Biodiversity News

Marsh clubmoss
(Credit: Robin Stevenson)

Two remarkable plants have been recorded in west Norfolk recently, after long absences from the county.

The re-discovery of wood club-rush Scirpus sylvaticus was particularly exciting, since it hasn't been recorded in Norfolk since 1880.

Robin Stevenson, Norfolk County Recorder for bryophytes and mosses, was delighted at the discovery of a healthy colony of a rare moss recently at a site near King's Lynn. The marsh clubmoss Lycopodiella inundata was once common, but loss of habitat has caused a major decline in its distribution and it has now been included on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Clubmosses have an impressive ancestry dating back to the Carboniferous period, 300 million years ago, when giant tree-like versions, over 35 metres tall, were common. They are simple plants, related to ferns, although in appearance they resemble true mosses. The term 'club' refers to the shape of the spore-bearing cones that the species produces. Marsh clubmoss grows on acidic wet ground - a habitat which is not found frequently these days. It hasn't been recorded in West Norfolk since 1962, so this is another exciting find.

A recent report published by the United Nations to coincide with the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) has warned that global targets to tackle the loss of biodiversity have not been met. Although actions to safeguard biodiversity have improved, not one government submitting information for the document - the Global Outlook on Biodiversity 3 - was able to report that the 2002 target to halt the loss of biodiversity had been achieved.

• rapid deterioration of warm-water ocean ecosystems;
• one quarter of the world's land degraded;
• the fragmentation of two thirds of our major river systems;
• species extinction rates thought to be in the order of 130 each day; and
• the loss of 130,000 square kilometres of forest each year

action is needed immediately because "we are destroying the natural capital upon which our lives depend" (Bob Watson, Chief Scientist, Defra).

The report warns that we will be in unknown territory if, over the next 20 years, we fail to tackle the five key threats to global biodiversity:

• Habitat loss and fragmentation;
• Excessive nitrogen and other pollutants which are poisoning the environment;
• Invasive alien species, which are having severe impacts on native plants and animals;
• Over-exploitation of terrestrial, aquatic and marine species;
• Climate change.

The document will be submitted to the New York biodiversity summit in September 2010, when world leaders will meet to shape the 2050 vision on biodiversity. Find out more at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1VYmpTikgw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGMkW_vo5GU

Female glow-worm
Photo Credit: Roger Key

• From mid-June to mid-July;
• On a moonless or overcast night (wait until your eyes can no longer make out colours);
• On heathland and grass verges, along disused railway lines, in churchyards and along woodland clearings or rides.

Please let NBIS know if you find a glow-worm. Records should contain information about: what you saw; when you saw it; where you saw it (grid reference and habitat); and who you are. You will shortly be able to record online at www.nbis.org.uk. In the meantime, please send NBIS an email at nbis@norfolk.gov.uk, get in touch by phone at 01603 224458 or write to: NBIS, Room 301, County Hall, Norwich NR1 2SG.

To download a glow-worm leaflet, please click here.
 

Large copper butterfly - one
of England's lost species.

England has lost nearly 500 species in the recent past - the great majority of which have vanished in the last 200 years. This is the disturbing conclusion of an in-depth report recently released by Natural England.

The report, entitled Lost Life: England's Lost and Threatened Species, is the first comprehensive assessment of decline and

Lost Life was produced by Natural England to coincide with the International Year of Biodiversity in 2010. It highlights the ways in which habitat loss and degradation, inappropriate management, persecution, pollution and invasive non-native species have all played a part in the erosion of England's biodiversity.

Looking toward the future, the report identifies a list of 12 groups of species of particular, ongoing concern, including specialist farmland wildlife, long distance migrants and predators suffering from illegal persecution. Amongst other recommendations, the report draws attention to the need to: protect, manage, restore and re-create wildlife habitat; establish an effective network of marine protected areas; and reduce the impacts of invasive non-native species.

To download a free PDF copy of the report or to order a hard copy, please click here.
 

(Photo credit: Scott Perkin)

The International Year of Biodiversity was officially launched in Norfolk on 7 March 2010, at a special, all-day event at the Forum in Norwich. The day featured a samba band, eye-catching wildlife costumes, a wide array of exhibits and displays, and activities such as mask making and pond dipping. Organised by the Broads Authority with input from the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership and the participation of many other conservation organisations, the event was a colourful, informative and sometimes noisy celebration of biodiversity in the Broads and the rest of the county.
 

With two thirds of the UK's migrant bird species declining, BTO's new A2B Arrival Calendar seeks to raise awareness of the possible problems that birds are facing in their wintering grounds, on migration and in the UK.  Celebrities, scientists and media personalities have all contributed by talking about a specific species on the average arrival date back to the UK.  There are 17 in total; the first featured clip is the Wheatear, where Chris Packham talks about their disappearance from the New Forest. The calendar started on the 20 March and will unveil new clips until the 29 April. BTO are currently investigating the decline in numbers of these species by carrying out research in Africa, working in collaboration with organisations across Europe and by analysing data in the UK to see whether there are any trends emerging that could explain why the declines are happening. View the Calendar at http://www.bto.org/appeals/a2b/
 

Many different events are being planned around Norfolk throughout the year to commemorate the International Year of Biodiversity; to find out more, please go to the 'Events' section of this website. To learn more about IYB and the UK partnership, please click here.
 

