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University of Chichester Biodiversity Action Plan

January 2017 of 37

University of Chichester

Biodiversity Action Plan

(UOC BAP)

January 2017-2020

DRIVERS BEWARE! DUCKS ON CAMPUS

PLEASE GIVE THEM THE RIGHT OF WAY


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The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held between 3

and 14 June 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, became known as the Rio or the Earth

Summit and produced the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). This agreement

advocated the establishment of national policies that would identify existing biological

diversity, defined as “the variability among organisms from all sources,”

(www.ukbap.org/uk) which is now more commonly referred to as biodiversity and the

enforcement of these national strategies through biodiversity action plans (BAPS).

Each county produced its own BAP. 192 states and the European Union were parties

to this treaty that had 3 main aims, the conservation of biological diversity, the

sustainable use of components and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising

from genetic resources.

The aim of these BAPS was to identify, then plan to conserve, protect and where possible enhance existing biodiversity. The UK BAP was administered by the UK Biodiversity Partnership. Their document can be viewed at http://tna.europarchive.org/20110303145238/http:/www.ukbap.org.uk/default.aspx. The UK BAP was succeed by the UK Biodiversity Framework in 2010 with the European Union launching the Biodiversity Strategy in May 2011. The plans continue to be devolved to local areas through different organisations including the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=6189. The Sussex Biodiversity Partnership provides information and data for both East and West Sussex and can be viewed at http://www.biodiversitysussex.org/ Local BAPS are usually referred to as LBAPS. They identify Habitat (HAPS) and Species (SAPS) Action Plans.

In 2010 the University of Chichester published its Environmental and Sustainable Development Strategy 2010-2013, in which the commitment to “maintain and improve diversity within the University’s estate” was stated, the first University’s Biodiversity Action Plan (UOC BAP), was published in April 2011 to help to achieve this aim and to contribute to the UK and Sussex LBAP. This fourth, UOC BAP, is published to record the achievements of the past year and to highlight those areas that continue to require actions.

http://www.ukbap.org/uk

http://tna.europarchive.org/20110303145238/http:/www.ukbap.org.uk/default.aspx

http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=6189

http://www.biodiversitysussex.org/


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(UoC BAP) In the last year some trees were lost due to disease, landscaping, construction works and environmental conditions including extreme high winds. The Green Campus Group continue to implement their tree planting plans, this will eventually, result in an increase in the number of trees planted across the campuses. The sports pitches are still retained along with the hedgerows that help maintain the soil, reduce problems of soil erosion and provide windbreaks and shelter. The construction of a new running track at the Bishop Otter campus did not impinge on the hedgerows and in March 2012 Black headed seagulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) were seen feeding on the north field’s football pitches. Ponds continue to provide water for birds, invertebrates, herptiles and animals. Open land continues to allow animals to migrate from one area to another. Compost bins are maintained and used. Although the University tries to provide good habitats for all, sometimes the only way of knowing what species are living on the campuses is when bodies are found. This has included a dead fox at the Bognor Regis campus.

A healthy fox on the Bognor Regis Campus Spring 2013 This evidence although sometimes upsetting identifies and informs not only what species is living on the grounds but what help can be provided to ensure that the habitats are of the best quality the University can provide, for example, a dead small rodent photographed on the Bishop Otter campus shows that these mammals have found homes on the grounds.


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(UoC BAP)

At the Bognor Regis Campus Nuthatches (Sitta europaea) were spotted nesting in

the trees outside the Dining room. The Climbing Roses in bloom along the wall

fronting Upper Bognor Road on the Bognor Regis Campus provided homes for a

number of species and pleasure to many passers-by. At the Bishop Otter Campus,

crickets could be heard chirping, Seagulls (Larus) and Magpies (Pica pica) around

the Axis Mundi could be seen feeding while rabbit warrens were spotted in the bank

behind the LRC.

Perhaps the most exciting sighting during the year was the Deer (Cervidae) apparently

checking the menus at the Dining Room.


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(UoC BAP)

On both campuses the Bluebells (Hyacinthoides) heralded the coming of Spring in

April. This list of species seen on campus grounds has been complied using excerpts

from diaries kept by members of staff across both campuses. These journals and

photographs help to identify species, inform and update the biodiversity plans, and are

an important aspect when producing the UOC BAP.

