The UK government has awarded a £1.28 million grant to the Kent Wildlife Trust through Natural England's Species Recovery Programme, aimed at bolstering conservation efforts for endangered species such as beavers, butterflies, and birds.

The funding will focus on projects along the River Stour, where Kent is home to England's largest wild beaver population and ancient woodland at the Blean near Canterbury.

The Trust emphasized the county's critical role in preserving endangered wildlife, with plans to strengthen beaver populations, study rare woodland invertebrates, and restore habitats for species like the heath fritillary butterfly and turtle dove.

Secretary of State Emma Reynolds highlighted the initiative as part of the largest-ever investment in species recovery, aiming to protect threatened wildlife and secure the future of England's iconic species.The project underscores collaboration with landowners and scientific research to ensure long-term ecological benefits beyond Kent.This funding reflects a commitment to biodiversity conservation and habitat restoration, aligning with broader environmental goals.