The Leeds Countryside Rangers work to safeguard wildlife and increase peoples’ enjoyment and understanding of the wildlife in Leeds. The wildlife of Leeds is rich and diverse with animal and plant species ranging from bats to butterflies, oak trees to orchids and much, much more. The rangers concentrate their work on the areas of green space that are managed for the benefit of wildlife (designated nature conservation sites). There are over 150 of these in Leeds ranging from the beautiful wildflower meadows of Townclose Hills to the ancient oak woodlands of Middleton woods and the moors and crags of Otley Chevin.
The work of the rangers falls into the following 5 main areas:
Flora and fauna surveys to identify and record the species of wild plants and animals that live in Leeds. This information is then used to help decide how sites should be managed for the benefit of wildlife.
Practical work to help make sure the nature areas of Leeds remain great places for wildlife to live and people to visit. Tree planting, hedge laying, hay raking, fence repair and path maintenance are all examples of this kind of work. These tasks are often done with the assistance of volunteers.
Working with local communities to maintain, enhance and promote nature areas. Community groups get support from Countryside Rangers for a wide range of activities from practical nature conservation tasks to undertaking surveys on wildlife sites.
Environmental education involves teaching people of all ages about the habitats and wildlife of Leeds. This involves taking schools on guided tours of nature areas and the Countryside Rangers work with over 1000 children a year. It also includes producing leaflets and signs to explain the importance of particular green spaces.
Events and activities are very much about increasing peoples’ enjoyment and understanding of the natural heritage of Leeds. They include wildlife clubs for children and guided walks on subjects as diverse as fungi, butterflies and glow worms.
If you would like information on any of the above activities contact the Countryside Rangers on 0113 395 7400 and ask to be sent a Countryside and Access events leaflet.
Please note that the Parks and Countryside's Head Office main reception telephone number 0113 3957400 is staffed from 8.00am - 4.30pm Monday to Thursday and 8.00am - 4.00pm on a Friday. Outside of these hours you can leave a message on the answerphone.