AN endangered heathland butterfly could soon be winging its way back to once familiar habitats.

The small pearl bordered fritillary, once common across many areas of Britain, has declined in numbers in recent years due to the disappearance of its natural habitat, and the drainage of wetland and heathland sites.

However, County Durham Environmental Trust (CDENT) is leading a conservation project to safeguard its future.

The trust is funding a series of natural habitat improvements at three sites in the Lanchester area, which are still home to the butterfly, with the intention of boosting its numbers.

Durham Wildlife Trust biodiversity coordinator Andy Lees said: "The small pearl bordered fritillary is one of the Durham's most threatened species.

"This project is about safeguarding its future by protecting and linking important areas of wet heathland, where colonies still exist."

In a further fillip to bio-diversity within the region, CDENT is also supporting a project to encourage the regeneration of juniper scrub at several sites in Weardale and Derwentside.

Like the small pearl bordered fritillary, it too has been disappearing from the region's landscape and, backed by a CDENT grant of £6,600, a series of planting works will take place through to 2007 to encourage much needed regeneration.

John Wearmouth, chairman of CDENT, said: "We are delighted to be able to deliver an exciting crop of projects that not only encourage biodiversity but also enable people to get out and about to discover and enjoy the countryside and the towns."

Ten other North-East projects will also benefit from CDENT support, including £100,000 towards a range of projects along the Bede's Way footpath, in Boldon, and the Hebburn Prince Consort Road Cycle Link along the banks of the Tyne, both in South Tyneside.