Jay Griffiths, author of Wild:
An Elemental Journey
(Photo Credit: M. Sutton-Croft)

(Photo Credit: M. Sutton-Croft)

On 1 October 2009, over 100 delegates gathered at the Abbey Conference Centre in Norwich to attend the Partnership's Annual Biodiversity Forum and to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the launch of the Norfolk Biodiversity Action Plan. Jay Griffiths, the acclaimed nature writer and author of Wild: An Elemental Journey, gave the keynote address. She spoke movingly about the importance of place and the 'tender wildness' that underlies local conservation efforts. The conference also heard from many of the chairs of the Biodiversity Partnership's Topic Groups, who provided short summaries of the achievements and successes of the BAP over the last decade. A specially-prepared 'anniversary cake' provided the final touch to the occasion.

The day served as a reminder of the remarkable array of conservation activities that have been supported - both directly and indirectly - by the BAP process; the day also highlighted the vibrancy and strength of the Biodiversity Partnership itself. Although the challenges ahead remain daunting, the Partnership is uniquely placed to pursue its mission of 'conserving, enhancing and restoring Norfolk's biodiversity'.

To read the full version of Jay Griffiths' keynote speech, please click here.

(Photo Credit: David North)

Have you seen any of these species in Norfolk? Brown hare, grey partridge, barn owl, harvest mouse. Norfolk Wildlife Trust is asking for your help in recording these four species. Join in the survey, learn more about Norfolk's wildlife and help us secure a future for these animals. To find out more, please click here

(Photo Credit: Broads Authority)

Invasive non-native plants are widespread and are significantly impacting on biodiversity in Norfolk. This is the message which is outlined in a new report, released by the Non-native Species Initiative in its draft form on Wednesday 30 September 2009.
 

(Photo Credit: Charles Greenhough)

Four Norfolk conservation projects were presented with the NBP's 'Community Biodiversity Awards' on 24 September 2009, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to wildlife in the county and their engagement with local communities.
 

• Pigney's Wood, a 23.5 ha site in North Norfolk, won the Site Award for the excellent conservation and management work carried out by the North Norfolk Community Woodland Trust;
• Forest Schools-East won the Education Award, in recognition of its pioneering work to support the creation of Forest Schools in the East of England;
• The Friends of the Rosary Cemetery won the Local Group Award, for their sensitive and innovative approach to the conservation and management of the Rosary Cemetery in Norwich;
• Liz Howarth won the Individual Award for her enthusiastic and inspiring contributions to the BTCV's Green Gym and Action Team.

The awards were presented by Prof Tom Williamson at a special ceremony held at the Assembly House in Norwich. Paul Holley, Chair of the NBP's Communities and Nature Topic Group, said: 'In these difficult times, it's great to know that there are so many individuals and groups working hard not only to improve Norfolk's biodiversity, but also to encourage their local communities to get involved.'

In addition, five individuals/projects were 'Highly Commended' for their conservation efforts, as follows:

• Kevin West, for the creation of extensive native woodlands and orchards at 'Westies Wood' (Site Category);
• Erpingham VC Primary School, for the creation of an outstanding pond and woodland area on the school grounds (Education Category);
• The Friends of Open Green Spaces (FrOGS), for their conservation work at Spout Hills - a valuable wildlife site on the fringe of Holt. (Local Group Category);
• The BTCV Green Gym (Norwich), for its conservation activities at multiple sites around Norwich and its active involvement of volunteers from the community (Local Group Category);
• Charles Cornish, for his role in the creation of a large community woodland in North Walsham - one of the first to be planted in the county (Individual Category).

For more information about all the award winners, please click here.

Spotted flycatcher
(Photo Credit: John Harding/BTO)

Pack your picnic and binoculars and get counting for the BTO's Summer Bird Count in aid of the 'Out of Africa' Appeal. You can help us investigate falling numbers of migratory birds like the cuckoo and spotted flycatcher by taking part. Choose a date between 28th August and 14th September, a time and location to suit yourself (your garden, on holiday or day trip), then approach friends and family for sponsorship.

Over the next two years, volunteers will be carrying out a road-based bat detector survey of Norfolk. The Norfolk Bats and Roadside Mammals Survey is being undertaken to produce up-to-date distribution data for bats in the county.

For more information about this survey, please click here.

(Photo credit: Scott Perkin)

On 22 May 2009, a 'spaceship' bearing 'aliens' was sighted at The Forum in Norwich.

The spaceship was part of a special display organised by the Partnership's Non-native Species Initiative to mark the International Day of Biodiversity. The global theme this year was invasive non-native species, and the spaceship was used to draw attention to the threats and impacts posed by alien species. The display included live examples of some of the most damaging invasive alien species in the county, including signal crayfish, floating pennywort, Japanese knotweed and Australian swamp stonecrop. Set against the stunning glass and steel backdrop of The Forum, the display received a large amount of public interest and a steady stream of curious visitors. The exhibition was organised in collaboration with the British Wild Flower Plants, which promotes the use of native garden plants.

