The University of Cumbria has connected with nature, transforming its Institution of Arts campus in Carlisle.
The university has implemented new opportunities for staff, students and the community to engage with the environment.
They include hides at the Brampton Road campus, allowing people to get closer to nature, new wildlife and biodiversity areas and annual studies to monitor species diversity.
To get more people involved, the university has a calendar and a programme of wildlife talks and trips.
The wildlife society has installed bird boxes on the campus which has resulted in the successful breeding of the tree sparrow species, a bird of conservation concern, and other species including the great spotted woodpecker.
A university graduate set up the society.
Rachel Owen, 25, created a legacy for wildlife and the environment while studying wildlife media at the campus.
This summer Rachel has also led a successful event with St Michael’s Church in Stanwix to discover and collect data about the species found on its grounds.
Rachel said: “It’s really important to give people opportunities to do this in ways that are fun and accessible.
“I absolutely love organising events like these and hope to continue to do it.”
Laura Baxter, wildlife media programme leader, said: “We’re encouraged by the positive change that Rachel represents in this emerging next generation of conservationists, media makers and campaigners.”
