One in four UK mammals are threatened with extinction.

The British Isles and Ireland are home to many species of mammal, from the common shrew to grey seal. We work toward a future where populations thrive as part of healthy and diverse ecosystems benefiting people and nature.

Credits: Alex Montacute

Current research View all

Current research
National Polecat Survey
National Polecat Survey

Polecats were once a common and widespread native mammal present across the British Isles. Vincent Wildlife Trust has monitored its recovery since the 1990s using National Surveys that rely on the public to submit records of polecat signs and sightings. Science-led

Searching for Shrews
Searching for Shrews

The greater white-toothed Shrew (GWTS) has now been identified in Sunderland and is known to be an invasive species in Ireland, at the detriment of the pygmy shrew (a native species in the British Isles). Science-led

The Red Squirrel Acoustic Monitoring Project
The Red Squirrel Acoustic Monitoring Project

Partnering with the University of Bristol, nonprofit tech startup Rainforest Connection, and Huawei Technologies for a ground-breaking project aiming to protect red squirrels through collecting bio-acoustic data. Science-led

National Harvest Mouse Survey
National Harvest Mouse Survey

Our 2018 Review of the Conservation and Population Status of British Mammals found that information on harvest mice in Britain is poor and we need more data to better understand how our smallest rodent is doing. Science-led

Discover British mammal species

With approximately 90 species spanning across land, air, and sea, there are many fascinating creatures to learn about. From iconic land-dwellers like red foxes and badgers to majestic marine mammals like seals and dolphins, the British Isles are home to a rich tapestry of mammals.

Credits: Shane Stanbridge

News and stories View all

Blog
Summer Events and Engagement
Summer Events and Engagement

It’s been a whirlwind of activity with school visits and engagement events this summer! Read on for updates from Education and Training Officer Fiona on what she’s been up to. 5 Minute Read.

A Weekend of Pellets and Poo – Festival of Nature 2024
A Weekend of Pellets and Poo – Festival of Nature 2024

Mammal Society has been busy attending various events over the summer. Hear from Robson about volunteering with us at Festival of Nature. 5 Min Read

Local Groups Forum recap: Invasive and non-native species
Local Groups Forum recap: Invasive and non-native species

May saw the kick-off of our first Local Groups Forum during Invasive and Non-Native Species Week (INNS), attended by a wide range of counties across the UK including Wiltshire, North East Scotland, Cornwall, Devon, Sussex, Ceredigion, Staffordshire, Somerset, and Perthshire. 5 Min Read

Guidance for conversations with candidates this General Election 
Guidance for conversations with candidates this General Election 

Whether you attend a husting to hear what all parliamentary candidates for your area have to say, or find yourself in conversation with a canvassing party representative on your doorstep, here are some questions you can ask. 5 Min Read

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Discover British mammals

With approximately 90 species spanning across land, air, and sea — learn about each species.