OXFORD has more different species of animals and plants living here than any other city in the South East, according to a new study.

The city of dreaming spires is reportedly now home to 1,063 different species, from badgers and foxes to delicate snakes head fritillary flowers.

The survey conducted by garden furniture website farawayfurniture.com found that out of all the major cities and towns in the region, Oxford has the largest wildlife count, followed closely by Reading with 788 species.

Considering the neighbouring Cotswolds, surrounding woodlands and the River Thames that flows through the city and its canals, it is no surprise that Oxford is home to such an abundance of wildlife.

The data collated through the NBN Atlas’s ‘explore your area’ tool shows that Oxford’s species include 586 insects, 116 birds, 21 mammals, and 17 different species of fish.

Oxfordshire already prides itself as a county that cares for its wildlife, with both the CS Lewis Community Nature Reserve in Risinghurst and the Boundary Brook Nature Park off Iffley Road being popular walking spots and places where flora and fauna flourish year round.

Wildlife is stewarded by many charities including the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT).