Embracing Autumn in the Brecks
Our quick guide for enjoying autumn to the fullest in the Norfolk and Suffolk Brecks. More
Over 100 local volunteers have taken part in our new study, run in partnership with the Freshwater Habitats Trust, to reveal that freshwater fish, amphibians and aquatic mammals rely on a wide range of different waterbodies in the Brecks. The new study, which used cutting-edge technology, highlights the importance of protecting the whole landscape to ensure we have high quality habitats for freshwater wildlife.
The survey shows that many species use small standing waterbodies, including ponds and small lakes, as well as – or instead of – running waters, such as streams and rivers. The study found that even fish such as the European Eel, which are usually associated with rivers, travel overland on wet nights to live in these alternative freshwater homes.
The research, which was the first of its kind in the Brecks, also revealed standing waters to be the cleanest freshwater habitats. Surveys conducted across more than 70 sites found 71% of standing waterbodies to be clean and unpolluted, compared with just 17% of running waterbodies.
You can read the full results and more information about the survey on the Freshwater Habitats Trust website here: 100 local volunteers complete eDNA survey of freshwaters in the Brecks
Here is some of the feedback from the volunteers who took part:
