internal cavities. These spaces are commonly filled with natural material such as grass, leaves or woodchip to improve insulation and provide nesting opportunities. This layered construction offers both protection from winter frost and a network of sheltered spaces for small mammals, reptiles and invertebrates. The example shown here follows guidance similar to that promoted by the RSPB in its Giving Nature a Home advice, adapted for practical use within a restored landscape setting.

Earth bunds are typically created alongside hibernacula to provide complementary habitat. Formed as low, south-facing banks of bare or lightly vegetated ground, they offer warm, dry surfaces where cold-blooded species can bask and regulate their body temperature. These features are particularly valuable for reptiles such as slow worms, lizards and snakes, while also supporting a range of invertebrates including butterflies and solitary bees. Managed through periodic cutting, bunds maintain open ground conditions essential for sun exposure and effective heat retention.