Wildlife
‘Nature in the Dales’ is the Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP). The plan was written in 2000 to assist in the conservation and enhancement of wildlife in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and prioritises 23 important habitats and 20 important species. The LBAP co-ordination group meets regularly and comprises of organisations that are active in monitoring and protecting wildlife in the Dales.
To assess changes to habitat and species diversity and the status of BAP priorities the Wildlife Conservation Team commissions an extensive programme of survey and monitoring work.
The results of this work are used to inform decision making and to provide advice on a wide range of proposals including agri-environment schemes, planning applications, and Open Access land. Results are also used for reporting purposes and to support and assist project work including the award winning Limestone Country project (website opens in new window).
Current survey work includes: red squirrel monitoring; habitat surveying within the Richmondshire district; and specialist moss and snail surveys.
The current status of LBAP priorities is summarised in the LBAP Annual Report. To download a copy click on the link below:
- LBAP Annual Report 2006 (opens Document Library)
The Authority owns and manages six Local Nature Reserves: Cleatop Park; Freeholders' Wood; Riddings Field; Killington New Bridge; Ballowfield; and Attermire and Langcliffe Scars. These sites are all managed specifically for wildlife conservation.
The Wildlife Conservation Team promotes the involvement of both local communities and visitors in wildlife conservation through a programme of education, activities and events. Awareness of important wildlife is raised through annual events including the ‘Aren’t Birds Brilliant’ Peregrine Falcon watch which is run jointly with the RSPB (website opens in new window). A series of short publications on important habitats and species found in the Dales will also be available in the near future.
For more information on the wildlife of the Dales take a look at the Nature in the Dales pages on this website.
Contact details
Wildlife Conservation Team
Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority
Colvend
Grassington
Skipton
North Yorkshire
BD23 5LB
0870 1 666333
