Volunteer opportunity: classify hedgehogs with Mammalweb

The National Hedgehog Monitoring Project (NHMP) has deployed camera traps across the UK to better understand hedgehog populations. By classifying the footage collected, you can play a vital role in tracking numbers in and around our estate, helping us measure the University’s impact and contribute to national conservation efforts. And, if you are lucky, you’ll spot a few hedgehogs along the way!

How to register:

• Create a MammalWeb account
• Access MammalWeb footage
• OR click on the PROJECTS tab, select NHMP: National Hedgehog Monitoring and scroll down to find footage specific to Durham

How to classify:

• MammalWeb will ask “what do you see in this sequence?”
• Some sequences contain multiple images. Navigate through them using the arrows. 
• Use the toolbar on the right to select the species you spot (native species are listed, with a search function for quick access)
• If no animals are visible, select “nothing” at the bottom of the toolbar
• Once you’ve completed a few hours, don’t forget to log them on the volunteering platform to receive extra credit for your efforts

Have fun exploring footage and happy hedgehog spotting! 

Remember to log your volunteering efforts and wildlife photos on the My Greenspace app for a chance to win one of four monthly vouchers. Download the app now!