Volunteers are needed to help protect the delicate habitat of endangered butterfly species at Westcott.
This February, the Westcott community is invited to participate in the 'Scrub Bash' conservation event, taking place on Monday the 10th and Thursday the 27th at the old railway entrance to the park.
Westcott businesses are encouraged to join this initiative to enhance the Park's biodiversity and support the survival of these exquisite creatures. Participants can choose to attend for a few hours or commit to a full day on either date.
The Upper Thames Branch of Butterfly Conservation has documented an impressive 1,250 species of moth inhabiting the old, disused railway cutting on the park's west side.
Over recent years, Chiltern Rangers has organised various conservation efforts to protect these species, including the Hairstreaks, Dingy Skipper, and Grizzled Skipper Butterflies, all of which face significant threats from habitat loss in the UK.
Approximately 50 volunteers will generously dedicate their time to help manage the scrub in the eastern embankment area. The community team will carefully cut back small trees and bushes encroaching on the rare floral grassland, a crucial food source for the butterflies.
Paul Stack of Chiltern Rangers said: “Over the past four years, we have diligently worked on clearing the site, successfully mitigating the encroachment of scrub that poses a threat to the diverse short turf species living there.
“Our primary focus lies in safeguarding species such as the Black Hairstreak, an endangered species listed on the Red List, as their survival is limited to small pockets across Britain.
“Without collaborative efforts, this remarkable species faces the risk of permanent extinction. Our work plays a critical role in preserving this exceptional habitat for both flora and butterflies.”
The program is sponsored by Westcott owners PATRIZIA, along with Butterfly Conservation Upper Thames Branch, and the Rothschild Foundation. Chiltern Rangers hopes to conduct additional sessions throughout the year.
Paul added: “We would like to invite local businesses to join in either of our sessions for an extraordinary community day. The event presents a remarkable opportunity to invest in your team's wellbeing while actively contributing towards corporate social responsibility targets. Together, we can make a significant impact on improving the biodiversity in our area.”
John Westwood, Westcott Operations Manager explained: “Ecology and sustainability are fundamental principles for Westcott owners PATRIZIA, so we are thrilled to contribute to the conservation of priority butterfly species.
“In addition to the environmental advantages, our tenants value the opportunity to work in a natural setting. This initiative reinforces our dedication to offering a secure and sustainable space for growth.”
To sign up to join the conservation team please visit:
Monday 10th Feb: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1137717506689?aff=oddtdtcreator
Thursday 27th Feb: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1137717506689?aff=oddtdtcreator
If you have any further questions, please email Paul Stack at Chiltern Rangers: paul@chilternrangers.co.uk
