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Wildlife fears as water turns black at nature spot

BBC Owen Tattersall crouches down on a grassy bank and points to black water in Barmston Drain. He wears a dark-grey jacket, grey jeans, a backpack, a light brown cap and glasses. BBC
Wildlife photographer Owen Tattersall spotted the black water last weekend

The Environment Agency is investigating why a watercourse has turned black after concerns were raised for wildlife.

Walkers on Figham Pasture, Beverley, spotted the issue in the Beverley and Barmston Drain over the weekend.

The area is a regular haunt of owls, heron, kingfishers and other waterfowl.

A spokesperson for the agency said officers were assessing the problem and attempting to confirm a source.

The sight of a sheen on the water has caused particular concern among nature lovers.

One walker said it looked like there had been a spillage, adding: "It's greasy. It's absolutely awful."

Ducks swim in the black water of Barmston Drain. To the left is a high bank, covered in foliage. To the right are brown-coloured reeds and green grass.
Ducks and other birds seemed unconcerned by the black water

Owen Tattersall, who photographs birds in the area, said a stretch of the drain between Beverley Lock and Woodmansey was "completely blackened".

"It's a very drastic look compared to what it normally is. It's not a very pleasant sight."

He said he was particularly concerned because the area was a haven for wildlife.

"This morning alone I've seen 40 species and over this year I've recorded about 92," he added.

When the BBC visited the site, the water had an unpleasant smell, but birds had clean plumage and seemed unconcerned.

The agency spokesperson added: “We would like to thank those members of the public who reported signs of pollution in Beverley and Barmston Drain.

“Our officers are currently assessing the impacts to the local wildlife and are looking to confirm a source.”

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