A new project funded by SITA's Enriching Nature fund and Northumbrian Water Ltd aims to consolidate the River Derwent population by improving habitat along the river corridor. Over two years new wetland scrapes will provide amphibian food for grass snake, and new log pile hibernacula will provide places to overwinter. Partners include Gateshead and Derwentside Councils and the Forestry Commission who, as well as creating overwintering and feeding habitat for grass snake, will also manage riverside land to provide more compost piles - crucial for egg laying success.

In addition to the practical work a monitoring exercise is already underway to check on grass snake distribution and monitor the success of the new habitat features. This monitoring will take place over the next three years (2007 - 2009).

To help increase our knowledge of grass snake distribution locally and to help local people understand the requirements of grass snake, a public information leaflet will also accompany the project.

River Derwent Grass Snakes is co-ordinated by the Partnership Implementation Officer and administered by the Great North Forest.

More information from info@durhambiodiversity.org.uk

Grass Snake Action Plan