Species Surveys

The Trust carries out a number of surveys of key species. These surveys help us to know how the species are faring in the county and contribute towards plans for their conservation.

Song Thrush: once a familiar sight in our gardens, parks and hedgerows, song thrush numbers have declined by 65% in the last 20 years, due to the destruction of our hedgerows. These birds feed mainly on the ground, where they forage for earthworms, slugs and snails - using a stone 'anvil' to smash open snail shells. To mark the start of Taking Action for Biodiversity, a song thrush-friendly hedge was laid at Belper allotments.

Fill in a Song Thrush recording form

Reptiles: there are four reptile species in Derbyshire - grass snake, adder (rare), slow worm and common lizard. These shy and elusive creatures can be difficult to spot, but we need to know which species occur where in the county in order to help protect their habitats.

Fill in a Reptiles recording form
 
 
 

Brown Hare: the once common sight of 'mad March hares' boxing in early spring is now a rare treat. Brown hare numbers have reduced dramatically due to modern intentsive agriculture practices. The brown hare is larger than the rabbit, with black ear tips. They live on farmland and rough grassland, resting in cover during the day and being mostly active at night.

Fill in a Brown Hare recording form
 

Black Poplars: The black poplar, a native British tree, is thought to be one of the most endangered in the country. In Derbyshire estimates put their numbers at around 210, while throughout the country there are thought to be only 2,000 to 3,000 trees left. Unlike many trees, black poplars are specifically male or female, with the wind helping them to reproduce by carrying pollen. At the moment, there are less than 10 known female trees in Derbyshire, but the Trust has 450 records of black poplars which need to be checked.