RAVON is the research and knowledge organisation concerning/regarding amphibians, reptiles and fish in The Netherlands. An important basis for advice and practical directives are the data as collected by the volunteers. The volunteers’ work, i.e. preservation of species, ecological research and surveying and monitoring, is co-ordinated and stimulated by RAVON.
The results of the elaborate field studies will shortly be made visible in a new dispersion atlas of Dutch amphibians and reptiles. Also, work is being put into more precise mapping of the dispersion of freshwater fish, and into stimulating research of fish.
From the employers’ organisation of RAVON (the office), research is being carried out for a great diversity of clients, among whom local and civil authorities, land/terrain managers, water boards, and consultancies. RAVON co-ordinates national and provincial conservation plans, such as species-specific conservation plans for common tree frog, common spadefoot, yellow-bellied toad and midwife toad. In addition, RAVON produces educational materials and runs practically-orientated courses.
Contributors of RAVON receive the national magazine ‘RAVON’. Each year activities are organised for contributors, such as several days’ field trips (weekend of Ascension Day and fish weekend) and symposiums. Through these and other activities RAVON expresses one of its most important aims: to contribute, via accumulated knowledge, to durably conserving of Dutch amphibians, reptiles and fish. RAVON volunteers meet through provincial branches and nationally operating working groups.