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University of Warwick, Innovation Campus at Wellesbourne
The University of Warwick manages land on two campuses, one of which is on the outskirts of Wellesbourne and started life in 1949 as the National Vegetable Research Station. The campus consists mainly of arable farmland and covers about 191 ha. The campus has always been managed sympathetically for wildlife and currently about 6 ha of land is devoted principally to wildlife.
Recent activities have included planting new hedgerows and trees, installing nest boxes for birds (barn owls and tree sparrows), developing areas for wildflowers, margins and larger strips, and supporting birds with supplementary feed in winter. The campus is particularly good for vertebrates – mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles.
The bird population is monitored regularly by a local ornithologist and he keeps a close eye on the population of corn buntings that visit the campus along with neighbouring fields. The corn buntings are the focus of an informal project led by the Arden Farm Wildlife Group.
Recent Projects & Initiatives
National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme
In summer 2025, the campus took part in the National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme, coordinated by the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, and 30 cameras were set up in a grid across the site. Sadly, no hedgehogs were seen, although other monitoring has indicated hedgehogs around the buildings.
Contact us
Ready to make a difference for wildlife in South Warwickshire? Whether you have five minutes or five hours to spare, there’s a place for you in our growing community.
Contact us if you would like to get involved.
University of Warwick, Innovation Campus at Wellesbourne
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