Old churchyards and cemeteries usually support a rich array of plants, fungi and wildlife, often supporting rare and threatened species. Urban growth and intensive farming have made large areas of the countryside and cities increasingly inhospitable to wildlife and as such, places like cemeteries remain relatively undisturbed and provide a welcoming habitat for displaced wildlife.
Having been left undisturbed for centuries, these spaces have become sanctuaries for nature and often times are the only surviving areas of flower-rich grassland in towns and villages. From bats to beetles and barn owls to butterflies, they provide an sanctuary for wildlife to thrive.
Trees and shrubbery provide habitats for small mammals such as hedgehogs and mice, as well as birds. Hedgehogs prefer living on the edge of woodlands and in hedgerows, where they find shelter from predators and a good supply of food. They can roam for up to 2km on a single night, so benefit greatly from maintain wildlife corridors in cemeteries.
Bats have made their homes in churches for centuries, with 60-90% of historic churches having protected bat roosts. Cemeteries and churchyards not only provide shelter for bats, but also safe places for them to fly and hunt after dusk. Small insects for them to eat, such as moths and gnats, are abundant.
Reptiles such as slow worms are plentiful locally, such as in Woodlands Cemetery, making their home in grasslands and meadows, as well as in compost or piles of leaves.
The foliage found in cemeteries provides not only nutrients, but the materials for wildlife to make their homes. Mosses and lichens found in churchyards create places for insects to feed and reproduce, as well as providing materials for birds to create nests.
Last year, we worked with South Hams District Council to cut and rake the grass in 12 local churchyards, from Marlborough on the South Devon coast to Holne on the edge of Dartmoor.
By cutting the grass in late summer and raking it away, the soil can be prevented from becoming nutrient-rich, favouring the establishment and growth of wildflowers. With the help of volunteers, we have previously created native wildflower meadow areas in Totnes cemetery, specifically around the roundabout and older gravestones. These meadows provide food and habitats for various different insects and pollinators.
Managing old churchyards and cemeteries is not only an excellent way to boost local biodiversity; it’s also a great way to bring people together, build connections and learn about local history, especially when working alongside local groups and members of the church.
