Home / Environment / Surrey: Rare insects get habitat haven
Surrey: Rare insects get habitat haven
13 Jun
Summary
- Project aims to restore 30 hectares of chalk grassland.
- Focus on creating 'insect motorways' for wildlife.
- Rare species like Straw Belle and hazel pot beetle benefit.
A conservation charity is encouraging residents to help restore vital habitats in Surrey, aiming to create a haven for some of the UK's rarest insects. The Buglife Chalk Lines project will restore more than 30 hectares of chalk grassland in the Surrey Hills. This involves reconnecting fragmented habitats to establish 'insect motorways,' facilitating wildlife movement across the countryside.
Alice Parfitt, a conservation officer, highlighted the importance of community involvement through wildflower seeding, planting, and habitat management workshops. These workshops will educate volunteers about the crucial role rare insects play in UK ecosystems. Species set to benefit include the Straw Belle, the hazel pot beetle, the adonis blue butterfly, and several bee species.
Chalk grassland, a rare and fragile habitat supporting unique wildflowers and insects, has been lost or degraded over time. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded £300,000 to the Chalk Lines project, supporting its efforts to protect remarkable wildlife and enhance public connection with nature.
