Citizen scientists are being called upon to aid in the protection of Somerset's wildlife through the Big Count 2026 initiative. This project, a collaboration between the Somerset Wildlife Trust (SWT) and the Somerset Environmental Records Centre (SERC), aims to gather valuable data on the county's biodiversity. The beauty of this initiative is its inclusivity; no prior expertise is necessary, and contributions can be made from anywhere within Somerset using the iNaturalist app or a simple worksheet. The data collected will be instrumental in assessing species trends and determining population sizes, which are crucial for guiding conservation and survey efforts. SERC's Ellen Phillpot emphasizes the importance of these records, stating that they will help 'accurately assess species trends across the county' and identify population sizes, which are essential for directing conservation and survey efforts. This initiative highlights the power of citizen science in environmental conservation, where every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact on the protection of Somerset's natural heritage.
