Public invited to help monitor the health of nature

6 days ago
2 min read

People of all backgrounds and levels of experience are encouraged to get involved

Nature lovers are being invited to get involved to help local wildlife thrive across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

100 Indicator Species have been identified to help track the state of nature across the area, and these can show a lot about how well local habitats are working and how they’re responding to conservation efforts.

Leicestershire County Council is leading the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland (LNRS), and these species have been carefully selected to reflect the variety of habitats covered by the LNRS.

A wide range of species are covered, including mammals, birds, fish and plants, with the full list and how to log any sightings, is available on the NatureSpot website.(Link is external and opens in new window)

By keeping an eye on these chosen species, partners can better understand the overall health of the environment.

When these species are doing well, it is a sign that habitats are thriving. When numbers drop, it can point to where more support and action are needed.

Anyone can take part by recording sightings to NatureSpot. People of all backgrounds and levels of experience are encouraged to get involved, whether they are farmers, planners, conservationists or enjoy spending time outdoors.

The records will help to guide decision‑making across sectors including land management, planning, conservation and community projects, ensuring action is targeted where it is most needed.

The Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland brings together councils, farmers, landowners, conservation organisations and local communities with the shared aim of restoring and enhancing biodiversity by creating more, bigger, better and more connected spaces for nature.

From woodlands and grasslands to wetlands, rivers and urban green spaces, the strategy sets out how everyone can play a role in tackling environmental challenges and supporting nature’s recovery.

Tuesday, 12 May, 2026