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Participants: If you are interested in helping with any of the surveys detailed below please contact ONLY the person, telephone number or email address. Survey Organisers: 50 word listings on this page are free (details not included in any paper publication) additional words at 20p each minimum fee £10. To send your survey details or for more information contact CJS.   

Submit your advert

Wildlife Surveys and Fieldwork

Many conservation organisations appeal for volunteer surveyors to record and submit local sightings for a national wildlife survey. Taking part in any of these surveys will give you useful experience and also help to extend the scientific knowledge of a species, so vital for appropriate conservation management. Some include training in survey techniques and some may even pay expenses.


iSpot website helps you put a name to wildlife you have seen. At iSpot ( www.ispot.org.uk ) you can upload pictures and connect with a social network of thousands of users, from beginners to experts. iSpot is an Open University website funded from The Big Lottery Fund’s £11.7 million grant to Open Air Laboratories. (CJS)


National Otter Survey in England will help to find out if conservation targets have been met and to identify what action is required to maintain otter recovery. If you have seen an otter recently please complete our otter sightings recording form and send back to PTES. We will pass on your sightings to the Environment Agency survey. http://bit.ly/OtterSurvey (CJS)


Homes for Wildlife

Get free, tailor made advice from the RSPB & help turn your garden into a haven for all wildlife! whether you have a large mature garden or just a balcony, there's advice for everyone. Visit www.rspb.org.uk/hfw to find out more.                                                                        (CJS)


Frogwatch - hop on board.

A national survey to find out more about urban distributions of widespread amphibians, discovering more about their habits and about their garden habitats. Anyone with or without a garden pond can participate. If you need help working out which amphibians you have spotted then our Amphibian Identification Guide might come in useful. Find out more on http://www.arc-trust.org/science/surveys.php                         (CJS)


Why did the toad cross the road?

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation's Toads on Roads project (in partnership with ARG-UK) registers toad migratory crossings throughout the UK.  Toad Patrollers need your help in the spring to monitor these sites and help record vital information on the current status of the Common Toad nationally.  Interested in taking part?  For more information and to find your nearest crossing see http://www.arc-trust.org/toadsonroads    51 new toad crossings were registered in 2009.   (CJS)


National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week 18 - 26/7 2009

An opportunity for the public to become involved in the research! Results provide a snapshot of distribution of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the UK and help to inform scientific debate on any change in the range and distribution of species. Sightings also collected throughout the year. http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/event-data2009.php sightings@seawatchfoundation.org.uk

2008                                                                                                                          Posted July 09


Have you seen a jellyfish? The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) runs a national jellyfish survey and is interested in your jellyfish sightings. You can report your sightings online at www.mcsuk.org and download a free, photographic UK jellyfish identification guide. Alternatively, call MCS on 01989 566017 to request the guide and reporting form by post.                          Posted May 08 updated July 09


Wetlands in my backyard with the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust

Wetlands are being lost and degraded faster than any other ecosystem, but you can make a wetland in your own back yard! Results from our 2009 back yard wetland survey are being collated and we will be running a further survey in 2010. Keep track on http://www.wwt.org.uk/text/893/wetlands_in_my_backyard_wimby.html       (CJS)


The Moths Count Project 20 - 28 June 2009                                                Posted May 2007 - updated June 2009

The Moths Count project, aims to raise awareness of moths, stimulate moth recording and establish a National Moth Recording Scheme. Many free training events suitable for beginners are being organised. See www.mothscount.org for details.

Garden Moths Count 2008

Annual survey. No deadline


The Cinnabar moth is in decline. Butterfly Conservation and the Moths Count team have launched a survey in Scotland to find out where it occurs. Sightings of the striking orange and black caterpillars (often on ragwort) should be reported to barry@prater.myzen.co.uk with details of location, grid reference and date.


