Biological recording is the process of documenting the presence of wildlife species in specific locations, providing critical data for conservation efforts, ecological studies, and understanding changes in biodiversity over time. The UK has a long and proud history of biological recording, stretching back over 200 years. It began with naturalists like Gilbert White in the 18th century, who meticulously recorded the wildlife around them. These early efforts laid the foundation for a national network of wildlife recording, with today’s records stored in vast databases such as the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) and local record centres.
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At its heart, a biological record consists of four key components: what, where, when, and by whom. These elements ensure that the data collected is accurate, useful, and comparable, enabling scientists and conservationists to track changes in species distribution, monitor habitats, and assess the impacts of climate change or human activity.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at each of these components, explaining their importance and offering practical tips on how you can get involved in biological recording. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a beginner looking to start your wildlife recording journey, understanding the "what, where, when, and by whom" of biological records is key to contributing valuable data.
The Four Components of a Biological Record
1. What: Identifying the Species
The first part of any biological record is identifying exactly what species you are observing. Accurate identification is essential, as it ensures that the data can be used reliably. In some cases, this might be straightforward, such as recognising a common bird like a European Robin (Erithacus rubecula). However, for more challenging species—like certain types of fungi or insects—field guides, apps, and online resources may be necessary to ensure correct identification.
Why is it important? Misidentifying a species could lead to inaccurate data, skewing long-term studies of species populations or distributions. For example, confusing a Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae) with a Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) could have implications for tracking migration patterns or understanding the impacts of climate change on butterflies.
Tips for accurate identification:
Use a reputable field guide, such as Collins Complete Guide to British Wildlife.
Consider joining local wildlife groups or attending identification workshops to improve your skills.
Take clear photographs and, where necessary, collect further data (like size or behaviour) or a specimen to aid identification later.
2. Where: Recording the Location
The where of a biological record refers to the precise location where the species was observed. Accurate location data is crucial, as it helps researchers track species' ranges and habitat preferences over time. Traditionally, locations were recorded using place names (e.g., "Cley Marshes, Norfolk"), but modern recording systems also encourage the use of global coordinate systems such as latitude and longitude or Ordnance Survey (OS) grid references to ensure precision.
Why is it important? Without accurate location data, it’s difficult to map species distributions or understand changes in habitat use. For example, knowing exactly where a rare orchid was found could help conservationists protect the area or reintroduce the species in the future.
How to record your location:
For place names, include as much detail as possible, such as the nearest town or landmark.
Use tools like the Ordnance Survey (OS) Maps app or handheld GPS devices to obtain precise coordinates.
If using OS grid references, remember that this system divides the UK into small squares, allowing precise location recording down to 100 metres or less.
Example: A record might read: Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) sighted at 53.4290° N, 1.4716° W, or "Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire."
3. When: Documenting the Date and Time
The when of a biological record is equally important, as it allows researchers to track seasonal changes, migration patterns, and the effects of climate change on species behaviour. When recording the date, it’s essential to include the full year (e.g., 2024), as even a single-digit error could distort decades of data. In addition, with 200 years of records, the more usual format of "24" could refer to 1824, 1924 or 2024. This renders the observation of very little, if any, use.
Why is it important? Knowing when a species was observed helps researchers study trends over time. For example, recording the first appearance of Swallows (Hirundo rustica) in spring could contribute to long-term data on how climate change is affecting migration timing.
Best practices for recording time:
Record the full date (day, month, year). For example: 21st September 2024.
Some recorders use Roman numerals for months to avoid confusion with the American convention of placing the month before the day in dates. For instance, 21/ix/2024 would represent 21st September 2024.
Example: A record might read: Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), 15/x/2023 (15th October 2023).
4. By Whom: Crediting the Recorder
The final component of a biological record is by whom the observation was made. Including the name of the recorder is essential for data verification and attribution. In addition, it’s helpful to include contact details in case further information is needed or verification is required.
Why is it important? Recording the observer’s details adds credibility and accountability to the record. It allows future researchers to validate the record if necessary and trace the data back to the original source.
What to include:
Full name of the observer, and if applicable, an organisation or recording group.
Contact information (although this is often kept private in public databases).
In some cases, records may be verified by experts, especially if the sighting is of a rare or endangered species.
Example: Buff Arches (Habrosyne pyritoides), 12/viii/2023, Jane Doe, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.
Why Accuracy Matters: Ensuring the Value of Biological Records
Biological records are only as useful as the accuracy and detail they contain. By ensuring that each component—what, where, when, and by whom—is recorded thoroughly, you contribute valuable data to national databases, helping to build a clearer picture of biodiversity in the UK.
Inaccurate records, however, can lead to misleading conclusions. For instance, a misidentified species could result in false assumptions about distribution, while vague location data could hamper conservation efforts. By paying attention to detail and using modern tools like GPS or smartphone apps, you can make your records as accurate as possible.
Get Involved in Biological Recording
Biological recording is an accessible and rewarding activity for anyone interested in nature. Whether you’re noting down species in your garden, on a nature walk, or while travelling, every record counts. Many organisations and online platforms encourage contributions, from large-scale databases like the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) to more specialised schemes for birds, butterflies, plants, and more.
Join a recording scheme: Consider participating in local or national recording schemes like Butterfly Conservation or the British Trust for Ornithology. A full list of national recording schemes is available on the Biological Records Centre website.
Use technology: Tools like iRecord can make it easy to document sightings and ensure accuracy.
Biological recording plays a vital role in understanding the natural world. By carefully documenting what you’ve seen, where you saw it, when, and by whom, you contribute to a rich body of data that helps researchers track changes in wildlife populations, distributions, and behaviours. With tools like GPS and apps, it’s easier than ever to get involved and ensure your records are both accurate and useful. Whether you're recording species in your backyard or exploring remote habitats, your contributions can make a difference.
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