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Water Voles Return to Surrey After Decades-Long Absence
16 Sep
Summary
- 30 endangered water voles released near Elstead.
- Water voles were functionally extinct in Surrey since 2000s.
- Release aims to restore wetland habitats and benefit other species.
Thirty nationally endangered water voles have been released into a nature reserve near Elstead, Surrey, by the Surrey Wildlife Trust. The reintroduction program focuses on the River Wey, with voles being released at ten sites downstream of Frensham.
These water voles were functionally extinct in Surrey since the early 2000s. Their return is part of a coordinated effort by several nature restoration groups, including the National Trust and River Wey Trust, to re-establish the species.
The 16-hectare Thundry Meadows reserve is expected to support the aquatic rodents, potentially allowing them to establish widely across the Wey catchment. Their presence is also anticipated to enhance wetland habitats, benefiting other wildlife.
Conservationists express hope that this reintroduction is the first of many for native species in the region. The return of water voles is seen as adding a crucial element back to the local ecosystem.
