The prime aim and purpose of this book is to show the amazing richness and potential number of species which are capable of thriving in a small town. It is also intended to provide a reliable and valuable foundation for any future survey and great care has been taken with identification resulting in a considerable quantity of fungal and invertebrate material being discarded as unsuitable for determination to species level.
Over 3400 species are listed together with notes on distribution and frequency whenever possible. Each group is provided with an introduction. There is a short section on Stratford Naturalists.
During the course of the survey extensive property development has taken place resulting in the destruction of existing communities which had gradually evolved reflecting that elusive `local character'. Such changes seem destined to continue dramatically affecting wildlife.