Caloplaca flavescens, a lichen found in the churchyard
Beautiful lichens, many moths, four species of bat and one unidentified, ‘mystery’ bat were among the discoveries during St Cyr Stinchcombe’s ‘BioBlitz’ on 10 August.
The ‘BioBlitz’ aimed to observe and record the biodiversity that could be found in the churchyard and surrounding areas.
More than 60 plants, over 30 moths, nearly 30 mosses, and 92 lichens were discovered in the churchyard. Mice, shrews, and a small cat were recorded in footprint tunnels, while a frog and a toad were spotted, despite the summer heat.
There were signs that bats occasionally enter the church, with one bat enthusiast suggesting that it may be used as a safe space for baby bat flying practice.
The BioBlitz took place in the churchyard, surrounding verges, and the church-owned field next door. Stinchcombe parish council’s environment and biodiversity group organised the event, working in partnership with the PCC who provided the venues, refreshments and extra enthusiasm.
Around 35 participants of all ages joined the afternoon activities, with another dozen attending in the evening. Alongside local residents were visiting experts and enthusiasts who were aiming to identify as many species as possible.
The Revd Fiona Crocker, Vicar of St Cyr’s, said: “It was so wonderful to see village and church working alongside each other. It is amazing how wonderful our world is and how much we miss. I am sure all those there will appreciate the local flora and fauna in a brand new way and it is all on our doorstep.”
The initial target for the BioBlitz was to spot 100 species, but it is thought that the results could exceed 200 species when the count is finalised.
Highlights of the day included colourful and intriguingly named moths, expert lichen and moss tours, the children’s scavenger hunt, and bat detecting in the evening.
Over the coming months, the species list will be finalised in discussion with Gloucestershire Centre for Environmental Records. It is hoped that the environment and biodiversity group can work with the PCC and others to decide how best to look after nature at St Cyr’s going forward.
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