THE plop of a water vole slipping in to a meandering brook is becoming less common.

Now evidence suggests voles are declining to the extent they may soon cease to figure in riverbank tales.

So the Clear Glaze Partnership is joining forces with the Environment Agency, North West Water and local volunteers to conduct a survey aimed at saving the shy little mammal.

training and the first phase of the study will take place on Saturday (July 3), the first day of National Mammal Week.

Once the most numerous member of the British vole family the water vole population is in drastic decline across Britain. Over two thirds of known habitats are currently vole-less.

Living on riverside vegetation the bank-dwelling water vole has been under threat from loss of habitat and drainage improvements.

And they have come under attack from ferocious foreigners - American mink who see them as a tasty treat.

Alarm caused by the rapid drop in numbers has led to the water vole being given legal protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act - joining other endangered species like the blue whale, red squirrel and sand lizard.

Helen Jackson, River Valley Initiative co-ordinator told The Journal: "Reports suggest there are still water voles in the Glaze Brook catchment area, but no one is quite sure where or how many family groups exist.

"Urgent action is required to protect the remaining sites and produce information to encourage water vole and wildlife friendly bank maintenance."

A free training day showing survey techniques is planned. Places are limited and advance booking is required, call 01942 673943.

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