The National Trust is carrying out its first ever BioBlitz of White Fen, which is part of Wicken Fen, on Saturday, July 8, and are looking for volunteers to help them. 

The BioBlitz will help capture a snapshot of all the living species on the eight hectares of White Fen on that day. 

White Fen near Lode village has never been surveyed before and the National Trust hopes, with the help of volunteers from the local community, it can build a fuller picture of the species that this Fenland site call home. 

Senior programming and partnerships officer at Wicken Fen, Julia Hammond, said: “We aim to count as many species as we can during the day, but to do this we’re going to need some help.  

“The BioBlitz is a great way for the local community to come together and learn more about their nearby environment.  

“We’re really looking forward to seeing what we uncover together from this survey, especially as we’ve not done anything like this at White Fen before.” 

Those interested in taking part on July 8 are encouraged to drop in between 8am and 3.30pm to help record species.  

Wildlife spotting and identification materials will be available and there are several scheduled activities due to take place (no booking required) are: 

·     8am – moth and small mammal traps open 

·     10am – bird / birdsong walk 

·     11.30am – dragonfly walk 

·     2pm – plants / wildflower walk 

Helping to run the day, with the Wicken Fen team and Nature Champion volunteers, are representatives from the British Dragonfly Society and the Cambridgeshire Mammal Group. All ages are welcome, and no experience is necessary. 

Julia added: "Our team of Nature Champions – a group of 14 to 18 year olds who regularly volunteer on the reserve will be helping to run the BioBlitz.”