Species Analysis
Are brownfield sites important for biodiversity in Sidmouth?
Yes, the survey records strongly indicate that brownfield sites are highly important for biodiversity in the Sidmouth area. Despite making up only 30% of the surveyed sites, brownfields were home to 64.1% of all species recorded across all sites. This significant figure demonstrates their substantial value to the local natural environment.
Which groups of species benefit most from brownfield sites in Sidmouth?
Brownfield sites in Sidmouth are particularly valuable for several species groups. Mammals show the highest percentage of species recorded on brownfields at 85.7%, followed closely by Birds at 76.4% and Flowering Plants at 69.1%. Fungi and Lichen, Non-flowering Plants, and Other animal life forms also have a majority of their recorded species present on these sites.
Do brownfield sites in Sidmouth support species typically associated with other habitats?
Yes, the analysis shows that brownfield sites in Sidmouth support a surprising number of species associated with other habitat types. For example, 100% of species associated with built-up areas were found on brownfields, as were 87.1% of parkland species. Notably, 61.4% of plants associated with cultivated land were present, potentially due to garden escapes. Furthermore, the presence of hedgerows and water features on some brownfield sites contributed to a significant number of hedgerow species (80%) and water margin plants (72.2%) being recorded.
How do brownfield sites in Sidmouth compare to other habitats in terms of species richness?
The survey highlights that brownfield sites are significant contributors to overall species richness. While the overall species count across all sites is 743, a substantial 476 species were recorded specifically on brownfield sites. The data on habitat types also demonstrates that brownfields encompass a wide variety of habitats, including broad-leaved woodland, scrub, neutral grassland, and water margins, each contributing to the overall biodiversity.
Which specific brownfield sites in Sidmouth are particularly rich in species?
According to the survey data, The Byes and the Upper Byes are exceptionally biodiverse brownfield sites in Sidmouth. Each of these sites alone accounted for over 23% of all the species recorded in the entire survey. The Byes had 175 species recorded, and the Upper Byes had 171. Other brownfield sites with high species counts include Dunscombe (146), Sidmouth Cemetery (143), and Lockyer Observatory (134).
Are all brownfield sites in Sidmouth equally surveyed and are their species counts definitive?
Not all the brownfield sites in Sidmouth have been surveyed to the same extent. Some sites with fewer than 100 species recorded have had fewer survey visits than others. Therefore, the reported species counts for these less-surveyed sites are likely lower than their true biodiversity, suggesting that the overall value of brownfields may be even greater than currently documented.
How do brownfield sites in Sidmouth contribute to public engagement with nature?
The survey results suggest that brownfield sites in Sidmouth are excellent places to engage the general public with the nature around them. Their importance to both people and nature makes them accessible locations for nature observation and appreciation, potentially fostering a greater understanding and connection to local biodiversity.
What role do conservation efforts play in enhancing biodiversity on Sidmouth brownfield sites?
Special mention must be made of valuable conservation work being done by volunteers on sites like The Byes. This indicates that active conservation efforts on brownfield sites are beneficial for maintaining and potentially enhancing their biodiversity, contributing to the high species counts recorded in the survey. The ownership of significant land in this area by the Sid Vale Association is also highlighted as a positive influence.