This February saw the days gradually grow longer, and the weather less rough, much to the appreciation of the ONWP trappers. We were able to resume intensive checks on key coastal trapping routes, along with in-depth dog searches, due to calmer weather making access less risky.
Stoat removals last month were somewhat higher in South-West Mainland, at an increase of 9 compared to last February, and slightly higher in North-West Mainland. This is due to changes in our trapping strategy, which have allowed us to more effectively target priority stoat habitats. However, we again caught fewer stoats in East Mainland, Burray, and South Ronaldsay, reflecting the breadth and depth of our success in that part of Orkney.
All told, our team removed 79 stoats from Orkney in February, through 12,668 trap checks. This marks an increase of 10 removals since February 2025.
Despite the significant reduction in the invasive stoat population so far, it is great to see an increase in stoat sightings from the public compared to last year. Reported sightings are vital to help us find and track the movement of stoats in Orkney. Now more than ever, as we target priority areas across the Mainland and Linked Isles, any increase in reports – no matter how small – is incredibly helpful.
As always, thank you all for your support. Each sighting submitted, acre of access given or volunteer hour completed makes a huge difference to our native wildlife.
