A TRUST is appealing for “urgent” donations to expand a 52-acre nature reserve to help wildlife move safely between two areas of open green space.

Essex Wildlife Trust wants to purchase an area of land to protect and expand its Wrabness nature reserve, but needs to raise £57,500 to meet its target.

The reserve provides stunning views from the southern bank of the Stour Estuary and remains an ecologically important site for wildlife.

It is home to numerous species of bird, including turtle doves, yellowhammer, song thrush, short-eared owl and barn owl, as well as wetland and wading birds that visit over the winter months.

The abundance of wildflowers also supports a host of butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies. An opportunity has arisen for the trust to expand the site by purchasing 4.2 acres of grazing marsh, helping to link the land to Oakfield Wood.

Andrew Impey, chief executive of Essex Wildlife Trust, said: “This is an incredibly exciting opportunity to establish a wildlife corridor that will connect these two areas and allow the safe movement of many different species.

“With just three weeks left to secure this land we urgently need your help now and are asking for members of the public to donate what they can to support this vital acquisition.”

To donate, call 01621 852964, email admin@essexwt.org.uk or visit justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/ewt/wrabnessappeal.