Scottish Government

Nature Conservation

Designations

The study area contains a number of environmental designated sites, which are presented in Figure B1.1 and B1.2.

Statutory Designated Sites

There are no statutory designated sites within the study area.

The Firth of Forth Site of Special Scientific Interest ( SSSI), Special Protection Area ( SPA) and Ramsar Site complex, is situated approximately 3km to the north of the study area. The Forth SSSI/ SPA/Ramsar site is important for its coastal habitat and wintering wildfowl population. The Gogar Burn and the River Almond are within the Firth of Forth catchment, with the River Almond entering the Firth of Forth at Cramond. Other SSSIs within 6km of the study area include Balerno Common SSSI, Calder Woods SSSI and Philipstoun Muir SSSI.

Non-Statutory Designated Sites

There are several non-statutory designated nature conservation sites in the study area which include:

• 4 Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation ( SINC)
• 21 Urban Wildlife Sites
• 4 areas of Ancient Woodland (of semi-natural origin) and Long-established woodland (of plantation origin) within the study area.

In 2005 there were 1451 SSSIs in Scotland in 2005 (representing 13% of land total).

SSSI is the main nature conservation designation in the UK. Under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act (as amended by the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004, sites are identified to protect their flora, fauna, geological or physiographical features.

Potential impacts on International, national and locally important nature conservation areas, arising from increased development and transport pressures.

Data gap. Information required on the state of local nature conservation areas.

Hence the implications of the Plan on the River Almond and therefore the Firth of Forth SPA require consideration.

Figure B1.1: Non-Statutory Designations

Figure B1.2: Statutory Designations

Biodiversity Action Plan

Priority Habitats

The Edinburgh Local Biodiversity Action Plan ( LBAP) (2004-2009) identified eight priority habitats for target action plans. Within the study area there are four identified priority habitats which are detailed below:

• Woodland
• Farmland
• Rivers and Burns
• Urban
• Wildlife Corridors

Targets identified in the Edinburgh Local Biodiversity Action Plan (2004-2009) include:

• Identify and protect existing bio-diversity rich and ancient woodland sites
• Identify and protect good existing habitats and to identify and enhance, restore and create other sites, developing networks and links between habitats to reduce fragmentation.
• To protect and maintain Edinburgh's watercourses and wetlands.
• To maintain the extent of existing urban wildlife habitats in Edinburgh, and where possible to create new ones.

Biodiversity Action Plan

Priority Habitats -Woodland

Woodland, which can be defined as land where the ecological condition is, or will be, strongly influenced by tree canopy, extends over 1,500 hectares (6%) of Edinburgh. It compares poorly with the Scottish average of about 15% woodland cover, making Edinburgh one of the most sparsely wooded districts in Britain. However, there are many different types of woodland habitat in Edinburgh. Although small and fragmented, many of Edinburgh's woodlands are linked by wildlife corridors, many of which are tree lined.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Many of Edinburgh's woodlands have been cleared or fragmented as a consequence of development. Woodland has relatively low land value and so residential, commercial and transport developers have often located their activities in wooded areas. Properties also have a higher value if located within a tree or woodland setting. Due to their small size and recreational pressure, the woods of Edinburgh do not represent a naturally robust ecosystem and therefore sensitive management is essential for their well being. Inappropriate or insufficient management has commonly resulted in a general reduction of natural ecological diversity. Few Edinburgh woodlands display adequate mixed age regeneration and most have a disproportionately high percentage of mature and over mature stock. Sycamore and ash are currently the dominant regenerating species. Over-grazing of both mature and young woodlands by animals, particularly stock, rabbits and deer, has prevented the regeneration of some woodlands. Grey squirrel damage is also prevalent within key urban woodlands such as Corstorphine Hill and Cammo. Many trees have also suffered from insensitive maintenance, particularly from lawnmowers and strimmers. Most trees in parks, golf courses, streets and playing fields have damage which if not immediately fatal, usually results in wound decay which will in time render the tree unstable.

The Council has been implementing the Edinburgh Urban Forest Strategy since 1992. Over this period a number of woodlands have been brought into public ownership, woodland protective measures have been strengthened, management plans have been written for the key recreational woodlands and over 50 new Community Woodlands have been established and adopted. New planting under the Forestry Commission's Woodland Grant Scheme ( WGS) has been averaging about 12 hectares per year throughout the 90s. Existing woodlands have been coming into active management under WGS at the rate of about 5 hectares per year.

Biodiversity Action Plan

Priority Habitats - Rivers and Burns

Rivers and burns are frequently the sole remaining semi-natural feature in a landscape, and as such they are invariably of great value for both wildlife and human recreation. This is especially true in cities, and Edinburgh is fortunate in having retained some watercourses of considerable value. The River Almond, the Water of Leith, and the Gogar Burn each have their headwaters and upper catchments outside the city boundary, and within the city proper have lost an unknown length of tributaries to culverting.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Rivers and burns form corridors of varying width and of varying conservation value throughout Edinburgh. Two aspects should be considered: the watercourse itself - the "wetted channel", and the complete corridor of channel and riparian zone (bank and associated land). This riparian zone is frequently replaced with either built environment or open space "amenity" areas, both of which are of limited biodiversity conservation value. The linear nature of burns and rivers gives them value beyond their immediate provision of living space: they provide wildlife corridors enabling dispersion and migration of species, the utilisation of fragmented areas of habitat by mobile species, and interconnection of fragmented populations. Watercourses are dynamic environments, affected by factors such as the slope of the valley, the amount of water they carry, water velocity, and substratum. Each river or burn therefore comprises a range of physical habitats, such as gravel bars, eroding earth cliffs, silt deposits, cobble riffles etc, which in turn will support characteristic animal and plant assemblages. In general the more diverse the range of physical habitats, the more biological diversity there will be. Water quality is important for many aquatic species, although river corridors may retain considerable value to wildlife even where water quality is severely impaired. This is related to their retention of some semi-natural features, for example their riparian vegetation. Therefore poor water quality alone should not lead to pressures for culverting, as this results in the total loss of the habitat and compounds any existing water quality problems.

Water quality in rivers and burns has gradually improved over recent years and gross pollution is largely under control. Efforts are now turning towards the control of non-point sources such as surface water run-off, which have the potential to cause "diffuse pollution". Building solutions into the infrastructure is seen as the way forward - Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems ( SUDS) offer potential solutions to many problems. There is also a growing recognition of the importance of river habitats for wildlife, and as key components conferring resilience of the system as a whole; enabling, for example, polluting materials to be processed and rendered harmless. This has led to the realisation that river catchments should be managed holistically. Catchment management plans, demanding a co-operative approach to management, have been drawn up for the River Almond. A Rivers and Streams Action Plan has also been produced as part of the West Lothian Biodiversity Action Plan. The City of Edinburgh Council has a maintenance policy to leave an uncut wildlife corridor of at least one metre on each side of a Council maintained watercourse. City of Edinburgh Council local plans provide protection from further development to river and burn corridors, as all water courses across Edinburgh are identified as Urban Wildlife Sites or Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation. As part of it's Habitat Enhancement Initiative SEPA is in the process of producing awareness raising guidance notes on 'Watercourses in the Community - a guide to sustainable watercourse management in the urban environment'.

