Successful wildlife survey comes to Laide

The National Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme (NARRS) are holding a training event at Laide Wood on the 17th of April.

The event is aimed at anyone with an interest in wildlife and has been organised in conjunction with The Highland Council Countryside Rangers with the Council’s Planning and Development Service.

Volunteers will learn how to identify and survey Scottish amphibians. The event is part of a national scheme which aims to find out how these often over looked animals are faring. Amphibians around the world have suffered drastic declines in numbers over the last 20 years but the Highland area seems to be bucking the trend. Volunteers across the Highlands have made a major contribution to understanding what is going on with local amphibians.

The Highland area was singled out for praise at a recent UK wildlife conference. Dr John Wilkinson of the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust said: “Volunteers in the Highlands have made an outstanding effort. They have managed to look at more sites than other parts of the UK – even areas with far more people such as the south of England.  We are hoping for another good year.” 

Anyone interested in getting involved with amphibian conservation, can come along to the training workshop at Laide Wood on Saturday 17th April, from 12noon to 4pm.

Susan Whiting of Inverness said: “I went to the Black Isle training event last year. I’d never done anything like it before but it was loads of fun and I learnt a great deal.”

Local amphibian enthusiast, David O’Brien will be leading the day and will show participants how to survey for amphibians after which they can take part in a national survey or simply gain awareness of what is in their area.

Participants are advised to bring a packed lunch, wellington boots and wet weather gear.  To book a place and for more details, call Lindsey Duncan, Highland Council Countryside Ranger, on 01854 613 904.

For further information on:
• Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust visit:  http://www.arc-trust.org/
• National Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme visit: http://www.narrs.org.uk/index.htm