On a snowy November lunchtime, in icy air, colleagues from across the University joined the Sustainability team at Kings Gate stairs for a tour of the trees. Despite the unfavourable conditions the group remained undeterred, donning layers to shield the cold and a particularly brilliant array of hats. Once participants had a chance to download the iNaturalist app and join the Newcastle University Campus Biodiversity Network, we were off!
Our loop around campus took us past the Arches, Quadrangle, entrance to the Courtyard Cafe, Claremont Quad and across Claremont Road into Drummond Quad before returning to Kings Gate. If you want to check out some of these Green Spaces have a look at our Sustainable Campus Map!
In total 39 new observations were recorded on our Campus Project Page across the Winter Wander. This comprised of 32 different species: 1 bird, 1 insect, 2 fungi, and 28 different plants (of course plenty of trees).
Here are some highlights (top 3 trees and 2 special mentions):
1. Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica)
Arguably one of the most iconic trees on campus, it’s the weeping willow that sways over the Fine Art entrance beside the Arches.
Captured on campus by iNaturalist user smah1Reference image from iNaturalist website
2. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Also known as the “maidenhair tree” it is found in the Quadrangle. Native to East-Asia it was historically known as “silver fruit” or “white fruit” in Chinese. Due to a centuries old transcription error, it got the name “Gingko”.
Captured on campus by iNaturalist user steph50665 Reference image from iNaturalist website
3. Common Yew (Taxus baccata)
This festive looking tree, adorned with striking red berries is not to be messed with. This old-world species of evergreen tree is completely poisonous, apart from the red flesh of the berries (although the seed inside is).
Captured on campus by iNaturalist user olivia_______ Reference image from iNaturalist website
4. Jelly Ear Fungi (Auricularia auricula-judae)
These gelatinous looking fungi were spotted on a branch in the Quadrangle.
Captured on campus by iNaturalist user carys2030Reference image from iNaturalist website
5. Dunnock (Prunella Modularis)– carys2030
Photographing any bird is tricky! But one walker managed to snap a photo of this little Dunnock hiding out under the bench outside the Old Library.
Captured on campus by iNaturalist user carys2030 Reference image from iNaturalist website
Thank you to all who joined us and contributed to the observations, laughs and impromptu litter pick! We look forward to seeing more iNaturalist spots over the Winter months.
Over the last week in October, the Sustainability Team had the joy of joining the Great North Museum for Hibernation Half-Term.
Throughout the vast Living Planet Gallery were a collection of stations for visiting kids and accompanying adults. Each had a unique offer, whether it was making a paper bat puppet, stroking (gently) a taxidermy hedgehog, or hearing about hibernating species on university campus, there was plenty to learn.
The Sustainability team stall focused on sharing about our on-campus hibernators. The main two being:
Common and Soprano Pipistrelle bats (November – March)
Hedgehogs (October – March)
The stall featured photos of hibernation locations, such as the 2 large-scale bat barns and nearly 50 bat boxes across the city centre campus. And various instruments and aids used to help monitor these species, such as charcoal powder, plastic containers and one of the five hedgehog tunnels.
The most popular item on the table was the genuine hedgehog footprints. These were taken from the city campus hedgehog surveys carried out in June. More information about biodiversity on campus can be found on our Biodiversity webpage.
As of June 2025, Newcastle University has officially defined the City Campus geoboundary on iNaturalist. This means that any wildlife observations recorded within this area will automatically be grouped under the Newcastle University City Campus project. It’s an important step in helping us better understand the biodiversity across our campus.
Here’s a quick guide to what iNaturalist is, how to get involved, and why these observations matter.
What is iNaturalist?
iNaturalist is a platform used to record and share sightings of wildlife, from foxes and birds to flowers and fungi. Whether you’re an experienced naturalist or just someone who noticed an interesting insect in your garden, the app makes it easy to upload a photo, identify what you saw, and contribute to a growing global biodiversity database.
At Newcastle University, we’re encouraging colleagues, students and visitors to use the iNaturalist Classic app (or the website) to help us document the organisms on our campus. Over time, this data will give us a better sense of which species are thriving and which may need protection.
Image: A map of campus observations so far. Blue pins are bird, red pins are insects, green pins are plants, and pink pins are fungi (Source: iNaturalist 2025).
Making an observation
An observation records an encounter with an organism in a particular time and location. Observations can be uploaded via the mobile app or the webpage.