Biodiversity Action Plan

Priority Habitats - Urban Habitats

For nearly every house there is a garden, for every city district a hierarchy of parks and playing fields, and for every railway, cycleway or burn which criss-crosses the city there are stretches of cuttings and embankments containing valuable wildlife habitat. Urban habitats in Edinburgh have been recognised as valuable havens for wildlife and as important areas for the interaction of people with nature. In 1996 sample survey of the 50,000+ gardens in the city (some 3,000 ha in total) identified significant species diversity, including a number of species previously unrecorded for Scotland and the Lothians. If combined with the 130 public parks, 196 churchyards and cemeteries, 25 golf courses, 22 allotments, and 220 vacant and derelict sites in the city, urban habitats probably make up Edinburgh's largest and most diverse wildlife reserve.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The principal threat to all urban habitats is development. Although pressure to build on open spaces varies with the state of the economy, the underlying desire to locate development in central, attractive greenspaces remains constant. Edinburgh has relatively few 'gap sites' so the pressures to build on urban habitats is perhaps even greater than for other towns and cities. The gradual decline in local authority and other public sector budgets has also exacerbated the problem by forcing the sale and development of some public open spaces.

Simplification of management, designed to make ground maintenance less costly, has turned many areas of land, including parks, private gardens, golf-courses, road verges, the open spaces within housing estates and the grounds of schools, colleges, public institutes and hospitals into 'green deserts' of little interest to wildlife. In particular the high frequency of grass-cutting, the continuous and liberal application of herbicides and pesticides and the removal of trees, shrubs and tall herb vegetation has resulted in significant biodiversity losses across the city.

Not all non-native species should be regarded as having limited biodiversity value, especially as most urban habitats will incorporate a significant percentage of non-native species and communities, either as a result of transfer from gardens, transportation nodes and formal collections or as a result of deliberate propagation and planting. However, a number of species, particularly those with invasive characteristics have impacted on urban habitats.

A number of activities/actions are presently underway across the whole series of urban habitats. Use of ecologically benign maintenance for public parks, golf courses and gardens; non-pesticide and organic practices are being introduced to some allotments; the Education Department and Scottish Natural Heritage are funding the creation of school wildlife areas under the 'Grounds for Awareness' initiative; the Environmental & Consumer Services Department are implementing wildlife management

plans within a number of key cemeteries; and the City Development Department is establishing a large number of native woodlands on existing 'green deserts' as part of the Council's Urban Forest Strategy, as well as expanding its Neighbourhood Nature Area programme. Established conservation organisations (eg Scottish Wildlife Trust, Scottish Conservation Projects, Edinburgh Green Belt Trust) and a whole host of local environmental groups are continually undertaking localised conservation projects on urban habitats, which collectively significantly enhance the city's biodiversity. Recent initiatives include the Scottish Wildlife Trust's 'greenspaces campaign', which aims to increase biodiversity and access to greenspaces within urban areas; the Scottish Golf Course Wildlife Initiative, assisting golf clubs and local authorities in the adoption of environmentally beneficial management practices; and Scottish Natural Heritage's 'plant for wildlife' project, which encourages people to plant flowers, trees and shrubs in their garden of value to invertebrates and birds.

Biodiversity Action Plan

Priority Habitats - Farmland

Three quarters of Edinburgh's farmland is managed for arable and vegetable crops, the remainder being predominantly improved and semi-improved grassland supporting dairy, beef and sheep production.

Over the centuries, farming has created and maintained many features and habitats of wildlife value. It continues to play a critical role in determining the biodiversity of much of our countryside.

The increasing intensification, standardisation and specialisation of farm management has had a significant effect upon the diversity of farmland habitats. Agricultural improvement has resulted in the loss of wildlife rich wetlands and unimproved grasslands, while direct loss of farmland has arisen through urban expansion and afforestation.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

An increase in farm sizes and a decrease in farm labour have led to more uniform and mechanised management, often leading to the loss of features like hedgerows, woodlands and ponds. The main threat to farmland habitats remains the continued loss of features of wildlife value arising from changes in farm management practice and from the loss of farmland to other uses, notably urban expansion and afforestation. The increased uncertainty and pressure on the viability of farming, particularly on smaller farms, is leading to a lack of investment in activities, such as habitat management, that do not directly help the profitability of the farm business. The lack of awareness of many farmers and landowners of the impacts of farming practices on wildlife and habitats, coupled with the limited financial incentives available for conservation management, are also constraints. The gradual deterioration of hedgerows, steadings and boundary trees through lack of management is a continuing threat. Use of pesticides and fertilisers, and poor waste management may cause localised pollution problems and habitat damage.

A number of Ediburgh's farmers and landowners are actively working to protect and improve the wildlife habitats on their farms, taking measures to reduce the impact of pesticides, fertilisers and intensive cropping on farmland habitats and species. Actions include planting and restoring hedgerows, creating grass field margins and conservation headlands, restoring dykes, planting field boundary trees and actively managing ponds, wetlands and grasslands.

The Edinburgh Green Belt Trust is providing logistical and financial support for a wide range of projects in the area. A number of farms, assisted by the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group and the Scottish Agricultural College are entering the government's Countryside Premium Scheme, which provides financial support for a range of habitat management activities. Advice on managing for biodiversity is currently provided by all these organisations, as well as the Pentland Hills Regional Park staff and the Scottish Wildlife Trust. Fifteen Edinburgh farms have had whole farm reports or plans prepared by the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group.

Biodiversity Action Plan

Priority Habitats - Wildlife Corridors

Terrestrial wildlife corridors are natural or permanently vegetated physically connected linear spaces situated in areas otherwise built up or used for intensive agriculture. Not only are wildlife corridors important for the conservation and movement of plant and animal species within Edinburgh, they also provide valued accessible green space for the capital's residents and visitors. In particular, linear routes allow people the opportunity to find solitude from urban living and provide safe and attractive routes for walking and cycling within the city and out to the surrounding coast and countryside.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Most stretches along Edinburgh's wildlife corridors have not been managed principally for biodiversity. Other objectives and concerns, such as landscaping, amenity and safety have taken precedence and led to biodiversity loss or change. Lack of adequate resources to effectively conserve and enhance biodiversity has also been an ongoing issue and is best exemplified by the continual presence of litter and the unchecked spread of non-native invasive species such as giant hogweed and Japanese knotweed.

