Endangered water voles are reintroducing themselves to local waterways in North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, marking a milestone in conservation efforts

After two decades of absence, water voles have made a triumphant return to the waterways of the West of England. These “charismatic” mammals, once a common sight along the Severn Shoreline Levels and Moors, had been driven to near extinction in the region by the invasive American mink. The new wave of reintroduction is the result of collaborative efforts led by the West of England Nature Partnership (WENP) and Bristol Zoological Society, who are committed to restoring the local ecosystems.

The water voles‘ return is a significant conservation victory. As “mini ecosystem engineers,” the voles play a critical role in maintaining healthy environments. By creating burrows along riverbanks, they help prevent erosion, while also providing nesting sites for other species, such as bumblebees. Their burrows offer a haven for wildlife, and their feeding habits promote the growth of diverse plants and vegetation.

Ecologist Eric Swithinbank of the Avon Wildlife Trust (AWT), a key player in the project, described the voles as “so charismatic and endearing,” noting their vital ecological function. “They’re really important for maintaining the health of our waterways,” he said. With reeds and rushes forming the bulk of their diet, the voles leave a distinctive 45-degree angle in the vegetation as they feed.

The reintroduction project is part of the broader Severn Shoreline restoration programme, which aims to revive critical intertidal habitats, wetlands, and peatlands. The project has been bolstered by a £370,000 grant from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA), further underlining the region’s commitment to biodiversity restoration.

AWT has been closely monitoring the voles’ progress, with signs of their return becoming increasingly evident. “We’ve found plenty of burrows and signs of nibbled crops, so we know they’re settling in,” Swithinbank explained. Though the voles are likely to rest through the winter, the evidence of their presence is unmistakable.

Dan Norris, the Mayor of WECA, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, calling it “a tangible and accessible initiative” that demonstrates the success of local conservation efforts. He hopes the return of the voles will inspire further support for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy, a broader regional conservation initiative.

The reappearance of water voles is also a promising sign for the wider ecosystem. They are a vital food source for predators such as owls, and their burrowing habits help maintain healthy riverbanks, supporting a range of other wildlife. As Swithinbank pointed out, “There are so many reasons to look after them.”

This milestone in conservation is a hopeful sign for the future of wildlife in the West of England, as the water vole’s return paves the way for further ecological restoration efforts.