Why is the Small Tortoiseshell Declining?     SURVEY RESTART IN MARCH 2010

Possibly due to a newly-colonised parasitoid fly. To investigate the effects of Sturmia bella, We are hoping to collect data from as many localities as possible across the UK. Collect batches of wild larvae of Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock butterflies this summer, and to rear them to determine how many die from parasitism. Sturmia.bella@googlemail.com http://www.zoo.ox.ac.uk/group/lewis/tortoiseshell.htm (CJS)


PTES Hedgerows for Dormice project will benefit hedgerows and the wildlife, particularly dormice, that depend on them by reversing the unfavourable condition of existing hedgerows caused by inappropriate management and by planting new hedgerows where they have been removed. The project will map the presence and quality of hedgerows around known dormouse sites. To find out more click on www.ptes.org/hedgerows  hedgerows@ptes.org    (CJS)


National Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme        Posted January 2007 - updated June 09

Help monitor the conservation status of Britain's amphibians and reptiles by taking part in the National Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme (NARRS). Involves several visits to a site allocated near you. Beginners welcome. Training sessions around the UK are conducted during spring. Please visit www.narrs.org.uk  to learn more and get involved - you can sign up at any time of year!

2007


Help CPRE shape the future of Green Belts
Between April and July we are carrying out a survey in Bristol, London and Merseyside. Live or own land in those areas. It will only take a few minutes of your time and you could help shape the future of the countryside in or near to where you live. www.cpre.org.uk Posted June 09


Against the flow: Nationwide Survey of non-native invasive aquatic plants

Invasive plants can cause irreversible damage to wildlife if they get into the countryside.  If you see invasive plants on sale, in the wild, or in your garden pond, please tell Plantlife.  Enter your records at:

http://www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/plantlife-get-involved-againsttheflow-surveyform.html  (CJS)


Manx Wildlife Trust

Report Your Basking Shark Sightings to Us. We would like you to help us find out how many basking sharks visit the Isle of Man every year, and to help us study what they are doing whilst they're here! Report your sighting online on this website. www.manxbaskingsharkwatch.com (CJS)


British Seahorse Survey                                                 Posted May 2007 - updated June 09

The British Seahorse Survey studies the 2 species of Seahorse found around the British Isles and it is totally reliant on volunteers. If you are a diver or find a seahorse washed up on the beach contact the survey and we can advise you where to look for the British Isles best kept secret. www.britishseahorsesurvey.org   www.theseahorsetrust.co.uk 

 Annual survey. No deadline  


Waterscape (British Waterways)      

From April 2010 National Wildlife Survey. Visit your local canal, river or lake and record (online) all the species you see. The information will be used to help plan the management of our navigable waterways and to protect their wildlife. This year’s survey has a special focus on the kingfisher. www.waterscape.com/wildlifesurvey

2007

2008  

2009                                                                (CJS)


We need your help to find out more about our swifts

You've probably seen them speeding through the air, screaming their heads off, or swooping into crevices in buildings. But they're in trouble. Tell us where you see swifts and help us to help them. To find out more and how you can help, visit: www.rspb.org.uk/helpswifts    (CJS)


Report Squirrel Sightings to the Red Squirrels in South Scotland project

Squirrel monitoring programmes help us to collect information on the distribution of red and grey squirrels in south Scotland, allowing us to identify areas of importance where habitat management or grey squirrel control will benefit red squirrel populations. http://www.redsquirrels.org.uk/report-squirrel-sighting.asp                             (CJS)


Lincolnshire Biodiversity Partnership and the Environment Agency are appealing for volunteers to help survey 200 sites across the county for Otters. Develop a keen eye for their distinctive five-toed footprint and droppings called spraints, which are used to mark territories under prominent places such as bridges. Support, guidance and safety equipment will be provided, with training dates set for June 3 & June 7 ccollop@lincstrust.co.uk                                                                                 Posted May 09


Welcome to the Evolution MegaLab!

