RAVON’s aim is to increase the number of sustainable populations of amphibians, reptiles and fish in the Netherlands via accumulated knowledge. This includes the conservation and restoration of its habitats.

We are the largest research and knowledge centre concerning the conservation and research of reptiles, amphibians and fish in the Netherlands. The data collected in the national database by the volunteers provides the basis for advice and practical directives. RAVON co-ordinates and stimulates the volunteers’ work that contribute to the database and knowledge. The results of the complex field studies is have been made visible in a new distribution atlas of Dutch amphibians and reptiles (2009), based on more than 450.000 records. Work is also being put into more precise mapping of the distribution of freshwater fish species and into research of fish.

The employees of RAVON initiate and carry out research for a great diversity of clients such as local and civil authorities, land managers and owners, water boards, and consultancies. RAVON co-ordinates national and provincial conservation plans, such as species-specific conservation plans for the common tree frog, common spadefoot, yellow-bellied toad and midwife toad. In addition, RAVON informs the public, produces educational material and runs field courses. Our helpdesk answers a wide range of everyday questions.