This month we are looking at the endangered animals across the UK and how we can help! 

British Endangered Animals 

British butterflies numbers have been going down, but a species that has particularly suffered is the pretty small tortoiseshell even though it used to be one of the most common butterfly species.

Turtle Doves are smaller than its collared dove cousin, the turtle dove is now only found in scattered locations in southern and eastern England, where some farmers are working with the RSPB to create feeding habitats, the loss of which are blamed for the bird’s decline.

One of only two species of toad in the UK, this noisy amphibian is said to be audible over several kilometers but sadly there are vast swathes of Britain in which it cannot be heard at all. They have been reintroduced in Hampshire and Surrey but are still considered endangered, despite female Natterjacks being able to lay up to 7,500 eggs during breeding season.

Hedgehogs have been endangered for the last 70 years. It is considered to be partly due to warmer winters that have affected their hibernation patterns, waking them up at the wrong time of year, before there is enough food around. New roads and building developments constructed in their habitat may also be a factor.

The friendly red squirrel has been in decline since the early 20th century and has dwindled to an estimated population of only 140,000. Now the reds are only commonly found in the far north of England and Scotland. Their susceptibility to squirrel pox means they remain very much in the shadow of the grey.

What can you do to help?  

By planting one tree or one hedge it can create a home for hundreds of different species, it not only gives them a home but also a food source.

Have a look to see what trees or hedges would be best suited to your garden so that you can create a new habitat and see what animals come into your garden!