There is something quietly profound about a churchyard. These ancient spaces — often centuries old, rarely disturbed by modern agriculture — have become some of the most important refuges for wildlife in the British Isles. Ancient yew trees, wildflower meadows, lichen-covered gravestones, and the birds and insects that depend on them: churchyards hold a biodiversity that the wider countryside has largely lost.

The Church in Wales is inviting communities across Wales — and England — to celebrate and document that biodiversity through Churches Count on Nature 2026. Running from 6–14 June, the initiative encourages churches to host events where volunteers record the plant and animal species in their churchyards. The data collected helps conservationists understand and enhance biodiversity across the country.

Last year's results were remarkable: over 380 events, more than 6,000 participants, and 8,668 wildlife records identifying 1,670 species. Churches are proving to be some of the most important conservation partners in the country.

The initiative is a joint effort from Caring for God's Acre, the Church of England, the Church in Wales, and A Rocha UK. Registering by 23 May includes free Starter Guides and a Guide to Wildlife in Burial Grounds.

This is creation care in its most practical and joyful form — and any church with a churchyard can take part.

Register at churchinwales.org.uk.