Crows at Bognor Regis Campus

A Blackbird (Turdus merula) was helped to raise a family of chicks when she decided to build a nest in the Carpenter’s Workshop at the Chichester campus. The birds were carefully shielded and tended to by all members of the staff who used the building. The Caretakers at the Bognor Regis campus not only feed the ducks (Anas) with parts of their lunches but sited near the Lodge have built a small pond using reclaimed wood and a piece of canvas for the Ducks to refresh themselves. Eco friendly systems continue to be introduced into the University. The Equipment

Loans Department introduced a new paperless system for bookings and enquiries.

Payslips are now delivered to members of staff electronically and the new car sharing

scheme was launched in September 2012. The University successfully applied for

funding from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) to fund

energy saving initiatives including the installation of energy efficient LED lighting and

controls.


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Biodiversity Action Plan (UoC BAP)

In the wider community the University participated in many schemes including the

recycle sculpture competition with Fine Art Student, Samuel Lloyd, creating “Existence

is but a moment” using discarded, plastic video cases

The University took part in the Woodlands Trust’s 2012 aim for 6 million trees to be planted across the nation to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Two Oaks, purchased by the Green Campus Group were planted at the Bishop Otter campus on 31 May 2012. Oak trees will be planted at the Bognor Regis campus when construction work has ceased. These trees will provide species rich habitats confirming the University’s commitment to biodiversity enhancement.

The Vice Chancellor, Clive Behagg and the Secretary to the University’s Governors Isabel Cherrett, plant trees to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, May 2012

The House Martins (Delichon urbica), returned to their nests on University House in May 2012 and again in 2013, so much so that the Estate Management Department have delayed construction works until the birds have flown. The London Plane tree that once stood at the entrance to the Bognor Regis campus will be replaced by the Estate Management Department in due course.


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(UoC BAP)

The University of Chichester’s Green Campus Group continues to monitor, advise,

suggest and take practical steps to help to contribute to the University’s ecosystem.

The primary duty of the Green Campus Group is to ensure that environmental and

sustainable development issues remain prominent in all University activities, thus

reducing the University’s impact. The Group considers conservation in terms of global

as well as a local scale. In the past year the group has considered inter alia, ponds,

bird boxes, bat boxes, bee keeping, allotments, Fairtrade, the travel plan, solar energy,

design of new buildings on campus and ethical and political questions regarding the

University’s procurement policy. This process and policy now includes these topics

when considering new contracts, for example, at the tendering stage for the new

catering contract some environmental aspects were discussed including Fair Trade

status and the International Standards Organization ISO 14401, these systems will be

implemented by the University’s new catering provider, Elior.

The Green Campus Group’s actions have included planting more trees in the orchard at the Bishop Otter Campus, the organisation of Spring Fairs to help raise funds for the Group’s purchase of new trees, plants and equipment. The 2012 Spring Fair theme was Rio20, to celebrate the twentieth anniversary from the original United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, ‘the Earth Summit’ held in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Green Campus Group incorporated corporate social responsibility within the fairs and invited several different associations to attend including the Fire Brigade, Bee Keepers, St Wilfrid’s Hospice, cycling organisations and a local camera club. The Green Campus Group took part in the University’s Well Being week, with an exhibition and offering tree walks.

The Green Campus Group supports the University’s involvement in the Green Impact scheme, the re-accreditation of BS 8555, the Fairtrade Fortnight, The Carbon Management Plan, permanent bee hives sited on both campuses together with the University’s Well Being Week and the Sensory Garden project for the Bognor Regis Campus.


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(UoC BAP) The Green Campus Group will continue to engage with students, a member of the group will attend the Fresher’s Fair. The Group will support the new role of Environmental Officer on the Student Union Senate. Encouraged by the Green Campus Group and the Environment and Sustainable Development Co-Ordinator, Kate Cathie, the Student Union has made great strides last year, including winning green awards. The University achieved a 1st Class Degree in the People and Planet award ranking 28 in the United Kingdom.

The Green Campus Group is aware of the Student aim of providing free food on campus and sensory gardens, the group will fully support these initiatives.

