With much of the UK’s native flora and fauna under threat, often down to habitat loss, Wild About Gardens sees the two charities join forces to raise awareness of the importance of gardens in supporting wildlife and offer tips and advice on how to make them more wildlife-friendly.
The UK has lost ponds, rivers, and streams at a rapid rate and only a small amount of our natural ponds and wetlands remain, and Cornwall is no exception. Many of these remaining wet habitats are in poor condition and 13% of freshwater and wetland species are threatened with extinction from Great Britain. The loss of these important places – to development, drainage, and intensive farming – is linked to a huge decline in wildlife, including frogs and toads, water voles and insects.
Adding a pond – by digging one in your back garden or simply by filling a waterproof container outside your front door – is one of the best ways you can help wildlife and enjoy the benefits of seeing water plants, birds and bees close to home. Digging a pond is great for hedgehogs to have somewhere to drink and for frogs, newts and other amphibians to feed and breed. All ponds – large, small, dug or container – are good news for bats, damselflies, dragonflies, other insects.
Cheryl Marriott, Head of Conservation at Cornwall Wildlife Trust says,
“There is always something going on in a pond if you take the time to stop and look. Even an upturned dustbin lid sunk into your lawn will provide a home for a multitude of wildlife.“