Habitats adjacent transport routes are also prone to the effects of contamination from the pollutants emitted by vehicles. Additionally, transport routes present a significant danger to several species of animal, many mammals, birds and amphibians being killed every year on Edinburgh's roads and railways.

Management plans have been written for many of the disused railway lines. However, ecological management has been limited. Attempts have been made to slow the spread of giant hogweed but this has been piecemeal. Railtrack operate a similar policy of minimum action with respect to lineside vegetation outwith a 5m area cleared for safety. They raise awareness of the wildlife value and biological diversity of undisturbed lineside to counter complaints from neighbours/travellers who prefer more intensive lineside management, as well as try to increase lineside management contractors' awareness of undesirable non-native species.

The Scottish Executive has recently reviewed its landscape design and management policies for trunk roads. These are outlined in the paper 'Cost Effective Landscape - Working with Nature', and seek to incorporate ecological principles into the establishment of new roadside landscape schemes and the maintenance of these and existing roadside habitats.

Biodiversity Action Plan

Priority Species

Edinburgh LBAP Priority Species that have been identified within the study area are:

Mammals:- Otter, Badger, Watervoles, Bats, Brown Hare and Weasels

Birds:- Seed Eating Birds, Sparrowhawks, Skylarks, Kingfishers, Song Thrush, Sand Martin, Linnets, Yellow Hammers, Tree Sparrows, Grey Partridges, Bullfinches, Barn Owls and Lapwings

Reptiles, Amphibians and Fish:- Great Crested Newts and Brown Trout

Invertebrates:- Common Blues and Henbane Flea Beatles

Trees, Shrubs and Flowering Plants:- Giant Bellflowers, Meadow Crane's Bills, Floating Water Crowfoot and Mountain Pansies

Ferns and Lower Plants:- Pillworts

Protected Species

Scottish Natural Heritage has records of European protected species that have previously been identified within the study area. These species include: Otter, Great Crested Newt and Bat. Other nationally protected species identified in the study area include Badger and Water Vole.

Targets identified in the Edinburgh LBAP (2004-2009) include:

• To protect known populations of badger in Edinburgh;
• To aid the recovery of otter populations in Edinburgh;
• To increase the population of great crested newts in Edinburgh;
• To reduce activities detrimental to the species, to extend existing and to introduce new conservation measures to benefit seed eating birds;
• To increase the population of watervoles in Edinburgh through habitat creation and management;
• To maintain a sustainable (pipistrelle) bat population in Edinburgh.

To maintain and steadily increase the population (daubenton bats) through habitat management and roost protection.

Protected Species - Bats

Bats are amongst the most threatened mammals in the UK. Ranges of roosting sites are required, for breeding in summer and hibernation in winter.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The loss of roosts as buildings are developed or refurbished, and veteran trees lost, can be catastrophic to colonies of bats. In addition, as green spaces and woodlands are lost to development, key foraging habitats are lost.

To maintain populations and distributions of bats through habitat management and roost protection.

To survey and monitor populations.

Continue to survey and record the bat population of Edinburgh to monitor the extent and distribution of bats and identify roost sites where possible.

Continue to protect roost sites through planning casework and advice.

Work with landowners/managers to identify suitable sites for the provision and erection of bat boxes.

Provide advice on the suitable management of different habitats ( e.g. Urban Woodland, Watercourses etc) which is beneficial to bat species.

Include information on bats in any relevant awareness raising activities and events.

Protected Species - Badger

In West Edinburgh there is an active population within the rural area. Mapping of the known setts has been identified as a great step forward in protecting these sites from inappropriate development and disturbance.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The badger population remains at risk through persecution and habitat loss. Key foraging areas and the creation of barriers to movement through development are factors, which place pressures on the badger population in both urban and rural locations.

To protect known populations of badgers in Edinburgh.

To continue to identify and protect sett sites across the city.

Continue to survey and record the badger population of Edinburgh to monitor their extent and distribution.

Provide updated sett maps annually to be used in the assessment of planning applications.

Continue to protect setts through planning casework and advice to developers.

Provide advice to landowners and developers on suitable management of different habitats ( e.g. Woodland, Farmland, Urban etc) which is beneficial to badgers and allows free movement for feeding.

Provide a map of badger casualty blackspots in Edinburgh and identify and implement appropriate mitigation measures.

Protected Species Otters

Otters are present on the River Almond and Gogar Burn but in very low numbers. Artificial holts have been established on the Gogar Burn to encourage a breeding population to establish.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Otter numbers declined through much of Lowland UK including the Lothians during the 1950s, but numbers are now rising.

( NBN Gateway, Scotland Otter database)

To work with landowners and developers to ensure habitat protection, mitigation and artificial holt provision where appropriate.

Ensure River Basin Catchment Management Plans enhance conditions for otters through guidance and advice.

Continue to monitor the water quality on rivers and burns in Edinburgh.

Continue to record sightings or evidence of otters.

Include information on otters in any raising awareness and events as appropriate.

Protected Species - Great Crested Newts

Two existing colonies have been identified north west of the study area.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Further survey work and monitoring will seek to identify previously unrecorded populations of great crested newts.

To increase the population of great crested newts in Edinburgh.

To survey other potential sites to identify new populations.

To develop a network of suitable habitats as appropriate.

Ensure all ponds are managed in line with the best available practice advice ( SEPA, Froglife etc) with regard to great crested newt requirements.

Continue to survey and record great crested newt populations in Edinburgh.

Provide advice and guidance to landowners where known populations of great crested newts exist.

Review the Edinburgh Pond Survey to identify potential sites for natural colonisation, and create appropriate habitat conditions as appropriate, including the creation of new ponds.

LBAP Priority Species:- Water Vole populations

Water Vole surveys in Edinburgh during the last 5 years indicate that either no or very low numbers of watervoles are present at previously known sites.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Water Vole numbers in the UK have declined by more than 90% in the last Century.

To identify and protect water vole populations in Edinburgh.

To increase the population of water voles in Edinburgh through habitat creation and management.

Continue to record sightings or evidence of water voles.

Ensure River Basin Management Catchment Plans enhance conditions for water voles through guidance and advice.

Continue to protect known water vole populations through planning casework and mitigation work.

Identify resources for further survey and assessment of impact of mink predation.

LBAP Priority Species:- Mountain Hare Populations

The brown hare appears to have undergone a substantial decline in numbers since the early 1960s, with population estimates now varying between 817,500 and 1,250,000, approximately only 20% of their estimated number in 1880.

Although no detailed figures exist, Lothian and Fife are thought to contain the highest brown hare population densities in Scotland.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Changes in agricultural practice and increasing intensification of land use have been linked to the decline in brown hare numbers. In particular, the loss of mixed habitat, a greater reliance on silage cutting, the change from spring sown to winter-sown cereals, and the application of herbicides have had a significant and cumulative impact.

