Flagship Species are those we champion as symbols of the diverse and unique wildlife of Kent Downs. These species capture the imagination, raise awareness, and act as rallying points for conservation action. Through targeted efforts, we hope to not only protect these species but also inspire a wider movement of environmental care, stewardship, and community involvement.

What Makes a Flagship Species?

A flagship species is one that stands out. It might be iconic, beautiful, or even rare—capturing hearts and minds and motivating action. These species often hold special meaning for local communities, and their conservation becomes a symbol of the health and vibrancy of the entire landscape. The flagship species selected for Kent Downs NNR embody the area’s natural beauty and the need for focused conservation.

Our flagship species

Credit: Suzanne Burgess-Buglife
Six-spotted Pot Beetle The rediscovery of the Six-spotted Pot Beetle in Kent marks a biodiversity success, highlighting the need to protect habitats for rare and endangered species.
Credit: Will Langdon
Liquorice Piercer Moth The rare Liquorice Piercer moth showcases the ecological value of Kent’s chalk grasslands, where protecting it helps safeguard other rare plants and wildlife.
Credit: Acro Images - Gmbh
Hazel Dormouse The Hazel Dormouse, a cherished woodland species in Kent, plays a vital role in maintaining the health and diversity of the region’s woodlands and hedgerows.
Credit: Grant Hazlehurst
Maidstone Mining Bee The Maidstone Mining Bee, once thought extinct, has returned to Trosley Country Park, playing a vital role in pollinating Kent’s meadows and wildflowers.
Credit: Getty Images
White-letter Hairstreak Butterfly The rare White-letter Hairstreak butterfly relies on elm trees for its larvae. Conserving elm populations is key to protecting this species and its habitat.
Credit: Getty Images
Meadow Clary Meadow clary, a rare wildflower of North Kent’s grasslands, thrives in sunny, well-managed meadows, supporting bees, butterflies, and biodiversity conservation.
Lady Orchid The lady orchid, with its tall spikes of purple-pink flowers, flourishes in North Kent’s woodlands and grasslands, supporting pollinators and biodiversity.
Credit: Getty Images
Skylark The Skylark, known for its melodious song, thrives in farmland and grasslands. Conserving it is vital for maintaining these open landscapes and their wildlife.
Credit: Getty Images
Great Crested Newt The great crested newt thrives in ponds, woodlands, and grasslands, relying on clean, connected habitats for breeding and ecosystem health.
Credit: Geophotos
English OakThe English oak, a keystone tree of North Kent’s woodlands, supports countless species, providing food, shelter, and habitat for wildlife.
Credit: Michelle Rickards
Stag BeetleThe stag beetle, Britain’s largest terrestrial beetle, thrives in North Kent’s woodlands, relying on decaying wood for its larvae to develop.

The flagship species of Kent are not just symbols of the region’s natural beauty—they are vital to the ecological balance of our landscapes. Their conservation is a reflection of our commitment to maintaining a thriving, biodiverse environment. By supporting the preservation of these species, you play an essential role in securing the future of Kent’s wildlife. Join us in ensuring these remarkable species continue to thrive, inspiring others to care for the wild places that make Kent unique.

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