The MEPs rejected a proposal that farmers could be paid twice over for helping wildlife - a plan declared illegal by the Commission.

BBC: Euro MPs reject radical CAP farm subsidy reforms

The Commission, which drafts EU laws, says farmers should have to work for part of their subsidies by helping wildlife - diversifying crops, leaving grassland unploughed and creating special ecological areas.

BBC: Will MEPs scupper greening of EU agriculture?

"We've been exploring using culverts as a way to alleviate flooding and protect human safety, as well as helping fish and wildlife, " said Connie Prickett of the Adirondack chapter of The Nature Conservancy.

WSJ: Towns, ecologists seek climate-friendly culverts

"I have every belief that we will ultimately be increasing the barn owl population of Somerset and helping a diversity of other wildlife along the way, " Mr Sperring added.

BBC: Barn owl at a farm

"In captivity, white lions are ambassadors for their species, helping to raise important funds for conservation projects overseas, " the wildlife park said.

BBC: Rare white lion cub appears at Hertfordshire wildlife park