Cornish Biodiversity Network  -  Supporting Wildlife Recording

Recorder Support

ERICA for Windows

VC Recorders are entitled to a free copy of the ERICA for Windows database.

Other recorders will be charged a nominal sum, at the discretion of the Steering Group.

To find out more about the ERICA for Windows database and how to obtain a copy E-mail

Small grant funds

The CBN Steering Group will administer funds to support biological recording in Cornwall.

It is also intended that funds will be set aside for VC Recorders and taxonomic specialists specifically for data verification.

The distribution of funds will be made at the end of each calendar year.

External Funding Sources

Alexanda Recorders Fund

This fund aims to support recording, conservation research and public awareness projects that will sustain, enhance, restore and recreate sites of ecological value in Cornwall to ensure sustainable, wildlife-rich ecosystems on land, in fresh water and on and around the coast. Studies may concern species which play a part in the wider picture by supporting - or damaging - other species.

The fund makes monies available to individuals and small wildlife conservation volunteer groups or charities that will make their research and wildlife records available to the wider wildlife conservation sector. Monies from the fund will be granted for wildlife recording activity or wildlife conservation research and for projects that raise public awareness. When the study has been completed the Alexanda Recorders Fund would like to receive a report of the work undertaken and findings.

Small grants scheme for individuals (typical grant up to £100)

Available to: Post graduate students and volunteer wildlife recorders who will make their research or records available to larger wildlife or geology organisations.

What will be funded: Small personal expenses such as travel expenses, small tools and equipment e.g. identification guides, maps, hand lenses.

Grants scheme for small wildlife conservation groups (typical grant up to £250)

Available to: Small wildlife conservation volunteer groups and small charities with a turnover of less than £5,000 who will make their research or records available to larger wildlife organisations and/or the general public.

What will be funded: essential small tools and equipment for group use, the production of publications that will raise public awareness.

Details here

Sea-Changers Grant

If you are planning a marine conservation project you may be eligible to apply for a grant from Sea-Changers. They give a number of small grants (generally under £1,000) and tend to support grass roots and community based projects. The projects funded all fall within one of the following marine conservation areas: Marine Reserves/Protected Marine Areas, Direct Marine Clean-Up Action, Education, Campaigning and Awareness, Species Protection and Research. Details here

Postcode Lottery Funding

The People's Postcode Lottery Fund supports projects that improve local ecology and habitats, encourage biodiversity and benefit the wider environment (no awareness raising on its own). Projects must have a clear scope, be innovative and MUST demonstrate a sustainable impact beyond the funding term. The PPL can fund between £500 to £20,000 depending on project but also on the type of applicant.

Details here


Cornish Ramping-fumitory (Fumaria occidentalis). An endemic species only found in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs).


The Cornish Biodiversity Network is pleased to acknowledge support from: