Conservationists, ecologists and volunteers have joined forces to rescue around 200 Northern Marsh and Pyramidal Orchids from Greenabella Marsh at Greatham Creek.
They are being replanted at RSPB Saltholme and Seaton Common National Nature Reserve in a major conservation effort to protect plants for future generations.
Chris Francis, Senior Manager at RSPB Saltholme, said: “Wild orchids are among Britain’s most beautiful native plants. We are incredibly proud that Saltholme has been chosen to give many of them a new home. Every single orchid will be carefully moved by hand in what is a remarkably delicate conservation operation.”
The flowers are being moved ahead of the Environment Agency’s proposed Greatham North East Flood Alleviation Scheme, part of the wider £30 million Tees Tidelands Programme.
The replanting project has brought together the Environment Agency, RSPB Saltholme, Hartlepool Council, Tees Rivers Trust, Cleveland Naturalists’ Field Club, Natural England and orchid specialists British Orchids, alongside around 20 volunteers.
Suzanne Noble, Orchid Specialist at British Orchids, said Britain’s native orchids were “every bit as fascinating, beautiful and special” as their tropical relatives.
She added: “By following a careful process we hope these plants will establish successfully in their new homes and continue to delight people while supporting biodiversity long into the future.”
