nature

Stop decline of species

The water vole ('Ratty' from 'The Wind in the Willows') was once common in the city but appears to be disappearing rapidly - despite populations recovering elsewhere in the UK.
There is also concern about bees (honey, bumble, solitary and mason), moths and butterflies, all of which seem to be in continual decline.
It leads us to ask: is Hull's wildlife holding its own or not?
Records of local populations of birds also raise concerns; e.g., numbers of song thrush and tree sparrow have remained low - yet they show an increase at national level.
While the reed runting population remains stable, there is concern over other species - such as the skylark, linnet and spotted flycatcher - and these have been included in the Local Biodiversity Action Plan for Hull.
This means efforts will be made to develop their nesting sites, as well as provide more food and prevent predators making a meal of them.
A singular 'plus' on the insect side during the summer was an increase in records of the speckled wood butterfly (see picture by reader Robert Longbone), which turned up in gardens all over the city. Unfortunately, I am told, it is a visitor, and not a permanent resident!
Some of the endangered and threatened species are essential to our food chain - as well as our mental and physical well-being - so it is critical that we get a turnround on all these biological declines as a contribution to the quality of life of the community and regeneration of the city.

Jon Capel, City Ecologist
Tel: 300300
Email: jon.capel2@hullcc.gov.uk