In another move to commemorate the International Day of Biodiversity, the Partnership also supported the Norfolk Wildlife Trust's 'Conservation Counts - Grains of Truth' display. This used grains of

Both exhibits were organised under the auspices of CUE-East's 'Sustainable Living Festival'.

(Posted on 29 May 2009)

(Photo credit: Philip Haynes)

Norfolk's local communities are making a real difference for biodiversity - that was the clear message from 'Natural Neighbours', Norfolk's first community biodiversity conference, held in Norwich on 7 March 2009.
 

The day also included a series of workshops, covering topics such as funding, biodiversity surveys, volunteers, publicity and pond management. In addition, speakers from the Big Lottery Fund and the Veolia Environmental Trust described a wide variety of funding opportunities. Lord Peter Melchett of the Soil Association gave a colourful, entertaining and forceful presentation on the importance of organic growing to biodiversity.

The conference was organised by Marya Parker of BTCV on behalf of the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership and its Communities and Nature BAP Topic Group. The speakers and workshop leaders generously volunteered their time and the event was free to participants thanks to funding from the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership, Norfolk County Council, South Norfolk Council, Norwich City Council, The Paul Bassham Charitable Trust, The Courtyard Farm Trust and Brigadier and Mrs Phelps Charitable Settlement.

Over the last year, the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership has been running a logo design competition with the Norwich University College of the Arts (NUCA).

It is now ten years since the launch of the Norfolk Biodiversity Action Plan in 1999. As the Biodiversity Partnership looks back over the achievements and progress of the last decade, there is much to celebrate. Over 60 Species and Habitat Action Plans have now been prepared and brought into implementation. Biodiversity has been increasingly 'mainstreamed' into county and district-level strategies, policies and plans.

Despite these encouraging trends, Norfolk's biodiversity continues to face a broad array of serious threats, including large-scale development, invasive alien species and climate change. The need for a clear and up-to-date Biodiversity Action Plan has never been more important, and the Partnership will continue to build on the experience and strength of its members to ensure that the BAP remains an effective catalyst for conservation action.
 

Both Anglian Water and the University of East Anglia have recently become formal members of the Biodiversity Partnership, bringing total membership to 21.  

The two organisations bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise and experience to the Partnership. Anglian Water, for example, has developed a company BAP, played a key role in the Water for Wildlife programme and been actively involved in special projects such as the re-introduction of the pool frog; it is the first corporate member of the Partnership. UEA is actively involved in cutting-edge research on biodiversity, ecology, landscape history and climate change, eg, through its School of Environmental Sciences, the School of History and the School of Biological Sciences.
 

Topics covered included the recently published GB Invasive Non-native Species Framework Strategy, advances in the biological control of invasive non-native plants, the threats posed by non-native fish and the ambitious project to eradicate floating pennywort from the River Waveney.

A summary of the day and the PowerPoint presentations will be made available shortly on the Non-native Species page.

The 'Conservation Counts' exhibit
at the Biodiversity Forum.
(Photo credit: David North)
 

Outdoor learning can enhance children's educational attainment, improve emotional development, increase confidence and strengthen social skills. This was the message that participants heard at this year's Annual Biodiversity Forum on 2 October 2008.
Some 120 delegates took part in the Forum, which was organised around the theme of 'biodiversity and outdoor education'. Amongst other topics, participants heard about national initiatives such as the Learning Outside the Classroom Manifesto; Froglife's innovative activities with young offenders; the County Council's Environmental and Outdoor Learning Programme; and the inspiring approaches to outdoor learning being used by the Forest School at Whitlingham in Norwich. The day also featured a special exhibit called 'Conservation Counts'. This was put together by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, and sought to communicate information about the county's biodiversity statistics by using grains of barley. In total, the Trust estimated that over 3,000,000 grains were used in the display!

To learn more about recent research documenting the benefits of outdoor education, please click here to download a copy of Every Experience Matters. To download a copy of the Learning Outside the Classroom Manifesto, please click here.

(Photo credit: Mary Pipes)

In response to the growing scale of the problems caused by invasive alien species in Norfolk, the Biodiversity Partnership has recently launched a major new Non-Native Species Initiative. The aim of the Initiative is to promote the prevention, control and eradication of invasive alien species throughout the county, with an initial focus on non-native aquatic plants.

• Prepare an overview report on the status and impacts of non-native aquatic species in Norfolk;
• Develop a non-native aquatic species action plan for Norfolk for the next three to five years;
• Implement a number of demonstration control and eradication projects;
• Develop a web-page on non-native species for inclusion on the Norfolk biodiversity website;
• Organise two meetings of the Norfolk Non-native Species Stakeholders' Forum over the next year.

A full-time Co-ordinator (Michael Sutton-Croft) has been appointed to oversee the Initiative, and can be contacted at: michael.sutton-croft@norfolk.gov.uk. The Initiative has been generously supported by the Broads Authority, the Environment Agency, Natural England, Norfolk County Council and the Water Management Alliance.
 

