Nature in the UK is in trouble with many species in serious decline. The Stroud landscape project aims to reverse this by creating more spaces for nature and making our network of wildlife sites bigger, better and more joined up.
With the town of Stroud at the centre, the Stroud landscape project extends as far as Crickley Hill in the north to Wotton-under-Edge in the south. Within this there are amazing calcareous grasslands and ancient beech woodlands. The area is renowned for its rare species like the Duke of Burgundy butterfly, pasque flower and greater horseshoe bats.
What's happening?
We're in danger of losing these precious plants and animals from the west Cotswolds for ever. Important habitats are being lost through intensive farming and pressures from developers. It's not too late to save nature if we act quickly and work together at a large scale. If we provide plants and animals with the right conditions they will come back from the brink, and we'll be able to pass on a healthier natural environment to the next generation.
Making space
The project aims to create and improve grassland habitats, restore woodlands and establish wildlife corridors that allow plants and animals to move. We're working with partners and landowners to make this happen.
Wildflower meadows are home to lots of animals and insectsNational Trust Images/ Stephen Morley
Woodlands are home to a wide range of fungi and plants including bluebells and wood anemone. Many birds and other animals depend on them but they're under threat.
Animals, insects and plants move through the countryside from one habitat to another. We're creating more wildlife corridors to help make moving around easier.
The Stroud landscape project isn't just about what we're doing on the land we care for. It's how we can all work together to stand up for nature and create a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy.
Spring is a good time to spot an orchidNational Trust Images/ Ray Dale
