Scottish farmers urged to support badger survey work
29 December 2020 |
The survey wants to establish a true record of badger populations in Scotland
Farmers in Scotland are being urged to support survey work to monitor badger populations and their impact on farming and biodiversity.
A recent NatureScot report raised gaps in knowledge relating to badger numbers and population changes in recent years and their interactions with farming and biodiversity.
To get a more accurate understanding, NatureScot is working with NFU Scotland to capture basic information from farmers to fill in knowledge gaps about badger behaviour and populations.
The feedback will help inform the body on potential areas where more intensive studies could be carried out into how badgers interact and impact on agriculture.
Survey turns spotlight on Scots badgers
RARE SIGHT: A badger in its natural woodland habitat, peeping out of its sett.
A study of badger numbers and the impact of the species on farming and biodiversity is being carried out by NatureScot in collaboration with Scotland’s farmers’ union (NFUS).
The survey aims to fill in gaps in the knowledge of the numbers, population changes and behaviours of Britain’s largest carnivore – and requires the input of farmers and crofters who are often best placed to observe changes.
NatureScot wildlife policy officer Morag Milne said her organisation welcomed the opportunity to gather farmers’ and crofters’ experiences on how badgers may impact their land.