Leading wildlife charity People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) is calling for volunteers across the UK to record sightings of wild mammals in gardens and other urban green spaces this autumn, by taking part in the charity’s Living with Mammals survey.
Living with Mammals has been running all year, but PTES is keen for those not already taking part to look out for their wild neighbours during September, October and November, when many of the UK’s mammals are busy preparing for winter. The survey helps conservationists to monitor changes in wild mammal populations, and crucially, identify those in most need of urgent conservation action. So whether you’re lucky enough to spot a hedgehog in your garden, notice a fox on your street or see squirrels in your local park, all records help PTES to build a nationwide picture of the green health of our towns and cities.
David Wembridge, Conservation Research and Strategy Officer at People’s Trust for Endangered Species explains:
“The autumn months are a great time to spot mammals as juveniles disperse and individuals prepare for winter by building up fat reserves and caching nuts and seeds underground. This year, too, is a great opportunity to understand how different species have been affected by this year’s extremely hot, dry summer.”
Taking part is simple: spend a little time each week in either your garden, local park, allotment, churchyard or other green space, and record any sightings or signs (such as footprints or droppings) of wild mammals online. Anyone can take part, and there’s guidance on recognising the different species you might see available too.
Top tips for encouraging and helping urban wildlife
Whether you live in a sprawling city or a rural market town, there are ways that everyone can encourage urban wildlife without needing acres of space, or lots of time and money:
- Provide water in shallow dishes year-round, especially during heatwaves and long periods without rain
- Plant a grass lawn rather than using artificial turf
- Encourage invertebrates by keeping potted plants on balconies
- Plant night-scented flowers, such as mint or jasmine, to attract moths and bats
- Remove litter from local parks that could be harmful to wildlife
For more advice on how to help wildlife, and to take part in Living with Mammals this autumn, visit the PTES website.
And, if you’re on social media you can share your mammal photos using #LivingWithMammals