Dovestone Reservoir flourishing as surveys reveal more wildlife

THINGS ARE looking up for some of the most threatened moorland species at a popular Greenfield reservoir, according to the latest results of wildlife surveys carried out by the RSPB.

Almost five years ago the RSPB and United Utilities embarked on an innovative project to improve Dovestone Reservoir for both water quality and wildlife.

And now a full bird survey carried out by the RSPB to find out what effect the work of the partnership is having on local wildlife has produced some encouraging results.

A survey in 2004 suggested the dunlin, a scarce wading bird that lives on wet bogs was heading for extinction with only seven pairs recorded – but this is now up to 38 pairs.

The spectacular short-eared owl is also doing well with six pairs recorded – the highest count at Dovestone ever – while ring ouzels, the rare mountain blackbird, have doubled in numbers to at least 14 singing males.

Water voles, a species known to have declined drastically nationally, are also on the up at Dovestone, and the rare Bilberry bumblebee was recorded frequently in this year’s survey.

These increases in wildlife are a direct result of a range of conservation projects, carried out by UU and RSPB staff and volunteers, working with tenant farmers.

Dave O’Hara, RSPB Site Manager at Dovestone, said: “We are seeing a picture of real increases in wildlife diversity.

“Though there is still a big challenge ahead, it is reassuring to see how we are beginning to make a difference.

“We would particularly like to thank the volunteers whose efforts are making such an impact on improving wildlife habitats, and also our funders, including the SITA Trust and the Dark Peak Nature Improvement Area, who have supported work such as gully blocking on the moorland.”

Ed Lawrance, United Utilities Wildlife Officer, added: “It is fantastic to see the real increases in wildlife that live in this area.

“There has been significant investment in the Dovestone moors over the last few years to improve the quality of water, as well as benefit wildlife and improve carbon storage.

“This important monitoring shows that this work has had a very positive effect on the special wildlife that lives there.”