Unfortunately the UK is one of the world’s worst faring countries for paucity of wildlife. We have falling numbers of just about every species due to disappearing habitat, reductions to the food chain, agricultural intensification and increasing pollution.
According to the World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF) 1 in 7 of our native species face extinction, including a staggering 30% of our bird species. Read their harrowing warnings here.
We can all do a little bit to help. If you have a garden or window box, plant flowers that will attract pollinators. Gardeners can create a small pond and ensure they have holes in their fences big enough for hedgehogs to roam through.
Rewilding Projects in South London
We are looking to work with community groups to cultivate small patches of wasteland into havens for wildlife.
Together we would clear an area and prepare it for planting, perhaps also creating a bucket pond. We will provide part of the workforce, the know how and the plants/seeds/bulbs. The ask in return is that the group maintains the area and sends us updates from time to time on how wildlife are using it.
This could be a great project for the likes of youth groups, schools, neighbourhood watches and sports clubs, or even just groups of friends. It could also be a great social responsibility project for a business to undertake with their employees.
If you would like to get involved and have a location in mind, please email us at office@rspcasouthlondon.org.uk. The area should be of a manageable size and away from heavy traffic areas. Depending where it is, we may need to seek the permission of the local authority to carry out a rewilding project.
If you live outside South London but would like to do something for your area, you can check out the Rewilding Britain website for ideas.
RSPCA South London - For Every Kind Of Creature 