Frequently asked questions about wildlife and ecology

What is biodiversity?

'Biodiversity' is used to describe the richness of the living environment around us. It encompasses all living organisms from simple plants to large whales. Maintaining a rich diversity of species on our planet is crucial for future generations.

What are Biodiversity Action Plans?

The UK Government signed the Convention on Biological Diversity (1992) and seeks to meet its obligations through biodiversity action planning. Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) are the drivers for the conservation of species and habitats at national, county and district levels across the UK.

In 2000 the Cambridgeshire BAP was launched. Produced by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Biodiversity Partnership, it lists those species and habitats of particular importance at the county level.

Which protected species occur in South Cambridgeshire?

The following are found:

  • Otter
  • Water vole
  • Badger
  • Common lizard
  • Grass snake
  • Great crested newt
  • White-clawed crayfish
  • Breeding birds

But the list will change as other species move through the area.

Are grants available to help wildlife conservation projects?

Grants may be offered to support special activities that conserve, enhance, restore or create habitats or features that sustain our biodiversity. Examples might include the creation of a wildlife pond, erecting bat and bird boxes, or funding the restoration of a meadow, but not routine management. Visit our Wildlife Enhancement Scheme pages for more information.

Who is eligible for grants and how do I apply?

Community groups, parish councils and the public can all apply. Profit-making bodies will not normally be eligible unless the biodiversity interest is separate from the business aspect or if there is a special case (such as enhancing farmland). Visit our Wildlife Enhancement Scheme pages for more information.

Will you give advice on wildlife issues and development proposals?

Planning staff welcome discussions on development proposals before they are submitted for planning approval and the Ecology Officer may be able to input to them, or even make a site visit. The Biodiversity Supplementary Planning Document provides detailed guidance on the level of biodiversity information required to support a planning application.

Where can further advice on wildlife and development issues be found?

And for more information:

Where can I find the legal and policy background for wildlife and planning issues?

Where can I find detailed information on wild flower conservation?

What general wildlife guidance information is available?

An extensive range of booklets and leaflets can be downloaded from the Natural England website (This link will open in a new window) . For example:

  • Amphibians in your garden - your questions answered
  • Composting and peat-free gardening
  • Minibeasts in the garden
  • National Nature Reserves in Cambridgeshire
  • Plants for wildlife-friendly gardens
  • Reptiles in your garden - your questions answered
  • Wildflower meadows: how to create one in your garden
  • Living roofs
  • Green walls - specialist and companion planting
  • Birds and your garden
  • Enjoying moths and butterflies in your garden
  • Dragonflies and damselflies in your garden
  • Garden ponds and boggy areas: havens for wildlife
  • Mammals in your garden

Where can I find pond management advice?

Pond Conservation (This link will open in a new window) (formerly the Pond Conservation Trust) has advice sheets on:

  • The Importance of Ponds
  • Problem Pond Plants
  • Planting Up Ponds
  • Good Wildlife Ponds

 

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