Call for Drivers to Participate in Insect Counting Survey
Drivers throughout south-east England are being invited to participate in a nature survey by counting the number of insects that collide with their vehicles. The initiative, known as Bugs Matter, is coordinated by the charities Kent Wildlife Trust and Buglife.
The survey is scheduled to commence on Wednesday and will run until 30 September. The primary aim is to gather data to better understand the health and population trends of flying insects, which play a vital role in the ecosystem.
Encouragement to Residents of Kent, Surrey, and Sussex
Andrew Whitehouse, head of operations at Buglife, expressed strong encouragement for residents of Kent, Surrey, and Sussex to take part, noting that these counties are located within one of the UK's richest regions for insect diversity.
"I strongly encouraged people living in Kent, Surrey and Sussex to participate as the counties sit within one of the UK's richest regions for the variety of insects."
Survey Method and Findings
The Bugs Matter survey involves members of the public counting insect splats on their vehicle number plates after each journey. According to Kent Wildlife Trust, data collected between 2021 and 2025 has already revealed a significant 59% decline in flying insect numbers.
Expansion of the Survey to France
Rosie Bleet, ecological evidence and citizen science lead at Kent Wildlife Trust, highlighted that the survey has been extended to include France.
"The expansion of Bugs Matter is hugely exciting. Given Kent's position as the gateway between Britain and the continent, it feels like a natural next step,"
"Extending our survey season and location means a better range of data, which will provide further insights into the plight of our insects."
Importance of Insects in the Ecosystem
Andrew Whitehouse emphasized the critical ecological functions insects perform, including pollinating crops, controlling pest populations, decomposing waste, and recycling nutrients.
"Without insects, the planet's ecological systems would collapse,"
He also noted that insects are essential components of the food chain, supporting birds, small mammals, fish, and other wildlife.
Contact and Social Media
For more information or to share story ideas, the public can follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or contact via email at southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp at 08081 002250.
