Biodiversity
We're making space for nature across all our sites. The University’s Biodiversity Action Plan, created in partnership with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, guides our work to protect, enhance and create new habitats for wildlife.
Our Ship Handling Centre at Timsbury Lake is a haven for protected species including otter, water vole, great crested newt and eight species of bat. The site is medieval in origin and has a biodiverse mix of ponds, streams, woodland, aquatic marginal vegetation, scrub and shrub. Over 30 species of ancient woodland plants have been recorded. A conservation management plan is in place and we carry out routine habitat management and species monitoring.
The native wildflower meadow at East Park Terrace, provides pollen and nectar-rich habitat for a range of invertebrates and was awarded Highly Commended in the national Bees Needs Awards. In autumn and winter, meadow areas left uncut create shelter for overwintering insects and a food source for our resident flock of goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.