Citizen Science
Welcome to Test Valley Borough Council's Citizen Science programme.
This initiative invites you to connect with nature, explore your local environment, and contribute to meaningful research.
About the programme
Our citizen science programme is a growing initiative designed to bring communities closer to nature. By exploring and investigating the natural world, you can exchange knowledge, experiences, and skills while learning about local wildlife and their habitats under changing environmental conditions.
What we survey
We currently survey butterflies, water voles, otters, bats, wildflowers (including orchids), trees, newts, dormice (licence holder supervised), bumblebees, land insects, and more.
Future surveys
We plan to expand our surveys to include hedgehogs, frogs and toads, moths, water insects, waterfowl, wild birds, bees (bumble and solitary), mammals (including harvest mice), botany, and beyond. The possibilities are endless, and every contribution matters.
Why take part?
All data collected will be submitted to national databases for inclusion in nationwide studies, guiding improvements in our living spaces. Your observations will help shape a better future for our environment.
How to get involved
- Interested? It's as simple as sending an email and filling out a form.
- Whether you're a beginner, curious explorer, or an expert, we want you to get in touch.
- Study something specific or generalise; your contribution is valuable.
- Share your knowledge or learn from others.
- Explore your local community or venture beyond your doorstep.
We need YOU!
Become a part of the change you want to see. Join our Citizen Science Programme and make a positive impact on your local environment.
We also offer opportunities through Discovery Days, pond dipping events, educational visits, and tree planting events where we actively engage with our environment.
Contact us on citizenscience@testvalley.gov.uk or 01264 368000 or find out more about Biodiversity in Test Valley | Test Valley Borough Council