Robins, dragonflies and badgers - do you know them all? One in five would struggle to identify wildlife, study finds
Brits wildlife knowledge is dwindling - with robins, dragonflies, and badgers just some of the species people say they wouldnt be able to identify.
Brits wildlife knowledge is dwindling - with robins, dragonflies, and badgers just some of the species people say they wouldnt be able to identify.
The poll of 2,000 adults revealed a quarter wouldnt be confident pointing out a dragonfly if they saw one in the wild.
While 22 per cent wouldnt be able to identify a robin, and 21 per cent would struggle to name a badger.
Hares, moths, and wild ponies were also among the UKs wildlife people wouldnt be able to correctly name.
The study, commissioned by The Camping and Caravanning Club also found Brits wildlife geography isnt up to scratch as 51 per cent are unsure where in the UK you are most likely to spot different animals.
In response to the findings, the brand and its president, wildlife cameraman and presenter, Hamza Yassin, created an interactive map to help Brits find out where they would need to camp to see 10 of the best wildlife the UK has to offer.
Hamza Yassin said: From red squirrels in the Lake District, to wild ponies in Dartmoor, there is an abundance of fantastic wildlife right on our doorsteps, but our research shows many people dont know where to find it.
When it comes to wildlife, Britains knowledge of different species is falling short
The poll of 2,000 adults found 22 per cent wouldnt be confident pointing out a robin if they saw one in the wild, while 21 per cent would struggle to name a badger and a quarter a dragonfly
As a wildlife cameraman I have always loved being around wildlife - and Im passionate about encouraging others to appreciate it, as well as experiencing the many benefits it can bring.
Spending time amongst nature can be incredibly rewarding and calming, and camping is the perfect way to enjoy everything it has to offer.
You dont have to be a wildlife expert to appreciate the outdoors and with the help of our handy map we hope more people can experience the amazing wildlife that can be found near campsites all over the UK.
The findings also revealed 65 per cent of adults arent aware which regions in the UK are best for spotting puffins, and 41 per cent said the same about wild ponies.
While 43 per cent wouldnt be able to differentiate any type of deer species if they saw them in the wild, or in a picture.
It also emerged 73 per cent wouldnt feel confident identifying animal tracks or footprints.
However, dolphins, red squirrels, and golden eagles were among the animals Brits would most like to see in their natural habitat.
Reasons why those polled, via OnePoll.com, dont engage more with wildlife included lack of time and not knowing enough about it to take a real interest.
While 18 per cent live in a city, 44 per cent have previously been surprised to spot a wild creature in their local area - as they didnt know they lived there.
Robins, dragonflies and badgers are among the creatures people said they wouldnt be able to identify
Pictured is an Azure Damselfly resting on a wildflower
Encouragingly, 77 per cent would be interested to learn more about identifying wildlife, and 46 per cent would consider going on a nature specific holiday, such as camping.
Sabina Voysey, director general at The Camping and Caravanning Club, said: I have always been closely connected to the countryside and the positive impact of spending time in nature is well reported.
To help people experience more British wildlife, with the support of our club president, Hamza, weve created an interactive map to highlight the amazing species that can be found right on our doorstep.
Its reassuring to see how many people in the UK are keen to expand their wildlife knowledge.
Reasons why people didnt engage more with wildlife included a lack of time and too little knowledge to take a real interest.
However, 77 per cent want to learn more and half would consider going on a nature holiday such as camping.
In response, The Camping and Caravanning Clubs president, cameraman and presenter Hamza Yassin, has created an interactive map to help enthusiasts find out where to camp to see the best wildlife.
You dont have to be an expert to appreciate the outdoors and with the help of our handy map we hope more people can experience the amazing wildlife that can be found near campsites all over the UK.