Call for Citizen Scientists to Support Wildlife Conservation
Individuals are being encouraged to participate as citizen scientists by locating and recording animals in their local surroundings to aid conservation initiatives.
The Big Count, organised by the Somerset Wildlife Trust (SWT), invites residents to observe and document wildlife in gardens, parks, and community green spaces within the county.
The charity highlights existing gaps in its data for some of Somerset's most common species, such as snails and foxes, which affects the ability to provide adequate support for these animals.
Importance of Species Data
"We have so many incredible species in Somerset - from elusive hares to colourful butterflies - and we can only protect them when we know where they are and how many we have,"
said Becky Fisher, head of engagement at SWT.
"That's why we need as many people as possible to join us and become citizen scientists."
Over the past four years, the Big Count project has successfully gathered nearly 3,000 species records. This year's event is scheduled to run from 18 June to 27 June.
Target Species and Participation Details
In addition to snails and foxes, the trust is especially interested in sightings of rabbits, slow worms, fungi, and various butterfly species, including the Marbled White.
No specialised expertise is necessary to participate in the Big Count. Observations can be submitted from any location within Somerset using the iNaturalist app or by completing a worksheet that can be emailed to the organisers.
Partnership and Data Utilisation
The project is a collaboration between SWT and the Somerset Environmental Records Centre (SERC), which serves as the primary repository for biological and geological data in the county.
SERC maintains a database of over four million records but emphasises the ongoing need for additional data.
"Data collected through the Big Count 2026 will help accurately assess species trends across the county and identify population sizes, which in turn will direct conservation and survey efforts,"
said Ellen Phillpot from SERC.
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