Spring Fair 2013 Bognor Regis Campus

The allotments on the Bognor Regis Campus are now well established with some

traditional allotment flowers appearing. Old concrete litter bins that were scattered

across the Bognor Regis campus were moved to this area and are now being used for

food production around the allotment site. The herbs grown in these containers will not

only be used as food, they will provide a rich nectar source for bees and other insects.

The new allotments on the Bishop Otter Campus have proved popular with students

applying for allotments.

The Green Campus Group put forward suggestions at the construction stage of the

new Sports Dome at the Chichester campus the result of which water butts were

included in the design. This water will be used on the nearby, newly, established

allotments. The Sports Dome has already become a favourite home for the local

Seagulls (Larus). The allotments at the Bognor Regis campus have been collecting

rainwater from nearby buildings for the last year with pipes running directly from the

roof gutters to the water butts.


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(UoC BAP)

The Green Campus Group will continue, as funds permit, to purchase bird and bat boxes, bird feeders, bird baths, water butts and gardening equipment for the allotments.

Although the bird box that included the camera initially appealed only to insects as a home, many viewers across the campus enjoyed watching the activities of the flying creatures, the long winter seemed to kill them off, however, birds have now moved in. The Tits (Paridae) seem to be enjoying their new home. The re-establishing of the video link will once again allow many across campus to view the comings and goings. Bird boxes will continue to be made on campus and placed in appropriate places as suitable homes for a number of species.

Green Woodpecker at the Bognor Regis Campus


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(UoC BAP) Habitat Action Plan (HAP)

Identify habitats Conserve and enhance existing habitats

Actions Taken Actions Required during 2017-2020

Responsible Person

Formal landscaped gardens

Maintain the landscaped areas. Increase habitats in the landscaped gardens for greater biodiversity across both campuses.

Bird and Bat boxes have been installed across the campuses.

Maintain the landscaped areas in the Conversation Areas at both campuses. On-going

Estates

Mixed wildlife habitats

Retain the existing wildlife habitats at both campuses. Continue to support the management of the Green Campus Wild life area initiative. Provide new habitats for greater biodiversity across both campuses include nectar rich, native, fragrant, ‘night time’ plants. Create damp shady shades within the grounds to increase the conditions where non vascular organisms can thrive. Increase the use of compost bins by constructing or purchasing more compost bins. Plant wild flowers.

Compost bins were purchased and installed at the Bognor Regis campus allotments.

Provide basking areas for Herptiles. To be completed by September 2017.New areas to be designated due to expansion plans.

Estates/Green Campus

Sports Pitches Conserve the biodiversity that feed on or live in the sports pitches.

Wildlife is left undisturbed and able to feed on the pitches.

Maintain sports pitches using environmentally friendly methods. On-going

Estates


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Responsible Person

Trees Conserve Native, Non-Native, Broadleaf and Evergreen trees that are distributed across both campuses. Incorporate native broad leaf trees, Oaks, Beeches, Birches and Maples during the design stage of new planting schemes to provide habitats for flowering plants, fungi, lichens, birds, mammals and invertebrates.

Oak trees were planted. New trees were added to the Bishop Otter campus’s orchard.

Tree planting scheme On-going.

Green Campus and Estates

Fallow Fields and permanent meadow land.

Preserve the existing areas. Allow areas of Rank Vegetation to grow. Do not restrict the growth of other vegetation. Plant areas with wild flowers. Mow grass less often.

Areas of grass identified Grass allowed to grow, without mowing on the Bognor Regis Campus.

Investigate the possibility of allowing the grass on the bank of Bishop Otter campus LRC to grow as an area of rank vegetation along with the area near the main car park. Investigate the possibility of declaring the boundary between UOC and St. Richards as an area of rank vegetation.



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Habitat Action Plan (HAP)



Responsible Person

Open land Aim to decrease the use of Pesticides and Chemicals on the land. Create barriers when used. Remove mown grass and cuttings from areas to encourage low nutrient or bare earth patches.

Conservation is on-going.

Provide records of pesticide and chemical use. Create new areas of bare earth patches. On-going


Hedgerows Conserve the existing hedgerows as part of the ecosystem and for protection against soil erosion.


