WATER VOLE REINTRODUCTION PROJECT

Undeniably cute, these environmentally vital creatures are a keystone species. This means they have a disproportionately positive impact on their environment relative to their abundance. By nibbling the riverbank vegetation, water voles create space for a diverse range of plants which in turn support numerous other species from rare butterflies and insects to the birds and bats that feed on them. They are also important prey for herons, owls and other birds of prey.

Driven to local extinction by American Mink and unfavourable farming practices water voles have been missing from Devon’s rivers for decades. So when my lovely friend Sue said that she was hoping to try to reintroduce them to the River Gara, which runs through her land, I jumped at the chance to help. Little did I realise I would find myself hauling mink traps through overgrown waterways and helping to raise large sums of money to fund the project!

As part of this project I have been very fortunate to meet one of the country’s leading reintroduction experts, work alongside hugely passionate and knowledgeable people and form lifelong friendships.

The first water voles were released in August 2023 with three further releases planned over a two year period. It is a privilege to be part of a vibrant team leading a project that will have such a positive impact on our local environment.

Find out more about the River Gara Water Vole Reintroduction Project or other environmental organisations.