We think we need to regenerate and revitalise nature around the Duddon. However, to do this, and even understand if we need to, first we need to understand more about what is living here now. This is even more important as there doesn’t appear to be a great deal of recorded data for our area. The Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre has shown that we have fewer wildlife records than nearby areas, and we are keen to fill the blanks.
Everyone who lives or visits the valley knows there is plenty of wildlife. If you have been out by the river, up on the fells or wandered the woodlands you cannot help to notice, its obvious. However, those casual sightings rarely make it into the official data. That’s where you come in.
We need you to record the wildlife you see around the Duddon. Now if you are thinking you haven’t got time, you don’t have the understanding or knowledge and that you definitely can’t do what Hamaz Yassin does (his wildlife recording not his dancing); don’t panic. When you are having your morning coffee and watching out of the kitchen window, taking the dog for a walk or heading to your car in a morning, whatever you see is worth recording. A House Sparrow, a Blue Tit or a Black Bird are just as important as an obscure bird or plant; everything counts.
If you’re interested in helping out or keeping track of your own wildlife sightings, try using the iNaturalist app. It’s free and available on both phones and computers.
You can upload photos or sound recordings of animals and plants you’ve spotted, and iNaturalist will help identify them. Your sightings are shared with a global network of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers, helping to build up a bigger picture of biodiversity in your area.
Each record contributes to scientific knowledge and conservation — and you can even join our local project ‘Duddon Catchment Wildlife’ directly in the app. It’s an easy and rewarding way to get involved and make your sightings count.
