BATTLE lines are being drawn up to protect rare wildlife species following revelations that more than 60,000 new homes could be built in Dorset during the next two decades.

Heathland surrounding Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch is at most risk from developers' bulldozers, according to Dorset Wildlife Trust which has launched a £30,000 appeal to help fund its fight for wildlife.

"There are very few areas of heathland left in Northern Europe so Dorset's heathland is of international importance," stressed Alastair Cook from DWT.

"The few surviving fragments lie within and around the largest centres of population and are under constant threat."

Lowland heath is under great pressure from development. Much has already been lost to housing, roads and arsonists.

Heaths provide home to many important species including the sand lizard, smooth snake, Dartford warbler and nightjar.

New development will also put increasing demands on Dorset's water supplies. "Wetland areas are in jeopardy because the bigger our towns get the more water people will use, putting greater pressure on our existing lakes and rivers," said Mr Cook.

A large number of important and rare species rely on Dorset's rivers and wetlands, such as water voles, otters, great crested newts, dragonflies and wading birds.

Earlier this month the Daily Echo revealed how thousands of new homes could be built in one of Dorset's most important green belt areas.

Around 700 may be erected at a site in Corfe Mullen, 900 at Parley Cross, 800 in Wimborne and 600 in Christchurch.

The most recent draft plan for Dorset proposes that 10 new major roads are built before 2016 - eight would affect sites of national wildlife importance.

"Failure to protect our wildlife will be disastrous for Dorset," warned Mr Cook.

"DWT is not against all development, only badly planned and unsustainable projects which pose a threat to our much-loved countryside. The county's 1,250 wildlife sites, with no legal protection, are at risk.

"DWT does a lot already to influence development that threatens these sites.

"Local authorities do not have the necessary resources and DWT are often the only wildlife experts locally involved in this vital work.

"It takes time and money to check proposals, survey sites, advise planners and, if necessary, fight for wildlife at public inquiries."

Shocking statistics show that 80 per cent of Dorset's chalk downlands have disappeared since the early 19th century, 80 per cent of our heathland has been lost, half of our ancient woodlands have gone since 1930 and 93 per cent of wild flower meadows have disappeared since World War Two.

Mr Cook added: "We need to ensure Dorset's wonderful wildlife is protected and can be enjoyed by future generations."

Contributions can be made by credit card, via the appeal line, on 01305 251464 during office hours. For details phone 01305 264620.