High Life Highland’s Countryside Rangers are asking for the public’s help counting the region’s pollinators. The Big Pollinator Count takes place from the 7th – 13th August and simply involves spending time in nature, counting these fascinating winged wonders!
Eager counters can busy themselves at one of the area’s Wildflower Mosaic Meadows or any wildflower meadow they know and love. When there, it is as simple as recording what pollinators they see and submitting those observations online.
Pollinators such as bees, butterflies and other insects play a vital role in keeping ecosystems healthy. They are responsible for the pollination of many plants, which in turn supports the nation’s food supply and the health of natural habitats. Sadly, pollinator populations are declining due to a number of factors including habitat loss and climate change.
High Life Highland’s Head Ranger, Imogen Furlong explains: “Pollinators are the most important species on the planet, without them, we have no food! So it is important that we have a good understanding of their populations so we know where to focus our efforts in terms of conserving and enhancing them.
“By taking part in our Big Pollinator Count, people can help us gather that really important data and it will also allow us to monitor the success of our volunteer created mini meadows.”
The Highland Wildflower Meadow Mosaic project is led by the High Life Highland Rangers and aims to create an array of mini meadows throughout the area to support biodiversity. So far over 90 have been created, working with schools, community groups and individuals, with all the planting thoroughly considered using seeds collected in Scotland. The project recently featured on an episode of the BBC’s Out of Doors radio programme.
To get involved in the Big Pollinator Count, find a mosaic meadow, watch the area for 30mins in a dry spell when pollinators will be more likely to be flying and then submit observations online. All the information and links to take part can be found here: The Big Pollinator Count – High Life Highland Rangers. To join a member of the High Life Highland Countryside Ranger team on the hunt for pollinators look out for local events being posted here.
The image shows a honey been on corn marigold by D.Haines.
