Thames Water manages Tile Kiln Lane Reservoir on Hornsey Lane. During early May the reservoir becomes an absolute joy, full of wildflowers. There are all kinds of wild grasses, buttercups, daisies and so on, and it's an evident haven for butterflies, as well as mistle thrush and song thrush. Then, a couple of weeks later, Thames Water come and mow the whole lot down, taking habitats for bees, birds and small mammals.

Britain has lost 97% of its wildlife meadows since the Second World War, which has contributed to a 37% loss in insect life and a 16% decline in birds since the 1970s. It is vital to have ecological corridors across our cities: patchwork refuges where native wildflower populations can recover, and through which bees, butterflies and other pollinators can move. 

Because of the age of the site, the grass needs to be mown regularly to comply with the Reservoirs Act 1975.  

However, Tile Kiln Lane could commit to “No Mow May” and “Let it Bloom June”; or conduct strip mowing during this time. This would allow flowers to mature and provide food for bees and other pollinators. Research by the Butterfly Conservation has shown a 93% increase in visits by butterflies to areas participating in No Mow May. 

Tell Thames Water: do something positive for nature, and commit to No Mow May!