Rare butterflies and birds will benefit from a much larger area of protected land in mid Cornwall thanks to efforts by farmers, landowners and conservation groups, says Government wildlife adviser Natural England.
The new Mid Cornwall Moors site of special scientific interest (SSSI) merges the six original SSSIs which previously dotted the landscape either side of the A30 and east of Indian Queens, extending their boundaries and protecting around 50% more of the countryside.
The SSSI includes several closely located patches of land, connecting important habitats and helping wildlife to withstand pressures, creating a stronger refuge and network for rare plants and animals.
The countryside across the Mid Cornwall Moors is a rich and varied mix of heathland, woodland, and wildflower meadows; a vital sanctuary for wildlife, as well as an important asset for local people, visitors, and businesses.
With the help of farmers, landowners, the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and Butterfly Conservation, will help create the perfect conditions for the rare marsh fritillary butterfly, which should see its fortune improve as a result.
The wet woodlands throughout the area are important for the diminutive willow tit, which has virtually disappeared from large parts of the UK and declined by an estimated 81% since the mid-1990s.
The new areas added to the SSSI include important breeding sites for both of these special species.
