WYRE FOREST WILDLIFE EXPERTS LAUNCH REPTILE WATCH
 A team of wildlife experts in Worcestershire have launched a new three-year initiative and are calling for the public’s to help to protect the Wyre Forest’s elusive reptiles, as part of the “Grow With Wyre” Landscape Partnership Scheme.
The number of snakes and lizards in the Wyre Forest and the UK has declined over the past 20 years and some species of snakes and lizards are currently under threat.
Central Ecology, The Forestry Commission’s wildlife team, Wyre Forest Study Group and volunteers have now teamed up to gain an insight into the local distribution of reptiles in order to protect and enhance their habitat in the Wyre Forest. They are also calling on the help of local people to report any sightings as part of this important survey.
Wyre is one of the last strongholds for the adder, and there are also grass snakes, slow worms and common lizards to look out for in the region’s forests and gardens.
People should report any sightings of reptiles in their garden or surrounding area to Nigel Hand, project co-ordinator, on 01531 636033. People are also advised not to touch any reptiles they spot, but take a photo of them to aid identification if possible and leave the creatures undisturbed.
Nigel Hand, from Central Ecology, said:
“This exciting new project will help us learn more about the snakes and lizards living in the Wyre landscape and enable us will to protect them and their habitat.
“We’re also asking for the help of local people. Helping us to find out where the reptiles are living will improve our understanding of their needs - so we can all play a role in safeguarding their future!”
The project is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the “Grow With Wyre” Landscape Partnership Scheme and supported by Forestry Commission, Natural England, Wyre Forest Study Group, The National Trust, as well as other partners and private landowners.
Phil Rudljn, Wildlife Ranger, for the Forestry Commission in the Wyre Forest, said:
“We’re really keen to get local people involved in recording and protecting these reptiles.
“Hopefully we can get householders enthusiastic about these fascinating creatures and perhaps encourage them to manage their land sympathetically. If we all do something – now matter how small – we can make a difference.”
For further information on how you can get involved or if you wish to send records please contact Nigel Hand, project co-ordinator, on 01531 636033..
For more information on wildlife in the nation’s forests visit www.forestry.gov.uk/wildwoods
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NOTES TO EDITORS
1. IMAGES: Images of reptiles in the Wyre Landscape are attached. Higher resolution versions of these images are available by calling 015394-42436.
2. Media interested in the reptile surveys should contact Nigel Hand, project co-ordinator on 01531 636033. Alternatively contact Phil Rudlin (Wildlife Ranger) for the Forestry Commission in the West Midlands on 01299 266302.
3. The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible for forestry in Great Britain. It supports woodland owners with grants; tree felling licences, regulation and advice; promotes the benefits of forests and forestry; and advises Government on forestry policy. It manages more than a million hectares (2.5 million acres) of national forest land for public benefits such as sustainable timber production, public recreation, nature conservation, and rural and community development. For further information, visit www.forestry.gov.uk. The Forestry Commission is the Lead Partner in the ‘Grow With Wyre’ Landscape Partnership Scheme.
4. The Grow With Wyre Landscape Partnership Scheme is being delivered by a partnership of the following organisations; Heritage Lottery Fund, Forestry Commission, Natural England, Wyre Forest District Council, Worcestershire County Council, Butterfly Conservation, Shropshire County Council, Wyre Forest Community Land Trust, Wyre Forest Study Group, National Trust and Bewdley Development Trust. For more information see www.forestry.gov.uk/growwithwyre
5. The Heritage Lottery Fund awarded a Stage One pass of £1.86 million to the Grow With Wyre’ Landscape Partnership Scheme.
6. HLF enables communities to celebrate, look after and learn more about our diverse heritage. From our great museums and historic buildings to local parks and beauty spots or recording and celebrating traditions, customs and history, HLF grants open up our nation’s heritage for everyone to enjoy. They have supported more than 26,000 projects, allocating £4 billion across the UK. Website: www.hlf.org.uk.
MEDIA CONTACTS: Forestry Commission’s Phil Rudlin (Wildlife Ranger) on 01299 266302 or email phil.rudlin@forestry.gsi.gov.uk. Alternatively, contact Gail Atkinson (Project Manager), Wyre Forest Landscape Partnership/Forestry Commission on 01584 813822.
e-mail: nigel.hand@virgin.net |