Maintain using environmentally friendly methods. On-going


Ponds Maintain the existing ponds. Increase and re-instate ponds across the campuses to provide habitats for amphibians, herptiles, birds, animals and insects. Use pond plants to encourage specific species including Dragon Flies (Anisoptera).


Monitor the existing ponds. The monitoring is on-going.


Marsh land Conserve the existing marsh land. Use the natural water supply to create or enhance marsh areas. Establish marsh plants at both campuses.


Identify areas for establishing new marsh or bog areas. On-going. Work with design team for the new technology park.



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Responsible Person

Orchards Support the Green Campus initiative to plant and re-instate orchards to encourage vascular, non-vascular organisms, flora and fauna. Acquire mixed fruit trees, plant heritage varieties where possible.

Identify further areas for establishing new orchards. Longbrook Green & the area by the Serpentine Wall have been identified. Green Campus Group funds are to be allocated to refresh the existing Longbrook orchard by November 2020.


Bird Boxes Continue support for the Green Campus bird box initiative by checking the condition of the boxes and replacing those lost or damaged. As each newly planted tree grows to sufficient size, ensure a box is attached to tree.

Periodic checking of boxes is carried out.

Aim to increase the number of boxes across both campuses. Achieved. Refresh the bird cam to allow live streaming of birds using the bird box. Provide more bird and bat boxes over the next 3 years.


Bat Boxes Continue support for the Green Campus bat box initiative. Aim to increase the number of boxes across both campuses. Periodically check the condition of the boxes.

Periodic checking of boxes is carried out.

Organise a ‘bat watch’ during a summer evening or night. Survey external lighting to encourage migrating routes and roosting. Volunteers for the watch are to be recruited at the Fresher’s Fair 2017. Further watches being organised by



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estates as part of extension plans.


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Responsible Person

Threatened Habitat areas

Aim to decrease the use of peat and peat based products. Do not use Limestone Pavement merchandises. Buy products from reputable sources. Use sandstone or other types of rock for hard landscaping. Increase the use of compost made on campus. Refer to BAPS when planning new garden designs or re-planting.

The Equipment Loans Department introduced a new paperless system for bookings and enquiries. Payslips are now delivered to members of staff electronically thus contributing to the decrease in consumption of paper helping to conserve trees globally.

Engage with Green initiatives initiated by local communities, Government, local authorities, UK, Sussex and Local BAPS. Investigate the possibility of inviting representatives from the Sussex Wildlife Trust to visit the campuses to offer suggestions for further improvements. Achieved The Officer visited Bishop Otter campus in June 2017-2020. Engagement achieved via the Spring Fair, donations of food and donations to the hospice. This aim is on-going. Collaboration with local groups and the University’s volunteering scheme will continue.



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Responsible Person

Allotments Give support to the Green Campus initiative. Ensure more allotments are established. Grow vegetables on the campuses to increase the biodiversity of plants and help to decrease individual’s ‘food miles’.

Allotments at the Bishop Otter Campus have been established.

Monitor the use of the allotments. Provide necessary equipment for the successful functioning of the allotments.


Water

Aim to conserve rain water. Provide a water butt for each building. Use this water for garden watering, external cleaning, re-filling ponds and bird baths during times of drought.

Conservation of water is On-going.

Conservation of water is to be the focus of the Green Campus Group’s activity. Invite utility companies/ water suppliers to the University to highlight water conservation issues. Portsmouth Water attended the Spring Fairs.



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Habitat Action Plan (HAP)



Responsible Person

Bird Baths Provide a water source for birds and other animals. Purchase bird baths and site them across both campuses.

Periodic checking of the baths is carried out.

Purchase bird baths from The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and other sources after new builds.


The Built Environment

Conserve and preserve the existing built environment, making environmentally friendly improvements during routine refurbishments and maintenance. Recognise that buildings and hard landscape can contribute to habitat and species biodiversity. Designing new buildings or areas should include environmentally friendly considerations.

The House Martins (Delichon urbica), returned to their nests at University House, Bishop Otter campus in 2012 and 2013. Continue to monitor.

Ensure the House Martins (Delichon urbica) nests are undisturbed On-going.



