About the Local Nature Recovery Strategy

Species

Wildlife and habitats

West Northamptonshire is home to a wide range of habitats, including farmland, ancient woodlands and species-rich grasslands. However, many habitats and species are in decline, reflecting a national trend where wildlife continues to face significant challenges.

Nature recovery projects have helped some species and habitats to improve, showing that conservation work can make a positive difference.

The Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) has identified 58 priority species that require targeted action to support their recovery. Many other species will also benefit from wider habitat restoration and creation projects.

West Northamptonshire is home to a rich tapestry of habitats. Yet the rolling farmland, leafy ancient woodlands and vibrant flowery grasslands, are facing a story of decline, which echoes the national picture, where nearly one in 6 species are at risk of extinction. 

However, nature conservation efforts do work, resulting in increases in certain populations, along with some natural surprises.

The LNRS has identified 58 important species that need specific actions in order to recover (see species list below).

Many of our most iconic species will also benefit from the broader habitat restoration and creation measures.

Species list 

You can view the species list in the West Northamptonshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy storyboard under the species section.

User delivery guide

This support document details the measures and supporting actions for each of the 58 species.

Ecology and wildlife data

For information about wildlife species in relation to planning and development, visit the ecology and biodiversity webpage.

For wildlife records, data and additional resources, contact the Northamptonshire Biodiversity Records Centre.

Last updated 16 October 2026