Over 100 water voles released at Northamptonshire wetland reserve
- More than 100 water voles, specifically 116, were released into the Nene Wetlands in Northamptonshire as part of a conservation project.
- The release was facilitated by the Wildlife Trust for Beds, Cambs and Northants, using recycled Pringles tubes for safe transport.
- This initiative aims to restore the water vole population in the area, which has been absent since 2000, and is seen as a hopeful step towards their comeback.
In a significant conservation effort, over 100 water voles were released into the Nene Wetlands in Northamptonshire, marking a hopeful step towards restoring the species in the area. The release, which took place recently, involved 116 voles bred in captivity, transported safely using recycled Pringles tubes. This initiative was organized by the Wildlife Trust for Beds, Cambs and Northants, with funding and licensing from Natural England as part of its Species Recovery Programme. Historically, water voles have faced severe population declines due to habitat loss and predation by invasive species like mink. In Northamptonshire, these creatures had been confined to a few isolated colonies, with no presence around the Nene Wetlands since 2000. The conservation team expressed excitement at witnessing the voles' return, emphasizing the importance of creating a healthy habitat for their survival. The voles were initially kept in pens for a week to acclimatize, receiving daily feedings before being allowed to explore their new environment. This careful management is crucial for ensuring the success of the reintroduction. Conservation manager Matt Johnson highlighted the significance of this project, hoping it would lead to the establishment of a meta population that could expand across the county. In addition to the water voles, plans are underway for the release of a family of beavers in the Nene Wetlands later this autumn, further enhancing the biodiversity of the area. This ongoing commitment to wildlife restoration reflects a broader effort to revive native species and restore ecological balance in Northamptonshire.