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BedsLife wishes to acknowledge the financial support of Natural England for this website
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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:
BedsLife is taking part in the Year of Food and Farming, from September 2007 to July 2008. Visit the Year of Food and Farming website to find out how you or your school can become involved. We've got our own page on the site too - click here to check it out!
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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 Summer 08 issue of Beds BioNews is out! Have a look at what we're up to!
The May 2008 issue of the Beds & Luton Geology Group newsletter is out! Click here to find out the latest scoop!
The 2008 Community Tree Trust woodland wildflowers seed collection days are being held on June 22, June 29 and July 20. Check out their website for full details!
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Bedfordshire & Luton Biodiversity Partnership ℅ Bedfordshire County Council, County Hall Room 550, Cauldwell Street, Bedford MK42 9AP |
