British Waterways 2009 Wildlife Survey: Results

Thank you to everyone who took part in British Waterways’ sixth annual wildlife survey in 2009.

We had more than 42,500 sightings recorded during April to October on our canals, rivers, docks and reservoirs.

In particular, sightings of water voles, whose population has plummeted by more than 90 per cent in the UK in recent years, were double that of 2009's survey. The most sightings of these furry creatures, immortalised as 'Ratty' in 'The Wind in the Willows', were made on the Kennet & Avon Canal and on the waterways of the East Midlands.

Nearly 300 different species of birds, amphibians, reptiles, insects and mammals were recorded across the country, the most unusual of which was a porpoise, a close relation of the dolphin, seen in the River Ouse near Selby.

2009’s survey, supported by the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, focussed on our native bumblebees and more than 1,600 were spotted taking advantage of waterside wild flowers.

The results of the 2009 waterways wildlife survey also found:

• 127 different species of birds were sighted, including kingfishers, woodpeckers, reed warblers and little owls
• 27 different species of butterflies were seen, including brimstones, small blues and speckled woods
• Mallards, Canada geese and swans were the most commonly sighted species
• The number of frogs seen leapt three times, with three-quarters of them seen in Scotland

Wonderfully Wild Competitions

The British Waterways Wildlife Survey 2009 was run in conjunction with three Wonderfully Wild competitions; namely a photo competition for adults and children, and a drawing competition for children.

See the results of the bumblebee photo competition

See the results of the children’s competitions

Wildife survey results: Top 20

By taking part in the wildlife survey, you help British Waterways to monitor, protect and preserve the amazing biodiversity found on our waterways. 2010 is the International Year of Biodiversity, so keep an eye out for news on what our environment team are working on to support vital waterway habitats and our native species.

With 50 per cent of the UKs population living within five miles of a freely accessible canal or river, there’s never been a better time to get closer to nature.

Read more about waterway wildlife