Connectivity Mapping

As we move to deliver nature conservation at a landscape scale, ecological connectivity becomes a key concept. If we are to restore a resilient and wildlife-rich countryside, we must link together remaining fragments of habitat. For more information see Norfolk Wildlife Trust: Landscape scale conservation handout.
 
Through the Claylands Wilder Connections project, Norfolk Wildlife Trust has worked with the GeoData Unit at Southampton University. Using a range of existing habitat data, the team has mapped ecological connectivity across Norfolk.
Underlying data on habitats, and their value to wildlife, was used to create the connectivity model
 

The Process

In a nutshell, the connectivity maps have been developed as follows:
  • The core sites in the ecological network are identified. These are the nature-rich locations we aim to link. For the main connectivity map, the core sites are the SSSIs and County Wildlife Sites: our reservoirs of biodiversity from which the wider countryside can be recolonised.
  • All other habitats across the county are scored. The scoring allocated to each habitat reflects how likely it is to support a range of wildlife and therefore how conducive it might be to species moving through the landscape. Thus areas of species-rich grassland and scrub score more highly than arable fields.
  • The above data is then brought together and analysed using digital mapping tools.
 

The Outputs

The main output of the process is a heat map of connectivity, indicating how well-connected habitats are in different parts of the county. This is a valuable tool for decision-making and effective conservation action, whether reinforcing existing corridors or targeting gaps acting as barriers to species movement.
Newly developed connectivity heat mapping shows how easy, or difficult, it is for species to move between areas of core habitat. Darker blue areas show habitats that are a challenge for species to cross, with pale blue areas being easier to cross. Green polygons show important areas of core wildlife habitat such as designated wildlife sites.
Alongside the general habitat connectivity map, the team has produced experimental connectivity maps for individual species. Based on the same underlying data, core sites reflect where species currently occur, with the habitat scoring tweaked to reflect the specific requirements of the individual species.
Connectivity mapping can be adapted to create maps showing where certain species are more likely to prosper
 

 Using the Connectivity Maps

Our aspiration is for the connectivity maps to be made available to everyone via a web portal and we are currently exploring this idea. In the meantime, if you are interested to see the connectivity heat map for your land/locality, please contact our Nature Recovery team.