We are delighted that Species on the Edge Volunteer, Daniel, has been awarded the accolade of Nature Hero by NatureScot, in recognition of the amazing work he is doing for his local species on the north coast of Scotland. Well done Daniel, a very well-deserved honour.
Daniel first got involved with Species on the Edge in 2023 as one of our Conservation Summer School students. Since then he has continued to demonstrate and develop his passion and skills for nature conservation, contributing to vital work supporting his local wildlife and wild spaces.
Daniel’s keen eye for detail and his enthusiasm for wildlife identification and biological recording led him to develop his role as a Scottish Countryside Rangers Association (SCRA) Junior Ranger at Dunnet Community Forest. He played a key part in creating and monitoring a brand-new butterfly bank in the forest’s wildflower meadow.
Outside of his role as a junior ranger, Daniel and his family have set up a BeeWalk transect near their home in Caithness. The data they collect during this monthly bumblebee survey contributes to a national data bank which allows experts to assess the health of bumblebee populations across Britain, monitor changes in response to land use and climate change, and detect early warning signs of population declines. Daniel is now a driving force in encouraging other people to record the wildlife they see. He has led BeeWalks and Flower Insect Timed counts at public events over the summer, demonstrating how simple the process can be and explaining why it matters for nature.
Daniel says: “I’ve always enjoyed spending my time in forests and natural places surrounded by wonderful plants and wildlife. By volunteering, I am spending time in the places I love, while helping to improve habitats and contribute to saving creatures threatened with extinction. Volunteering has also allowed me to meet like-minded people and make new friends.”
Incredible work Daniel – you really are a nature hero.
