In November 2025 we removed 151 stoats from Orkney, 39 fewer than we did the same month last year.
This lower catch rate indicates that the overall stoat population on Orkney is declining, demonstrating that our mothodology is having a sustained and positive impact.
Most of our stoats were caught in West Mainland. Notably in east mainland and the Linked Isles our stoat catch was greatly reduced when compared to last year. As you will be well aware we have been trailing the mop up phase of the project in this area to remove the last stoats. This data yet again confims that this methodology appears to be working!
We’re excited to share that we’ve now caught our 8,000th stoat, a huge milestone for the project! Hitting this number shows just how much progress has been made thanks to the hard work of our staff, volunteers, and supporters across Orkney. Every stoat removed reduces pressure on our native wildlife, and this achievement is another clear step toward a stoat free Orkney.
We’re Recruiting New Volunteers for 2026 — Could You Join the Team?
As we head into the new year, the Orkney Native Wildlife Project is gearing up for another busy season — and we’re looking for passionate people to join us! We’re excited to announce two volunteering opportunities: local Rapid Response Volunteers starting in early 2026 and Residential Volunteers joining us from March to September 2026.
Rapid Response Volunteers – Become Part of a Countywide Network
Stoat eradication in Orkney relies on swift action. When a sighting is reported, we need trained volunteers who can respond quickly alongside our trap team. That’s where you come in.
We’re building a network of local Rapid Response Volunteers across Orkney who can step in when needed. You won’t be on call all the time, in fact, we understand that everyone has busy lives. But by having a broad network of trained people, we can ensure we always have enough hands available when a sighting occurs.
You’ll receive full training and occasional team days, and depending on your skills and interests, there may also be chances to help with regular trap checks, reviewing trail camera footage, and other project tasks.
This role is ideal for anyone who wants to make a meaningful impact on Orkney’s wildlife, while staying rooted in their own community.
Apply Here!
Residential Volunteers – Live, Work, and Learn With Us
From March to September 2026, we’ll also be welcoming a new cohort of Residential Volunteers like Lucy and Lizzie (photographed above). This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to gain hands-on conservation experience, work alongside experts, and spend months immersed in Orkney’s wild landscapes.
As a residential volunteer, your work will include practical conservation tasks such as trap operations, collecting equipment from our office, and assisting with surveillance, workshops, events, and trail camera reviews.
You’ll need to be comfortable navigating rugged terrain in all weather, carrying equipment, using basic IT systems, and working as part of a small team. In return, you’ll gain skills, confidence, and real-world conservation experience that will stay with you for life.
Why Volunteer With Us?
Whether you join locally or as a residential volunteer, you’ll be:
Helping protect Orkney’s native wildlife at a critical moment
Gaining hands-on experience in invasive species management
Learning from staff and volunteers with deep field expertise
Making a genuine difference as part of the largest stoat eradication project in the world
Most importantly, you’ll be contributing to a healthier, more resilient environment for Orkney’s iconic species, now and for the future.
Apply Here!
