Churchyards are special places. There are approximately 800 churches with churchyards in Norfolk, a higher number than in any other county in England. Norfolk also has the highest density of medieval churches in the world and the earliest churches have very species-rich churchyards. The churchyard habitat is therefore of great importance and often contains areas of ancient grassland, which provides an important refuge for a number of wild flowers, mosses, ferns, fungi and lichens as well as some very old and interesting trees. However, it is estimated that only 15% of churchyards in Norfolk are actively managed for conservation. Conducting a wildlife survey of your local churchyard, or cemetery, could help to identify its importance for local wildlife and perhaps pave the way for a long-term conservation programme.
What makes Norfolk’s churchyards so special?
Many Norfolk churchyards are remnants of ancient meadows that were once used for hay or pasture. In some cases, the churchyard is now the only remaining area of ‘unimproved’ species-rich grassland in the parish. In Norfolk, churchyards today provide the main refuge for six different wild flowers, three species of fern and about forty different lichens.
Churchyards and cemeteries also provide quiet, safe areas for slow worms and common lizards and many have very old trees, especially yew, within their boundaries. Sheltered, sunny churchyard areas may also support many butterfly and moth species.
The Norfolk Biodiversity Partnerhsip, created a Habitat Action Plan (HAP) for Norfolk
churchyards and cemeteries in 2006, with the aim of increasing the number of churchyards in active, conservation management.
Bats in the belfry…?
Bats are one of the animals most associated with churches and although ‘bats in the belfry’ is a common saying, bats are more likely to be found roosting in porches or the church roof. Belfries can be too draughty and noisy for bats, especially when bells are rung.
Bats and their roosts are protected by law and they should not be disturbed. If you need expert help, the
Bat Conservation Trust runs the
National Bat Helpline (0845 1300 228), providing information to anyone needing advice on how to live with bats in your church.
Why not start a simple survey today?