Rare Species Guardians

Bedfordshire's mixed geology and habitats makes it home to a wonderful variety of species. Local experts have identified a list of plant species at high risk, most of which only occur in a few locations in our county, which would benefit from having a local guardian keep an eye on them. 

For each species and site they’re located at, a guardian is assigned. They check on their species at least once a year, more often if possible, to track how successful flowering and pollination is each year.  As well as monitoring number and spread of each species guardians help identify what can be done to boost each species, or discover what is causing their decline. We currently have over 30 volunteers monitoring around 60 species such as the Green-winged Orchid, the Bog Pimpernel and the Marsh Violet, and would always welcome more volunteers.

The story so far...

The idea was first thought of back in 2017, but with other commitments, staffing changes and covid it only got off the ground for the 2022 survey season. The principle was simple, choose a short list of flora species that are rare in the county and would benefit from regular surveying to ensure the populations are not lost. This was already occurring on an ad hoc basis for a number of plants, but it was important that we capture that information centrally and used it to best protect these rare species.

By working together the Wildlife Trust BCN, Greensand Trust, BNHS Flora Group and BRMC have pooled their resources and local knowledge to make this project a reality. 

In 2023 over 100 species reports were received – covering around 50 species, surveyed by 28 Guardians. This is significantly more than in 2022 when 31 plant species were surveyed by 16 Guardians. 

Plans for 2024

We hope to get even more volunteers out to survey species at even more sites across Bedfordshire this year!  This map shows sites with an active Guardian and those without. If you would be interested in becoming a Guardian of any of those without please get in touch with us to find out more. 

There will be an information evening on Tuesday 30th April for all those interested in taking part.

If you’re interested in becoming a Rare Species Guardian, or would like to invite a guardian to monitor a rare species on your land, please contact the Wider Countryside team at: T: 01234 364213; E: bedfordshire@wildlifebcn.org