I learnt something new yesterday. Have a look at the table below (sorry if it looks a bit wobbly). It gives you an indication of the diversity of wildlife that can be found on the RSPB's nature reserves.
Britain RSPB %Total 47,423 15,253 32Vertebrates 419 397 95Other invertebrates 1,132 186 16Other arthropods 2,890 653 23Insects 23,619 8,644 37Fungi 11,873 3,649 31Algae 4,900 27 01Land plants 2,590 1,697 66
This is remarkable for two reasons. First, it shows the contribution that our reserve network makes to conserving the UK's wildlife. Second, we (with help from lots of other people - volunteer specialists) have managed to identify over 15,000 species on our sites. What an achievement!
So, if you are short of things to do this festive season - why not visit one of our 210 nature reserves (including Abernethy shown in its wintry glory). There's something for everyone! And, I will offer a prize to the person who can identify the 5% of UK vertebrate species that you cannot find on RSPB reserves.
Answers on a postcard please...
That is really good Martin and I hope that if we seem to be critical of RSPB sometimes you do not get the impression that we are not absolutely delighted with the work that you do.We have so many wonderful experiences with reserves and reserve staff.Todays paper tells us that there are now as many W T E as there was before extinction a 100 years ago(think that may be a bit exaggerated)but for sure the RSPB has done a wonderful job especially getting land owners in most instances on board which is a very difficult task.We spend most holidays on Mull and to see people aghast when they see them is fantastic.