The Bailiwick of Guernsey
Broad Diversity in a Small Compass

The Bailiwick of Guernsey includes the island of Guernsey and the neighbouring islands of Alderney, Sark, Brecqhou, Herm, Jethou and Lihou. It has a total land area of 78 km2 with a population of 62,000.

Along with the separate Bailiwick of Jersey, it constitutes the archipelago of the Channel Islands, located in the English Channel. They formed part of the Dukedom of Normandy when, in 1066, that Dukedom invaded and conquered England, making it in effect a Norman overseas territory. They remain linked to the Crown as independent territories, and have a special relationship with the European Community. Their biogeographical area includes the adjacent French mainland, as well as the southern coast of England.

The islands' 10-metre tides provide a large littoral zone, supporting a wide range of marine species and many species of waders (shorebirds). Migrating land-birds such as wheatears and pipits rest in the dune grassland, whilst inland fragments of threatened wet meadow habitat are managed for their summer display of orchids and other rare plants. In the fragmented woodland, warblers, long-eared owl and short-toed treecreeper breed.

On the cliff-land, the maritime grassland supports the rare Glanville fritillary butterfly (inset) and cliff-top scrub hosts resident Dartford warbler, stonechat and many species of migrant bird, which use Guernsey as a vital refuelling stop in spring and autumn.

In an attempt to improve the Island's biodiversity further, local authorities have implemented a new system of farm subsidy. This programme aims to make farming less intensive and encourages farmers to undertake various conservation measures.
click images for larger versions
With its mild climate, Guernsey boasts nearly 2000 species of plants which in turn support a diverse range of invertebrates, many absent from the UK. Guernsey features dramatic cliffs with nesting seabirds (including puffin, inset), steep wooded valleys running down to the sea, and quiet, rural lanes. The characteristic earthbank hedgerows (pictured) are home to endemics such as Guernsey vole, greater white-toothed shrew and Guernsey fern (inset).
Photographs courtesy of Rich Austin, David Le Conte, A & R Prelli & the Guernsey Tourist Board
La Sociètè GuernesiaiseLa Société Guernesiaise was founded in 1882 to encourage the study of the history, natural history, geography and geology of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, the conservation of the Bailiwick's natural environment and the preservation of its historic buildings and monuments.
La Société:
  • Publishes an annual Report and Transactions and regular newsletters
  • Holds meetings, lectures, excursions and events
  • Manages nature reserves
  • Carries out research, gathers environmental data and maintains a research library and collections
  • Publishes books and other publications
  • Provides advice on conservation issues
La Société owns, leases or manages some 30 separate areas of land. These include the four major reed beds on the island, and some superb orchid fields, which are considered to be some of the best in the British Isles.
States of Guernsey Board of Admin. Env. ServicesStates of Guernsey Board of Administration Environment Services Section is responsible for protecting, maintaining and enhancing much of the islands public land, ranging from public parks and gardens to cliff paths, beaches, coastal headlands, nature conservation areas, and Lihou Island. In addition, the Board is responsible for solid waste management, recycling and energy conservation initiatives.
The UKOTCF is a Registered Charity (1058483) - keen to develop partnerships with business or commercial organisations