A new series of guides about the wildlife of the Brecks have been created in the hope of introducing new people to the fascinating area.
Straddling both Norfolk and Suffolk the Brecks is recognised as one of the most important parts of the country in terms of its biodiversity.
It encompasses areas of forest, heathland, farmland and river corridors are these diverse habitats support a range of wildlife, including some of Britain’s rarest species.
In addition to being a popular destination for birdwatchers and naturalists it is also a popular holiday destination.
Several local conservation organisations decided there was a need to engage more people with the area’s wildlife and make it more accessible through affordable and informative means.
The first two books, Birds of the Brecks by Su Gough and Flowers of the Brecks: Part One – Heath & Grassland by Mike Crewe, have been published.
Mike Toms, from Thetford-based British Trust for Ornithology which published the books, said “These new guides will help people engage with the wildlife found within the Brecks.
“We hope that this engagement will lead to increased interest in recording and monitoring the rich communities of plants and animals that occur in the area and, through this, support the evidence-based conservation and management decisions key to maintaining these communities in the future.”
The books will include photographs , information and identification features of species and habits. There will also be guidance on when and where each species is most likely to be seen.
Sections give an overview of the Brecks in terms of landscapes and habitats and maps show the most interesting sites to visit.
The Breckland Society, Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service, Suffolk Naturalists’ Society and the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists’ Society have all been involved in the guides.
James Parry from the Breckland Society, said: “We are delighted to be supporting this exciting new series of guides. The Brecks are rightly celebrated for the diversity of wildlife found here, and these books are an ideal way of learning more about what there is to see and enjoy.”
The guides are available at the BTO shop or local book shops.
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