Scientists have been studying the banded snail for many years and have found variations in the shell colour. This variation is thought to be adaptive, at least in part providing camouflage. Help us find out whether lighter coloured shells are more common further north than they used to be, now that the climate has become warmer. www.evolutionmegalab.org         Posted May 09


Swift Survey

There has been increasing national and international concern about loss of swift nest sites. We need to know where swifts nest now & see where in the buildings swifts nest so that appropriate provision can be designed for them. Find out more on www.concernforswifts.com 

Posted May 09


National Corncrake Survey with RSPB

Corncrakes will begin to return to the UK at the end of April, and and the public will be able to call in on special hotline numbers to submit their records of the species. (England and Wales) - 01767 680 551 (Scotland) - 0131 311 6500 (Northern Ireland) - 028 9049 1547 ID info http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/c/corncrake/index.asp             (CJS)


Take Part in the UK Safari Glow-worm Survey            

Now in its ninth year. If you've seen any glow-worms this year we'd love to hear about them. You can easily report your sighting online anytime. Visit: www.uksafari.com/glowworms

Ongoing: no deadline

2008              2009                                                                                        (CJS)


The Million Ponds Project will create an extensive network of new ponds across the UK. Ultimately the aim is to reverse a century of pond loss, ensuring that once again the UK has over one million countryside ponds. A critical element of the project is that these new ponds will have clean water. To find out how to make clean ponds, see the Million Ponds toolkit. www.pondconservation.org.uk/millionponds/pondcreationtoolkit                                 (CJS)


5-13/6/10 Make your Nature Count

Over 62000 people took part in Make Your Nature Count in 2009, telling us all about the wildlife on your doorstep. We'd love even more people to take part in 2010! You only need an hour to take part. For more information, visit www.rspb.org.uk/naturecount         (CJS)


"Garden Beewatch 2009                                                 Posted March 2007 - updated Apr 2009
The Bumblebee Conservation Trust are running a national bumblebee survey. To take part, simply take digital photos of any bumblebees you see. Email them, together with the date and postcode or grid reference to enquiries@bumblebeeconservationtrust.co.uk. The trust will let you know what species you have seen." http://www.bumblebeeconservationtrust.co.uk/surveys.htm
Also take part in the nestbox trial http://www.bumblebeeconservationtrust.co.uk/nest_boxes.htm

Preliminary results of the 2008 Nest Survey are available on 


Seaquest Basking Shark Project

This is a new BBC Wildlife Fund-supported project which aims to improve protection for basking sharks around Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We are calling for volunteers to conduct effort-based surveys around the coast of Cornwall from 15th June. Training provided. More information: Basking Shark Project                                                         Posted May 08 updated Apr 09                                                      


Exploring British Wildlife: Bluebells                               Posted January 2007, updated Apr  2009

Runs during the bluebell growing season (April – mid-June) Information is available online including an identification guide: http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nature-online/british-natural-history/survey-bluebells/index.html

2009 so far


Bat Conservation Trust                                                                                Posted June 2005 - updated Apr 2009

National Bat Monitoring Programme. Volunteers needed to help monitor the UK's bat populations by taking part in surveys at bat roosts and foraging sites. The surveys are aimed at various levels of experience, meaning anybody can take part. Contact: Bat Conservation Trust, Tel: 020 7501 3622, Email: nbmp@bats.org.uk or sign up online at http://www.bats.org.uk/pages/nbmp.html

Previous years

Annual survey


The Traditional Orchards Project wants to find out as much as possible about the number and type of orchards in Wiltshire. Anyone who has fruit trees or orchards in their garden, on their land, or in their village or local community, is asked to e-mail or contact (01793) 815029 (as we are volunteers we only pick up messages once a week so there may be a delay in replies – please bear with us), e-mail orchardwilts@hotmail.co.uk                  Posted June 08 updated Apr 09


Be on the look out for the Oak Processionary Moth, a native of southern and central Europe, it has been found on oaks in London. 

The caterpillars pose two problems - feeding can cause serious defoliation of oaks and they readily release tiny barbed hairs containing a toxin that causes severe skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. Larvae may be found between April and July, feeding during the day in groups and congregating at night in communal nests. Larvae pupate in July and adult moths fly during August and September.

