The South Devon coast is home to one of the most diverse range of plant and invertebrate species in the UK, thanks to its warm climate, unique geology and long history of low-intensity farming. But many of these species are now in serious trouble, with some facing extinction.
These vulnerable and special species are holding on along a thin strip of coast, squeezed by the sea on one side and increasingly-intensive agriculture on the other.
Life on the Edge is a project that gives these species a lifeline to the future. A few strongholds survive, thanks to nature-friendly farming by visionary landowners and managers and we will support more people – farmers, gardeners, communities and businesses – to make more space for nature along the coast, targeting the needs of our rarest species with measures that also help our more common wildlife.
The result will be a coastline and its connected hinterland that is buzzing with wildlife, packed with wildflowers and a treat for the eye for residents and visitors alike.
Core to the project is involving people, helping them to reconnect to nature, refreshing their sense of wellbeing and empowering them to make a difference for nature.
Get involved with LotE
People are at the heart of the Life on the Edge, and we couldn’t make things better for nature without everyone chipping in!
There are so many ways for people to get involved in our project from taking part in our target audience work and joining us for walks and events, to helping create new meadows and volunteering your time to help us to restore habitat for our target species.
Working Together
to restore a coastline
buzzing with wildlife
buzzing with wildlife
Latest News…
Reports & Acknowledgements
Funding Life on the Edge is a National Lottery Heritage funded project, supported by a £2.24M grant
02 June, 2026
Dragonfly Arts Trail – Wembury
Life on the Edge has partnered with the National Trust at Wembury Beach to raise awareness of the im
02 April, 2026
Bee-flies – Spring’s Bumbling Buccaneers
As the first warm breezes of spring unfurl across South Devon’s hedgerows and , an extraordinary cas
27 March, 2026
Mediterranean Oil Beetles in South Devon
Oil beetles are distinctive invertebrates with an unusual life history. Termed ‘blister beetles’ in
26 January, 2026
