The Mammal Society is a United Kingdom‑based charitable organization dedicated to the study, conservation, and public appreciation of mammals. Established in 1919, the Society functions as a focal point for professional and amateur mammalogists, providing resources, research support, and advocacy for mammal welfare and habitat preservation.
History
- Founding: The Society was formed in the aftermath of World War I, originally under the name "Mammal Survey Group," to coordinate nationwide efforts in documenting British mammals.
- Development: Over subsequent decades, it expanded its remit to include conservation initiatives, publishing, and educational outreach. It obtained charitable status, enabling it to receive tax‑exempt donations and grants.
Mission and Objectives
The Society’s stated aims are to:
- Promote scientific research on mammals in the UK and adjacent regions.
- Encourage the recording and monitoring of mammal populations.
- Influence policy and legislation concerning mammal protection.
- Provide education and public engagement to increase awareness of mammalian diversity.
Activities and Programs
- Mammal Mapping and Monitoring: The Society coordinates nationwide recording schemes, such as the Mammal Atlas and the National Mammal Survey, which compile distribution data contributed by volunteers and professionals.
- Research Funding: Grants and bursaries are awarded to support studies on mammal ecology, genetics, and conservation.
- Publications: The Society publishes Mammal Review, a peer‑reviewed scientific journal, and a range of field guides, technical reports, and newsletters aimed at both specialists and lay audiences.
- Conservation Campaigns: It actively participates in habitat restoration projects, species re‑introduction efforts, and campaigns against threats such as road mortality and habitat fragmentation.
- Education and Outreach: Workshops, lectures, school programs, and citizen‑science initiatives are organized to foster public involvement in mammal monitoring and stewardship.
Governance and Membership
The Society is governed by a Board of Trustees elected from its membership, which includes individual members, institutional affiliates, and corporate sponsors. Membership categories range from standard individual subscriptions to student and life memberships, each providing access to publications, events, and data portals.
Collaborations
It collaborates with governmental bodies (e.g., Natural England, the Scottish Natural Heritage), other wildlife charities, academic institutions, and international mammalogy organizations to align conservation strategies and share data.
Impact
Through its long‑standing data collection programmes, the Society has contributed significantly to the understanding of species’ range changes, population trends, and the effects of climate change on British mammals. Its advocacy has informed legislation such as the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations and has supported the designation of protected areas.
Location
The Society’s headquarters are located in London, United Kingdom, with administrative offices supporting its national and regional activities.
Funding
Revenue is derived from membership subscriptions, charitable donations, research grants, and sales of publications.
Key Publications
- Mammal Review (quarterly scientific journal)
- The Mammal Atlas (periodic national distribution maps)
- Field guides on British bats, rodents, and larger mammals
Future Directions
The Mammal Society continues to emphasize the integration of emerging technologies (e.g., environmental DNA, remote sensing) into monitoring programmes and aims to broaden participation in citizen‑science initiatives to enhance data coverage across the UK.