RSPCA in search of volunteers to assist wildlife throughout the UK

Last year, about 2,000 individuals joined the charity’s Wildlife Friends program, and this year, 1,950 have already registered.

The program involves volunteers participating in various tasks to support local ecosystems and enhance the well-being of animals.

Tasks include cleaning bird feeders, providing food for hedgehogs, constructing “bug hotels”, and planting wildlife-friendly vegetation.

There are 24 tasks to be completed this year, with different tasks assigned for each of the four seasons.

Volunteers accumulate points for each task, and those who reach a certain number of points receive a seasonal certificate.

Points are earned by completing tasks, and volunteers who achieve a specific number or more during a season are given a seasonal certificate (Image: Supplied)

RSPCA head of volunteering, Brian Reeves, stated: “We all coexist with wonderful wildlife in our neighborhoods and it is essential to protect them.

“By becoming an RSPCA Wildlife Friend, animal enthusiasts can collaborate with their community to create a safe environment for the animals that share our planet.

“The RSPCA’s Wildlife Friends volunteering program is ideal for anyone who can spare a few minutes or a couple of hours to build a better and more compassionate world for every animal.

“We have seven fantastic tasks to motivate everyone to take action this autumn.

“It is a wonderful time of year to explore gardens, open spaces, and woodlands, and the tasks can all be completed close to home.”

“By getting involved, individuals can help make their communities safer for wildlife.

“Small tasks like these can make a significant impact on the welfare of wild animals.

“We received a positive response last year, and we hope more people will contribute again as we strive to create a movement of one million strong for animal welfare during our 200th year.”

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By volunteering to support wildlife, people can also free up time for RSPCA officers to address cases of cruelty and neglect.

Staff at RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre have also been playing a role by organizing workshops and events focused on nocturnal animals.

The center’s education staff hosted bat walks and tours at the center near Nantwich and at Birkenhead Park on the Wirral.

Participants observed several bat species and experienced the echolocation sounds they use to navigate.

RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre hosted bat walks and tours at the center near Nantwich as well as a bat walk at Birkenhead Park on the Wirral (Image: Supplied)

Evie Astbury-Field, Stapeley Grange community engagement manager, mentioned: “Our bat walk was a fantastic event that not only celebrated these remarkable animals but also emphasized the crucial role they play in sustaining healthy ecosystems.

“At Stapeley, we organized a variety of bat talks and walks, and our education officers Ali, Carolyn, Holly, and Charlie all participated in welcoming a local wildlife and conservation group, a scout group, and hosting a public talk and walk.

“These experiences provided a great opportunity to involve our community in learning about these beautiful animals and their well-being at Stapeley Grange, and for us to discuss the work we do.”

Individuals can register online to become a Wildlife Friend and start making a difference for the nation’s wildlife.