Wildlife and biodiversity in Lambeth - an introduction

Lambeth is surprisingly rich in wildlife, and not just in our parks and open spaces. The borough is home to many different wild plants and animals, which use places like gardens, parks, allotments and railway linesides as 'habitats' for shelter, feeding and travel.

All these wild plants, animals and habitats add to the incredible richness and diversity of life in Lambeth - what we know as 'biological diversity' or 'biodiversity'.

Many wild plants and animals found in Lambeth are common and easy to find; however, others are quite rare or under threat from habitat loss, inappropriate development, pollution or climate change.

Some of Lambeth's wildlife habitats are also abundant, like grassland and buildings, but others such as woods and ponds are not and have to be protected or carefully managed. If wildlife habitats are damaged or lost, then the many wild plants and animals that use them are also threatened or could be lost.

Everybody living or working in Lambeth has a role to play in protecting its wildlife so we don't lose valuable habitat or affect our biodiversity.

Lambeth Council is committed to managing its buildings, estates, parks and open spaces, and encouraging residents, businesses and other landowners, to help protect wildlife and increase the biodiversity of the borough.