Spring Awakens at Frimley Fuel Allotments as Residents Urged to Record Wildlife

As spring takes hold and nature begins to thrive, a community-led campaign is calling on residents to help make the wildlife of Frimley Fuel Allotments more visible and properly recognised.

Campaign organisers have been working with the Surrey Biodiversity Information Centre (SBIC), Surrey’s official environmental records hub hosted by the Surrey Wildlife Trust. When a formal ecological data search was carried out for the site, the findings revealed that the number of officially recorded wildlife sightings is currently low.

For many locals, this was unexpected. The allotments are widely known to be rich in wildlife, from birds and insects to reptiles and wildflowers. However, what is seen day to day is not always reflected in official records.

Why recording wildlife matters

Environmental data plays an important role in planning decisions. If species and habitats are not formally recorded, they may not appear in ecological assessments. If they do not appear, they can be overlooked.

Accurate records help ensure that wildlife and habitats are properly considered.

A community call to action

Residents are being encouraged to record any wildlife they encounter, including birds, bees, butterflies, bats, fungi, reptiles, trees and plant life.

There is one important exception. Sightings of badgers or badger setts should not be shared publicly. These should be reported privately to SBIC, who will pass the information to the relevant organisations. Campaigners are already working with the Badger Trust.

How to take part

To ensure records are useful and consistent, participants are asked to use only one method per sighting:

1. Email SBIC directly

Send details to [email protected]

Include your name, date of sighting, species seen, precise location, and a photo if possible. Use the subject line “Frimley Fuel Allotments”.

2. Use the free iRecord app

Upload your sighting and tag the location. These records feed into systems such as SBIC. https://irecord.org.uk/app

3. Post within the community group

Share what you saw, where and when, along with a photo if possible. These will be collected and submitted to SBIC.

A site of ecological importance

Frimley Fuel Allotments is designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI).

The site includes lowland heathland, including the H3 Ulex minor–Agrostis curtisii heath, which is uncommon in Surrey.

Recorded species already include protected wildlife such as adders, common lizards, slow-worms, brown long-eared bats and stag beetles. Priority species include the grayling butterfly, silver-studded blue butterfly and reed bunting.

Will this stop development

Recording wildlife does not automatically prevent development. However, accurate ecological data ensures habitats and protected species are properly considered. Strong evidence can influence decisions and ensure legal protections are applied where required.

Responsible observation

Residents are reminded to observe wildlife responsibly. Do not handle animals, dig, disturb habitats or trespass. Observe from accessible areas and take photos where possible.

Tools such as Merlin Bird ID and Seek by iNaturalist can help with identification, though users should check accuracy if unsure.

Every record counts

The goal is simple. Build a clear and evidence-based picture of the biodiversity at Frimley Fuel Allotments.

Every sighting helps.

Every record adds weight.

Every contribution matters.

The message from organisers is clear. See it. Record it. Protect it.