Making an Observation with the App
Making an Observation with the Website
1. Open the iNaturalist Classic app and tap “Observe.” 2. Add one or more photos or sounds as evidence. 3. Choose what you saw – either from suggested species or by searching. If you are unsure, you can keep the label as simple as “plant” or “insect.” 4. The date and location should be added automatically. If not, check your device’s location and privacy settings. 5. Does the plant look like it was planted by a human? If yes, mark the finding as ‘captive/cultivated’ 6. Tap “Save”, then “Upload” to share your observation. 7. Once uploaded, others in the iNaturalist community can help refine the identification.
1. Log in at iNaturalist and click the green “Upload” button in the header. 2. Drag in one or more photos or use the “Add” button to manually create observation cards. 3. Choose what you saw from suggestions or by searching. If unsure, leave it blank or use a broad category. 4. Use the calendar to record when the observation was made. 5. Enter a location and adjust the map marker and accuracy circle as needed. 6. Does the plant look like it was planted by a human? If yes, mark the finding as ‘captive/cultivated’ 7. Once all details are added, click “Submit.”
iNaturalist have shared a slideshow that contains helpful tips about how to make a good observation. The key principles are:
Take clear, close-up photos
Focus on wild organisms
Document the location
Add an identification
Image: How to upload an observation on the iNaturalist website (Source: iNaturalist, 2025).
Why are observations important?
iNaturalist helps individuals who may not otherwise have the knowledge to identify the biodiversity found around them, it also generates data for scientists and conservationists to help them protect nature.
Newcastle University is currently establishing its biodiversity baseline, we will monitor and measure the data submitted on iNaturalist within our project, as this data set will contribute toward our understanding of biodiversity that is present on our campus. You can find out more about our biodiversity related work on the Sustainable Campus website.
Here are some of our favourite observations of species that were found and submitted on campus over the past few weeks!
If you would like to find out more about other biodiversity initiatives on campus, check out our webpage. For any queries about iNaturalist or sustainability in general, please email us at sustainable-campus@newcasle.ac.uk.
To celebrate the start of spring and the launch of our new Sustainable Campus Map, we’re highlighting the best green spaces on campus. Our interactive map showcases sustainability hotspots across Newcastle University, from research hubs and renewable energy centres to green roofs and sustainable food spots.
At Newcastle University, we are fortunate to have a city campus rich in green spaces – from flower patches to tree clusters, to our perfectly preserved lawns. Besides their environmental benefits, these spaces are proven to enhance well-being and health! Whether you’re enjoying a wellbeing walk, catching up with friends, or simply taking a peaceful moment to yourself, our green spaces offer a refreshing escape in the heart of the city.
Read on to discover our top five campus green spaces, captured in stunning springtime images.
1. Philip Robinson Library Grass
As you exit the Philip Robinson library and turn left, you’ll find a luscious patch of grass – a popular spot among students. When the weather gets warmer make sure to grab a library picnic blanket and soak up the rays. Conveniently located next to a wildflower patch, the Library Grass is a must-visit in warmer months!
2. The Old Quadrangle
Nestled between the Armstrong and Architecture Building, you’ll find a shaded sanctuary. The central location and dispersed benches make the Old Quad a great place to rest and decompress between lecture or meetings.
3. Claremont Lawn
The Claremont Lawn is adjacent to Claremont Road, Merz Court and the Old Library Building. From towering trees to blooming daffodils, the recent sunshine has certainly brought the landscape to life. This tranquil space is the ideal spot for an afternoon book read or meditation session.
4. Drummond Quad
Between Kensington Terrace Accommodation and the Drummond Building lies an oasis of trees, bushes and flower patches, also known as the Drummond Quad. At 1900 metres squared, Drummond Quad is the largest green space on campus! Designated birdboxes attract magpies and blackbirds, and further exploration will lead you to the pond and hidden hedgehog house. Around the pond you are sure to find snowdrops, tulips and daffodils.
5. Bonus Green Spaces
Apart from beautiful lawns, we are also proud of our campus green roofs, found on both buildings and bin stores. While these may not be available for picnics, they are a great example of how increased biodiversity can be incorporated on city campuses.
Some benefits of green roofs include:
Intercepting water and preventing flooding
Capturing carbon and improving air quality
Supporting wildlife
Preventing roofs from over-heating
Currently three campus bin stores have grassy roofs, and the Urban Sciences Building has a spacious green roof over the Atrium.
