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.

Closeup image of wild orchids

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

Priority 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.
"A detailed close-up of a moth resting on a bright green leaf. The moth's wings display intricate dark brown and white stripes, its long thin antennae and green eyes stand out, and the softly blurred background accentuates the delicate natural details.
Credit: Photo: 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.
Hazel dormouse - acro images
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.
Priority Species
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.
White-letter Hairstreak Butterfly
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.
Priority Species
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 orchidLady Orchid The lady orchid, with its tall spikes of purple-pink flowers, flourishes in North Kent’s woodlands and grasslands, supporting pollinators and biodiversity.
Priority Species
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.
Priority Species
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.
Flagship species
Credit: Geophotos
English OakThe English oak, a keystone tree of North Kent’s woodlands, supports countless species, providing food, shelter, and habitat for wildlife.
Flagship species
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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