ENJOY WILDLIFE? HELP PROTECT IT!
Readers who enjoy watching wildlife can make a positive contribution to its protection by recording what they see and submitting their records to Fife Environmental Recording Network (FERN).
Wildlife recording is easy! You do not need any special equipment. Just note the following on a simple Recording Form which FERN can provide
What you saw: A common name is fine. If you are not sure, we will help identification. We maintain a comprehensive network of local experts who can provide specialist support. We have identification keys, and maintain a large library of guides.
Where you saw it: The more accurate the better. We can provide six figure grid reference guides. ‘In my garden’ is fine if we have your address.
When you saw it: The date is fine.
Who and where you are: We like to thank and acknowledge those who send records, and will not use personal details for any other purpose.
So far, wildlife recording by the public has helped FERN gather approx. 500,000 records for use by a variety of individuals and environmental organisations. Our customers include SNH, Local Government Planners, Environmental Consultants, and general members of the public, all of whom have an important role to play in helping protect species and their habitats. Many species such as bats and badgers are legally protected, and many more such as red squirrel and water vole are disappearing from large parts of Fife. If we don’t know they’re there then we can’t help protect them. Even if a species seems common, it may very well be under-recorded. All records are valuable.
FERN has recently published ‘Wildlife Recorder 2004’. This is our annual publication, distributed free to members of the public and groups with an interest in Fife’s natural heritage. The booklet includes information on various projects and events, and other general news regarding the local recording community.
To receive recording forms, a copy of ‘Wildlife Recorder’ or any other information contact either myself or Julie Bett at FERN, Development Services, Fife Council, Fife House, North Street, Glenrothes, KY7 5LT, tel 01592 413793 or e-mail simon.scott@fife.gov.uk or julie.bett@fife.gov.uk.
Simon Scott, Temporary Information Assistant (FERN)