Under the oversight of SACWG, a small group of expert ecologists and volunteers, coordinated by Isabel Carter, carried out a number of biodiversity surveys during 2016. These included amphibians (Phase II), reptiles, flora (Phase II), birds, mammals, dragonflies, moths and butterflies. Among all the findings were three UK notable invertebrate species – the micro moth, Prochoreutis myllerana, the ground beetle, Anthracus consputus, and the frog hopper, Aphrophora major. Camera traps for possible sightings of otter and water vole were also used but, alas, with no success to date.
For some preliminary lists of species found in the wetlands, follow these links:
Phase 2 habitat surveys are being carried out for amphibians, reptiles and flora. In addition careful observations and surveys are in process for birds, mammals (notably otter and water voles), dragonflies, moths, butterflies and bats. All expertise has been provided voluntarily and a small group of volunteers are enjoying exploring the biodiversity (with permission from the landowners for access).
On the basis of the surveys and data submitted, the central area of the wetlands was awarded Wildlife Site status in January 2017 by Shropshire Wildlife Trust. Surveying will continue during 2017 for birds and water voles in particular.
