Nature needs our help

Many years of development, habitat loss and persecution has resulted in the UK being one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth. One in six species are threatened with extinction in Britain. Insects of all kinds, especially those which pollinate important food supplies such as bees, are in decline.

Changes in farming methods and recent climate change are the biggest causes of wildlife decline. So, what can we do about it in Shipston? How can you help?

Gardeners can help in several ways: by leaving a patch of garden to be a bit wild; letting grass grow a bit longer by mowing less often and allowing lawn weeds to flower (the much-abused dandelion and clover provide pollen for our bees and other insects). Try planting garden flowers that provide forage for a wide variety of pollinating insects eg foxglove, aster, nasturtium, and putting a shallow dish of water out for garden visitors such as birds, hedgehogs and many more. Please avoid using deadly chemical sprays!

Even if you don’t have a garden, tubs, hanging baskets and window boxes can still create homes for wildlife. Many flowering herbs are loved by pollinators – chives, sage, lavender; even cherry tomatoes will grow in a small container so you can have some home-grown food from a tub!

For more ideas have a look at the websites of organisations such as Buglife, RHS and the Wildlife Trusts.