THE entire population of the Tamar Valley is being asked to help local ecologists compile a catalogue of the area's wild mammals, writes Alan Gregory.

Ecologists want anyone in the Tamar Valley with knowledge or evidence of any of the valley's wild mammals to contact them.

Their observations and knowledge may well end up in an illustrated book being prepared from the study.

Dr Nigel Miles, an ecologist from the World Wildlife Fund, said: 'With such a rich environmental and cultural heritage, it would be a great asset to understand the many species of mammals which live in our wild habitats.

'Not only will the research be undertaken by us locally and written by some of the UK's professional ecologists, all of whom live locally, but it will have beautiful illustrations drawn by some of Europe's most skilful artists, again now living in our Tamar Valley.'

Anyone can join the study, including colleges, vets, welfare organisations or individuals looking after injured or sick mammals and landowners or farmers.

'What we are requesting is for anyone who has material evidence in their region of wild mammals to contact us,' he said.

'Photographs, cadavers, footprints, spoors, animals they have looked after or given to wildlife rescue hospitals.

'We would like to hear about mammals which have been killed on the roads, which mammal, where, when and so on, plus any anecdotes or stories which can be verified about such creatures.

'This will give us further data which will add to our research.

'Anyone who does provide evidence and/or helps with the research directly will be rewarded in the forthcoming book.'

Dr Miles said there was a wealth of mammals in the valley, from deer to shrews, otters to voles, plus flying mammals like bats.

The ecologists aim to cover a region of up to 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the Rivers Tamar and Tavy, to include, therefore, parts of Cornwall and Devon — one of the most biologically diverse regions in the UK and Western Europe.

'This is an exciting opportunity for anyone to be involved with at the beginning of the 21st century —in a new value of feeling and shared responsibility for our cousin mammals who have the right of residence with us in our wonderful region,' said Dr Miles.

He can be contacted at [email protected]">[email protected] by phone or fax on 01822 833626, or mail at Primrose Cottage, St Ann's Chapel, Cornwall.