'Nature is in crisis', says Herts conservation charity
The Wildlife Trust is appealing for financial support to help them carry out vital species conservation work
The Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust is warning without their conservation work, hundreds of local species could be at risk of extinction.
Last month, the charity launched a significant fundraising campaign, aiming to raise £280,000 to combat what they describe as a "nature crisis" in the region.
With only 5% of the target achieved, with £13,128 raised, the charity is calling on further support from the public.
The funds are urgently needed to maintain vital habitats and protect nature from recurrent extreme weather episodes and pollution.
Tim Hill, the Conservation Manager at Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, said: "Nature is in crisis, and that's why we need to try and raise more money to be able to do more to try and reverse that crisis."
The charity recorded, in the last 54 years, 76 species going extinct in Hertfordshire, with 1,524 more now at risk of extinction if immediate action is not taken.
Among the species lost are some iconic animals, including the Nightingale and the Adder, Hertfordshire's only venomous snake.
To prevent more losses, the charity is having to double its efforts, with limited financial resources.
Mr Hill said: "The mantra for conservation is more, bigger, better, and join up, and that means more wild places, bigger wild places, better-managed wild places."
The charity's efforts are focused on restoring and managing habitats, with a particular emphasis on creating larger, better-connected wild spaces.
Through those efforts come success stories, such as with the Bittern, one of the rarest birds in Hertfordshire.
"Back in 2002 to 2006, we joined a national initiative to create stepping stones for Bittern through the landscape. We were delighted in March this year that a Bittern finally was singing or booming from one of these reed beds," Mr Hill said.
The campaign also draws attention to the vital role that biodiversity plays in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
By protecting nature, species can thrive, which in turns helps the local biodiversity.
Mr Hill said: "It's no point just focusing on one species. We have to think about what every species needs... and by taking that approach to looking after these habitats across the counties, that's what will make a difference."
The charity's approach is holistic, recognising the interconnectedness of climate and nature crises.
You can find out more about the charity and their fundraiser on their website.