Further information here Report a sighting to christine.tilbury@forestry.gsi.gov.uk at Forest Research             Posted May 08 updated Apr 09


18 - 19/9/10 MCS Beachwatch is an annual UK-wide beach litter survey & clean-up, organised by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) since 1993. Third weekend in September every year, & represents the UK’s contribution to the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC), which takes place in over 70 countries worldwide. MCS mobilise thousands of vols, surveying litter on hundreds of beaches throughout the UK. www.adoptabeach.org.uk                                                                                                          (CJS)

2008


Hunt the Humming-bird Hawk Moth and Painted Lady Butterfly this summer with the

ervation Trust. With climate change, both insects seem to be more common in Britain and Ireland, and we need your help in recording accurate numbers - visit http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/sightings_home/1095/migrant_watch.html to log your sightings.                                Posted Apr 09

2008


Common Plants Survey 2009
Volunteers required for The Common Plants Survey, Plantlife's Annual nationwide survey of 65 common plants in different habitats. Monitoring over 520 one km Ordnance Survey grid squares. More surveyors required across the UK.  Sign up online at http://www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/plantlife-get-involved-common-plants-survey.html                                Posted Apr 09 updated
Annual survey (runs March - September). No deadline.

2006

2007


Garden Herps Survey

The BTO, Froglife and The HCT are jointly organising the first national garden amphibian and reptile survey.  Participants record herps and habitat information by marking boxes on the easy-to-complete questionnaire form (deadline for return is the end of July). 

If you want to take part please contact gbw@bto.org or telephone 01842-750050 to request a pack.


Suffolk Wildlife Trust is carrying out a project on Harvest Mice in Suffolk. The project is using the success of the Suffolk Barn Owl Project to collect owl pellets and train volunteers to analyse the remains to look for harvest mice and carry out nest surveys. We are looking for volunteers who are interested in analysing owl pellets at home and passing the results back to SWT for verification. We are holding training days for committed volunteers to learn how to identify small mammal remains. Harvest Mouse Project Officer at martha.cowell@Suffolkwildlifetrust.org 01473 890089                                                                                                (CJS)


Urban Fox Count: Telegraph.co.uk launches study to count UK foxes
The first urban fox count in nearly 15 years seeks to find out just how many of the animals are living in our towns. Send details of sightings of foxes to ukfoxes@telegraph.co.uk Include name, full postcode of the location where you see the fox or foxes, photograph of the animals, if you have one, and a maximum of 25 words of commentary. To find out more go to www.telegraph.co.uk/ukfoxes                 Posted Mar 09


The Dundee Red Squirrel Project aims to protect and enhance the population of red squirrels in the area and is very keen to receive information on both red and grey squirrels from Dundee, or anywhere else. If you can help please take a moment to fill out the form on www.dundeeredsquirrels.co.uk                                                                                                             Posted Feb 09


Norfolk Wildlife Trust is working as part of its Natural Connections project to map the distribution of five non-native species in the county, identified as having a potentially undesirable impact on native wildlife. Record details of their sightings. Species are: American mink; Giant hogweed; Himalayan balsam; Japanese knotweed; Muntjac

http://www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/naturalconnections/surveys/wildlife_invaders/                                     Posted Feb 09


The Vegetative Key to the British Flora a new approach to plant identification

Essential for all amateur & professional botanists. Only £20 inc p&p (Publication price £25) Special Pre-publication Offer!

Cheques should be made payable to BSBI and sent (with your name & address) to BSBI (VK), 41 Marlborough Road, Roath, Cardiff, CF23 5BU. Offer ends April 17th 2009. Free p&p applies to UK & Ireland only.

More details and downloadable flyer at www.bsbi.org.uk                                                                                          Posted Feb 09


Wider Countryside Butterfly Survey

Butterfly Conservation is launching the Wider Countryside Butterfly Survey (WCBS) this year to monitor the status of common species across the UK.  The survey requires just 2 visits to a random 1km square.  Get in touch to take part and help us reach our 1000 square target in 2009.

