Nature in your backyard - citizen science for schools

Biodiversity conservation is the most important international nature conservation goal. Nature conservation policy focuses mainly on the conservation of rare and threatened species and habitats. Common species in urban areas have not received much attention although their population trends may be more meaningful for assessing general trends than changes in rare species. Wild gardens, parks and other green areas play an important role as refugia for several declining species which have been common in traditional cultural landscapes. The presence of these species in rural or urban areas enable interested citizens to observe wildlife at their doorsteps. Biodiversity education should start in early childhood in order to engage and inspire people for nature and biodiversity at their doorsteps. This project aims at (i) recording biodiversity by means of indicator species groups (hedgehogs, wild bees, birds and butterflies) in gardens and parks with partner schools, (ii) analysis of the relations between garden management/structure and the presence of indicator species followed by best practice recommendations for garden management and (iii) investigation of motivation and factors promoting engagement and commitment of students to biodiversity and citizen science in gardens and parks. Students will be engaged in local public relations activities to promote wildlife friendly gardening.