(Photo credit: Charles Greenhough)

Eight local groups received awards from the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership at a special ceremony held on 24 September 2008 at the Assembly House in Norwich. The 'Community Biodiversity Awards' are given out each year to recognise local community groups that are making an outstanding contribution to wildlife in the county. The awards this year were presented by Steve Scott, Regional Director of the Forestry Commission, and were given to:
 

• The Acle Lands Trust, which received the Site Award for its woodland conservation and management work at Damgate and Roman Woods;
• The East of England Apples and Orchards Project (EEAOP), which received the Education Award in recognition of its pioneering efforts to raise awareness of the region's rich - but highly threatened - traditional fruit and orchard heritage;
• The Southrepps Common Trust, which received the Local Group Award for its outstanding efforts to conserve and manage a river valley site of national and European importance; and
• Lucy Whittle, who received the Individual Award for her dedication to the conservation and enhancement of the biodiversity of Kenninghall.

Four Honourable Mentions were also awarded, to the following:

• Dennis, Sally and Rachel Long, in recognition of the creation of Long's Wood - the largest community woodland in Norfolk (Site Category);
• Dersingham Primary School, for the development of its outstanding wildlife area (Education Category);
• The Bergh Apton Conservation Trust, in recognition of its valuable conservation work at Valley Marsh and Church Plantation in South Norfolk (Local Group Category);
• Bill Flynn, for his efforts to manage and restore threatened habitats on Bawdeswell Heath (Individual Category).

More information about the award winners can be downloaded by clicking here.
 

Norfolk's conservation importance has been re-confirmed in a landmark report just released by the Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service (NBIS). The report - a comprehensive audit of the BAP species data held by NBIS - provides an important new assessment of the occurrence of BAP species in the county. It also identifies key gaps in our knowledge and suggests research and survey priorities for the future.

Amongst other findings, the report reveals that some 419 BAP species are believed to occur in Norfolk, representing 36 per cent of the species on the UK priority list. Eighty-eight per cent of the bird species on the national BAP list have been recorded in Norfolk, highlighting the importance of the county for both resident and migrant species. In addition, 59 per cent of the moth species found on the national priority list have been recorded in Norfolk, underscoring the county's importance for invertebrates as well.

However, not all the report makes for positive reading. The audit suggests that at least 72 BAP species are now considered extinct in the county (and in some cases, nationally). This number consists primarily of beetle species (24) and vascular plants (30).

The report is currently in draft form, and NBIS would welcome comments and suggestions from the conservation community. To download a copy of the report, please click here.
 

(Photo credit: David Gittens)

Hedgehogs, song thrushes, house sparrows, slow worms and red-tailed bumblebees are all species which are in decline nationally. Numbers of house sparrows, for example, have fallen by more than 50% in recent decades. Norfolk Wildlife Trust, in partnership with Norfolk Biological Records Centre, Buglife and Bumblebee Conservation Trust, is asking people to record sightings of any of these threatened wildlife species in their garden by completing an online survey at www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/ naturalconnections or calling 01603-598333 for a free survey card.

An assemblage of three different species
(Bryum dichotomum,
Ceratodon purpureus and
Syntrichia ruraliformis)
growing in a disused
factory site.
(Photo credit: Robin Stevenson)
 

Towns are often regarded as poor in wildlife, compared to the wider countryside. However, a recent study of the mosses and liverworts of King's Lynn has shown that this is by no means always the case.

Twenty-five one kilometre squares, covering all of the built up area of King's Lynn (plus some of the urban fringe), were recorded in detail. A total of 151 species were found, including several national and regional rarities; the average number of species per squares was 42.
 

Moth Night 2008
(Photo credit: Scott Perkin)

Norfolk Moth Night reveals a hidden world

Over 20 people gathered in an orchard at Ashill in Breckland on the evening of 7 June to take part in National Moth Night. Using a total of four light traps, the group collected, identified and released moths from 08:30 until midnight. The data - along with records gathered by other groups from across the country - will be sent to Butterfly Conservation for compilation and analysis. The records will be compared with the results of previous years to assess national trends, and will also be used to determine the importance of traditional orchards (a new BAP habitat) in supporting moths.
 

The village sign at Stratton Strawless, featuring the famous Marsham cedar, planted in 1747.
(Photo credit: Scott Perkin)

Norfolk naturalists celebrate the life and work of Robert Marsham

Naturalists from Norfolk and beyond gathered at the small village of Stratton Strawless on 7 June 2008 to take part in an all-day conference to celebrate the life and work of Robert Marsham.

Marsham was born three hundred years ago (1708) and is widely regarded as the 'father of British phenology' - the study of the timing of natural events. He developed a passion for recording details about the natural history of his family estate, including the first flowering of snow drops and wood anemones, the first leafing of oak trees, the arrival of swallows, and the first sightings of butterflies. These records were eventually developed into Marsham's famous '27 indications of spring', and were reported to the Royal Society in 1789.
 

Signal Crayfish
(Photo credit: Scott Perkin)

Defra launches new strategy to tackle non-native species

On 28 May 2008, Defra launched a new strategy to reduce the threats posed by invasive non-native species. Alien species such as floating pennywort, signal crayfish and American mink can have a devastating impact on native wildlife. At a global level, invasive non-native species are now recognised as one of the most important factors driving biodiversity decline, second only to habitat loss. They are also estimated to cost the world's economies hundreds of billions of pounds.

