Exciting discovery of two rare species showing conservation success
Breeding success for rare and endangered species at Somerset Wetlands National Nature Reserve
By Annette J Beveridge
With so much conservation work needed to protect nature and the environment here in the UK, it is great to be able to report positive news.
Two rare wetland species have been discovered following the creation of a new wetland feature. The new habitat was formed following the creation of four scrapes.
The work is part of the Somerset Coast, Levels and Moors Nature Recovery Project funded by Natural England and the discovery of great crested newts and lesser silver diving beetles is exciting.
Neither species had been recorded on the site before so is a satisfying result for the Hawk and Owl Trust owned reserve which is part of the Somerset Wetlands National Nature Reserve.
Why is this such good news?
The lesser silver diving beetle is listed on the UK’s red data book of endangered species and is currently only found in other parts of Somerset, and Cheshire and in Denbigh, North Wales.
The crested newt is also an endangered species and one of European importance. It is legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside act.
The presence of both species is a clear sign that the conservation work being done at the reserve is working.
Both beetles and newts were discovered to be breeding in the scrapes in 2023 and in 2024
Natural England’s project lead, Simon Phelps said: “Finding two rare and endangered species living on the site so soon after creating the scrapes was brilliant. It shows the value of creating wetland features in this landscape.
“We hope to do more of this type of work as it helps our wetland wildlife. It also enables us to contribute to the government targets for saving our threatened species, while enhancing climate resilience.”
The Hawk and Owl Trust Reserve warden and Outreach officer, Alex Learmont said: “We’re thrilled the new scrapes are providing habitat for a range of species never previously recorded on the reserve and ones that are nationally rare. It seems having a wide range of aquatic habitats is key as different species require different conditions throughout the year.
“They can now move between scrapes, ditches and rhylls as needed. It is likely this will also be increasingly important in a changing climate.”
