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A British Waterways wildlife survey for 2009 (http://iberianature.com/britainnature/tag/british-waterways-wildlife/) has reported twice as many sightings for the Water vole (Arvicola terrestris) by the public on the UK's more than 3500 km of canals and rivers than were seen in 2008. Most were apparently seen on the Kennet and Avon canal in the deep south. This kind of survey does suggest that a positive change is occurring in this endangered mammal but the numbers are not the result of an exact science (there may be variable effort, differing access to locations or even changes in local enthusiasms in the different years). The survey also records birds (with Mallards, alien Canada geese and Mute swans being the most common species but there being interesting numbers of Kingfishers), frogs and butterflies.
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Monday 9 November 2009
Ratty's Return?
A British Waterways wildlife survey for 2009 (http://iberianature.com/britainnature/tag/british-waterways-wildlife/) has reported twice as many sightings for the Water vole (Arvicola terrestris) by the public on the UK's more than 3500 km of canals and rivers than were seen in 2008. Most were apparently seen on the Kennet and Avon canal in the deep south. This kind of survey does suggest that a positive change is occurring in this endangered mammal but the numbers are not the result of an exact science (there may be variable effort, differing access to locations or even changes in local enthusiasms in the different years). The survey also records birds (with Mallards, alien Canada geese and Mute swans being the most common species but there being interesting numbers of Kingfishers), frogs and butterflies.
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