The Guernsey Nature Commission is pleased to announce that Guernsey’s Biological Records Centre (GBRC) is now fully operational at its new home, under the Nature Commission’s management on behalf of the States of Guernsey.

The GBRC is the island’s main centre for collating and sharing information about the wildlife and natural environment of Guernsey, Herm, Sark, and associated territorial waters. It brings together records from individuals, community groups, and organisations to build a clear picture of the island’s biodiversity: from birds and wildflowers to marine species and habitats.

By collecting and analysing this information, the GBRC supports research, conservation, and environmental decision-making. The data it holds helps ensure that Guernsey’s land, marine, and freshwater environments are managed using accurate, up-to-date evidence.

The reopening of the GBRC marks an important step in improving how the island records and protects its natural environment.

Jamie Hooper, managing Director at Environment Guernsey Ltd said “'The GBRC was originally established by the late Charles David in 2002. Charles was the island's leading entomologist and created the centre in order to collate and share data on the island's natural history. With the support of the States of Guernsey, Environment Guernsey Ltd ran the centre for over 20 years before handing the operation over to the Nature Commission. After a hiatus of a couple of years, we are delighted the centre is now ready for a relaunch and look forward to working with the new team.”

A Brief History of the GBRC

The GBRC was officially established as a partnership between the States of Guernsey and La Société Guernesiaise in 2003. It has been housed at several locations, including the Old Tobacco Factory, Raymond Falla House, the Tourist Information Centre, and now at Lisia House with the Nature Commission. The GBRC launched Guernsey’s first BioBlitz in 2019, an event that continues under the administration of the Nature Commission. The Nature Commission took on management and operation of the GBRC in partnership with the States of Guernsey in 2025.

How to Get Involved!

The GBRC is a resource for everyone: from experienced naturalists and environmental professionals to students, researchers, and members of the public with an interest in Guernsey’s wildlife. People can contribute by submitting their wildlife sightings through iRecord or iNaturalist, where records are shared with the GBRC. These observations help build a more detailed and reliable picture of local nature.

Organisations, research projects, and survey groups with larger datasets can also share their information directly with the GBRC. This ensures that valuable data from across the island is stored safely, checked, and made available to support conservation work, planning, and research.

The GBRC works closely with similar organizations across the Channel Islands, specifically the Alderney Biodiversity Centre, Jersey Biodiversity Centre, and La Société Sercquaise.

The Nature Commission provides training sessions, talks, and citizen science projects to help people learn more about Guernsey’s wildlife and develop skills in recording species.

Whether you are an experienced recorder or just starting to explore the island’s nature, the GBRC welcomes your involvement.

For more information, please visit www.gbrc.org.gg or contact office@naturecommission.gg