Wildlife Survey 2009

Say hello to Barnabee

Britain's 2,000 miles of canals and rivers are enjoyed by 11 million visitors every year and provide valuable habitats for thousands of plants and animals. There are 200,000 mega litres of water in our waterways – enough to fill 80,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools – and an amazing array of water-loving animals make their homes in, on and next to it. With 600 miles of hedgerows, 2,000 miles of towpath and more than 1,000 nature sites running alongside, you won’t be surprised to learn that the inland waterways are teeming with bugs, beasties and other canalside critters! Wherever you go, there’s wildlife waiting to be seen. You can spot insects such as darting dragonflies and busy bumblebees – the special guest star of this year’s survey. You might find a frog and you should keep an eye out for the blue flash of a kingfisher. And if you’re lucky, you could see a timid water vole or elusive otter – just two of our endangered species. All year round, British Waterways’ ecologists work hard to ensure that the beautiful biodiversity continues to thrive in and around our canals, rivers, docks and reservoirs. And this is where you come in. Next time you are visiting your local waterway – and more than half of you live within 5 miles of one – we need you to tell us what creatures you’ve counted and where. All Britain's waterways are included in the survey and there’s no limit to how many times you can take part. To join in go to www.waterscape.com/wildlifesurvey Look out for Barnabee the new character designed in honour of this year's survey.