Project to create new 'insect superhighways'

The project will include planting native hedgerows, restoring grasslands and creating ponds and wetlands

A new project to boost insect populations across North Yorkshire by creating wildlife "superhighways" has been launched.

The GrubsUp! scheme will link land in the North York Moors National Park along the A170, which connects Thirsk and Scarborough.

Covering 200 square miles (520sqkm), the project will include planting native hedgerows, restoring grasslands and creating ponds and wetlands.

Holly Ramsden, project officer for the programme, said insect populations had "seen alarming declines in abundance and species richness" in recent years.

"Nearly all of us have noticed a drop in butterflies visiting our gardens, less moths around streetlights and far fewer insects on our cars than there once were," Ms Ramsden said.

"These invertebrates are crucial to a healthy ecosystem, acting as important food sources for birds and small mammals."

She said pollinating insects played a vital role in crop yield and keeping the air clean.

The project aims to boost declining insect populations

Ms Ramsden said she hoped to inspire as many people as possible to get involved in the project their own way.

"Often all we need to do is just be slightly less tidy, leaving some grass a little longer or having a woodpile or compost heap," she said.

"The more of us who can do this, the more connected our habitats will be and the greater the benefits for nature."

GrubsUp! is looking to collaborate with farmers, landowners, and local communities to protect and restore habitats for insects.

The project would involve enhancing road verges and other green spaces, with the aim of boosting biodiversity and ensuring that insects can move between sites.

GrubsUp! is looking for people to get involved in the project

The two-year scheme has received funding from Santander UK.

Andrew Wilson, director of communications at the bank, said: "Protecting the wildlife and nature around us is not only vital in the fight against climate change, but for the economy too, with more than half of global GDP dependent on it."

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