Wildlife surveying

Wildlife Surveying Basics

• Wildlife surveying is a systematic method of gathering data about wildlife species and their habitats.
• The goal of wildlife surveying is to gain insights into the population size, distribution, behaviour and habitat of species.
• This information is crucial for conservation efforts and informing woodland management strategies.
• Wildlife surveys often include elements of observation, recording, sampling and analysis.

Wildlife Surveying Techniques

• There are several techniques used in wildlife surveying including transect walks, nesting surveys, camera trapping and bioacoustic monitoring.
• Transect walks involve walking a predetermined line or path and noting the species observed along the way.
• Nesting surveys are utilised to find and monitor nests of bird species or mammals with known habitats.
• Camera trapping is a non-invasive method which captures images of wildlife triggered by heat or motion sensors to identify and monitor species.
• Bioacoustic monitoring utilises recording devices to capture wildlife sounds which can then be analysed to identify species and study their behaviour.

Conducting a Wildlife Survey

• Before the survey begins, establish the aim and scope of the survey and plan accordingly.
• Choose the applicable surveying method based on the wildlife you are studying and the environmental conditions.
• Permission may be needed to conduct a survey, particularly if the land is privately owned or a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
• Accurate record-keeping is essential. The date, time, weather conditions, location, species identified and any unusual behaviour or activity should be noted.

Interpreting Survey Results

• After data collection, results need to be analysed and interpreted.
• Data analysis could involve identifying patterns, calculating averages, noting changes over time or comparing data sets.
• All findings should be presented in a clear and succinct manner, often using data visualisation techniques like charts and graphs.
• The results of the survey can be used to inform conservation actions, justify woodland management decisions and influence policy-making.

Considerations and Challenges in Wildlife Surveying

• Some wildlife may be difficult to survey due to factors such as their nocturnal habits, elusive nature, or sensitivity to human presence.
• Weather conditions can influence the behaviour of wildlife and the success of the survey.
• Observational bias, data errors, and other factors can affect the reliability and accuracy of the survey results.
• It is essential to follow ethical guidelines and employ methodological rigour during the survey process to ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife.
• It’s important to recognise that a single survey is merely a snapshot in time and may not fully represent the full complexity of woodland wildlife dynamics. Regular monitoring is necessary for comprehensive understanding.