The new Defra strategy identifies a number of key requirements for tackling non-native species, including the need to:

• Raise awareness of the risks posed by invasive non-native species and the steps that can be taken to prevent their introduction;
• Develop a shared, web-based directory, showing the distribution and spread of non-native invasive species;
• Develop methods for the early identification of potential problem species;
• Establish a clear framework for rapid action when invasive non-native species are detected for the first time in Britain.

To download a copy of the strategy document, please click here. For more information about invasive non-native species, please visit www.nonnativespecies.org
 

Harbour porpoise
(Photo credit: G Cresswell)

Help Record Dolphins, Whales and Porpoises off the Norfolk Coast!

We often associate dolphins, whales and porpoises with exotic locations, but many species can be seen right here along the Norfolk coast. To help improve our understanding of the distribution of these species, the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership has teamed up with a number of other organisations to develop an identification leaflet and recording card. If you are lucky enough to see a dolphin, whale or porpoise along the coast, please help us to conserve these special creatures by completing and posting a survey card.

If you would like to download a copy of the identification leaflet and recording card, please click here. Copies of the leaflet can also be obtained free-of-charge from the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership.
 

British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) joins the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership.

In February 2008, the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership was delighted to welcome the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) as its 19th member. Established in 1933, BTO is an independent, scientific research trust, investigating the populations, movements and ecology of wild birds in the British Isles. BTO's speciality is the design and implementation of volunteer wild bird surveys. To learn more about the BTO and ways of becoming involved in its survey work, please click here.
 

WARNING - Crayfish Plague on the River Waveney

There has been an outbreak of crayfish plague on the River Waveney. This disease is a great threat to our rare native crayfish if it gets into other river systems. The co-operation of all river users is sought to help prevent the spread of crayfish plague to other river systems and lakes.

Plague spores can be carried in water or on damp equipment. If you are planning to use your canoe or other equipment in a river system other than the Waveney within the next six weeks, please follow these procedures:

• Clean off all mud and vegetation and empty out any standing water

Then either

• Allow equipment to dry thoroughly including all nooks and crannies. This includes sponges etc used for washing

Or

• Apply or immerse in disinfectant. The best ones to use are iodophores (sold as udder wash) or Virkon S, available through agricultural suppliers. If these are not available, bleach or anti-fungicidal products can be used.

Click here to see the full press release from the Environment Agency and to read more detailed guidelines on disinfection.

More information can also be obtained by ringing the Environment Agency on 08708 506506.

Norfolk Biodiversity Forum Explores the Linkages between Health and Nature

Contact with nature can lead to significant mental and physical health benefits, and could help the NHS make large savings when treating depression, stress-related diseases and obesity. This is the message that participants at the Norfolk Biodiversity Forum on 11 October 2007 heard from a range of speakers, including Prof Jules Pretty OBE, the Head of the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Essex.

A growing body of empirical evidence is now available, documenting the health and other benefits that can result from exposure to nature through 'green exercise', such as walks in the out-of-doors. Research by the University of Essex, for example, has shown that green exercise can lower stress levels, boost self-esteem, lower blood pressure and help to tackle obesity. Green exercise can also help people to develop new skills and form social connections.

To explore the linkages between health and nature in greater depth, the Norfolk Biodiversity Forum brought together nearly 100 of the county's conservationists and public health experts. In addition to Prof Jules Pretty, other speakers at the Forum included: Marya Parker, who talked about the BTCV's Green Gym Project; Ian Plowman, who spoke about the Naturally Active Network; and Carrie Kerry, who gave a presentation about the Central Norfolk Health Walks Project.

For more information about the research and projects discussed at the Norfolk Biodiversity Forum, please visit the following links:

http://www.essex.ac.uk/bs/staff/pretty/green_ex.shtm
http://www.heron.nhs.uk/organisationdetails.asp?id=22113&search_id=292902&search_type=b
http://www.naturallyactive.org/
http://www.norwichfringeproject.co.uk/healthwalks.html

For more general information about the contributions that nature can make to physical and mental well-being, please see the following:

http://www.mind.org.uk/mindweek
http://www.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/policy/health/index.asp

Annual Update for 2006/07 now available

The Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership's Annual Update for 2006/07 has now been published. It provides a summary of the Partnership's achievements over the last year, as well as information on:

• The latest developments with the ecological network mapping project
• The work of the eight Topic Groups
• Priorities for 2007-08

To find out more about the Partnership's latest activities, please download the Annual Update by clicking here.

The cliff comber beetle
(Nebria livida)
Photo credit: Andrew Whitehouse

Searching for invertebrates
at Overstrand
Photo credit: Scott Perkin

Rare invertebrates found on Norfolk's coastal cliffs

Recent surveys of the soft cliffs along the coast of Norfolk have recorded hundreds of invertebrate species, including the spectacular cliff comber beetle (Nebria livida), a nocturnal predator only found in the UK on a handful of sites, and the rare burrowing rove beetle (Bledius filipes), which is found only in Norfolk.