Disease and predation have caused localised population crashes. The disease coccidiosis affects young animals in autumn and yersiniosis affects adults in winter. Foxes heavily predate leverets. Road accidents are also a common cause of fatality, especially in late summer and autumn.

A national Brown Hare Action Plan has been prepared as part of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This seeks to maintain and expand existing populations, doubling spring numbers in Britain by 2010, and includes an action for the Joint Nature Conservancy Council to prepare a management advisory booklet for hares. Although no action has yet been taken in Edinburgh to conserve the brown hare, the Lothian Wildlife Information Centre are collating local brown hare records from recent sightings.

LBAP Priority Species:- Weasel populations

Although weasels are believed to be widespread throughout Britain, evidence suggests a progressive decline in population numbers over the las thirty years. Scotland has about one quarter of the UK population but decline is not so pronounced. Within Edinburgh, weasels have been sighted at intervals since 1980, but insufficient records exist to determine their status with any accuracy.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The weasel is listed on Appendix III of the Bern Convention. This protects populations from exploitation by indiscriminate mass killing, trading and any means capable of causing local disappearance or serious disturbance.

The extent of, and reasons for, the long term decline of weasel numbers is largely unknown. Habitat loss is likely to be the main culprit. There has been a significant decline of habitat favoured by the weasel in Edinburgh over the last 15 years. For instance, broad-leaved and mixed woodland is estimated to have declined by almost 20% over this period and grassland/moorland by around 6%.

A scarcity of prey may have contributed to the decline in weasel numbers. These sometimes show fluctuations that correlate with cycles in field vole numbers, which are also believed to be in decline in Scotland. Direct control through trapping appears to have had little effect on long-term weasel abundance. However, secondary poisoning from prey items contaminated with rodenticides may be a significant cause. Farm intensification and agricultural improvement has also reduced the availability of long grass and led to a gradual loss of the overall length, extent and network of field boundary features such as hedges, dykes, and trees. This has limited the good quality cover required by weasels on farms.

Although there is no national weasel conservation programme, independent work across the UK is being undertaken to establish the impact of both road traffic accidents and rodenticides on weasel numbers. A range of habitat enhancement measures which encourage farmland wildlife, and which may particularly benefit the weasel, are also being promoted in Edinburgh by the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group.

LBAP Priority Species:- Wild Bird Populations

Datagap. No information on bird strikes associated with Edinburgh Airport.

Skylark (representing farmland) showed a 20% decline within the Edinburgh area over the period 1994-2003.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Song Thrush (representing woodlands) showed a 14% increase 1994-2004.

Seed eating birds such as skylark have been heavily impacted by changes in farming practices over last 50 years. Since WWII there has been a UK wide intensification of agriculture with increase of agri-chemicals use, resulting in loss of weeds and invertebrates that birds feed on.

Skylark showed a 10% decline in numbers across the UK between 1994-2004.

According to RSPB Report (the State of UK Birds 2004) farmland and woodland bird indicators for UK have shown an increase although these are still below 1970 levels.

LBAP 2004-2009 target to identify and conserve by habitat management practices principle seed-eating bird-breeding sites in and around Edinburgh and to encourage through habitat improvements the establishment of new breeding and wintering sites.

LBAP Priority Species:- Sparrowhawk Populations

The sparrowhawk, one of the most widespread and abundant raptors in Britain, is the archetypal predator of small woodland birds. Although current estimates suggest that there are around 1,400 breeding pairs in south east Scotland its numbers declined dramatically during the 1950s and 1960s as a result of organochlorine pesticide poisoning. Since the use of these chemicals was banned sparrowhawk numbers have recovered, re-colonisation of Edinburgh beginning in the 1980s.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Between 1987 and 1989 a minimum of 26 used nests were found each year in the city and surrounding countryside. Indeed, recent studies have shown that the structure of Edinburgh's woodland and grassland habitats particularly favour the sparrowhawk's requirements, and makes the capital an important area for the bird.

Throughout this century the sparrowhawk has been heavily persecuted by pheasant-rearing gamekeepers. Allied to organochlorine poisoning this led to a massive drop in numbers between the 1950s and 1970s.

Although sparrowhawk numbers have recovered, habitat loss may be a threat to population levels. In particular, the loss of grassland to development may reduce hunting opportunities and is an increasing concern given the likely future loss of significant areas of greenbelt to the south and east of the city.

The sparrowhawk is identified by the UK Biodiversity Group as a "Species of Conservation Concern", but no UK Action Plan is to be produced.

To retain a stable sparrowhawk population in Edinburgh at a level at or near the maximum which available habitat can support.

LBAP Priority Species:- Skylark Populations

Some of the densest UK concentrations of skylark are found in central Scotland and the Flow Country. Other than in the centre of the city itself, skylarks can be found throughout Edinburgh, attaining their greatest abundance in the Pentland Hills.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The skylark inhabits all types of open country, including dunes, salt marsh, coastal cliffs, and

farmland. Although it remains one of the most widespread species in Britain, with over 2 million breeding pairs, between 1969 and 1993 the UK breeding population declined by an estimated 58%. Substantial declines have similarly been recorded across Europe.

The skylark is protected under the provisions of the EC Birds Directive and the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence to intentionally injure or kill the bird, or take, damage or destroy their nests whilst in use or being built.

Changes in farming practice have been the principal cause of the decline in skylark numbers over the last quarter century. In particular, the conversion of grassland to arable land, a reduction of ephemeral weeds and insect prey due to the use of agri-chemicals, and a movement away from spring-sown crops to autumn sown crops.

The skylark is identified by the UK Biodiversity Group as a 'Species of Conservation Concern', but no UK Action Plan is to be produced. However, the British Trust for Ornithology launched a skylark survey in 1995 in response to the concerns about the population levels. This confirmed the bird's rapid decline. Research is being carried out in England to obtain a more accurate picture of the causes of decline, the affects of habitat change, and the use of different arable crops by skylarks for breeding and feeding.

The BTO and Joint Nature Conservation Committee ( JNCC) have organised a winter farmland bird survey for three successive winters from 1999/2000. This aims to encourage members of the public to record winter numbers and locations of winter farmland birds, including skylark.

LBAP Priority Species:- Kingfisher Populations

The kingfisher is associated almost completely with rivers, canals or ponds. Primary needs are slow moving waters with vertical sandy banks for nest sites and a ready supply of small fish. Overhanging branches for shady perches above a sunlit pool on the river margin offer the ideal feeding opportunity. It prefers rivers with flat gradients.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

In Scotland the species is thinly scattered as far north as the Moray Firth. It is present throughout south east Scotland, on all four major rivers in Lothian and along a significant part of the River Tweed. Records show clusters near towns such as Edinburgh, but this is probably related to the fact that more people spot them here than in more rural locations.

