Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are reputed to be two of the most wildlife-rich counties in the UK. This celebration of their wildlife heritage is a showcase for some of the most beautiful, fascinating and inspiring species and habitats to be found on land and at sea. In this new and lavishly illustrated book, the wildlife and wild places quite rightly take centre stage. Readers are taken on a journey around the two counties with their diverse landscapes and species.
Another theme of the book is the past 50 years of practical nature conservation by the leading local conservation charity, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Formed by a concerned and committed group of amateur naturalists, the Trust has risen from a small band of volunteer enthusiasts to one of the most active and successful Wildlife Trusts in the UK. Acknowledgement is given to the vital contribution of those whose skills and commitment have played a major part in safeguarding our natural assets.
Clive Chatters, well-known local naturalist and author, explores the stupendous flora and fauna of the two counties. As well as looking back over 50 years of nature conservation by the Trust, he also looks forward to the challenges of the future and how our wildlife may be affected by our changing environment. Above all, he conveys a passion and enthusiasm that will inspire others to take action to protect local wildlife.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight WildlifeTrust strives to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. It is the leading wildlife charity in the two counties, with the support of more than 28,000 members.The Trust is part of a nationwide network of 47 local WildlifeTrusts.Across the two counties, Hampshire & Isle of Wight WildlifeTrust is taking effective action to protect our natural heritage, helping it to flourish again.
Clive Chatters has worked for Hampshire & Isle of Wight WildlifeTrust for more than twenty years and is widely respected for the breadth and depth of his knowledge of natural history and conservation. He has lived in the New Forest since 1985 and is a Secretary of State appointee on the New Forest National Park Authority. He writes on nature conservation issues and conservation land management, and has had many articles published in specialist magazines and journals. He enjoys joining others in discovering wildness in nature.