Lancaster University has been recognised as one of the UK’s leading universities for protecting wildlife on campus and in the local community.

A new study, led by bird feed providers Ark Wildlife, surveyed all UK universities on their wildlife initiatives and support – on and off campus.

Lancaster met 100% of the criteria and was awarded the “Platinum tier’, which indicated the universities that were doing the most for wildlife protection on their campuses. Lancaster scored top marks for having wildlife protection policies, partnerships or funding for local wildlife causes, biodiversity or wildlife activities on offer, and regular wildlife surveys.

The University commits to promoting biodiversity across campus with our Biodiversity Plan. We are also a “Gold Accredited” Hedgehog Friendly Campus, a nationwide project set up by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society to recognise universities that make efforts on campus to protect hedgehogs and other wildlife.

Sean McMenemy, Director at Ark Wildlife, said: “It’s clear that some universities are taking wildlife conservation extremely seriously, and it’s great to see. They’re really in tune with the local environment, providing invaluable habitats to animals in the area.

“Importantly, the most wildlife-friendly universities actively encourage students to become involved. This will breed greater awareness of conservation methods and just how vital wildlife is to the UK. Hopefully, it’ll also instil a lifelong love of animals and the environment in their graduates.”

To find out more about our biodiversity initiatives, visit our webpage.