Understanding hedgehog distribution
The volunteer:
- researched hedgehog habitat requirements and dispersal distances
- mapped hedgehog records and preferred habitats throughout Oxford
- created a species distribution model
This work will aid projects such as the Hedgehog Highway Project in prioritising areas to manage for improved hedgehog distribution.
Approaches for recording habitat conservation work
The project investigated several approaches for recording conservation activities carried out by local groups.
Study of wood ants
The volunteer surveyed wood ants within Swinley Forest - a site of special scientific interest. They mapped:
- 50 formica rufa nests
- 2 nests of a rarer species – formica sanguinea
This work allows the local authority to plan maintenance work around the nests, minimising disturbance.
Invasive species
The volunteer considered the feasibility of conducting a citizen science project to record invasive species. They mapped species distributions and assessed their suitability for mass survey observations.
Accessible wildlife sites
We have completed the initial work in setting up a GIS dataset of accessible wildlife sites across Berkshire and Oxfordshire.
Species gap analysis
Students have completed species gap analysis for:
- hedgehogs
- hazel dormice
- skylark
Road verge nature reserve analysis
This project aimed to identify road verges that should be considered for RVNR designation. We examined the existing plant species records as positive or negative indicators of priority habitat and habitat quality.