Wildlife surveys are very important for conservation. Through recording and monitoring we learn where species can be found, how the population is doing and can also be an indicator of environmental changes.
Wild Roseland is involved in many surveys. We are running a hedgerow survey currently which is showing some interesting results.
We have just finished a Tawny Owl survey for the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO). We surveyed 20 tetrads (2km x 2km square area) on the Roseland from 15th August 2018 to 15th October 2018 and Tawny Owls were heard in all but one tetrad.
This has just been redone throughout March and results show very few owls calling which we hope is because they are quietly nesting. Several people have also been involved in the BTO calling owl survey. In April we had a talk from Dr Matteo Ruiz from the Barn Owl Trust about surveying Barn Owls and it is hoped to start a survey on Barn Owls.
We are also helping with a BTO Rookery survey in April. Many people will be wondering why survey rooks, as they seem to be everywhere, but surprisingly, many Rookeries have disappeared, ten from the Roseland and many have far less nests in them than in 1974/5.
The Otter survey will update records around the Cornish coast by looking for Otter tracks and spraint in order to determine prey species. A couple of sites have already been found.
We are also, through the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, checking on Hedgehog population trends.
Many other surveys are carried out on the Roseland and you may have noticed people walking the coastal paths or other areas counting butterflies. We are lucky to have such a good variety of butterflies on the Roseland but numbers of certain species are dropping.
The latest survey to get underway is the Shoresearch survey run by our marine group. The marine group also do an important Seaweed survey each June. Both surveys are good indicators of what our ocean and seas are doing.
If you wish to be involved with any survey, you don’t have to be an expert as you will be given help and guidance. It is surprising how quickly you will pick it up! Why not volunteer today! See wildroseland.org our Facebook page or phone 01872 501429.
Upcoming Wild Roseland Walks and Talks – dates for your diary
Note that all events are free but a small donation of £3 would be welcomed.
8th May at 7pm Gerrans Parish Memorial Hall
Our final talk of the season will be on Cornwall’s Summer migrants presented by Simon Taylor, BTO regional representative.
14th May 10am – 12pm Ruan Lanihorne Reading Room
Join us for our regular Wild Roseland Open Committee meeting.
Contributors:
Article by Carol Hughes. Edited by David Hall.
Wild Roseland is a group of volunteers who care passionately about looking after the nature and landscape of the Roseland peninsula in south Cornwall. Through a number of initiatives and projects, the aim is to inspire and enhance the conservation of this special place for all.
Image credits:
All images supplied by Carol Hughes