01929 406036 survey@butterfly-conservation.org http://www.ukbms.org/wcbs.htm                                         Posted Feb 09

Deadline: end August


PTES Mammals on Roads Survey.  By identifying and recording the mammals drivers see (live or dead) on our roads we can build a picture of species distribution and, by comparison with previous years, their relative numbers. Free survey pack from www.ptes.org/mor or email mor@ptes.org  or 020 7498 5262. Survey starts 1st July.

Annual survey, deadline 30 Sept. 

2008 Updated results August 2009                            (CJS)


Little Egret survey of Ireland

We need your help for an on-line Little Egrets survey of Ireland Please let us know if you spot any Little Egrets. It's easy and quick to do, just click on the survey: http://www.jabit.com/surveys/LittleEgret                                                        Posted Feb 09


South Yorkshire Pond Project

We are recording ponds across South Yorkshire. Help us by carrying out a simple survey of ponds in your local area - no experience necessary, training and support provided. There will also be opportunities to become involved in detailed surveys, biological recording and Pond Warden training. Contact bobeades@pondconservation.org.uk / 0114 2634335                                                Posted Feb 09


New for 2010 – OPAL Water Survey

Open Air Laboratories (OPAL) will launch a new public participation survey about lakes and ponds in May 2010. Anyone can take part by requesting a free pack from opalwatercentre@geog.ucl.ac.uk. Also coming soon, the OPAL Biodiversity Survey, keep an eye on www.OPALexplorenature.org for info.    (CJS)

Lee Knight (the coordinator of the Hypogean Crustacea Recording Scheme - cave shrimps etc.) has produced a "Cave Life" leaflet in association with the Freshwater Biological Association. The aim of the leaflet is to reveal the fascinating biology of underground environments, and encourage cavers to discover the organisms around them. http://www.fba.org.uk/recorders/publications_resources/cavelife.html     (CJS)


Shark Trust: The Great Eggcase Hunt                                Posted Nov 2004 - Updated Jan 09

Your chance to contribute to skate and ray conservation by taking part in Britain's first ever eggcase hunt. In recent decades several species of skate and ray around the British coast have dramatically declined in numbers. The empty eggcases that wash up on our beaches all year round are an easily accessible source of information on the whereabouts of their nursery grounds. Search the tideline, collect the empty cases, wash them and identify the species from the Trust's simple identification guides, submit your results and see the national distribution so far - or even organise a local eggcase event. Visit: www.eggcase.co.uk or write to The Shark Trust, Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth, Devon PL4 0LF

Deadline: None.


University of Cambridge / Centre for Ecology & Hydrology     Posted Mar 2005 - updated Jan 09

Harlequin Ladybird Survey. The most invasive ladybird on earth arrived in Britain last summer and now threatens our 46 native ladybird species. Numerous individuals have been recorded east of a line from the Wash to the Isle of Wight, with a few more sightings in the Midlands. This survey will monitor its spread across Britain and assess its impact on native ladybirds. Monitoring ladybirds has never been more important and surveyors are required throughout the country. Send records online via www.harlequin-survey.org or print off their recording form (in Word) and post to Harlequin Ladybird Project Officer, Biological Records Centre, CEH Monks Wood, Cambridgeshire PE28 2LS. Report online at: www.harlequin-survey.org  (Record all species of ladybirds on www.ladybird-survey.org ).

