Conservationists are undertaking a project in Cumbria, United Kingdom, to protect two rare species: the natterjack toad and the northern dune tiger beetle. The initiative focuses on reversing the degradation of sand dunes, which serve as a critical habitat for these animals.
Cumbria is identified as one of the last remaining strongholds for the natterjack toad in Britain. To aid this species, a key objective is to determine the best methods for restoring the condition of the coastal dunes. This may involve creating artificial corridors within the dunes to channel wind, facilitating greater sand movement and thus maintaining the dune landscape.
The northern dune tiger beetle, known for its rapid movement, can reach speeds of up to 2.5 meters per second. As far as is known, this beetle is found in only two locations in the UK: the Sefton sand dunes in Merseyside and Drigg in Cumbria. Conservation teams plan to survey the beetle's current population in Cumbria. They also aim to identify if other suitable habitats exist in the region for the species.
A subsequent step for the northern dune tiger beetle involves assessing the feasibility of relocating beetles from Merseyside to newly identified sites in Cumbria. The goal of this potential relocation would be to establish new populations and enhance the species' overall chances of survival. However, experts acknowledge that relocating the beetles may not be a viable option.
