boatone
Well-Known Member
Application is being considered under The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 to have Thames Lock Keepers classified as an endangered species.
On first examination it appeared that this would not be possible but they have now been identified as an evolved sub species of Butterfly, Large Blue (Maculinea arion) noted for flitting between lock and weir locations along the non tidal river Thames.
Sometimes seen in clusters they are also noted for being conspicuously absent at certain locations and times of day throughout the year and are often completely 'in absentia' during the winter months - behaviour known as 'hibernation'.
The Environment Agency is clearly identified as the responsible authority under the act - Section 6 (f) a navigation authority within the meaning of the Water Resources Act 1991(1);
To provide evidence to suppport the application, all persons using the waterway are asked to report sightings, as and when they occur, as well as any significant periods of absence at particular locations when they would normally be expected to be in residence.
On first examination it appeared that this would not be possible but they have now been identified as an evolved sub species of Butterfly, Large Blue (Maculinea arion) noted for flitting between lock and weir locations along the non tidal river Thames.
Sometimes seen in clusters they are also noted for being conspicuously absent at certain locations and times of day throughout the year and are often completely 'in absentia' during the winter months - behaviour known as 'hibernation'.
The Environment Agency is clearly identified as the responsible authority under the act - Section 6 (f) a navigation authority within the meaning of the Water Resources Act 1991(1);
To provide evidence to suppport the application, all persons using the waterway are asked to report sightings, as and when they occur, as well as any significant periods of absence at particular locations when they would normally be expected to be in residence.