Raptor Patch is a SRMS survey to help generate additional information on the more abundant, but under-recorded raptor species in Scotland – Buzzard, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk & Raven.
You do not need to already know lots about raptors or raptor monitoring to be able to take part in Raptor Patch. Everything you need to get started is available here on the SRMS website. Take a look at our introductory leaflet , to help you decide if Raptor Patch is for you.
You might also wish to sign up for one or more of our upcoming events, aimed at potential, new and existing Raptor Patch volunteers.
The following information will help you get started:
- Developing your raptor knowledge and skills through Raptor Patch – understand how you can progressively develop your skills and experience at a pace that suits you.
- Selecting your Raptor Patch – tips on identifying a potentially a suitable Raptor Patch.
- Deciding which species to monitor – considerations in selecting which species you are going to monitor.
- Registering your Raptor Patch – how to register your Raptor Patch.
- My Raptor Patch – a few ideas to help you get to grips with your Raptor Patch in the early days.
The following species-specific guidance documents take you through the raptor monitoring year highlighting some of the things to be doing and to be looking out for:
- Buzzard monitoring in your Raptor Patch – a guide to the essentials. Last updated 20th March 2017.
- Kestrel monitoring in your Raptor Patch – a guide to the essentials. Last updated 23rd March 2017.
- Sparrowhawk monitoring in your Raptor Patch – a guide to the essentials. Last updated 20th March 2017.
- Raven monitoring in your Raptor Patch – a guide to the essentials. Last updated 20th March 2017.
- Encountering other raptor species in your Raptor Patch – a guide to the essentials. Last updated 20th March 2017.
Please also take a look at the following guidance and training materials:
- Recording your observations in your Raptor Patch – This document explains how you should record your observations when you are out and about in your Raptor Patch and how you should record your data once you get home. Last updated 1st March 2016.
- Raptor Patch Survey Effort Recording Form – Please use this form to record your survey effort information over the course of your study. Last updated 1st March 2016.
- Raptor Patch Territory Recording Form – Please use this form to record the detailed information about each occupied territory that you locate within your Raptor Patch. Last updated 8th August 2016.
The following online resources may also be useful:
- Getting to grips with bird sounds and calls – http://www.xeno-canto.org/
- Photos and videos of birds – http://ibc.lynxeds.com/