AN ECOLOGICAL SURVEY OF STURGESS FIELD SITES FOR NATURE RESERVE CONSERVATION IN DERBYSHIRE, UNITED KINGDOM

Usman Bawa, Yahaya Abdullahi, Ahmed Bukar, Halima Adamu Adaya

Abstract


The Sturgess field sites was surveyed based on the standard and methodology of the extended phase 1 habitat survey between (October –November, 2013). The result shown no statutory designated nature conservation sites (SSSI) within the Sturgess field sites, however the adjacent Markeaton Brook and Markeaton Park are designated non-statutory nature conservation sites (Local wild life sites (LWS)). Three notable habitats which fall under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) habitats were recorded, semi natural grassland, broadleaved mixed woodland and Rivers and streams. Records of protected species, species protected under the wild life Country side Act 1981 and species under the UK and County Local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) were evaluated. No records of protected white clawed Cray fish, water voles, and otters were found on this site. But however due to the records of this species in the adjacent Markeaton Brook and the suitability of this habitats to supports these species, they are considered to be present. In view of these findings recommendations were proffered for the management of the entire sites as nature reserve, this include planting of native wild life flowers within the meadow, hedgerow and scrub management, and introduction of additional bats and bird’s boxes and also eradication of Himalayan balsam invasive weed among others. 

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