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(UoC BAP) Species Action Plan (SAP)

Identify species

Conserve and enhance existing habitats


Responsible Person

Slow Worms (Anguis fragilis)

Conserve existing habitats.

Existing compost bins have been retained. New compost bins have been purchased for the allotment areas.

Provide more compost bins across campuses for use as habitats.


Trees Conserve Native, Non-Native, Broadleaf and Evergreen trees that are distributed across both campuses as food, shelter and homes for a variety of species. Produce and maintain a tree coppicing schedule to attract moths. Plant native berry yielding trees. Regularly survey trees for signs of diseases like Bleeding Canker and Acute Oak Decline

Oak and fruit trees have been planted.

Plant Oak Trees on both campuses. Partly completed. Oaks planted at Bishop Otter Campus, Bognor Regis campus outstanding. Tree planting to be On-going.


Shrubs Conserve the biodiversity that exists on both campuses. Increase the number and diversity of nectar rich shrubs planted across both campuses.

Rosemary left to flower in Cloister’s garden attracting a large number of bees and other insects

Increase the number of nectar rich plants on the campuses. On-going


Flowering Plants

Maintain the landscaped areas at both campuses. Plant an increasing number

Wild flower seeds sown at various sites across the campuses. Areas,

Plant more nectar rich flowering plants across both



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and diversity of nectar rich flowering plants across both campuses.

for example at the back of the LRC allowed to self-seed.

campuses. Grow more flowering plants on Bognor Regis Campus. Ongoing



Identify species Conserve and

enhance existing habitats


Responsible Person

Insects Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Plant fruit trees as a food source for insects and other species.

New fruit trees planted.

Identify further areas for the planting of new orchards, at BRC utilise the area around Longbrook and the Serpentine Wall as orchard areas.


Aphids Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Regard the insects as part of the ecosystem.

Aphids have been left undisturbed to maintain the ecosystem.

Continue to regard aphids as part of the ecosystem. On-going


Squirrels Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Plant nut trees as a food source and habitat.

The squirrel population continues to thrive.

Plant nut trees in new orchards. To be completed November 2018.



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Squirrels at Mordington Cottage, Bognor Regis Campus


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Identify species Conserve and enhance existing habitats


Responsible Person

Humans Encourage all users of the campuses areas to respect all habitats and biodiversity. Provide pleasant environments in which to live, work, study and visit. Conserve, maintain and promote the use of green spaces on both campuses for the well-being of all users of the grounds. Ensure any ecosystem degradation is responded to in good time.

The Green Campus Group and the University of Chichester’s Green Champion continue to monitor green issues. The group continues to welcome wider participation in its meetings. Individual members of staff are recording wild life in diaries, journals and by photography. Litter was highlighted during Spring and Fresher’s Fairs. Contractors joined with the University and participated in a litter/recycling campaign.

Encourage the use of a student led Green Campus Group blog to record diversity, e.g. to establish a bird list and for comments on green issues, to be established by 2019. Organise a ‘litter’ day where rubbish is collected and disposed of properly. Completed Provide pot grown herbs, to be purchased by the Green Campus Group, for each student accommodation block as a means of providing free food and wildlife habitats, to be completed by 2019. Provide signage by 2019 to show free food sources, e.g. blackberries, figs, apples across campus grounds. Design, create and plant a Sensory Garden in the courtyard of the John Parry Building, Bognor Regis campus, including if possible, a Camomile Lawn.



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Responsible Person

Moths

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Maintain a coppicing regime.

Moths have not been disturbed to maintain the ecosystem.

Plant moth ‘friendly’ trees and shrubs. On-going.


Birds Conserve habitats. Encourage more birds onto the campus grounds by providing natural food, water and habitats. Delay works in and around trees until the breeding season has finished.

Natural habitats have been supplemented by bird feeders and bird boxes. Construction works in H Corridor of University House, Bishop Otter campus delayed until the House Martin’s chicks had fledged.

Maintain existing habitats and supply more bird feeders, bird baths, bird tables and bird

boxes. Encourage participation by campus residents in the RSPB’s Bird Watch in 2017. On-going.


Stag-beetles (Lucanus cervus).

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Allow wood to decay on soil. Allow fruit to decay on soil.

Stag-beetles have not been disturbed to maintain the ecosystem.

