Endangered water voles are being reintroduced to North Devon after disappearing from the area more than two decades ago, following a major habitat restoration project led by the National Trust at Woolacombe.
The species was declared functionally extinct in the area in 2000, reflecting a wider national decline caused by habitat loss, water pollution and the spread of the non-native American mink. Once a familiar sight along rivers, streams and wetlands across the UK, water voles have suffered significant population declines over recent decades.
Now, after years of conservation work across the Combesgate catchment, conditions have been restored to support the return of the species.
Since 2022, extensive habitat improvements have been carried out to recreate a more natural and resilient landscape. The project has included the creation of 20 ponds and scrapes, the removal of land drains, the planting of 26,000 trees and the sowing of 15 hectares of wildflower seed.
Conservation teams have also introduced natural flood management measures and rewetting along 1,700 metres of watercourse, while conservation grazing has been used to help boost biodiversity.
The work forms part of a wider programme across North Devon aimed at restoring wetter, nature-rich landscapes that are better equipped to cope with the effects of climate change. Conservationists say the changes are helping reconnect habitats, slow the movement of water through the landscape and create the conditions needed for wildlife to thrive.
Water voles are considered a key species within wetland ecosystems. Their burrowing activities create conditions that support flowering plants, insects, butterflies and a range of other riverside wildlife.
Paul South, Project Manager, said: “This is an important moment for nature in North Devon. The return of water voles shows that, with the right conditions, wildlife can recover. This project has taken years of work, and it’s rewarding to see these animals back where they belong.”
The reintroduction has been carried out in partnership with the specialist conservation team at Derek Gow Consultancy. The programme has been carefully designed to maximise the animals’ chances of survival.
Rather than being released directly into the wild, the voles are first placed in protective on-site pens where they are monitored and cared for before gradually dispersing into the surrounding habitat. Conservationists say this approach reduces stress and helps improve long-term survival rates.
Trail cameras have also been installed to monitor the animals and capture footage of them exploring their new environment as they establish themselves within the restored landscape.
The National Trust says the project is part of its wider ambitions to reverse nature loss across the country. Under its ten-year strategy, the charity aims to work with environmental organisations, farmers, landowners and local communities to create 250,000 hectares of nature-rich landscapes — an area equivalent to around one-and-a-half times the size of Greater London.
Hannah Ford, National Trust Fundraising Manager, said: “We would love supporters to be a part in this vital restoration effort by donating to the Adopt a Plot initiative in North Devon. The project will help restore habitat, supporting a rich diversity of wildlife and plant species. From planting trees to reintroducing native species such as pine martens, red squirrels and water voles, every contribution will help rebuild a thriving natural environment.”
The water vole reintroduction project has been delivered in partnership with the North Devon Coast National Landscapeand received funding support through the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme.
Conservationists hope the return of the species will mark the beginning of a long-term recovery for water voles in North Devon and demonstrate how large-scale habitat restoration can help reverse the decline of native wildlife.
