Citizen science
One of the questions in the new Eco Church assessment scheme asks whether we take part in citizen science. Citizen science is the collection of information by the general public that scientists can use to answer questions such as how our wildlife is affected by climate change and habitat loss. Taking part contributes to important national scientific research, but it can also deepen personal understanding and appreciation of nature.
The Big Garden Birdwatch is a good example of citizen science that anyone can take part in, even with little or no garden. It takes place on the last weekend in January and requires just one hour of continuous observation and recording of the birds seen. Watch out for further details nearer the time https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatch
Coming soon is a similar citizen science project, the Big Butterfly Count. This year it’s between 18th July and 10th August. Again it’s easy to participate, and if you’re not sure how to tell a red admiral from a peacock, there are paper and digital guides to help you. Only 15 minutes of observation is necessary, but unlike the birdwatch, you can submit as many observations from as many 15 minute periods as you want. Everyone’s results are viewable on-line, so you can see what other people have spotted in your area.
See https://bigbutterflycount.butterfly-conservation.org/about for further details on how to make the observations and upload your results. Roger Day.