A big thank you to the Grounds Team, who work their hardest to keep our campus vibrant all year round. Check out our brand-new Sustainability Campus Map for a better idea of where green spaces are on campus. See the Biodiversity page to find out more about what we are doing at Sustainable Campus to protect nature. If you have any queries about green spaces or sustainability in general, do not hesitate to email us at sustainable-campus@ncl.ac.uk
Nature Positive is a term that refers to the reversing of nature loss and encourages ecosystem recovery. The Nature Positive Universities network is comprised of over 500 higher educational institutions worldwide who have all committed to protecting biodiversity by signing the Nature Positive Pledge. The network was jointly founded by the University of Oxford and the UN Environment Programme in December 2022. If you’re interested in finding out more about Nature Positive and how as a student you can get involved, keep reading!
Image: The aim of the Nature Positive Universities group; reversing the biodiversity loss curve. Credit: Nature Positive Universities.
What is the student ambassador programme?
If you are a student and interested in the Nature Positive ethos, check out the Student Ambassador Programme. Every year, Nature Positive Universities welcome students to apply for this program, giving them the opportunity to play a part in #GenerationRestoration while collaborating with students from other universities on a global scale.
The programme is an exciting blend of practical and collaborative activities, with no two days being the same!
Some benefits you will gain upon joining the programme:
Experience volunteering with mentors at University of Oxford
A chance to make a difference on our campus
Networking with a global community of environmental activists
Resources and training to help you organise events and activities
A certificate documenting your role
A chance to exercise your personal skills such as social media, communications, design, organising events, translation and biological identification and survey techniques
Image: Nature Positive student ambassadors volunteering in a field. Credit: Nature Positive Universities.
How can I apply?
Applying for the programme only takes 10 minutes and could seriously boost your CV, if you are interested in working within the environmental or urban planning sector.
Sign-ups for the 2024/2025 Nature Positive Student Ambassador Programme are currently open and the deadline to apply is the 10th November 2024.
To find out more on what the sustainable campus team are doing to fulfil the Nature Positive Pledge, check out our blog post on Biodiversity Net Gain, or visit the Biodiversity page on our website!
Biodiversity is a complex term with a range of definitions and contestations and a powerful reach across environmental work, legislation, and popular culture (Callaway, 2020). Understandings of the concept include the variety of different species in an ecosystem, the nature and intensity of their interactions, and the roles each species plays. These understandings are complex because biodiversity is complex (a fuller guide and definition can be found in our introduction blog here). However, across these definitions a key takeaway is biodiversity’s central importance to the health of both ourselves and the environment (Perrings, 2014; Bonneuil and Fressoz, 2016). Due to this, preserving biodiversity is crucial to supporting ourselves and the natural world and a recent approach to achieving this is biodiversity net gain.
Image: The sunshades of the University’s Ridley 2 Building shield teaching spaces amongst the greenery of Lover’s Lane. Credit: Chris Bishop.
What is Biodiversity Net Gain?
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a policy approach that was adopted by the government in 2021 and came into force in February this year. Unlike previous legislation, this approach stipulates that development projects must create an increase or improvement of biodiversity, rather than just preventing a loss. Therefore, if executed well, this legally-binding process could lead to an ever-expanding spread of biodiversity across our cities. There’s plenty of work involved in achieving these improvements in a meaningful way, however (Bull and Brownlie, 2017).
Following BNG, the first step for any development project is to establish a record, or baseline, of how many biodiverse habitats there are on the relevant site(s). This method, focussing on habitats, is just one approach to baselining and we’re working to gather this data alongside other baselining efforts we’re making to meet the University’s Nature Positive Pledge. There are Lots of things to consider when measuring this data as, when it comes to biodiversity, human impacts and ecosystem complexity make it hard to measure everything (Allard et al., 2023). Consequently, to get as informed an idea as possible of the ecosystems on our estates, we’re focussing not only on the presence of habitats, but also on factors including the campus’s physical context in the city and the types of species that need extra support in our urban environment.
Collaborations with institutions including the City Council, Northumbria University, North East Ambulance service, and the Newcastle NHS Trust have proven important in this process. An example of the power of these partnerships is the Newcastle Biodiversity Group (of which all the above are part), which has helped to join up biodiversity efforts including mapping species migration and habitat corridors across the city. This work has led to the planning of a series of green infrastructure opportunity areas and biodiversity enhancement corridors across the city – and our campus is part of both.
This work is important as, when we then look to improve our estate and add new facilities, such as our cutting-edge Stephenson Building refurb or the sector-leading Health Innovation Neighbourhood, we have an informed view of how best to deliver BNG on these developments. Drawing on expertise from across the region, we can link our efforts to work such as the Newcastle and north Tyneside Biodiversity Action Plan, and, through this, ensure the maximum possible gain in habitat quality, while meeting the legislative requirements of BNG.