Maintain soil using environmentally friendly methods. On-going.


Spiders (Araneae)

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Construct wood piles. Increase the number of insects on the campuses as a food source. Provide water sources.

Many Spiders and spider’s webs woven on the exteriors of built environments have not been disturbed.

Promote spider friendly campuses by encouraging house spiders to be removed from interior areas rather than killing them. Outstanding the campaign is be completed by 2018.


Fig Wasps (Agaonidae).

Conserve the existing Fig trees on the campuses as a food source and as habitats. When choosing Figs to plant

Fig trees planted on campus continue to thrive and fruit.

Maintain the existing trees. On-going.



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use species that are not self-fertile to attract Fig Wasps (Agaonidae).


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Identify species Conserve and enhance

existing habitats Actions Taken Actions Required

during 2017-2020

Responsible Person

Wood Pigeons (Columba paulumbus)

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Increase the number of invertebrates across the campuses as a food source.

Wood Pigeons continue to thrive on campus.

Increase habitats. On-going


Blackbirds (Turdus merula),

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Provide marsh or boggy environments for the mud linings of Blackbird’s nests.

Blackbirds continue to thrive on campus.



Chiffchaffs (Phylloscopus collybita)

Conserve existing habitats. Conserve and grow trees that will reach a height of over 5 metres (circa 16 feet) tall.

Chiffchaffs were spotted on Bishop Otter campus and photographed on the Bognor Regis Campus.



Falcons (Falco). Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Increase the number and species of birds (prey) across the campuses.

Sighting of the Falcons continue to be made on the Bishop Otter Campus.

Increase habitats to encourage more birds of prey on campus. On-going


House Martins (Delichon urbica)

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Permit the species to build nests on buildings.

House Martins (Delichon urbica), returned to their nests at University House, Bishop Otter Campus and have been left undisturbed.

Encourage more insects on campuses as the food source for the birds. On-going


Magpies (Pica pica)

Conserve open grassland and hedgerows as feeding and breeding areas.

Pairs of Magpies continue to be seen on campus grounds.

Increase the number of invertebrates, mammals and insects across the campuses as



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food sources. On-going



Species Action Plan (SAP)



Responsible Person

Mistle Thrush (Turdus viscivorus).

Conserve Broad leaf trees as preferred habitats for this species.

The birds continue to be sighted on both campuses.

Provide grass, moss marsh or boggy environments for the linings of Mistle Thrush nests. On-going


Pheasants (Phasianus colchicus).

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Provide sources of water and maintain woody areas.

The birds continue to be sighted on campus.

Maintain the existing habitats. On-going


Robins, (Erithacus rubecula).

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Increase the number of bird feeders across the campuses. Provide food on bird tables especially during harsh winters.

Robins continue to thrive on campus.

Purchase bird tables to supplement food supplies during winter. On going.


Tree-creepers (Certhia familiaris).

Continue support for the Green Campus bird box initiative.

Tree-creepers continue to be seen on Bishop Otter campus.

Provide bird boxes suitable for Tree-creepers across both campuses. On-going


Wagtails (Motacilla)

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Increase the number of invertebrates across the campuses.

Marsh and bog like conditions have been created on campus.

Provide further marsh or boggy environments. On-going


Woodpeckers (Picus)

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Grow tall trees. Maintain environmentally

Woodpeckers continue to thrive on campus.

Maintain the existing habitats. On-going



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friendly grounds to ensure a plentiful supply of ants and insects as a food source.






Responsible Person

Flowering bulbs including Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), crocus, Daffodils (Narcissus) and Bluebells (Hyacinthoides).

Conserve existing habitats. Plant new and different species of bulbs and allow existing plants to naturalise.

Various bulbs purchased and planted.

Encourage the planting of new bulbs. Investigate the possibility of planting in the banks at Cloister’s Garden with flowering bulbs including Crocus.


Ladybirds (Coccinellidae)

Conserve existing habitats and food sources.

Ladybirds have not been disturbed to maintain the ecosystem.

Maintain environmentally friendly campuses to allow ecosystems to flourish. On-going.


Bees (Apis) Conserve existing habitats. Increase habitats and food sources.

A number of nectar rich plants have been planted across the campuses.

