By Birds reclaim outdoor spaces in Grimsby and Cleethorpes
As the British public observes social distancing measures and remains safely indoors, local wildlife has begun to reclaim parts of parks, beaches and outdoor spaces in Grimsby and Cleethorpes.
The impact of people staying at home is that places which are usually popular as the weather improves, such as Cleethorpes Beach, are virtually deserted.
But, this means that nature is thriving at Cleethorpes Beach, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is protected under international law because it is home to a variety of rare bird species.
Rachel Graham, ecology manager at North East Lincolnshire Council, has been studying our local wildlife during the lockdown period and focusing on the numbers of animals now appearing. While North East Lincolnshire is home to many species of mammals, birds and insects, they are rarely seen because of the level of human activity.
Rachel Graham said:
“Local bird populations have dramatically increased, now they can feed and roost without disturbance – something our beach is officially designated for.
“On a visit to Bradley Woods, I spotted a pair of house hunting blue tits, who seemed to have found their ideal home. En route, there was also a rather fabulous male pheasant.
“It’s important for everyone to follow the government guidelines and not all congregate in one place. It isn’t just for our benefit, but for the good of local wildlife which is thriving right now.
“The effects of climate change have put a lot of pressure on many animals and their habitats in recent years, so it’s great to see some species still doing well.
“The small things that run the world are suffering the greatest decline, particularly moths, butterflies, ladybirds and ground beetles, all of which birds need for their own survival.”
Bradley Woods, which is also designated as an ancient woodland and nature reserve, is a popular spot for dog walkers and home to many varieties of animal and birds.
The woodland continues to be frequented by visitors, despite the calls for people to socially distance themselves.
More than half of all UK wild animal species are in decline, with one in seven at risk of extinction. Some insect species have declined by up to 80 per cent in recent decades.
North East Lincolnshire Council have called for people to observe social distancing measures, for the good of our wildlife as well as public health.
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