RAVON collects distribution data of reptiles, amphibians and fish in the Netherlands. Our main sources of information are records collected by volunteers and research by staff members. These data are collected according to default methods for distribution research. The RAVON database also contains data which have been collected through the standard amphibians and reptiles monitoring methods and through data exchanges with other organisations. All data are checked for reliability before being recorded in the database. New applications for distribution data are being developed, and methods to guarantee quality are implemented in collaboration with other data- collecting organisations and with the National Authority for Data concerning Nature (GaN), an initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV).

The RAVON Foundation keeps a national database, storing observational data of reptiles, amphibians and fish (2009 > 800.000 records). This database is used for making distribution maps, analyses and national and regional atlases. Furthermore, this knowledge allows us to provide specific advice regarding design and management of not only conservation sites, but urban and rural areas as well. Over the years the database has been consulted hundreds of times on matters of management, environmental planning and education.

We welcome all observations of reptiles, amphibians and fish, both rare and common species! If you wish to add to the knowledge of distribution of reptiles, amphibians and fish in the Netherlands, you may do so by visiting our sites www.telmee.nl or www.flora-and-fauna.eu.