The Big Count, Somerset’s biggest citizen science event of the year, returned for another year, and over 800 people from across the county signed up to help collect important information about the species living right on their doorsteps. 

The count, which is a joint initiative between Somerset Wildlife Trust and the Somerset Environmental Records Centre (SERC), took place between 18^th and 27^th June and asked participants to get outside and record their local wildlife.  

This was the fifth year the organisations have hosted the count, which has now generated nearly 3,400 species records for Somerset since its launch in 2022, including nearly 500 new records in this year’s count.

Over 100 different species were identified as part of The Big Count 2026, with the most-recorded species being: 

• Bird’s-foot trefoil
• Marbled white 
• Beautiful demoiselle 
• Azure damselfly
• European goldfinch
• European rabbit
• Small tortoiseshell 
• White-lipped snail 

For the first time, participants recorded 9 new species, including the Lesser Emperor (Anax parthenope) and the Pointed Snail (Cochlicella acuta). Those taking part could then either upload their observations to the popular recording app iNaturalist, or for the first time, fill out a paper form and submit it to SERC. Thanks to the addition of the paper form, 91 additional observations were recorded.  

People of all ages were encouraged to take part from their gardens, local parks, and on their way to their schools and workplaces by looking out for a specific set of species and species groups, which included rabbits, snails, and certain species of butterfly. 

Becky Fisher, Head of Engagement at Somerset Wildlife Trust, says: 
“A huge thank you to everyone who got involved in this year’s Big Count! Time-sensitive projects like this help us build a picture of what’s happening for wildlife year on year, but don’t forget you can take part in recording wildlife throughout the year. It’s a great way to take action for nature, and who knows what you might find! Take a look at our website for more guides and resources, whether you’re a seasoned recorder or just looking to get started.”   

Ellen Phillpot, SERC Data Specialist, adds:  

We are grateful for the continued engagement and support of this event, completing its 5^th year running. Thank you to everyone who recorded sightings, especially during the heatwave. As ever, this year has brought in new records and species that have not been recorded during this event before, expanding our knowledge of the species present throughout Somerset, while also now showing trends of a few species that have been continually recorded over five years.”