Citizen science in the Glenkens
The first citizen science training event was held at Dalry Town Hall in October. It started with a presentation from SWSEIC support officer Malcolm Haddow and covered different species and habitats in the Glenkens, what signs to look for and how to accurately record a wildlife sighting.
It was interesting to learn that animal tracks, scat, pellets, feathers, hair and even roadkill are valuable signs to record and can contribute towards a better understanding of the health or condition of the natural environment. The talk was followed by a stroll out to the surrounding area to observe nature and practice recording on iNaturalist. Even though it was quite a wet, windy autumn day, participants managed to find examples of mushroom and other fungi, flowers, plants and insects.
After a short break, the group ventured to Dalry school garden for a mapping exercise, guided by GSA Biosphere nature recover officer Antoine Lemaire. This involved identifying plants and measuring trees, hedges and water habitats.
Malcolm also demonstrated how to set up moth light traps to catch insects. The data was recorded on a paper map which will be translated to a digital format, contributing to a more detailed understanding of the area. In future, this type of data can help to detect changes in climate or land use, and inform decisions on planning, development or conservation.
The next day the moth traps were collected from the garden for an event at Dalry school. The primary school students enjoyed drawing different habitats for animals before unveiling several moths and insects caught in the traps the night before. The secondary school presentation went into more detail on the various species Glenkens is important for such as willow tit, great crested newt, musk beetle (Aromia moschata) and large heath butterfly, before opening their moth trap.
To find out more or to get involved you can visit the new webpage on nature networks at www.glenkens.scot/projects/ glenkens-nature-networks and look out for more citizen science events on the Glenkens Hub events listings www.glenkens. scot/calendar.
Niki Inglis