Current status
This beetle was widespread in the southern half of England in the middle of this century, but is now known only from single sites in Surrey and Berkshire and, infrequently, from a number of sites on the Lincolnshire Coversand Heaths. In the south, it occurs on hazel in woodland edges or rides, or hedgerows, while in the north it lives on young birch in heathland.
The species is listed as Endangered in the GB Red List.
Current factors causing loss or decline
The reasons for the decline are not well understood, but may be related to the reduction in coppicing.
The beetle is at risk from clearance of birch from heathland
Action plan objectives and targets
Maintain the beetle at all known sites.
Enhance populations at all known sites by 2010.
Ensure the establishment and maintenance of four new viable populations at suitable sites within the historic range by 2010
Proposed actions with lead agencies
Policy and legislation
No action proposed.
Where appropriate, include the requirements of the species when preparing or revising prescriptions for agri-environment or woodland grant schemes.
Site safeguard and management
Where possible, ensure that all occupied habitat is appropriately managed by 2008, for example through SSSI or agri-environment/woodland grant scheme management agreements.
Ensure that the species is included in site management documents for all relevant SSSIs.
Consider notifying as SSSIs sites holding key populations of the species, where this is necessary to secure their long term protection and appropriate management.
Species management and protection
Consider reintroducing C. coryli to a series of sites within the former range, if necessary to establish four new viable populations.
Advisory
Advise landowners and managers of the presence of this species and the importance of beneficial management for its conservation.
Future Research and Monitoring
Undertake surveys to determine the status of this species.
Conduct targeted autecological research to inform habitat management and reintroduction proposals.
Pass information gathered during survey and monitoring of this species to a central database for incorporation in national and international databases.
Establish a regular monitoring programme for the species.
Communications and Publicity
Promote opportunities for the appreciation of the species and the conservation issues associated with its habitat. This should be achieved through articles within appropriate journals as well as by a publicity leaflet.
Links with other action plans
None given.
Local implementation
The following LBAPs are working on Cryptocephalus coryli:
Publication details
Originally published in: Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report - Volume II: Action Plans (December 1995, Tranche 1, Vol 2, p134)
Related links
ARKive Visit the ARKive website to view images and further information relating to this species
