The Burrator Wildlife Guide is a brand new 40 page booklet, created and launched by three South West Lakes Trust volunteers. Containing information on 109 species found around Burrator Reservoir, the guide will help visitors identify and appreciate the rich wildlife of Burrator.

Volunteers Hayley, Ben and Daniel began the process of creating the guide in 2018, using existing wildlife records and survey work they had completed through university placements and volunteering. Before the creation of the guide, very little information about Burrator’s habitats and species was accessible or available; the Discovery Centre provided self-guided leaflets and booklets on the historical aspects of the area, but there was a gap in accessible information on plants and wildlife.

To capture a snapshot of species representing the whole Burrator area, the volunteers performed a series of habitat surveys. They identified species which best represented the diverse wildlife of Burrator, and collaborated with other organisations, volunteers and local experts, who provided advice and photographs.

Hayley, Ben and Daniel said, “Easy to read and accessible to all, with photos of all the species, all you need to enjoy the guide is a desire to learn about nature. Making the guide gave us a greater appreciation of the unique environments around Burrator, and we are excited to share this information with others.

“We are thankful to all who contributed to the creation of the guide, the South West Water Biodiversity Fund for funding the printing of the guide, and to Emily Cannon for her support throughout the project.”

Neil Reeves, Head of Environment and Community at South West Lakes Trust, said, “I know how much effort they have put into the research and production of this guide. It is a great piece of work and will make the wildlife and habitats around Burrator more accessible and interesting to everyone. Thank you Hayley, Dan and Ben.”

The Burrator Wildlife Guide costs £3 and is available to buy at the Discovery Centre (PL20 6PE) every Wednesday in October (10am-4pm) cash only. It is also available to purchase online and over the phone (01566 771930).