No deadline. (CJS)


The Giant Aphid Hunt                                                

It’s the world’s largest aphid, fiercely guarded by ants and milked like a dairy cow. Now the Giant oak aphid needs your help. The new survey will help us to map where it lives so that we can discover just how rare it really is. For more details and survey forms look at http://www.buglife.org.uk/getinvolved/surveys/giantaphidhunt.htm Submit sightings to hopkins@fireflyuk.net or call 01603 660300.   (CJS)


Glow-worm enthusiasts!                                                Posted May 2007 - updated Jan 09

If you are planning a glow-worm evening, intend to survey glow worms, want to report a site or simply want to know where and when they can be seen, visit the UK Glow Worm Survey website, www.glowworms.org.uk. Surveys are purely voluntary. Email robin@galaxypix.com

Ongoing: no deadline


Plantlife                                                                                     Posted Mar 2006 - updated Jan 09

Plantlife organises one-off Survey Events to monitor individual species at particular nature reserves. Open to everyone, free and no experience needed as full guidance is given on the day. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult, no dogs and booking is essential. www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/plantlife-get-involved.html 


The People’s Trust for Endangered Species’ Living with Mammals survey begins 29 March and is asking for volunteers to record sightings and signs of mammals in the built environment. To take part contact 020 7498 5262, LwM@ptes.org or go online www.ptes.org/surveys

Click for 2008 Report                                                                                                                (CJS)


2007 Countryside Survey Results published
Countryside Survey is a unique study of the natural resources of the UK's countryside carried out by the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology. Undertaken at regular intervals since 1978, the countryside is sampled using rigorous scientific methods. To find out more visit www.countrysidesurvey.org.uk (CJS)


Ayrshire Red Squirrel Group

Volunteers needed in Ayrshire to assist with both red squirrel sightings and particularly with squirrel surveying and feeder box monitoring.  Own car useful. Training provided on nationally recognized squirrel survey methods. See www.ayrshireredsquirrels.org.uk for further details. Contact Shona, 01292 520929, enquiries@ayrshireredsquirrels.org.uk                                                Posted Feb 08, updated Nov 08


The red lily beetle ( Lilioceris lilii ) has become the lily growers' nemesis. 8mm long bright red beetle with a black head and legs.  Submit sightings and find out more. http://www.rhs.org.uk/Learning/Research/Projects/lily_beetle.htm                     Posted Nov 08


The rosemary beetle ( Chrysolina americana ) is an attractive 8mm (1/4in) long metallic green beetle with purple stripes. Despite its scientific name, it is a native of southern Europe. During the last decade it has become an established pest in Britain on rosemary and lavender and related plants. Submit sightings and find out more http://www.rhs.org.uk/Learning/Research/Projects/rosemary_beetle.htm 

Posted Nov 08


Wildlife sightings from around Dorset

The Dorset Wildlife Trust run several wildlife surveys throughout the year. Why not post details of your sightings and get involved in recording surveys. Find out more on http://www.dorsetwildlife.co.uk/recording_wildlife1.html                                                 Posted Nov 08


Seen a turtle in UK seas? Please report your sighting immediately to Marine Environmental Monitoring (MEM) on 01348 875000 or to the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) online at http://www.mcsuk.org/marineworld/turtles  If you have found a live turtle stranded on a beach, please do not return it to the sea, but inform the RSPCA on 0300 1234999.                                 Posted May 08 updated Nov 08


Dorset Wildlife Trust is coordinating at County wide mammal survey, aiming to produce a Dorset Mammal Atlas in 2012.  We are looking for volunteers prepared to carry out surveys across the County for specific mammal species.  Training given where required. Contact Anna Muckle at DWT on 01305 264620 for details.

http://www.dorsetwildlife.co.uk/dorset_mammals_project.html                                                    (CJS)


RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch 24 - 25 January 2009                             Posted Oct 2004 - updated Nov 2008

This annual survey at the end of January generates a lot of media coverage, as well as recording national changes in bird numbers and distribution. A simple recording form will be supplied free with the spring issue of the RSPB 'Birds' magazine, or packs of 10 recording forms can be ordered [free, I think] on Tel: 0870 1222793 and will be delivered in January. More information: www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

2008


RSPB's Big Schools' Birdwatch 19 - 30 January 2009

For teachers and those in contact with a school [or visitor centre?]. Same simple format as the Big Garden Birdwatch, but in schools. Can be part of a project to improve school grounds or to support curriculum learning. Tel: 0870 1222792 for a pack [free, I think], or visit: www.rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch

Annual surveys. Deadline: ?