In 2006, the conservation charity Buglife organised an invertebrate survey of Norfolk's soft cliffs, with funding support from the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership, the Environment Agency and the Courtyard Farm Trust. The survey results confirm the biodiversity importance of these special areas and highlight the need for sensitive management approaches.

Although they have often gone unrecognised, coastal soft cliffs are among the most wildlife-rich habitats in the UK.

On 19 July 2007, Buglife and the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership held a workshop in Southrepps, North Norfolk, to discuss the ecology of soft cliffs and to explore ways of protecting and enhancing their wildlife value. The meeting discussed the findings of the recent surveys in Norfolk, and also saw the regional launch of the new Buglife report, Managing Coastal Soft Cliffs for Invertebrates. The meeting concluded with a visit to the soft cliffs at Overstrand and a search for invertebrates along the coast.

For more information about Buglife and the management of soft cliffs, please visit the Buglife website at: www.buglife.org.uk.
To download a copy of the Norfolk invertebrate survey report, please click here.

Steve Cook receiving his Community Biodiversity Award from the Lord Mayor

(Photo credit: Keith Whitmore)

Norfolk's community conservation projects receive awards

Four local conservation projects received awards at the Springwatch Festival on 16 June 2007 for their outstanding contributions to wildlife in the county and their engagement with local communities.

The "Community Biodiversity Awards" are presented each year by the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership to the best community wildlife projects in the county. They recognise the efforts of local people in achieving improvements for the wildlife of Norfolk and reward excellence in this area.
 

• South Norfolk Council Countryside Team and Volunteers won the Site Award for working in partnership to create a valuable new wetland area at Frenze Beck.
• Sutton First School received the Education Award for creating an outstanding wildlife garden within the school grounds.
• Compo won the Group Award for its innovative and successful community recycling and composting scheme.
• Steve Cook, who has been running Norwich Environmental Weekenders for over 13 years, received the Individual Award.

Paul Holley, Chair of the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership's Communities and Nature Topic Group, said: "The Community Biodiversity Awards offer a great opportunity to showcase the work being done by volunteers to care for Norfolk's natural heritage. This year, we have had more nominations than ever, and picking winners from such a range of excellent projects proved very difficult, although any organisations or individuals who did not receive an award this year will be eligible to enter next year's competition. I hope that the Community Biodiversity Awards help prove that local groups and individuals really can make a difference, and will encourage even more people to become involved in caring for their wildlife and natural environment."

Four Honourable Mentions were also awarded, to the following:

• Ian and Rosemary McIntosh, in recognition of the improvements that have been made to Sandwade Mere County Wildlife Site (Site Category).
• Old Buckenham Primary School, for the development of its wildlife area and pond (Education Category).
• The River Glaven Conservation Group, in recognition of its activities to conserve and restore wildlife habitats along the river corridor (Local Group Category).
• Dick Hamond, for his valuable contributions to the advancement of our understanding of the marine fauna of the north Norfolk coast (Individual Category).

For more information about the award winners and their projects, please click here.

New list of UK BAP species and habitats released

The much-anticipated report of the Species and Habitats Review can now be downloaded from the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) website. The review represents the results of over three years of work and the input of over 500 experts from across the UK.

The aim of the Species and Habitat Review was to ensure that the UK Biodiversity Action Plan remains focussed on the correct priorities for action. The original list of UK BAP species and habitats was developed over ten years ago and was in need of updating in order to take account of new information, evolving priorities and emerging drivers such as devolution. The new list of priority species and habitats resulting from the review will now be put to Ministers for formal adoption.

Amongst other measures, the report recommends:

• The addition of eight new terrestrial habitats, including traditional orchards, open mosaic habitats on previously developed land, rivers (incorporating the existing chalk rivers habitat), ponds, and oligotrophic and dystrophic lakes;
• The addition of eight new marine habitats, including intertidal boulder communities and estuarine rocky habitats;
• The addition of 695 new species, including 32 birds (amongst them - the house sparrow, common starling and lesser-spotted woodpecker), 230 lower plants and fungi, 235 invertebrates and 137 vascular plants. The report has also recommended the removal of 123 species from the previous list, bringing the total number of UK BAP priority species to 1,149.

The report has important implications for the work and strategic direction of the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership, and will be discussed in detail at future meetings of the BAP Steering Group.

BBC Breathing Places Campaign launched to aid wildlife in Norwich

With the strapline of "Do One Thing", BBC Breathing Places aims to breathe new life into urban wildlife in cities across the UK. Tim Bishop, Head of Local and Regional Programmes in the East, said:

"We are asking everyone who comes to the Springwatch Festival to " Do One Thing " for wildlife in Norwich. It could be something as simple as putting up a nest box in their back garden or as ambitious as helping to create a wildlife garden on a local housing estate or in hospital grounds. The more people who take simple actions for wildlife in Norwich the bigger difference we can make together."

"By working with Norwich City Council, and local wildlife and conservation groups like Natural England, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust and the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV), we hope that BBC Breathing Places will inspire thousands of people to take simple actions to help to help transform the city for wildlife and turn Norwich into a Breathing Place."