Increase the number and diversity of nectar rich plants across the campuses. On-going Investigate the possibility of having permanent bee hives sited on both campuses by 2020.


Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni) Butterflies

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Increase the number and diversity of nectar rich plants across the campuses. Encourage the growth of Thistles.

A number of nectar rich plants have been planted across the campuses.

Plant purple coloured plants. On-going



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Orange Tip (Anthocharis cardamines) Butterflies

Conserve existing habitats and food sources. Allow Bluebells (Hyacinthoides) and Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) to naturalise and spread.

The nectar rich plants growing on campus continue to attract butterflies.

Plant Bluebells On-going




Identify species

Conserve and enhance existing habitats


Responsible Person

Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae) Butterflies

Conserve the existing habitats. Allow nettles, weeds and brambles to grow as food sources. Allow hibernation within buildings on the campuses.

The presence of the butterflies on campus grounds was logged by staff during 2013-2016

Maintain environmentally friendly campuses. On-going


Magnolias Conserve the existing trees as food sources. Plant more species across both campuses.

The existing Magnolias continue to thrive.

Maintain the existing specimens. On-going


Moss Conserve the existing habitats. Encourage growth by leaving areas undistributed.

Various types of mosses can be seen on both campuses.

Encourage growth by leaving areas undistributed. On-going


Worms Conserve the existing habitats. Improve the condition of the soil.

Additional compost bins have been sited on the campuses.

Increase the use of compost bins. Completed.


Ants Conserve the existing habitats. Maintain areas, trees and the ecosystem using environmentally friendly methods.

The presence of ants in the soil can be assumed by the number of birds seen feeding on the grounds.

Maintain existing environments. On-going.



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Seagulls (Larus) Conserve the existing habitats. Treat the species as part of the ecosystem. Flocks may become prey for Falcons.

Seagulls continue to thrive on both campuses.



Deer (Cervical) Conserve the existing habitats.

The Deer have been photographed exploring Bishop Otter Campus.

Maintain the existing environments. On-going




Identify species Conserve and enhance

existing habitats Actions Taken Actions Required

during 2017-2020 Responsible Person

Badgers (Meles meles)

Conserve the existing habitats.

The areas around the Ancient Scheduled Monument on the Bishop Otter campus have been maintained.

Maintain the existing environments. On-going Initiate and carry out a badger watch and a full biodiversity census by 2017


Domesticated Cats (Felis catus)

Conserve the areas used by these animals. Maintain the ecosystems of the campuses to

attract more biodiversity.

Cats continue to visit both campuses.

Maintain the existing environments. On-going


Bats (Chiroptera)

Conserve the existing habitats. Plant more specimens to attract moths. Aim to decrease surplus artificial light at night.

Existing environments have been maintained.

Organise a student led ‘bat watch’ during a summer evening or night. Survey external lighting to encourage migrating routes and roosting. Volunteers for the watch are to be recruited at the



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Fresher’s Fair 2017.

Soil organisms Conserve the existing habitats. Improve soil conditions by environmentally friendly methods. Maintain Hedgerows to prevent soil erosion. Increase the use of compost bins to ensure the provenance of compost used on the grounds.

The existing environments have been maintained.

Provide more compost bins across campuses for use as habitats. On-going.







Responsible Person

Herptiles (reptiles and amphibians)

Conserve the existing habitats. Aim to increase the numbers of herptiles across the campuses. Provide more marsh boggy areas and ponds.

Large rocks and stones continue to be set aside to create basking areas.

Create more south facing, arid, basking areas. Outstanding due to construction works, to be completed by September 2017.


Invertebrates. Conserve the existing habitats and plant broadleaf trees. Increase food sources available on the campuses. Allow wood to rot in situ. Increase the use of compost bins.

Fallen wood continues to be left in situ.

Plant Oak trees. On-going for Bognor Regis Campus.


Hedgehogs (Erinaceous europaeus)

Conserve existing habitats. Increase the existing population. Provide more habitats including compost bins and log


Increase the number of habitats by introducing more compost bins and log tunnels. Completed.



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tunnels. Increase the food supply through environmentally friendly grounds maintenance.


