Surrey Wildlife Trust Launches Fundraising Campaign
Surrey Wildlife Trust has initiated a new fundraising campaign aimed at restoring local wildlife populations, including hedgehogs, frogs, and toads. The organisation seeks to raise £40,000 to expand its engagement with the public in creating and connecting wildlife-rich gardens, streets, and public spaces.
This effort is designed to encourage the return of once-common species such as swifts to neighbourhoods and to facilitate safe movement for mammals and pollinators across habitats in search of food and shelter.
Challenges Facing Local Wildlife
Claire Harris of Surrey Wildlife Trust highlighted the impact of environmental changes on wildlife populations.
"Due to poorly-planned development, the overuse of pesticides and the practice of creating sterile and lifeless outdoor spaces, wildlife is now disappearing and people are becoming disconnected from nature."
Focus on Residential Areas
The trust is concentrating its efforts on residential areas within Surrey, including Farnham, Guildford, and Dorking. Planned initiatives include:
- Creating and linking wildlife-friendly gardens and public spaces
- Enhancing habitats to support species diversity
- Engaging communities to participate in conservation activities
Species Decline and Historical Context
A 2017 report by Surrey Wildlife Trust revealed that one-third of Surrey's species were experiencing significant decline, with some species such as the wryneck and pine marten already extinct in the county.
"Within living memory, our streets, parks and gardens were alive with buzzing insects, hopping frogs, singing birds and bustling hedgehogs,"Harris said.
"If more people work with us to help wildlife, we'll bring the joys and benefits nature provides back to our daily lives."
Contact and Follow-Up
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