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Home > Spaces and species > FarmLife
When we think of wildlife, we often think of wetlands and woodlands. But farms also add to our local biodiversity. Bees pollinate crops. Grasses feed sheep and other grazing animals. Birds and mice build their homes in hedgerows. Ground-nesting birds hide their chicks in the tall grasses along field margins. Livestock droppings provide food for some insects and fertilise the soil for emerging flowers.
But did you know that biodiversity also includes crops and livestock? Modern crops and farm animals are all descended from wild – and in many cases extinct – relatives. Have you ever wondered why a Cox apple is different from a Russet? Or why some cattle are raised for meat and others for milk? It’s because farmers have over the centuries carefully selected and bred these species, creating varieties for different uses. The result was a huge array of plant and animal breeds. Today only a small group of plant and animal varieties dominates our fields. Sadly, many of the old varieties are now rare or extinct.
The Bedfordshire & Luton Biodiversity Action Plan includes the following plans related to farm habitats and species:
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Breathing Places is a ground breaking collaboration between the BBC and leading wildlife and conservation organisations
Why not help to create a breathing place where you live?
For more information go to: bbc.co.uk/breathingplaces
The Spring 2010 issue of the new Muntjac is out! Have a look at what we're up to!
The February 2010 issue of the Beds & Luton Geology Group newsletter is out! Click here to find out the latest scoop!
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Bedfordshire & Luton Biodiversity Partnership ℅ Central Bedfordshire Council, Borough Hall Room 550, Cauldwell Street, Bedford MK42 9AP |