2009


National Moth Night 2009 will take place from 18 to 19 September 2009 with a range of target species and a chance for anyone to take part in this nationwide survey of Britain's moth populations. Visit www.nationalmothnight.info for further details.

Annual survey: on the given dates                                              Posted July 2007 - updated Nov 2008


Traditional Orchard Inventory for England

PTES are producing the national inventory of traditional orchards to support the traditional orchard Habitat Action Plan. Help us to locate traditional orchards in your local area & to help establish their condition. You'll be provided with a detailed survey pack containing everything you need. For more details www.ptes.org/orchards or Anita  Burrough anita@ptes.org.uk 020 74984533

Deadline:  ongoing to 2011                    (CJS)


Woodland Trust / Ramblers / Natural History Museum           Posted Sept 2005 updated Nov 2008

Elm Map Project. If you find or know of a mature Elm tree you can enter your record online at the The Ancient Tree Hunt website www.ancient-tree-hunt.org.uk (NB: Other species can also be recorded here). Everything you need to help you identify elms and submit your contribution can be found on the Natural History Museums website. The information will contribute to the Natural History Museum's UK Biodiversity programme, highlighting the changes to the countryside since Dutch Elm Disease and the importance of the surviving mature elms for dependant species of invertebrates, algae, fungi, lichen, moss and fern.

Deadline: None.


Mountain Hare in Scotland                                         Posted June 2007 - updated October 2008

Scottish Natural Heritage commissioned The Game Conservancy Trust to conduct a survey of mountain hare (Lepus timidus) in Scotland until 01/09/2007.  The study looked at sightings of mountain hare in 2006/07. 

Deadline: closed

summary    Full


British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) - various surveys        (CJS)
Several national, annual surveys to monitor many bird species in a range of habitats, creating an unrivalled historical database of UK bird populations and distributions. In addition to running the UK's national Bird Ringing Scheme, other surveys include: Breeding Bird Survey, Garden Birdwatch Survey, Heronries Census, Nest Record Scheme, Owls, Wetland Bird Survey, and Bird Atlas 2007-11.

Competent birdwatchers required, especially in remote areas. Details at www.bto.org or from BTO, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2PU

Deadline: none      

& survey updates


Help our Hedgehogs, Durham Wildlife Trust

Researchers have discovered that hedgehog numbers are declining by approximately a fifth every 5 years, if that rate of loss continues the hedgehog is threatened with extinction by 2025. We are looking for sightings of all types in Durham, animals seen in back gardens & countryside to casualties seen on roads. http://www.durhambiodiversity.org.uk/helpourhedgehogs.htm                          posted Sept 2008


The Great British Snail Hunt with The Open University

Counting snails can reveal more than just how many snails there are - they provide vital clues about the state of the environment. We'll explain the significance of the small creatures, and tell you how you can take your own count. http://www.open2.net/sciencetechnologynature/worldaroundus/snailhunt.html                                                         posted Sept 2008


Shark Trust

Are running several surveys: Report shark, skate & ray catches & sightings on www.sharktrust.org/recording  Basking sharks – the UK’s largest fish can be seen around the coastline, report any sightings via www.baskingsharks.org                                                       posted Aug 2008


The hypogean Crustacea include several cryptic species that live in groundwater habitats such as wells, caves and springs.  The species included Niphargus glenniei, a recent addition to the BAP species list and which is only known from Devon and Cornwall.  Recording scheme has been in operation since 1998, advice on the survey and management of subterranean habitats such as caves and mines. www.freshwaterlife.org/hcrs                                                                                                                         (CJS)


Butterfly Conservation is the national charity working to save our wild butterflies, moths and their habitats. You can find out how to learn about them and send in your records through the website www.butterfly-conservation.org                     (CJS)


UK Marine Fish Recording Scheme

The National Marine Aquarium has a collection of thousands of records of rare and unusual marine and estuarine fish from around the British Isles, these could provide evidence of the impact of warming seas or the effects of fisheries. We welcome records from anglers, divers, fishermen, sailors and the general public, as well as scientists. Contact us with your sightings: fishreports@national-aquarium.co.uk or 01752 275216.                                                                                                                                                    (CJS)


