Dear Sir,
It is encouraging to read about efforts to save water voles in the North York Moors National Park (The race to save water voles in the North York Moors National Park, 17 May). Since its creation in 2002, the mink raft – designed by experts at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust – has been used to protect species as far afield as Argentina.
Experience shows that monitoring and eventual success will rely on the efforts of local working conservationists who know the area. This was first shown on the River Dore where 40 volunteers monitored local traps with great results. This remains unique as a scientific study of lethal population control, eradication in the face of continual immigration of mink and turning back the clock on biodiversity loss. We hope to see similar success in Yorkshire.
James Swyer
Press & Publications Manager,
Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust