We had a lovely crowd at Brithdir Mawr for the Queer Eco Walk and were very blessed with sunny weather. After we introduced ourselves, Tom took us on a gentle walk down Green Lane to the Stone Circle, inspiring us and challenging us in equal measure.
We talked and explored queering as questioning, questioning perceived knowledge, attitudes and ways of looking at our surroundings. Our changing attitudes to ivy creeping on the oaks along the lane, the non native designations and how we might be bringing our outdated colonial thoughts to our judgements; and the blurry boundaries between species; lichens as queer communities; intersex bears and deers – unfortunately we didn’t see any!
We saw yellow meadow ants on their mound in the Whale Stone field, some had a taste of them! Their queen can live for up to 20 years. They form a close relationship with the Chalkhill Butterfly, protecting their larvae in return for a sugary substance they secrete. Near the Stone Circle we saw Lousewort and Betony, which has a reputation for being a protective plant, rooted in its historical use as a charm to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. Betony’s magical attributes include enhancing psychic abilities, promoting restful sleep, and strengthening mental clarity. The use of betony in rituals and spells can amplify one’s psychic abilities, increase personal power, and provide protection during magical endeavors. In households, it has served as a remedy for various ailments, from headaches to digestive issues, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Betony was sometimes carried as a talisman to attract good luck, abundance, and prosperity.
Walking back past the coppice, it was a delight to hear the Cuckoo’s call; their numbers are declining due to habitat loss so we were very blessed to hear them. Tom says it’s a testimony that the land is being well looked after here at Brithdir Mawr.
