Bramerton Parish Council

How Residents Can Help Wildlife

Introduction - Statutory Duty

Under the 2021 Environment Act, public authorities (including town and parish councils) who operate in England must consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity in England.

Government guidance published on 17th May 2023 clarifies that, as a public authority, town and parish councils must:

Consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity.
Agree policies and specific objectives based on their consideration.
Act to deliver their policies and achieve their objectives.

Biodiversity policy

Small changes can make a big difference

You do not need a large garden or specialist knowledge to help wildlife. Simple changes in gardens and outdoor spaces can provide valuable habitats for birds, insects, hedgehogs and other species.

Create a wildlife-friendly garden

Consider:

Planting for pollinators

Choose flowers that provide nectar and pollen throughout the year. Native plants are especially valuable because they support local wildlife.

Examples include:

foxglove;
primrose;
cowslip;
lavender;
oxeye daisy;
knapweed.

Leaving some areas natural

A perfectly tidy garden is not always best for wildlife. Consider:

leaving a small area of grass longer;
allowing seed heads to remain over winter;
keeping fallen leaves in sheltered areas;
creating log piles for insects.

Providing water

A shallow dish, bird bath or small pond can provide drinking and bathing opportunities for birds and a habitat for insects and amphibians.

Reducing chemicals

Where possible:

avoid unnecessary pesticide use;
encourage natural predators such as birds and hedgehogs;
choose wildlife-friendly gardening methods.

Helping wildlife move around

Many animals need to move between gardens and habitats.

Residents can help by:

creating Hedgehog Highways;
avoiding fencing that blocks wildlife movement;
planting connected hedges and shrubs.

Together, gardens across the parish can become a network of valuable wildlife habitats.