AROUND 1,400 volunteers collected vital wildlife information in the county as part of Somerset Wildlife Trust's The Big Count last month, writes Josie Cohen.

The trust's head of communications, Kirby Everett, said: "This is only the second year we’ve hosted The Big Count, and to see so much enthusiasm and desire to help Somerset’s wildlife is absolutely fantastic.

"The data participants have helped collect will allow us to better understand some of Somerset’s often underrated species, letting us know what is present, where and how those populations might change over time.

“We’re extremely grateful to everyone who took part in the event this year, as well as of course our wonderful friends at Southern Co-op for sponsoring this year’s count and helping us make it such a success.”

Community lead at Southern Co-op Holly Bramble said “We’re proud to have supported Somerset Wildlife Trust in this important citizen science initiative. At Southern Co-op, we believe in the power of connecting with nature and preserving wildlife.

“By encouraging more people to get involved and collect valuable data about Somerset's wildlife, we can contribute to a better understanding of the local ecosystem.”

The Fantastic Fungi Focus, another event planned for October half term, is being organised under the Great Somerset Wildlife Count initiative.

Visit www.somersetwildlife.org/get-involved/citizen-science to learn more about citizen science and occasions such as the Big Count.