Survey methods and habitat suitability modelling for 'The Wild Watch', Nidderdale AONB

We were commissioned by Nidderdale AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) to develop survey methods and produce habitat suitability models as part of a large-scale citizen science project called ‘The Wild Watch’. The project aims were to combine the power of citizen science and the latest research to gather natural heritage records and pioneer a new way of delivering conservation action on a landscape scale.

We prioritized 50 species to be surveyed (including a wide range of taxa such as birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates and plants) and devised a systematic sampling strategy for the AONB. We recommended data collection methods for each species including the timing and frequency of surveys, equipment specifications, and the target audiences and training likely to be required.

Following on from this, we identified 10 species that would be appropriate for habitat suitability modelling (curlew, lapwing, snipe, skylark, song thrush, redstart, dipper, grey wagtail, barn owl and tawny owl), and developed models for these species over the three years of the project using data collected by project volunteers. We produced predictive maps for each species identifying important habitats across the AONB, and a final report including detailed habitat management recommendations.