Our invertebrate ‘species on the edge’ need your help!
A vital part of the work we’re doing to support our ‘species on the edge’ is collecting data. The more we know about our priority species – where they are, how many here are, how many are breeding etc – the more informed, more targeted and more effective our conservation action can be.
However, there are just too many beasties, too many islands, and too many miles of shoreline to leave this task of collecting data to the professionals. So, we’re asking the public to help! Don your citizen science caps and help us help our ‘species on the edge’!
There’s many different ways of getting involved; whether you’re a beetle beginner or beetle boffin, there’s a citizen science opportunity for you. Explore below, or get in touch for help with finding the opportunity for you: sote@nature.scot
Bug-based citizen science opportunities
Scottish Oil Beetle Hunt | Buglife
What: The National Oil Beetle Recording Scheme collates records for oil beetles and allies in the family Meloidae, of which there are 11 UK species.
How: No prior knowledge is needed to take part; anyone and everyone is encouraged to submit records either through the iRecord website, through the iRecord app, or via email. Buglife have produced a handy identification guide to help.
When: March – July
All the information: www.buglife.org.uk/scottish-oil-beetle-hunt
200 hours for Lacewings challenge | Species on the Edge
What: We’re challenging the Scottish public to clock up a collective 200 hours of learning about and surveying for the Bordered Brown Lacewing.
How: No prior knowledge is needed to take part; anyone and everyone is encouraged to learn about the Bordered Brown Lacewing and, if you’re able, go out and look for it.
When: 2025
All the information: www.speciesontheedge.co.uk/volunteers/200-hours-of-lacewings-challenge-survey-the-bordered-brown-lacewing/
Bugs Matter | Buglife
What: The Bugs Matter citizen science survey measures insect splats on vehicle number plates as a marker of insect abundance. Participation in this nature survey helps Buglife monitor population trends, address causes of insect loss, halt and reverse them.
How: The survey is simple: clean the number plate before making your journey in a vehicle; when you reach your destination, count the number of bug splats across your entire number plate; use the “Virtual Splatometer” within the free Bugs Matter App to get the best photograph possible; then submit your photo and details via the app.
When: 1 May to 30 September.
All the information: www.buglife.org.uk/get-involved/surveys/bugs-matter/
