TV presenter Michaela Strachan rallies public to discover forest wildlife
The Forestry Commission is inviting people to join the largest ever survey of England’s forest wildlife.
The Big Forest Find is taking place in the nation’s forests, as volunteers and visitors embark on a journey of discovery through England’s wooded landscapes. The project is launched as part of the Forestry Commission centenary in 2019.
From birds and butterflies to insects and plant life on the forest floor, the information recorded will paint a better picture of England’s forest biodiversity today.
With forests facing challenges including climate change, pests and diseases, these records will help the Forestry Commission to enhance its land for wildlife for generations to come.
From seasoned naturalists to budding wildlife enthusiasts, the Forestry Commission is encouraging people from all walks of life to take part. The Big Forest Find will be also supported by specialists from a host of other wildlife organisations including Plantlife, the Hawk & Owl Trust and Butterfly Conservation.
Big Forest Find activities will include nocturnal wildlife surveying at Maybeck, Yorkshire, and bug hunting at Drinkwater Park, near Manchester.
As part of the project, the public is being encouraged to record forest wildlife through the seasons using the free app iNaturalist.
Wildlife TV presenter Michaela Strachan took part in a Big Forest Find event at Westonbirt Arboretum in April.
“Forests are an amazing environment to see and hear wildlife, from birds nesting, finding food and hunting in the canopy, to the abundance of insects living on the forest floor. There’s usually way more life living in a forest than is noticeable at first glance,” says Michaela.
“The Big Forest Find is a great way to encourage people to explore the life behind and under the leaves! Get involved, get outside, get exploring and connect with the truly inspiring world of forests.”
Forestry Commission ecologist Molly Gorman adds:
“From Grizedale to the New Forest, we work hard to make sure the forests in our care provide a real mix of habitats for wildlife to thrive.
“The Big Forest Find is a fantastic opportunity for people to get out and explore, and help us discover even more about the animals, insects and plant life in our forests. These records are so important in the face of a changing climate, and will help shape how we look after our woodlands for decades to come.”
The Forestry Commission is marking its centenary by inspiring people to connect with trees and woodlands, to help protect them for generations to come. Alongside the Big Forest Find, the centenary year includes new works by sculptor Rachel Whiteread and poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy, a show garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year and commemorative tree avenues planted to celebrate 100 years of the ForestryCommission.
The Big Forest Find is part of the Year of Green Action – a year-long drive in 2019 to help people to connect with, protect and enhance nature.
To find out how to take part in the Big Forest Find visitwww.forestryengland.uk/bigforestfind