Wildlife Corridors

The introduction of new wildlife corridors at The Oval Bandstand & Lawns aims to enhance biodiversity, promote habitat connectivity, and create a more resilient ecosystem within the park. By establishing green corridors, the project seeks to facilitate the movement of wildlife species, mitigate habitat fragmentation, and provide opportunities for ecological restoration and conservation.

Objectives:
1. Establish wildlife corridors to connect fragmented habitats within the Cliftonville coastal park, promoting the movement of species and enhancing genetic diversity.
2. Enhance habitat quality and diversity by planting native vegetation species along the corridors, providing food, shelter, and nesting sites for a variety of wildlife.
3. Create educational opportunities for visitors by installing interpretive signage along the corridors, highlighting the importance of biodiversity, habitat connectivity, and ecosystem services.
4. Engage local communities and volunteers in the planning, implementation, and maintenance of the wildlife corridors, fostering a sense of stewardship and ownership over the park.
5. Monitor the effectiveness of the corridors in facilitating wildlife movement and biodiversity enhancement, and adapt management strategies accordingly.

Activities:
1. Site Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the park to identify suitable locations for the establishment of wildlife corridors, considering factors such as existing habitat quality, connectivity, and potential barriers to wildlife movement.
2. Corridor Design: Develop a corridor design plan that includes the selection of native plant species, placement of vegetation elements, and consideration of habitat requirements for target wildlife species.
3. Vegetation Planting: Implement the corridor design plan by planting native vegetation species along the designated routes, focusing on creating continuous habitat connections and addressing key ecological needs.
4. Educational Outreach: Develop interpretive signage and educational materials to inform park visitors about the importance of wildlife corridors, biodiversity conservation, and ways to support ecosystem health.
5. Community Engagement: Organise volunteer events, workshops, and guided nature walks to engage local communities in corridor planting, maintenance activities, and citizen science initiatives.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish monitoring protocols to track changes in wildlife abundance, species diversity, and vegetation composition within the corridors over time, using scientific methods such as wildlife surveys and vegetation assessments.

Expected Outcomes:
1. Increased habitat connectivity and species movement within The Oval Bandstand & Lawns, supporting population resilience and genetic exchange.
2. Enhanced biodiversity and ecosystem services, including pollination, pest control, and soil stabilisation, benefiting both wildlife and park visitors.
3. Raised awareness and appreciation of biodiversity conservation among the local community, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility for the park’s ecological health.
4. Opportunities for scientific research and educational programming centered around wildlife corridors and ecosystem dynamics.

By introducing new wildlife corridors at The Oval Bandstand & Lawns, this project aims to promote ecological resilience, enhance biodiversity, and create a more vibrant and sustainable urban green space for both wildlife and people to enjoy.