Invertebrates

Bog bush-cricket (Metrioptera brachyptera)

Objectives

To maintain and enhance the existing populations within Staffordshire.
To create new suitable areas at sites known to contain the species to facilitate colony expansion.

Targets

To maintain the current population of bog bush-cricket at the two sites in Staffordshire by appropriate management by 2010.

Total achievements to date (November 1998 - March 2001)

Staffordshire County Council have carried out sensitive management for this species at Highgate Common.

Current Action

Protection and Policy

Bog bush-cricket has been recorded from the Cannock Chase SSSI which receives statutory protection; the other on which it is known to exist has been classed as an SBI.
Staffordshire County Council is the lead organisation for this species in Staffordshire.

Management, Research and Survey

The management on Highgate Common is currently under review and this includes proposals to actively manage part of the site for bog bush-crickets.

Action Plan

UK Lead Organisation:

N/A

County Lead Organisation:

Staffordshire County Council

Policy

Promote the National Lowland Heathland Programme. (SWMHP)
Ensure any examples of sites containing populations of this species and that meet the required criteria are given SBI status. (SBI Grading Committee)
Ensure appropriate sites containing populations of this species meeting the SSSI criteria are designated. (EN)

Management

Actively manage suitable areas of habitat for bog bush-cricket on both Cannock Chase and Highgate Common. (SCC)
Determine other suitable areas adjacent to known colonies that can be enhanced directly for this species through habitat restoration. (SCC)

Monitoring and Research

Determine the exact habitat requirements of this species within the County. (SCC, SWT)
Ensure that all known sites are on the Invertebrate Sites Register. (EN)
Monitor all known bog bush-cricket populations on a regular (at least bi-annual) basis. (SCC)
Consider the re-introduction of bog bush-crickets into Highgate from the Cannock Chase populations. (SCC)

Advisory

Increase species awareness for the public and landowners through education, promotion and events. (SBAP Partnership)

Complementary Plans