In 1930 the kingfisher was described as an uncommon breeding bird in the Lothians with a population of only about 20 pairs. By 1960 the species had declined to become little more than an autumn and winter visitor. During 1968-84 there had been less than 10 recordings in the

whole of the Lothians.

In the last few years there have been signs of a return to the old sites. There have been an increasing number of sightings, mainly in the

winter, on the River Almond, Water of Leith, Union Canal and Burdiehouse Burn, suggesting

that breeding is also occurring. There is

thought to be at least 5, possibly up to 10, breeding pairs within Edinburgh at present, out of a total number of between 45-60 pairs in south east Scotland as a whole.

The kingfisher is listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981, as well as Appendix II of the Berne Convention on the Conservation of Wildlife & Natural Habitats, and the EC Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds. It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure, take, possess, disturb or sell the bird or its eggs, or damage, destroy or disturb a kingfisher nest in use or with dependent young.

The kingfisher is identified by the UK Biodiversity Group as a 'Species of Conservation Concern', but no UK Action Plan is to be produced.

To maintain and enhance the kingfisher population in the Edinburgh.

To establish the status of the kingfisher in Edinburgh, and to encourage the sympathetic management of associated aquatic and riparian habitat.

LBAP Priority Species:- Songthrush Populations

Changes in farming practice is likely to have affected nest sites and food supply in agricultural areas, especially the switch from spring to autumn sowing of cereals, the increased use of pesticides, and the widespread use of slug pellets. Severe winter weather and dry soil conditions affecting food supply may be of wider significance, as may be losses caused by the hunting of migrant birds in southern France.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The song thrush is primarily a bird of woodland-edge habitats and is familiar to urban and rural dweller alike. Although common and widespread across the UK, its numbers are estimated to have fallen by two-thirds since the mid-1970s, from over 3 million to less than one million. When looked at in greater detail, it is estimated that numbers have reduced by 73% in farmland and 49% in woodland habitats. However, there is little evidence in south-east Scotland that any overall drop has occurred locally. The breeding population in Edinburgh is estimated to be over 3,000 pairs, occupying woodlands, parks and gardens across the city.

Protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the EC Birds Directive, it is an offence to deliberately kill or injure the bird, take it from the wild, damage its nest or take its eggs. However, under schedule 3 part 1 of the 1981 Act it is identified as a species which may be sold alive at all times or shown competitively if ringed and bred in captivity.

A national Song Thrush Action Plan has been prepared as part of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This seeks to halt the decline in song thrush numbers by the year 2000 and highlights the fact that the recovery of the species is largely dependent on research identifying appropriate remedial measures.

To sustain the Edinburgh song thrush population.

To encourage the local study of song thrush ecology in urban, woodland and arable habitats across Edinburgh. To promote public awareness of the predicament of the song thrush and its conservation requirements.

LBAP Priority Species:- Sand Martin Populations

A recent survey has identified 15 colonies within Lothian. There is currently only one breeding colony in Edinburgh, at Foxhall on the River Almond.

Within Lothian, breeding sites and colonies have been destroyed by flash floods, river dredging and shoring work. Sand quarrying has sometimes provided ideal habitat for a few years although landscaping of worked-out sites has also caused its loss.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Sand Martins are predominantly insect eaters,

catching their prey in flight and favouring rivers, ponds and lochs as hunting grounds. Sand martins are gregarious birds and like to breed in large colonies. Preferred nest sites are soft, sandy cliffs beside rivers, lakes and gravel pits, in which they excavate tunnels up to one metre in depth. Suitable breeding sites can be used for many years, with new tunnels being dug as old ones collapse.

Sand Martins are summer visitors to Britain, migrating from wintering areas in sub- Saharan Africa. Following major national population declines in the late 1960s/early 1970s and the early 1980s, due mainly to droughts in the Sahel region of Africa, sand martins have shown a marked, but patchy, recovery.

Sand martins receive standard protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and are listed under Appendix II of the Berne Convention (Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats). It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure, take, possess, disturb, or sell the birds or its eggs, or damage, destroy or disturb a sand martin nest in use or with dependent young.

A small sand cliff has been excavated by the Scottish Wildlife Trust at its Bawsinch reserve. However, to date no sand martins have nested there. A comprehensive survey of sand martin colonies in the Lothians was carried out in 1993, and nesting sites on the River Almond are surveyed annually by a local ornithologist.

LBAP Priority Species:- Linnet Populations

Linnets favour areas of gorse, scrubby thickets, including young conifer plantations, and hedges, particularly in arable farmland and coastal areas. In recent years they have started to colonise suburbia. In Edinburgh the species can be found where these habitats occur, such as golf courses, and open scrub areas

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Along with several other species associated with farmland, the linnet has suffered a considerable population decline over the past 25 years. Between 1968 and 1991 its farmland numbers fell by 56% to approximately 540,000 breeding territories. It is now on the Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern.

The overall population decline has been linked to the post-war intensification of agriculture, with an increase in herbicide application resulting in arable-land weeds becoming scarce at all seasons. The previously large seed bank in the soil, which was exposed on cultivation, has dwindled. In addition, the deterioration of hedgerows and gorse areas has reduced the size of the breeding habitat available. The transfer of some of the linnet's food preferences to oilseed rape and garden and waste ground weeds, and the introduction of set-aside has mitigated some of these adverse effects.

A national Linnet Action Plan has been prepared as part of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This seeks to halt or reverse the decline in numbers by the year 2003, then see a sustained recovery so that numbers are 50% higher than 1996 levels and the range has recovered to 1968-1972 levels by 2008.

The British Trust for Ornithology ( BTO) and Joint Nature Conservation Committee ( JNCC) have organised a winter farmland bird survey for three successive winters from 1999/2000. This aims to encourage member of the public to record winter numbers and locations of winter farmland birds, including linnet.

LBAP Priority Species:- Yellow Hammer Populations

Edinburgh is estimated to contain about 5% of the southeast Scotland population, the largest local concentrations lying immediately to the west of the city.

Penetration into the city itself is minimal. Birds are often reported from temporary 'waste ground

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Yellow hammer numbers across the UK have declined by 5% on farmland over the last 25 years. However, with an overall population in southeast Scotland of approximately 32,400 breeding pairs, yellowhammers can still be found in about 90% of local arable areas. Their reliance on this type of habitat is demonstrated by the fact that as the extent of arable land drops, there is a rapid drop in their presence and numbers, with almost no birds being found where there are only limited areas of arable ground. Recent surveys suggest that there is a significantly higher density of yellowhammers on organic farms.

The yellowhammer is protected by the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence to intentionally injure or kill the bird, or take, damage or destroy their nests whilst in use or being built.

The Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group have identified the yellowhammer as a species which farmers and landowners could actively conserve and enhance through the development and implementation of farm biodiversity action plans.

LBAP Priority Species:- Tree Sparrow Populations

There is a scattered Tree Sparrow population to the west of Edinburgh around Linlithgow south to Bathgate, with a more continuous block from South Queensferry to Balerno.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The UK tree sparrow population is estimated to be 110,000 pairs. The south-east Scotland population is about 1,300 pairs, about 1% of the UK total. The species appears to undergo

irregular fluctuations in numbers. There was a high British population from the 1880s to the 1930s, but numbers then decreased to a low point around 1950. Numbers then increased again from 1960 to 1978, with a further decline of 85% by 1991 - the largest decline of any common bird species during this period. The tree sparrow also decreased in range by 20% over the same period, with particular losses in Scotland and Wales.

The tree sparrow is protected under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the EC Birds Directive. It is illegal to intentionally kill, injure or take them, and to take, damage or destroy their nests while the nest is in use or is being built. It is also one of 36 UK bird species afforded 'Red' status as a species of high conservation concern.

A national Tree Sparrow Action Plan has been prepared as part of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This seeks to halt or reverse the decline in numbers by the year 2003, then see a sustained recovery so that numbers are 50% higher than 1996 levels and a measurable increase in range is achieved, by 2008. Although there is no current action in Edinburgh specifically involving the tree sparrow, it is likely to benefit from general actions seeking to improve farmland biodiversity, such as encouraging the retention of winter stubble, set-aside, the creation of field margins around crops, and the use of target-specific herbicides.

LBAP Priority Species:- Grey Partridge Populations

The countryside areas surrounding urban Edinburgh contain grey partridge. The majority are associated with arable farmland, but the bird penetrates higher ground in the Pentland Hills where heather moorland and rough grassland become more common. The bird has recently also been recorded in areas of rough grassland associated with new woodland plantings around Craigmillar, and in Holyrood Park in the centre of Edinburgh.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The grey partridge was formally a very common species over much of Great Britain. However, its range has retreated from the west by about 50km since the 1970s and it is now most abundant in the east of Britain and in central southern England. Over the last 25 years UK numbers have declined by 82%, to only 150,000 pairs, and breeding range has contracted by about 26%. The national changes in range and distribution have been reflected in Scotland, but not so extensively. In south-east Scotland there has been a withdrawal from marginal areas in the south and west, and in the uplands.

The grey partridge is now on the RSPB's Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern and is listed in Annex III/I of the EC Birds Directive and in Appendix III of the Berne Convention.

It is also afforded protection under various game statutes in both Great Britain and Ireland.

A National Grey Partridge Action Plan has been prepared as part of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This seeks to halt the national decline by 2005; ensure that the UK population is above 150,000 pairs by 2010; and, at least, maintain its current range. An action plan for the bird has also been prepared by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the Game Conservancy Trust and government conservation agencies. This encourages land managers to create a suitable environment for the species by maintaining hedgerows and field margins, creating conservation headlands, and retaining winter stubble.

The British Trust for Ornithology ( BTO) and Joint Nature Conservation Committee ( JNCC) have organised a winter farmland bird survey for three successive winters from 1999/2000. This aims to encourage members of the public to record winter numbers and locations of winter farmland birds, including grey partridge.

LBAP Priority Species:- Bullfinch Populations

Bullfinch ecology is little understood. It has been suggested that ash keys and snails are important in their diet. Both of these foods are fairly readily available in Edinburgh. They will also benefit from a plentiful supply of tree and shrub buds in winter, especially fruit trees. Otherwise they specialise in consuming tree and weed seeds and berries. They are scarce in areas where tree cover is lacking, as they are essentially a woodland bird.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The bullfinch is a fairly common and widespread resident species found in woodland, in orchards and on farmland, where it is closely associated with dense shrubs, scrub and untrimmed hedgerows. However, there has been a substantial decline in bullfinches across the UK, from an estimated 300,000 to 350,000 pairs in 1984 to 190,000 by 1988-91. The drop has been estimated at 75% in farmland and nearly 47% in woodland. However, this does not seem to be happening in the Lothians.

The Edinburgh population seems to be above the level for the surrounding countryside and may be as high as 500-700 pairs. This represents a significant species reservoir that will become increasingly important as bullfinch numbers and distribution decline elsewhere.

The bullfinch receives standard protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and EC Birds Directive. However, it is a species that may be sold alive or shown competitively if ringed and bred in captivity. In Kent it may also be killed or trapped, under licence, to protect fruit crops.

A national Bullfinch Action Plan has been prepared as part of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This seeks to halt or reverse the decline in bullfinch numbers by the year 2003 and see a sustained recovery in numbers so that by 2008.

LBAP Priority Species:- Barnowls Populations

Scottish barn owls live almost entirely within grasslands and forests. Their diet consists almost wholly of small mammals associated with these habitats, such as voles, shrews and mice. The barn owl's hunting range in the breeding season is about 1km from the nest/roost site, but extends to 5km during the winter months. About 90% of prey is taken within a 1km radius. Areas of moderately long grassland are especially important for foraging, as is the provision of woodland belts for shelter and hunting perches.

No more than 5 pairs are thought to remain in the countryside around Edinburgh.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

A steady decline in barn owl numbers over the century has accelerated to such a degree in the last 20 years that the current UK population is estimated to be only 4,000 breeding pairs, from a 1932 estimate of over 12,000 pairs. Scotland's barn owl numbers have reflected this decline

The barn owl is protected under Schedule 1 and Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence to injure, kill or capture the bird, to disturb nesting birds, to take eggs, and release captive owls into the wild without a licence.

The barn owl is identified by the UK Biodiversity Group as a 'Species of Conservation Concern', but no UK Action Plan is to be produced. However, the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group are already advising local farmers of the measures needed to protect and increase the species. Pest control firms are currently advised to take into account the risk to fauna, including barn owls, in exercising their roles. Increasingly, those rodenticides less toxic to birds

are used, dead rodents are quickly removed, and humane traps are used where appropriate.

LBAP Priority Species:- Lapwing Populations

South-east Scotland is home to an estimated population of 12,500 pairs, about 5.5% of the British population. The population in the immediate area of Edinburgh is one of the most abundant in Britain. Efforts must be made to safeguard this and ensure its continuation in the light of the dramatic crashes elsewhere in the UK.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The bird has experienced a catastrophic decline in numbers over the last twenty years, most noticeably on lowland arable areas of England south of the Mersey and the Humber.

The lapwing is protected under the general provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and is listed under Appendix II of the Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. It is an offence to injure, kill or capture the bird, to disturb nesting birds and to take their eggs.