Norwich City Council and local wildlife organisations - in partnership with BBC Breathing Places - have set targets for their year of wild action. Ideas are eclectic: from a wildlife roundabout, butterfly gardens and pond dipping; to a green safari, orchard planting and a new bog garden. Each initiative is specific to the individual city taking part and designed to inspire local residents to join BBC Breathing Places.

Aside from launching the new initiative, Norwich's Springwatch Festival will also offer the perfect family day out. From close up encounters with wildlife, to trying a range of activities, joining a Springwatch Garden Party, or learning how to become a Springwatch Tracker, there is something for everyone! Under five's will be able to get active and take part in Springwatch Spotter activities. In addition, the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership will be holding a short ceremony at the bandstand at 11:30am, at which the four winners of the 2006 Community Biodiversity Awards will be announced.

The BBC Breathing Places cities are: Derry - Londonderry - Swansea - Glasgow - Hull - Birmingham - Newham (for London) - Southampton - Manchester - Norwich - Peterborough - Derby - Newcastle - Gateshead - Brighton - Bristol - Plymouth.

For information about the Norwich Event, call Emma Bacon on 01603 212381.

For more information about BBC Breathing Places, and details of the attractions that will feature at all fifteen Springwatch Festivals across the UK, email: nina.bell@bbc.co.uk or call 0117 9746640.

Defra publishes biodiversity guidance for public authorities

On 22 May 2007, Defra released its much-anticipated guidance on the implementation of the new biodiversity duty contained in the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006). The duty states that: "Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity." Over 900 public authorities are affected by the new duty, including: district councils; county councils; fire, police and health bodies; museums; and transport authorities.

Two sets of guidance are available:
1) specific guidance aimed at addressing the requirements of local authorities; and
2) more general guidance aimed at all public authorities. Both sets of guidance contain a wealth of case studies and practical suggestions, and can be downloaded from the Defra website at: www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/biodiversity/

Biodiversity Partnership Gains Two New Members

The Biodiversity Partnership recently welcomed two new members to its Steering Group: the Water Management Alliance (formerly the King's Lynn Consortium of Internal Drainage Boards) and the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society.

Both organisations add significant new strengths to the Partnership. The Water Management Alliance is the largest organisation of its kind in the UK and a governing authority for flood protection throughout the county. The Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society was founded in 1869 and is the county's oldest natural history organisation; it is actively involved in research, biological recording and education.

More information about both organisations can be found on their respective websites, www.klcidb.co.uk and www.nnns.org.uk. The total membership of the Steering Group now stands at 18 organisations, representing a very wide array of interests and biodiversity expertise.

Members of the
Norfolk Heaths Forum
at Brandon Park

Photo credit - Scott Perkin
 

Heaths Forum Visits the Brecks

What is the role of rabbits in maintaining the biodiversity of the Brecks? Is nitrogen deposition leading to a shift in vegetation composition? Should heathland managers aim to reduce nutrients by turf stripping?

These were just a few of the issues considered by over 35 "heathland practitioners" from Norfolk and Suffolk, who gathered in the Brecks on 25 April 2007 under the umbrella of the Biodiversity Partnership's Heaths Forum.

Building Biodiversity and Open Space into Local Development Frameworks

How can biodiversity and open space be effectively incorporated into the new Local Development Frameworks (LDFs) that are currently being prepared by local authorities?

This was the central question addressed by a successful, one-day workshop organised by the Norfolk and Suffolk Biodiversity Partnerships on 4 September 2006. The workshop was held at the offices of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) in Thetford and attracted almost 50 participants, including planners and ecologists from nearly every local authority in Norfolk and Suffolk. Specialist presentations were made by Mike Oxford from the Association of Local Government Ecologists (ALGE) and Andrew McNab, a director of Scott Wilson Ltd and a representative of CABE Space. To view the presentations made by these two speakers, please click on the links below.

PowerPoint Presentations
(1) Mike Oxford
(2) Mike Oxford
Andrew McNab

A fen in Aslacton Parish
Photo Credit: Steve Henson,
Norfolk Wildlife Trust

In Search of Norfolk's Fens

Norfolk is considered to have the best representation of fen types in England. However, fen vegetation has declined significantly in the last 100 years, and continues to do so, mainly as a result of neglect, desiccation (caused by drainage and abstraction), cultivation, and enrichment (often from polluted water run-off).

To help address some of these concerns, the Fens Assessment Project was set up in January 2005, with funding from the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership, Breckland District Council and the Environment Agency.

• Create, for the first time, a map showing the distribution of non-SSSI fen sites outside the Broads area;
• Assess the management and condition of individual sites, as a means of identifying those most urgently in need of conservation action.

As a first step, a comprehensive list of sites was compiled, using the County Wildlife Site database, aerial photographs and soil maps. These were then mapped, and a detailed database consisting of 25 information fields created. In total, the project identified and mapped 678 sites outside the Broads.

In addition to this mapping work, the condition and management status of approximately 200 sites were assessed in the field. Walk-over surveys at these sites revealed that almost two-thirds are currently either in decline or in unfavourable condition, with the fen vegetation destroyed in about 3% of cases.

Approximately 160 sites have now been identified as high priorities for future conservation work, of which 20 have been particularly earmarked for action. The next phase of the project will seek to work with land owners at these sites, in order to introduce the management changes necessary to improve site condition.

