A joint effort involving greenkeepers, members of an ecological support group, and educators from a neighboring school, the construction of weasel dens is underway at our golf course. Taking advantage of the numerous hedges and bushes, which are regularly rejuvenated every 5-8 years, surplus wood is stacked to form these dens and similar structures.
Weasels, primarily nocturnal and solitary creatures, typically inhabit dens constructed beneath rocks or logs near water sources. These dens provide a dry, leaf-padded refuge for the weasels, utilising materials such as fur from their prey. Creating suitable habitat for them is crucial for maintaining a balanced ecosystem on the golf course.
Weasels also play a vital role in pest control by preying on small animals like mice, shrews, voles, and rabbits. Additionally, they serve as a food source for other predators, thus positioning them as a key secondary consumer within the local food web. This collaborative effort not only enhances biodiversity but also promotes natural pest management, contributing to the ecological health of the golf course.
