Extinction Rebellion Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (XR BCP) have put up the plaques in nature reserves, green spaces and popular dog-walking spots to highlight the plight of many of the UK’s most iconic species. The message the group wants to send to locals is that it is not too late for us to turn things around and that we still have time to bring these species back from the brink.
Among the species featured on the plaques are hedgehogs, natterjack toads, adders, swifts, eels, cowslips, hazel dormice, turtle doves and nightjars. The plaques also suggest some of the measures that could be taken to help reverse the decline of these beloved flora and fauna. These include restoring woodlands and hedgerows, cleaning up waterways, building wildlife corridors, removing river barriers and coastal dune restoration.
Daniel Glennon, a customer service professional from Bournemouth and XR BCP spokesperson explained why they were motivated to take action.
“Nature in the UK is in crisis. We’ve lost nearly a fifth of our wildlife since 1970, and many much-loved species—like hedgehogs, butterflies, and birds—are disappearing before our eyes.
Pollinators are struggling, rivers are polluted, and once-thriving habitats are shrinking, but it’s not too late to turn things around. With urgent action to restore woodlands, protect waterways, and create space for nature to recover, we can bring wildlife back and safeguard the beauty and diversity of our natural world for future generations. We hope that our blue plaques for nature will make people think as they enjoy some of BCP’s most beautiful spots.”
Blue plaques were placed in such locations as Stour Valley Nature Reserve, Redhill Common, Southbourne Overcliff and Iford Meadows.
Greg Lambe, a property manager from Bournemouth, said
“Nature in the UK may be struggling, but there is still time to change course. We’ve seen how species can bounce back when given the chance—wetlands restored, woodlands revived, and wildlife corridors created. By working together to protect and reconnect our landscapes, clean up our rivers, and give wildlife the space it needs to thrive, we can turn this crisis into a success story. The solutions are in our hands—now is the time to act.”
Elizabeth Elwick, a retired council worker also from Bournemouth, added
“Dorset is home to some of the UK’s most treasured wildlife, from the rare natterjack toad and sand lizard to the striking Adonis blue butterfly. But these species, like so many others, are under threat as habitats shrink and climate pressures grow.
“The good news is that everyone can play a part in turning things around. By planting wildflowers for pollinators, protecting local green spaces, reducing pollution, and supporting conservation efforts, we can all help Dorset’s landscapes remain a thriving haven for wildlife. Small actions, when taken together, can make a big difference.”
Liz Brereton, a counsellor from Bournemouth, concluded
“Without nature we have no future. We shouldn’t have to choose between bats and newts or economic growth.
It is possible to have green growth that doesn’t bulldoze nature.”
More information about the ‘State of Nature’ here.
