Our month-long survey is mapping the distribution of water voles, grass snakes and Himalayan balsam in Norfolk, but needs more wildlife spotters to get involved!
Halfway through and with
more than 300 sightings recorded, there are still some blank areas on the map where we suspect these species are in fact present. Receiving sightings from the public enables us to identify areas which are especially important for wildlife in Norfolk and helps map non-native invasive species in need of control.
Water voles have declined more rapidly than any other UK mammal and are a threatened species. Reasons for this national decline include predation by introduced North American mink, pollution of rivers and water courses and loss of wetland habitat. Gemma Walker, who is Wildlife and Community Officer for Norfolk Wildlife Trust, and who is running the survey said:
“Norfolk is an important stronghold for water voles, so we know that there must be more than eight individual water voles out on the Broads, rivers and dykes of Norfolk.”
Grass snakes have also declined nationally. Reasons for this include loss of wetland and heathland habitats and although they are a protected species, they are still sometimes illegally persecuted by people who dislike snakes. Gemma said:
“In Norfolk grass snakes have a patchy distribution and your sightings will help us identify areas which are strongholds. Grass snakes are also known as water snakes so we would expect them to have a stronghold in the Broads, but we need more sightings to be submitted to help us build a better picture of the distribution of this fantastic reptile.”
Himalayan balsam, as its name suggests, is a non-native species in Norfolk and was introduced to the UK as a garden plant. It has colonised many river banks and wetland areas, creating dense, impenetrable stands which shade out native plants. Gemma said:
“So far we have had 237 plants recorded on our wildlife map, but we know there must be more out there. Your sightings of Himalayan balsam will help map areas where this invasive non-native has become established and help us assess the need to control this species to benefit native wildlife. This month conservation volunteers in the Broads have been busily pulling Himalayan balsam from river banks along the Bure.”
Gemma concluded:
“Every wildlife record counts. This month whilst you are out walking along a river or dyke or boating on the Broads keep your eyes peeled and let us know where you see water vole, grass snake and Himalayan balsam in Norfolk. Let’s put these three species on the map.”