Improving wildlife habitats in the local area
Surveying the local moth population
In August 2023, Warwick hosted its first moth survey event. The survey found ten varieties of moths live on campus. Those helping complete the surveys (including local residents, staff and students) were able to learn more about these creatures, why they are so important to the ecosystem and what they can tell us about climate change. Knowledge gathering and sharing with the local community was crucial, as the surveys undertaken revealed a lot about the habitats on campus - as moth habitats are a key part of the University's Ecology and Biodiversity Plan. Read more...
Conducting wildlife surveys on campus
The University is committed to protecting, creating and enhancing spaces for biodiversity across campus. As such, to ‘achieve ecology and biodiversity net gain’ has been identified as one of our five pathways to a sustainable future. As part of this, the University ran surveys to obtain knowledge of the species that were present on campus. Engaging staff and students in recording and sharing wildlife sightings helped produce invaluable knowledge of species on campus, with a view to helping conserve and improve natural habitats across the University estate. Read more...
Bee health
One of our most important pollinators, the European honey bee, faces serious threats from parasitic diseases. Warwick researchers are investigating new solutions to honey bee diseases, and conduct knowledge exchange and research collaboration activities with external partners including Rothamsted Research in Harpenden. Bee health research is undertaken in the School of Life Sciences, whose facilities in this area include bee hives and laboratories, which can be used by internal academics and external partners wishing to undertake research in on bee populations and behaviour. Read more...
Hedgehog Friendly Campus
The University is part of the Hedgehog Friendly Campus initiative which aims to support hedgehogs on their path to recovery. We have a core working group with representatives comprising staff and students. A focus on sharing knowledge and awareness with the local community has helped ensure the success of other initiatives, including providing residents and businesses with information about bonfire risks to hedgehogs, producing a garden maintenance and hedgehog friendly-guide for students, and conducting a hedgehog survey on the central and Wellesbourne campuses. Read more...