Surveys
Whilst we always welcome records of any species, we occasionally put out calls for records for particular species or taxa so that we can learn more about their distributions within the county, or at a particular site. See below for county-wide schemes.
National surveys also take place – some are time limited while others are rolling surveys. There is a list below of some of the main ones taking place annually and we will add more as we become aware of them! Let us know of any you are involved in that aren’t currently listed below.
County-wide Surveys and Recording Schemes
Cumbria Wild Watch
Take part over the last weekend of June every year. Record all the wildlife you see in Cumbria to help us to monitor changes over time. We need plants, animal and fungi observations so get recording.
Read more about Cumbria Wild Watch HERE.
Harvest Mouse Survey December 2020 – February 2021
CBDC and the Cumbria Mammal Group are looking for recorders to look out for harvest mice nests to help us improve our knowledge of the distribution of this elusive mouse.
National Surveys and Recording Schemes
There are lots of national schemes and we will add to these over time. Do let us know of any that we haven’t listed.
CBDC doesn’t always receive data from these surveys and recording schemes so if you are also able to share your Cumbrian observations with us, please do send a copy of the information you submitted (if it is possible to do this) to recordingofficer@cbdc.org.uk. Many thanks!
Big Garden Birdwatch
Taking place every January for over 40 years, this survey has helped the RSPB to monitor changes in some of more commonly occurring species. Find out how to take part HERE.
Big Butterfly Count
Butterfly Conservation orignise this event which tends to run over three weeks from mid-July each year. The count not only provides an indication of how UK butterflies are doing but also acts as a proxy for other biodiversity indicators. Find out more HERE.
Big Wasp Survey
A more recent national schemes, organised by academics at UCL and University of Gloucestershire due to the lask of wasp data available. The survey requires wasp trapping over two time periods. Find out more HERE.
Tick Surveillance Scheme
Running since 2005, this scheme aims to track the spread of the different tick species across the UK and their seasonality. It also monitors the introduction of new species. Find out more and how to take part HERE.
Report Asian Hornet Sightings
The first Asian hornet record in the UK was confirmed in September 2016. These hornets are very effective insect predators so pose a threat to UK insects such as honeybees. Find out how to report any sightings HERE.
Pond Watch
Organised by the British Dragonfly Society and taking place in late spring each year, you can report your sightings of dragon- and damselflies. Find out how to report any sightings HERE.