The national decline in lapwing numbers and distribution has arisen as a consequence of the general decline in mixed farming practices and the subsequent loss of arable and grassland mosaics in the British countryside. Other changes in agricultural practice, which have had a detrimental effect on lapwings, include autumn/winter sowing of cereals, denser crop production and increased silage production. Increased fertiliser use, land drainage, earlier planting, use of quick growing strains and predominance of rye-grass monocultures has also reduced the value of the grasslands

as chick foraging habitats. Building and infrastructure development on farmland close to the city has removed suitable habitat. Increased extraction associated with these developments have lowered the water table and meant the drying out of other sites.

The lapwing is identified by the UK Biodiversity Group as a 'Species of Conservation Concern", But no UK Action Plan is to be produced. However, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has launched a national 'Lapwing Appeal' that aims to highlight the plight of farmland birds and lobby for changes in government agricultural policy.

Locally there is no current conservation action aimed specifically at the lapwing.

The British Trust for Ornithology ( BTO) and Joint Nature Conservation Committee ( JNCC) have organised a winter farmland bird survey for three successive winters from 1999/2000. This aims to encourage members of the public to record winter numbers and locations of winter farmland birds, including lapwing. The Pentland Hills Rangers currently record lapwing sightings along a series of commonly patrolled transects in the Regional Park.

LBAP Priority Species:- Brown Trout Populations

Wild brown trout populations exist in most of Edinburgh's rivers and burns. The migratory sea trout is regularly present in the River Almond and, from time to time, in the lower reaches of the Water of Leith.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Scotland has many naturally sustaining brown trout populations, which vary enormously in form, colour and behaviour. The migratory sea trout, which is found in Edinburgh's rivers, is an example of a particular form of brown trout. Although still widespread, the brown trout requires certain key environmental factors in order to sustain viable populations. These include good water quality, access to clean spawning grounds and a varied physical habitat for the different life stages.

Water pollution has had a great impact on Edinburgh's brown trout populations, but numbers have been recovering since water quality improvements in the 1970s. Trout are dependent on an adequate water supply. There are competing demands for the water on Edinburgh's main watercourses and any significant abstraction could rapidly worsen water quality.

Trout also require a stable physical habitat that provides adequate food and shelter from predators. The lower reaches of both the Almond and the Water of Leith provide good riparian habitat with stable banks and plenty of bankside vegetation. The urban stretches of the Water of Leith provide some of the best habitat with stable banks, deep weir pools and plenty of food. Any loss or erosion of these habitats could have significant detrimental impacts on local brown trout populations.

The Honorary Bailiffs monitor brown trout fishing on the City of Edinburgh's behalf. The River Almond and Water of Leith are popular trout fisheries where some low level management of riverbank and pool structure is required from time to time. This should acknowledge the needs of wildlife, and conversely habitat improvements designed for wildlife should not conflict with the activity of fishing.

LBAP Priority Species:- Common Blue Populations

The common blue is one of the most widespread butterflies in the UK, found throughout Scotland, including Orkney and the Western Isles (and occasionally Shetland), and on many of the smaller islands. It survives at altitudes up to about 500m, and can be found in a variety of habitats where its main larval foodplant, bird's-foot trefoil ( Lotus corniculatus) occurs.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The common blue is no longer "common" in many parts of the UK. The loss of wild flower grasslands through agricultural improvement has led to vast declines. Recent research has indicated that in some rural areas, the number of colonies may have declined by more than 75% over the last 50 years.

There is no specific legislation protecting the common blue butterfly.

There is currently no action to conserve the common blue butterfly in Edinburgh. However, the creation and management of wildflower meadows under the Countryside Premium Scheme may be helping to maintain and extend the habitat for common blue on farmland.

LBAP Priority Species:- Henbane Flea Beetle Populations

The henbane flea beetle is difficult to identify and was last recorded from Britain in 1930. The only Scottish record is from 1853 at Dalmeny. This record is repeated in 1881. Henbane was once a common plant of waste ground; particularly where there was organic enrichment. Now it appears only occasionally in farmyards, around old buildings and in sandy places near the sea. In addition to coastal locations it was recorded in Slateford and Kirkliston in 1934.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

The henbane flea beetle Psylliodes hyoscyami is associated with the plant henbane ( Hyoscyamus niger). This is now a rather rare plant of spasmodic appearance throughout England and almost wholly coastal in Wales and Scotland, where it is confined to the east of the country, particularly the Lothian coastline. It was considered a minor pest of henbane, which was grown as a crop, in the 1920s and 1930s.

The henbane flea beetle has no legal protective status but is listed in the Red Data Book under category 1: 'in danger of extinction'.

To determine the status of henbane and the henbane flea beetle in Edinburgh and conserve any populations found.

To establish the local distribution of henbane and whether the henbane flea beetle still exists in Edinburgh. To introduce, where necessary, appropriate conservation and management.

LBAP Priority Species:- Giant Bellflower Populations

The giant bellflower has in recent years been recorded in nine Edinburgh locations, and its occurrence is cited as rare or occasional at best. It is most often associated with managed woodlands such as the Hermitage of Braid and the woods around Craigmillar Castle. There is also a sizeable population located within the Dalmeny Estate and a 1955 record of a sighting on Corstorphine Hill.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Although the giant bellflower is relatively widespread across the UK, it occurs only on a localised basis. It is most common in southern Scotland and northern England, particularly in the Yorkshire Dales and Derbyshire, but is absent altogether from the south of England and north and north west Scotland.

The considerable loss of woodland in Edinburgh to development and agriculture, combined with a lack of appropriate management of remaining woodlands and associated woodland clearings, has limited the number of habitats available to the giant bellflower.

Giant bellflower receives general protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence to uproot the plant without the landowner's consent.

To identify, protect and increase existing giant bellflower populations in Edinburgh, and introduce new populations to suitable habitats.

To survey likely habitats across Edinburgh for the presence of giant bellflower, initiate appropriate management practices within known locations and introduce new populations to suitable habitats.

LBAP Priority Species:- Meadow Crane's bill Populations

The distribution of meadow crane'sbill in the Lothians is fairly even, and within the Edinburgh area it is primarily found in the more rural, western areas - generally by roadsides and riversides.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Meadow Crane's bill can be found throughout the northern hemisphere from Japan to Scandinavia and the UK. However, it is rarely found as far south as the Mediterranean because it survives best in the wetter conditions of the north. Within the UK, meadow crane's-bill is found throughout central England, western Wales and in east Scotland, with fewer recordings in the Highlands and west of Scotland.

Meadow crane's-bill can be grown from seed and can be propagated fairly easily from rootstock cuttings taken in early spring then potted and planted out when larger. However, it receives general protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981, making it an offence to uproot the plant without the landowners consent.

To identify, maintain and expand meadow crane's-bill throughout Edinburgh.

