One of the things that OWIARC encourages is the recording of the wildlife we see around us every day. It is not always the rare visitor that is the most important species to record but rather the recording of species around us that can build a comprehensive picture of the natural world that we live in. This knowledge in turn will aid the decisions which can affect habitats and species on and around Orkney.
To make a record we need at least four basic pieces of information:
WHAT – the name of the plant, animal or insect. Common name and/or preferably the scientific name.
WHERE – the location at which the sighting was made. This should be if possible the nearest name to the sighting on an Ordnance Survey map, along with a 6-figure grid reference.
WHEN – the date of the record, ideally written as dd/mm/yyyy.
WHO – the name of the recorder. If someone identified or confirmed the record for you please include their name.
Any other information that you give will add to the value of the record. For example, the habitat where it was found, the number seen, male or female, stage of life cycle or behaviour. If the data is confidential in any way please let us know.
Records can be submitted by downloading this Recording Spreadsheet (Excel) and either emailing or posting it to us at the address found on our Contact page.
Read the Terms and conditions for submitting records to OWIARC.
For more information about how Orkney Islands Council will use your information please read the OIC Privacy Policy