Run an ID walk for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust - if you can confidently identify the 'Big 6' bumblebees and a few of the others, then would you consider running an ID walk for us? We try our best to cover as much of the UK as possible, but there are still big gaps - we have never run an ID walk in the North of England for example! Let us know if you think you might be able to help. 01786 467818 or email enquiries@bumblebeeconservationtrust.co.uk                         Posted June 08


Adopt-a-Beach is a scheme whereby local groups clean & monitor beaches up to four times a year. Conduct seasonal litter surveys & show commitment to a healthy coastal environment; collecting useful beach litter records to lobby for proper beach management at a local level and, in forwarding that data to MCS, helping us tackle litter at a UK level. www.adoptabeach.org.uk or contact the litter team on 01989 567807                                                                                                                                                                                        (CJS)


Have you seen a giant shark in UK seas? If so, the Marine Conservation Society Basking Shark Watch project wants to know about it. You can find out more and report your sightings online at www.mcsuk.org or request a paper form by calling MCS at 01989 566017.  Posted May 08


The Scarlet malachite beetle (Malachius aeneus) is a colourful and mysterious beetle that appears for a month in early May and June. It's known from only eight village greens in the UK and is so rare Buglife need your help to find it. To find out more and record any sightings have a look at http://www.buglife.org.uk/conservation/currentprojects/scarletmalachitebeetlesurvey.htm                                        (CJS)


The RSPB is asking anyone who sees a hen harrier in England to report it to a special Harrier Hotline. The appeal for sightings is in a bid to find out more about where birds may be nesting. The number is 0845 4600121 (calls charged at local rate).  Reports can also be e-mailed to henharriers@rspb.org.uk.  Please provide details of the date and location of sighting, including a grid reference where possible.  For harrier id info, click on www.rspb.org.uk/henharrier                                                                                            (CJS)                                                                                                                                              Image: Hen Harrier in flight

2-spot ladybird survey

Entomologists are concerned that the once common 2-spot ladybird could be in decline, particularly in places where the invasive harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis, occurs. Visit http://www.nationalinsectweek.co.uk/survey.php)  to record your sightings of the 2-spot ladybird and to find out how your own ladybird sightings – especially during National Insect Week – can help our scientists to understand and protect the 2-spot ladybird.                                                                                                                            posted Mar 08


Mammal Society                                                          Posted July 2007 - updated April 2008

National Owl Pellet Survey                                                                                   

Analysis of the bones found in owl pellets can provide us with information on the current distribution of small mammals throughout the UK. Please send batches of pellets you find with a location and contact details to Alasdair Love, 4 Laurel Way, Totteridge, London, N20 8HP See: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/mammal/current_surveys.shtml

No deadline.


All People's Trust for Endangered Species / Mammal Trust surveys, past results and present surveys can be viewed on http://www.ptes.org/index.php?cat=9      (CJS)


Big Bumblebee Hunt                                                    

The survey ran in 2007 but the online submission form is still available to leave records, for more details about other Buglife Surveys click on www.buglife.org.uk

2007                                                                                             (CJS)


All British Trust for Ornithology surveys, past results and present surveys can be viewed on http://www.bto.org/survey/index.htm


BBC Springwatch & Autumnwatch / Centre for Ecology & Hydrology / Woodland Trust          Posted Feb 2005 - updated Feb 2008

The National Phenology Network website includes Nature's Calendar and Springwatch surveys to record your UK wildlife sightings. There are also live interactive maps, personalised calendars and data tables, forum, games and their analysis of spring last year and the latest on this year. Visit www.naturescalendar.org.uk

 

Annual. No deadline. (CJS)


The Mammal Society                                                             Posted Nov 2004

Pick up a Polecat! Survey Closed:

                           

Details believed correct but given without prejudice.

 

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