To identify, and maintain existing meadow crane's-bill populations across rural Edinburgh.

To introduce meadow crane's-bill to suitable sites within urban areas of Edinburgh.

LBAP Priority Species:- Floating Water Crowfoot Populations

There appears to have been no record from Edinburgh until 1955, since when it has been found in the Water of Leith, Braid Burn, Figgate Burn and Gogar Burn.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

This sub-species of floating water-crowfoot is widespread in western Europe, some 25% to 50% of the world population being present in the UK. In Britain, the subspecies is commonest in southern England, becoming less common northwards. Central Scotland may be the effective limit of its natural distribution.

Industrial and agricultural pollution in watercourses is likely to have caused the loss or decline of floating watercrowfoot in Edinburgh over the past two centuries. River modification and engineering will also have had localised impact on the species.

The presence of floating water-crowfoot is an indication that Edinburgh's watercourses are far less polluted than was once the case. However, agricultural run-off is still a threat, excessive nutrient enrichment possibly resulting in replacement by other species along the worse affected stretches. Actions that involve the removal of plants, such as flood control measures, canalisation, culverting and vegetation clearing, could adversely affect water-crowfoot. Soil erosion from riverside development may also reduce suitable habitats by increasing localised sedimentation in streambeds.

Stream water-crowfoot is identified by the UK Biodiversity Group as a "Species of Conservation Concern", but no UK Action Plan is to be produced.

To maintain and enhance existing populations of floating water-crowfoot in Edinburgh as representatives from near its northern margin of range.

To determine the local distribution and abundance of floating water-crowfoot and introduce appropriate guidance and river management to ensure its conservation.

LBAP Priority Species:- Green Figwort Populations

Green figwort remains rare within Edinburgh. Green figwort has been continually recorded in two sites within Edinburgh since 1955, along the River Almond at Cramond, and along the Gogar Burn. The last records of these populations were made in 1996.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Green figwort is of interest because until recently it was considered scarce on the British mainland. Its range stretches from southern Scotland to as far west and south as Gloucester. Recent British surveys have shown that its frequency may be increasing, and it may have been underrecorded

in the past due to its similarity to the water figwort (Scrophularia auriculata). Another possibility is that green figwort is a relatively new arrival in the British Isles and is only in the initial processes of colonisation. It is suggested that the plant is distributed mainly by wildfowl. This could explain its scattered distribution in the UK.

The loss of appropriate habitat along rivers and streams will have caused the greatest impact on green figwort. In particular, the culverting of rivers, riverside development and recreational pressure have degraded some of these habitats over recent years. Recent building and road construction in the Gogar area will have had the greatest impact on green figwort's habitat locally.

Green figwort receives general protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence for an unauthorised person to intentionally uproot the plant.

To maintain and enhance the present populations of green figwort in Edinburgh, and consider establishing new populations in areas of suitable habitat.

To accurately determine the status of green figwort in Edinburgh, conserving those habitats associated with identified populations. To consider expanding the distribution of green figwort by introducing the plant to appropriate habitats across the city.

LBAP Priority Species:- Mountain Pansy Populations

The Mountain Pansy is locally common in the Lothians, occurring at 23 known sites, mainly on dry heath, moor and heath grassland, and rough grassland and is seen as an indicator species for heath grassland habitats. Mountain pansy is only known to have been recorded from seven sites in Edinburgh over the last century, including near Balerno and at Bonaly, Blackford Hill, Dalmahoy, Kaimes, Kirkliston and Ravelrig.

However, it is uncertain whether the species still exists at any of its other historical sites.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Mountain pansy is distributed widely throughout upland areas of Scotland, Wales and the north west of England.

The greatest impacts on mountain pansy populations are the direct loss of habitat, either from development, change in land management or agricultural practices. It is known to decline as a consequence of agricultural pressure and does not occur on recently disturbed land. Mountain pansy can be susceptible to heavy grazing and declines in response to treading and close cropping. However, it benefits from a low grazing intensity as this reduces the amount of heather and bilberry growth, which reduces competition and provides more suitable habitat. The plant is also adversely affected by dry conditions and grows best in wet areas, or areas of high rainfall, and so any hydrological changes, such as drainage, may also have a negative impact.

To confirm the current distribution of mountain pansy populations in Edinburgh, conserve and enhance any local populations found, and reintroduce it to suitable historical locations.

To accurately determine all present and previous known sites of mountain pansy in Edinburgh and assess the extent of the population. To sustain these populations through appropriate management practices, and identify suitable historical habitats for possible reintroduction.

LBAP Priority Species:- Pillwort Populations

Although currently extinct within Edinburgh, it has been recorded at Duddingston, the Braid Hills and Threipmuir, the last record being at Duddingston loch in 1934.

(Source Edinburgh LBAP 2004-2009)

Pillwort is an internationally threatened species that is declining throughout its range (western Europe). On the continent it has declined sufficiently to be regarded as an endangered species and is included in the European Red Data Book. The UK holds a substantial proportion of the world population. Recorded from around 250 ten km squares in the UK over the last 100 years, it has been seen in only 100 of these since 1970, only 33 of which are in Scotland.

It receives general protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and is now classified as Scarce.

The main causes of pillwort decline and loss have been the drainage and ploughing of extant sites, and pollution and/or abandonment of its main habitats. In particular, the introduction of nitrates and phosphates from agricultural fertiliser run-off has raised the pH of many water-bodies to intolerable levels and caused excessive growth of competitive vegetation; and the decline of beneficial uses of former pillwort sites, such as curling ponds, mill ponds, paraffin-shale sandpits and wet pasture grazing has led to the direct loss of appropriate habitat.

A national Pillwort Action Plan has been written as part of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This seeks to maintain the range of the fern and enhance the total UK population by encouraging natural regeneration and re-establishing it at historical sites where conditions remain favourable. As part of Plantlife's 'Back from the Brink' campaign and Scottish Natural Heritage's Species Action Programme a Pillwort project has been initiated in Scotland. This includes site survey, and the experimental re-establishment at four sites, one of which is on new ponds in Holyrood Park.

Habitat Type and Change

Woodland occupies over 1500 ha (6%) of Edinburgh. Edinburgh is reported to be one of the most sparsely wooded districts in the UK.

Data gap. Information relating to semi- natural habitats in Edinburgh.

From 1990-1998 there was an 88% decline in semi-natural habitats

Across Scotland. Woodland, developed habitats and land used for intensive agriculture all increased.

Since 2004 100 hectares of new native woodland had been created in Edinburgh as part of the Millennium Urban Forests Project.

Invasive Species

Data Gap. Invasive species such as Himalayan balsam, Giant hogweed and Japanese knotweed are known to be abundant along River Almond and Gogar Burn. Extent is yet to be determined.