RSPB Arne Heathland Management Project
This project will extend and improve the RSPB’s
flagship Arne Nature Reserve on the Arne Peninsula
in Dorset, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
With the UK holding some 30% of Europe’s
remaining heathland, the Purbeck heathlands (which
include Arne) are already of international importance.
The project will begin with the acquisition of 34 hectares of land, representing the key missing link in an otherwise continuous area of lowland heathland and diverse associated habitats. The acquired land will then be maintained and managed for biodiversity gain, together with seven other priority habitats. All-told, conservation work to be undertaken during the project will cover a total area of 978 hectares.
Mike Trubridge, RSPB Arne Site Manager said:
“Arne Nature Reserve is a site rich in wildlife, not just birds. It is also a community resource enjoyed by over 60,000 people each year. This funding enables us to continue our vital conservation work safeguarding species like the Dartford warbler and silver-
studded blue butterfly for future generations to enjoy.
It also builds on the countless valuable hours of work donated to us by our volunteers and RSPB members, without which the RSPB couldn’t achieve what it does here at Arne.”
The UK BAP priority species expected to benefit from the project include the Woodlark, Nightjar, Sand Lizard, Purbeck Mason Wasp, Heath Tiger Beetle and Bechstein’s Bat.
