Identification of wildlife

Identification of wildlife

Understanding the Wildlife

  • Learn the importance of identifying wildlife in order to protect and manage them effectively.
  • Recognise the significance of wildlife in an ecosystem, such as its role in predation, pollination, and seed dispersal.
  • Understand how to classify living things based on taxonomy (kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species).
  • Consider the impact of human activities on wildlife and their habitats.

Tools and Methods for Identification

  • Familiarize yourself with field guides, a handy method for identifying different flora and fauna.
  • Learn about common identification apps and online resources, such as iNaturalist, which can help identify species using photos.
  • Understand the value of bins and hand lenses for aiding in the recognition of wildlife.
  • Be aware of the importance of taking notes and sketches during field observations.

Identifying Animals

  • Recognize common UK mammals, such as foxes, badgers, deer and hedgehogs by their physical characteristics and behaviours.
  • Identify local birds from their size, shape, colour, feeding and nesting habits.
  • Ability to distinguish between different reptiles and amphibians, such as frogs, adders, and smooth newts.
  • Know how to identify smaller wildlife such as invertebrates, insects, spiders, and worms.

Identifying Plants

  • Be able to recognise common trees based on leaves, fruits, and bark.
  • Know common wildflowers and grasses in your local area, distinguishing them by leaves, flowers, and growth habits.
  • Understand the identification of aquatic plants important in pond and river ecosystems.
  • Recognize invasive or harmful plants, such as giant hogweed or Japanese knotweed, that can disrupt local ecosystems.

Animal Tracks and Signs

  • Develop skills in tracking, understanding the prints and trails left by different animals.
  • Recognise animal signs, from droppings or ‘scat’ to feeding signs and shelters or nests.
  • Understand animal sounds, learning to recognise the calls and songs of different birds and mammals.

After mastering these skills and concepts, you will be well-equipped to contribute significantly to wildlife conservation efforts and ethical horticulture practices.