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Responsible Person

Threatened Species

Engage with Green initiatives initiated by the Green Campus Group, local communities, Government, local authorities, UK, Sussex and Local BAPS. Refer to SAPS when planning new garden designs or re-planting and for new building designs. Devise plans for the replacement of any trees lost to diseases. Involve external groups in biodiversity monitoring, survey or census. Encourage cooperation and proactivity between facilities and departments of the University to participate with BAPS, HAPS and SAPS

The Green Campus Group continues to monitor, advise, suggest and take practical steps to help to contribute to the University’s ecosystem. The Group considers conservation in terms of a global as well as a local scale.

Engage with green initiatives initiated by local communities, Government, local authorities, UK, Sussex and Local BAPS. Engagement achieved via the Spring Fair, donations of food and donations to the hospice. This aim is on-going. Collaboration with local groups and the University’s volunteering scheme will continue.


Rabbits (Leporidae)

Conserve the existing habitats. Treat the species as part of the ecosystem as they will be a food source for a number of predators.

Rabbits continue to be sighted across the campus grounds.



Ducks (Anas) Conserve habitats. Maintain open areas for the ducks to have easy access to wetlands.

The Bognor Regis campus continues to provide habitats for the ducks. Additional water supplies provided by the University’s staff

Maintain existing environments. On-going



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Species Action Plan (SAP) Identify species Conserve and



Responsible Person

Foxes (Vulpes vulpes)

Conserve the existing habitats. Treat the species as part of the ecosystem

Foxes continue to be sighted across the campus grounds.



Nuthatches (Sitta europaea)

Conserve and grow trees that will reach a height of over 5 metres (circa 16 feet) tall.

The presence of this species of bird was reported independently by two members of staff.



Tits (Paridae) Blue Tits, Great Tits, Coal Tits. Long tailed Tits

Conserve and grow trees, some varieties of this bird will feed successfully in conifer trees.

This species of bird was photographed on Bognor Regis campus



Jay (Garrulus glandarius)

Conserve and grow trees, continue to provide wooded areas and Oak trees for acorns as a source of food.

Photographed on Bognor Regis campus.



Black headed seagulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Encourage insects as a food source.




Herring Gull (Larus argentatus)

Although these birds are scavengers they should be treated as part of the eco system, their

The existing environments have been maintained




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numbers are declining.

Sparrow (Passer domesticus)

Although these birds are scavengers they should be treated as part of the eco system, their numbers are declining. The birds will also feed on insects in flight.

Ensure bird tables with food are available during the winter months.



Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes)

Conserve and grow trees, encourage insects as a food source

Ensure bird tables with food are available during the winter months.




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Species Action Plan (SAP) Identify species Conserve and



Responsible Person

Goldcrest (Regulus regulus)

Conserve and grow existing Pine trees. Encourage flocks of other small birds to visit th campus grounds. Encourage insects as a food source




Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus)

This species of bird is on the Amber List of birds requiring conservation measures, their preferred habitats include Oaks, hedgerows, streams, parkland and coastal scrub all conditions available on the Bognor Regis Campus.




Crow (Corvus corone)

Although these birds will attack other bird’s chicks and eggs they should be treated as part of the eco system.




Pigeon (Columbidae)

Conserve the existing habitats. Treat the species as part of the ecosystem. Flocks may become prey for Falcons.




Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto)

Conserve the existing habitats. Treat the species as part of the ecosystem. Flocks may become prey for Falcons.





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Responsible Person

Green finch (Carduelis chloris)

Conserve and grow trees including fruit trees as a source of food.

New fruit tree added to orchard

Maintain existing environments. Increase orchards. On-going.


Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla)





Redwing (Turdus iliacus)





Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)

Conserve and grow trees

New trees planted across campus grounds



Rodents - Dormice

Conserve and grow trees including fruit trees with flowering plants as a source of food.

New trees planted across campus grounds. New fruit tree added to orchard

Maintain existing environments. Continue tree planting plans. On-going.


Mammal - Shrews

Encourage insects as a food source.




Roses Conserve as habitat for various species




Crickets (Gryllus) Conserve the existing habitat that includes grass and bare earth patches.





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Deer on Bishop Otter Campus 14 May 2013

drivers beware! ducks on campus please give them the … action plan... · biodiversity action plan...

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