Please click here to download a copy of the project's summary report.

For more information, please contact:

Andrina Walmsley
Norfolk Wildlife Trust
Email: andrinaw@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
 

Ecological networks benefit both people and wildlife

Draft final report of ecological network project now available

The report identifies core biodiversity areas in Norfolk as well as strategic opportunities for habitat enhancement and creation. It includes a set of maps for priority BAP habitats, as well as practical recommendations for establishing an ecological network for the county. To see the full report, please click here.

(Photo Credit: Helen Ward)

Norfolk's wildlife champions receive awards

Four Norfolk conservation projects have received Community Biodiversity Awards from the Biodiversity Partnership, for their outstanding contributions to wildlife in the county and their engagement with local communities:

• The Hawk and Owl Trust wins the Site Award for restoring a neglected wetland at Sculthorpe Moor into a wildlife haven and creating a community nature reserve.
• Costessey High School wins the Education Award for creating a wildlife garden which not only benefits biodiversity but also serves as a valuable educational resource.
• The Friends of Fiddlewood wins the Group Award. This group of local residents has greatly enhanced a formerly neglected urban woodland on the Fiddlewood estate in Norwich.
• Alwyn Jackson wins the Individual Award. Alwyn is a local volunteer who for many years has worked to conserve and improve the habitat and wildlife of Sparham Pools and a number of other sites.

Matthew Davies, Co-Chair of the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership's Communities and Nature Topic Group, said: "All of these projects have made exceptional contributions, not only to wildlife but also to the local communities in their areas. I am delighted that they are receiving the recognition they deserve."

The awards were presented by Dr Gerry Barnes (Chair of the Biodiversity Partnership) and BBC Radio Norfolk's Gary Standley, at a short ceremony held at Norwich City Hall on 6 July 2006.

Sand martin holes
at Grimston Warren pit

Digging the Benefits

Not normally natural bedfellows, the aggregates and environmental professions came together on 21 June 2006 at a successful conference jointly hosted by Norfolk County Council and the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership. The meeting - entitled Not Just Newts! - looked at the positive contributions the minerals industry can make to wildlife conservation and enhancement in the county.

For a summary of the conference presentations, please click here.

(click on image
to download document)

Annual Update, 2005-2006

The Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership has continued to be very active over the last year. To find out more about the Partnership's latest projects and achievements, please download the Annual Update for 2005-2006 by clicking on the link to the left. The update includes:

• A summary of recent biodiversity policy developments at the national level
• An overview of the Partnership's work on wood-pasture and traditional orchards
• News from the eight Topic Groups
• Priorities for 2006-2007

and much more...

(click on image
to download document)

(Please note that it will take up to
6 minutes to download
on an average computer)

New Publication on Ecological Networks

At the beginning of 2005, the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership launched a new initiative aimed at supporting the creation of an ecological network for the county. As a first step, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust and the Biodiversity Partnership have now released a summary document entitled, Making Space for Wildlife and People: Creating an Ecological Network for Norfolk. The publication has been prepared in order to provide a concise overview of the rationale for ecological networks and should be of interest to all those involved in land-use planning, including local authorities, forward planners, development control officers, Local Development Framework officers and agri-environment advisors.

Amongst other topics, the document provides a summary of:

•  the problems of habitat fragmentation and the need for a landscape scale approach;
• the different components that comprise an ecological network;
• the many conservation and socio-economic benefits associated with ecological networks; and
• potential delivery mechanisms.

The publication also provides a helpful list of additional references and websites.

(click on image
to download document)

Annual Update, 2004-2005

A tremendous amount has been achieved over the last year by the Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership. To find out more about the Partnership's latest activities, please download the Annual Update by clicking on the link to the left. The update includes information on:

• Heathlands and nightjars
• The work of the eight Topic Groups
• Priorities for 2005-06

and much more...

Topic Group

Presenter

Focus of the Presentation

Heathland Group

Helen Dixon

(English Nature)

The challenges and prospects for healthland re-creation in Norfolk, and the need for specialists.

Coastal Group

Peter Lambley

(English Nature)

Local Nature Reserve designation, and the use of the coast as an educational resource.

Woodland Group

Gerry Barnes

(Norfolk County Council)

Ways of funding woodland work, and of expanding the area under woodland.

Wetlands Group

Reg Land

(Norfolk Wildlife Trust)

Progress towards the achievement of the various species and habitat targets.

Large Areas for Wildlife Group

Reg Land

(Norfolk Wildlife Trust)

The development of large areas for wildlife.

Farmland Group

Paul Wilkinson

(Norfolk Biodiversity Partnership)

Biodiversity best practice guidance for farmers.

Communities and Nature Group

Karina Dingerkus

(Norwich City Council)

Encouraging public action for biodiversity

Water Bodies Group

Rob Dryden

 (Environment Agency)

Filling the remaining data gaps.

(click on image
to download document)

Biodiversity Partnership Update

The members of the Partnership have been very busy. Download the update to catch up on the latest areas of work, and plans for the future... The update includes information on:

• traditional orchards 
• the new national biodiversity reporting system 
• the work of the Topic Groups
  and much more...!