Biodiversity in Britain at risk from standstill due to coronavirus

Wildlife Trusts warn of effects from neglected reserves and species loss, to fly-tipping and illegal shooting

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While lockdown has allowed some a greater appreciation of spring and the fun of seeing goats, sheep and deer foraying into urban landscapes, Covid-19 is wreaking havoc with UK biodiversity as vital conservation projects are put on hold.

On Friday conservationists warned of "desperate times" with an explosion in invasive non-native species during prolific spring growth and the deterioration of rare and historic wildlife meadows that could take years to restore.