UK volunteers urged to become 'wildlife detectives' for spring survey

Conservationists from the People's Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) are calling on volunteers across the UK to become 'wildlife detectives' this spring, as part of their annual Living with Mammals survey. The initiative encourages nature lovers, families, and individuals to search their gardens, parks, and other urban green spaces for wild mammals and report their findings online.

The Living with Mammals survey, which runs throughout the year, plays a vital role in tracking changes in wild mammal populations. From common creatures like bats and badgers to elusive wood mice and weasels, the data collected helps identify which species require the most urgent conservation support.

Participants are asked to spend some time observing local green spaces, such as gardens, parks, allotments, or churchyards, looking for mammals or signs of their presence, including footprints and droppings. All observations can be recorded online at ptes.org/lwm

"Whether you spot a common grey squirrel or a rare red one, a molehill or muntjac tracks, every record is important," said David Wembridge, Mammal Surveys Coordinator at PTES. "Towns and cities can be crucial refuges for species like hedgehogs, and your observations are vital for us to understand how best to protect them."

In 2024, over 700 sites across the UK participated in the survey, with hedgehogs, grey squirrels, foxes, mice, and bats being among the most commonly recorded species. Additionally, rare sightings such as weasels, stoats, polecats, and red squirrels were also reported. Concerningly, the number of rabbit sightings continued to fall, with only around one in 10 sites recording their presence, a decline of 40% compared to five years ago.

To help attract and support wildlife in urban areas, PTES recommends:

• Planting grass lawns instead of using artificial turf

• Growing potted plants on balconies to encourage invertebrates

• Providing shallow dishes of water year-round

• Planting night-scented flowers, such as mint or jasmine, to attract moths and bats

• Removing litter from parks and green spaces to create safer habitats

For further advice on supporting wildlife and to participate in the Living with Mammals survey, visit ptes.org/lwm. Volunteers are also encouraged to share mammal sightings on social media using the hashtag #LivingWithMammals. The survey is open to everyone, with guides and information on recognising the different species you might see, so anyone can become an expert!