ONE hundred passionate wildlife spotters gathered at a farm in Satterthwaite for Rusland Horizon’s ‘Bioblitz’.

Held at Bowkerstead Farm, the Bioblitz helped people learn about nature as well as getting a snapshot of the variety of life for conservation records.

390 species were found in the woodlands, meadows, tarns and becks all around the farm.

The Bioblitz was run by Rusland Horizons in partnership with Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre (CBDC). It ran over a 24-hour period so participants camped at the farm and were able to take part in guided walks at dusk, dawn and throughout the day.

Clare Dyson from Rusland Horizons said: “We have had so many people who are passionate about wildlife from experts to total beginners. There is something for everyone here at Bowkerstead from woodland species to pond life to lichen. It’s been great seeing so many children and young people at the start of their education and careers taking part and who will hopefully carry on caring about wildlife in the future.”

Among the species found were moths, butterflies, mammals, water beetles, lichen, dragon flies, trees and flowering plants.

Debs Muscat from CBDC said: ”Before the Bioblitz we only had records of 22 different species in this area. The list now stands at 390 species which is a massive increase. The results will help inform habitat management and provide an essential baseline for future reference.”

The Rusland team also put on creative activities on the Bioblitz theme.

Dan Fox from Sound Intervention led a walk with specialist microphone equipment so people could hear nature up close and there was also insect crafting inspired by the beautiful species found.

Clare added: “We’re chuffed to bits with how the Bioblitz went.”