| Return of the elusive nightjar | |
|  | A nightjar with chick and egg - pictured at night
Photo: Devon Wildlife Trust |
| | The rare nocturnal nightjar has been spotted at a South Devon heath for the first time in 10 years - sparking hopes of a possible revival of the bird in the area. |
| | | The nightjar has returned to Bovey Heathfield in South Devon after an absence of 10 years.
Conservationists at Devon Wildlife Trust, who manage the heath, made the discovery during an event held one night this summer to look and listen out for the bird.
It's believed there are at least four of the birds - and that they might even be breeding.
It's great news, as the nightjar is internationally endangered. It's on the 'red' list of threatened birds in the UK, with just 2,000 pairs left in the country.
 | | Bovey Heathfield |
Their return to Bovey Heathfield comes after a project by the Devon Wildlife Trust to restore habitat at the heath.
For years, the heath has been neglected and used by off-road bikers.
Stephen Carroll, of the trust, said: "It just goes to show that once you've cleared all the rubbish and stopped the disturbance of off-road bikes and cars, the wildlife gradually comes back.
"The return of the nightjar was a key target for our project, so we are really happy to see it this year."
The trust's management of the site has been boosted by new funding from the Hanson Environment Fund. Donations from the aggregate firm now amount to over £15,000.
Article written: 6th August 2004
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