Stunning views of island but at what price? (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Stunning views of island but at what price?

9:58am Friday 23rd September 2005 in News By Colleen McDonnell

CRANE Park Island in Richmond has been listed as one of the top places to view the glorious burning shades of autumn.

A long dry spell means a spectacular show of burnt umber, copper and orange, but London Wildlife Trust said behind the show there is a more sinister change being recorded by its officers.

Some vulnerable indigenous bird species are struggling to survive while foreign species, such as the continental wasp spider, are thriving.

Carlo Laurenzi, chief executive of the London Wildlife Trust, said: "The plight of our vulnerable and disappearing species is indicative of the changing climate."

The trust said the answer was to design bio-diversity into developments using green roofs and natural drainage systems.

Mr Laurenzi said: "We need support to hammer home our message that wildlife, our quality of life and community life are inextricably linked.

"Autumn promises a glorious show of red colours, but let's remember that red signals danger, join us to protect London's wildlife for the future."

Visit www.wildlondon.

org.uk to find more details about Richmond's Crane Park Island and other London sites, which are recommended as the best places to see autumn colour.