Although my main interest in CDNHS is for birds, I have found it fascinating recently spreading my net wider. I have been both learning and recording mammals and plants. On the rear window of my car, I have a sticker which says ' Qualified Nutter'. 'What's new?' most of you will say. This, however, is in connection with a survey into possible signs of dormice throughout the UK. Although there was none in the Chorley area, there were 60 new sites found nationwide. I have also been involved in the Winter Mammal Survey organised by the Mammal Society. This summer a parallel organisation - the Mammal Trust - is needing volunteers to record sightings of mammals in their home area. You will be sent full instructions of how to record animals and a booklet to help you identify them. Both societies can be contacted at 15, Cloisters House, 8 Battersea Park Road, London SW8 4BG, or enquiries@mtuk.org for the Trust and enquiries@mammal.org.uk for the Society.
Our young people in Cuerden Wildlife Explorers Watch group were involved in the 'Counting Crane's-bills' initiative organised by Plantlife. This encouraged me to participate in the Common Plant Survey as well. Plantlife is the only membership organisation dedicated solely to conserving wild plants in their natural habitat. They were only established in 1989, so are a young organisation. Last year, I received help with my identification skills and an easy to understand recording sheet. The advantage with searching for plants - unlike insects, birds or mammals - is that they stay were they are. Plantlife can be contacted at 12, Elizabeth Street, London SW1 9RP or enquiries@plantlife.org.uk.
Once you have your records, you could also send them to Tony Stott for mammals and Carol Kellett for plants. Why should Neil have all the work?