VWTImpactReport28Oct2025PT - Flipbook - Page 9
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In 1981, VWT carried out the 昀椀rst
European radio-tracking study
of otters in Scotland.
Since the 1990s, more than 20 PhD
students have been supported by
VWT to conduct research
and increase conservation
capacity and evidence.
Between 2013 and 2024,
volunteers gave more
than 35,000 hours to VWT
in conservation action.
Vincent Weir pioneered the 昀椀rst nationwide
mammal surveys in Britain for otter, polecat and
water vole, gaining evidence to inform future
conservation actions.
VWT has installed more than
250 den boxes to provide safe
den sites in areas where pine
martens are recovering.
Between 2013 and 2024, on average,
263 people a year volunteered
to help implement successful
conservation interventions and
monitor impacts on populations.
As a Conservation Evidence Champion, VWT’s
high rating demonstrates that its work strongly
aligns with an evidence-based approach to
conserving rare and threatened species.
VWT publishes its work in peer-reviewed journals,
reports and books — and since 2020, has published
more than 40 scienti昀椀c papers, 35 reports,
practitioner handbooks, and books.
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VWT launched the 昀椀rst
National Pine Marten
Monitoring Programme in
November 2024 — the 昀椀rst
online database to capture
records that will inform future
conservation actions.
The Lesser Horseshoe Bat Species Action Plan
(August 2022) co-authored by VWT and National
Parks and Wildlife Service is a 昀椀rst for Ireland —
and brings 15 stakeholders to deliver 29 actions
by 2026 to protect and create roosts, habitats,
connectivity and outreach.
VWT has grown
from a handful of
volunteers to more
than 300 registered
volunteers who
support monitoring
and 昀椀eldwork
activities.
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VWT is pioneering the use of
environmental DNA (eDNA) to
detect bat roosts in trees by swabbing
the entrances of potential roost sites.
This non-invasive solution for
昀椀eld surveys reduces time and
resources needed.
Vincent Wildlife Trust 50 Years Impact Report 2025
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