Background
Our operatives, alongside an ecologist, collaborated to improve a Kent nature park habitat for its herpetological residents. The project focused on constructing hibernacula, and implementing wildflower turf finishes to support reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Two areas were left as log piles, which can be utilised as basking spots for reptiles ,as well as shelter, breeding sites and foraging spots for a plethora of invertebrate species, promoting ecosystem resilience.
Owing to the sensitivity of the site, the on-site ecologist advised us to put down our strimmers and use more traditional techniques to prepare the areas for hibernaculum building. These efforts aimed to enhance habitat quality, promote biodiversity and aid in the conservation of threatened herpetological and invertebrate fauna.
Objectives
- Construct hibernacula: Build nine effective hibernaculum structures to provide overwintering refuges for reptiles and amphibians, enhancing their survival during colder months.
- Implement wild flower turf: Introduce wild flower turf finishes on and around hibernacula sites to increase plant diversity and support pollinator insect populations.
- Preserve herpetological populations: Create an ideal habitat environment for slow worms, viviparous lizards and great crested newts, contributing to the conservation and restoration of declining population levels.
Implementation
Preparation
As a reserve with protected status, great care was taken not to cause any unnecessary damage or disturbance to wildlife or flora. Under the guidance of an ecologist, we flattened vegetation encroaching on the hibernacula with our feet to flush out any reptiles or amphibians. The vegetation was then cut back using handheld pruning tools.
Hibernacula construction
We utilised layers of discarded masonry and local stone, decomposing vegetation and a soil mix to construct hibernacula, providing natural insulation and refuge for reptiles and amphibians during winter.
The hibernacula were strategically placed within the nature park to maximise their accessibility and effectiveness as overwintering shelters. The entrances were carefully positioned to maximise sun exposure and turf was used to insulate against the onshore winds that the area is so often exposed to.
Owing to wind exposure and unsuitability of construction materials, the ecologist directed two of the designated hibernaculum sites to be left as log piles instead, as these provide their own benefits, especially for invertebrates, such as the charismatic stag beetle.
Wild flower turf finishes
A bespoke mix of subsoil and topsoil was used to cover the hibernacula and provide a low nutrient substrate for the wild flowers to embed into.
Wild flower turf finishes were implemented on and around hibernacula sites to introduce a diverse range of plant species.
The addition of wild flowers supports pollinator insect populations, contributing to the park’s ecosystem health and biodiversity.
Project gallery
Results
- Improved habitat quality: The completion of hibernacula, wild flower turf finishes and log piles enhance habitat diversity and quality within the nature park.
- Biodiversity promotion: The introduction of wild flowers and utilisation of log piles support a wide range of species, including pollinator insects and threatened beetle species.
- Population conservation: By providing suitable habitat and refuge areas, the park has contributed to the conservation of slow worms, viviparous lizards and other herpetological species.
- Reduced translocation risks: Hibernaculum structures help mitigate post-translocation dispersal risks by providing stable refuge sites, reducing the likelihood of individuals venturing into unsuitable or hazardous areas.
Conclusion
The collaborative efforts of our operatives have successfully enhanced the area’s capacity to support herpetological and invertebrate populations. Through the construction of hibernacula and implementation of wild flower turf finishes, the park now offers a more hospitable and biodiverse environment. These conservation initiatives demonstrate the importance of proactive habitat management in safeguarding vulnerable species and preserving natural ecosystems for future generations.