Image: The University’s ‘bat house’ shelter for roosts of local Pipistrelle bats. The shelter is pictured under the shade of a nearby tree at the Park View Student Village. Credit: Charlotte Robson.
A huge thank you to my colleague Charlotte for her help with this blog and all the amazing work she does on biodiversity. While we don’t yet have any case-studies of BNG being implemented on campus, we’re always working hard to help improve biodiversity on our estates. You can read about the special care taken to preserve trees as part of our recent Stephenson Building refurbishment here, or learn more about our biodiversity work on our website and our other blog posts.
References
Allard, A., Carina, H., Keskital, E., and Brown, A. (2023) Monitoring Biodiversity: Combining Environmental and Social Data. Taylor and Francis International Publishing.
Bonneuil, C., Fressoz, J-B. (2016) The Shock of the Anthropocene: The Earth, History and Us. Fernbach, D. (translator). 1st edition. New York, N.Y.: Verso Books.
Bull, J.W., and Brownlie, S. (2017) ‘The transition from No Net Loss to a Net Gain of biodiversity is far from trivial’, Oryx. 51 (1). pp. 53–59.
Callaway, E. (2020). Eden’s Endemics: Narratives of Biodiversity on Earth and Beyond. Charlottesville, V.A.: University of Virginia Press.
Perrings, C. (2014) Our Uncommon Heritage: Biodiversity Change, Ecosystem Services, and Human Wellbeing. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
This week is national Hedgehog Awareness Week – a celebration of the role these wonderful animals play in our endemic ecosystems, and a call to action to help protect them from the threats they face. According to the Mammal Society, the Western European Hedgehog has been vulnerable to extinction in Britain since 2020. The species’ continual decline in Britain has been suffered despite its numbers remaining stable in much of the rest of Europe. So, what can we, both as individuals and as a University, do to support hedgehogs at home and on campus to restore them to the healthiness of their European cousins?
Image: shade beneath the boughs of a tree on the edge of Claremont Quad. Credit: John Donoghue.
The challenges
Hedgehog numbers in rural areas have been dropping for many years and, according to the State of Britain’s Hedgehogs 2022 report, have declined by 30-75% since 2000, depending on the area of the UK. Population decline in urban areas is slower – likely aided by awareness raising campaigns by organisations such as the People’s Trust for Endangered Species and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS), but hedgehogs still face many challenges here, including:
Increasing traffic volume making streets more perilous,
Habitat loss and fragmentation as hedges and verges are lost or overly mown and gardens are cut off from one another by fences with no paths through,
Disruptions to Autumn nest building due to garden clearing and bonfire night celebrations,
The continued use of garden pesticides and poisons.
How we can help
As part of our biodiversity remit, we in the Sustainability Team have been working to ensure that our campus is as friendly as possible to a variety of species, including hedgehogs, and we’ve been running awareness raising campaigns for several years now. Accordingly, the University’s Sustainable Construction Specification stipulates that all new projects must create a biodiversity net gain and our colleagues in the Grounds Team work hard all year round to create quality green spaces across our campus. In addition to this, we’ve collaborated with the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences to host a number of fundraising events for hedgehog conservation which have raised hundreds of pounds!
Hedgehogs don’t need too much to thrive in our urban environments and even minor interventions made by individuals in their gardens or allotments can make a big difference in improving and expanding habitats. The Hedgehog Street campaign recommends a range of actions you can take to support your local hedgehog populations, including:
Creating small holes in garden fences to safely connect gardens,
Leaving a corner of your garden or allotment wild and undisturbed to provide hiding places,
Clearing away any old gardening netting and litter from green spaces,
Avoiding chemicals (such as pesticides, poisons, and weedkillers),
Becoming a Hedgehog champion through Hedgehog Street.
More ideas can be found here and you can also learn how to build a Hedgehog house with this guide by the Woodland Trust. If you find a hedgehog that is in distress or may have been orphaned, please contact the BHPS who can provide guidance and a list of independent hedgehog rescue centres across the UK.
Image: a person sits on a bench amid the sun dappled greenery of Claremont Quad. Credit: Chris Bishop.
Thank you for reading and taking the time to consider biodiversity in our urban environment! If you’re lucky enough to have a garden or allotment please do consider how you can make it more friendly for a variety of plant and animal species. Plus, if you’re interested in learning more about biodiversity on campus and beyond, have a look at our website and our blogs on biodiversity, bees, the UN Biodiversity Conference, and sustainable agriculture!
