Discover, Record & Celebrate the Natural World
Every landscape, habitat and species have a story to tell. The Eclectic Ecologist helps people discover the remarkable fungi, plants and animals around them and explains the vital role that biological recording plays in protecting the natural world.
Whether you are a professional ecologist, an aspiring naturalist, a student or someone who enjoys spending time outdoors this website offers practical support and resources. You’ll find species identification tools and ecology-based learning aids, to help you build your knowledge and confidence.
Drawing upon many years of field-based ecological experience, Steve Docker - The Eclectic Ecologist combines a genuine passion for nature with a scientific approach, encouraging people of all abilities to observe, record and appreciate the natural world.
Sharing knowledge and promoting best practice is at the heart of this website in order to foster a deeper understanding of biodiversity, and encourage the conservation of the habitats and species that comprise our extraordinary natural world.
What are biological records and why are they important?
A biological record confirms that an organism (species) occurred in a particular place at a specific time. Every record forms part of a crucial dataset that helps us to understand biological diversity (biodiversity) and the changing state of nature. Effective conservation depends upon the solid evidence provided by biological records.