Amateur
Entomologists'
Society

Ripple Nature Reserve, Barking

From Wild London, Winter/Spring 2001

A survey carried out at the Ripple Nature Reserve in Barking, one of the Trust's most important reserves in east London, has revealed that it is home to a spectacular array of invertebrates. Four hundred and eighty-five species were found on this former fuel ash dumping ground, illustrating the importance of brownfield sites for wildlife in London. Six of the insects are listed in the British Red Data Books, which detail the most threatened species in the country, including the scarce emerald damselfly (Lestes dryas). Overall it is clear that The Ripple supports an invertebrate population of exceptional significance both locally and regionally. The management of the reserve, which the Trust carries out on behalf of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, will now be reviewed to ensure that its remarkable invertebrates thrive. The survey was made possible from the Raillink Countryside Initiative, which supports environmental projects in the corridor of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link.

The Broad-bodied Chaser dragonfly, found at the Ripple Reserve.

The Broad-bodied Chaser dragonfly, found at the Ripple Reserve.

The London Wildlife Trust fights to sustain and enhance London's wildlife habitats to create a city richer in wildlife. For more information write to London Wildlife Trust, Harling House, 47-51 Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 0BS, telephone 020 7261 0447 or visit the Web site

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