Wildlife in Richmond
The London Borough of Richmond upon Thames covers approximately 5,500 hectares and it is the only London Borough to sit on both sides of the River Thames. Richmond is believed to be one of the greenest boroughs in London. The quality and diversity of parks, open spaces and conservation areas is homes to a wealth of different habitats and species. Some of these species are important on a regional, national and international scale.
Did you know that Richmond Borough:
- Has the largest total area of acid grassland in Greater London with 620 hectares, which is nearly 50% of London's total acid grassland habitat
- Has the only stretch of soft riverbanks in the tidal Thames
- Is one of the top three London Boroughs for seeing stag beetles.
- Has an increasing population of water voles
The Council aims to encourage more people to get involved in nature conservation activities and the management of wildlife sites to make our open spaces nicer places. The Council has:
- Set up the Richmond Biodiversity Partnership and produced a Local Biodiversity Action Plan.
- Established a rolling programme of works to control and eradicate the infestation of Japanese knotweed on all Council managed or owned sites. .
- Designated six sites as Local Nature Reserves, these include Barnes Common, Crane Park and Ham Lands.
- Ensured that all conservation areas are managed for both people and wildlife and introduced sympathetic management regimes to ensure both habitats and species are protected and enhanced.
Information leaflets
Information leaflets produced by the Richmond Biodiversity Partnership:
(pdf, 1999KB)