Wildlife experts call for delay in draining of lake to save frogs

WILDLIFE experts have called for a major conservation project at a Yorkshire World Heritage Site's lake to be halted, after it was claimed the work could wipe out an entire generation of frogs.

By The Newsroom

Published 14th Apr 2010, 12:20 BST

Updated 14th Apr 2010, 12:20 BST

The Animal Concern Advice Line says thousands of the amphibians will be killed if the draining of the lake at Studley Royal, Fountains Abbey, near Ripon, goes ahead as planned next Monday.

The charity was contacted by concerned visitors who witnessed workmen at the site and say the scheme – described as the most ambitious in 20 years – needs to be postponed until the autumn.

John Robins, campaign co-ordinator, said: "If they drain the lake next week they will lose a whole year's worth of frogs.

"This work should not be taking place at this time of year, I would expect the National Trust to know that."

A National Trust spokesman said: "Studley Lake is a reservoir therefore the National Trust is legally obliged to drain it.

"We consult closely with independent ecological advisers to mitigate the impact on the wildlife.

"Daily visual inspections of the lake will take place and amphibian ramps will be constructed."