Leading wildlife charity People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) is calling for volunteers across the UK to record sightings of wild mammals in gardens and other urban green spaces this autumn, by taking part in the charity’s Living with Mammals survey.

Living with Mammals has been running all year, but PTES is keen for those not already taking part to look out for their wild neighbours during September, October and November, when many of the UK’s mammals are busy preparing for winter. The survey helps conservationists to monitor changes in wild mammal populations, and crucially, identify those in most need of urgent conservation action. So whether you’re lucky enough to spot a hedgehog in your garden, notice a fox on your street or see squirrels in your local park, all records help PTES to build a nationwide picture of the green health of our towns and cities.

David Wembridge, Conservation Research and Strategy Officer at People’s Trust for Endangered Species explains: “The autumn months are a great time to spot mammals as juveniles disperse and individuals prepare for winter by building up fat reserves and caching nuts and seeds underground. This year, too, is a great opportunity to understand how different species have been affected by this year’s extremely hot, dry summer.”