Natural History Courses 2019 by field-studies-council

Natural Histor y COURSES 2019

In 1943 the Field Studies Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s founders gathered at the Natural History Museum to realise a vision to provide opportunities to study living plants and animals in their natural environment. The good news is that this is still the case and 75 proud years later we continue to provide opportunities to help everyone develop skills in interpreting the natural world. Introductory courses run alongside those offering advanced training in taxonomy and identification skills and our wide range of publications are widely enjoyed and highly regarded. Through our projects such as BioLinks and the Invertebrate Challenge, FSC widen the reach of these courses and resources to make significant contributions to biological recording efforts in the UK. We are keen to continue to provide high quality courses to schools, universities and education professionals and expand our support for biodiversity training in the future.

We are fortunate to work in partnership with many wonderful organisations: the Botanical Society for Britain and Ireland, the Mammal Society, Butterfly Conservation, the Dipterists Forum, the British Dragonfly Society and the Royal Entomological Society to name but a few. These, in addition to the accredited courses run in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), ensure we are continually relevant to todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recording community. Aided by excellent FSC publications, a network of associates and partners and continued successful project bids, we will build our shared passion to help people develop their knowledge of the natural world.

Our Courses Our wide range of courses cover all aspects of the natural world. Whatever your interest or previous experience, courses will be enjoyable and engaging, help improve your knowledge, and develop your field and identification skills. Courses are all led by skilled tutors with a genuine passion for their subject. Experts in their field have been sourced to teach many of our courses, particularly the more advanced levels. We will introduce you to a few of these tutors in this brochure and full descriptions of them all are on our website. FSC is a leading provider of professional training in the environment. To help identify suitable courses to develop your skills, courses are split by subject matter and graded according to the level of experience according to the level of experience required (Beginner, Open to all, Intermediate or Advanced). Full details can be found at the start of each section. The programme includes one-day opportunities alongside short residential courses of between two and seven days. If you are a resident with FSC, our Centres provide comfortable accommodation on-site and all your food, within the course fee. Front cover photo: Silver-studded Blue Butterfly Stephen Barlow

field-studies-council.org

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

“I thought FSC courses were quite expensive once - not now - what value for money! Food was great, very filling, friendly staff, and I learnt so much about the subject matter. Thanks to Roger and Stuart - so encouraging and supportive.”

Red Ca

mpio n-S ue T own send

Identifying Hoverflies at Preston Montford, 2018

“What an informative, entertaining and practical course this is and what a great tutor. Highly recommended and excellent value too.” (5 stars) Identifying Woodland Trees in Leaf at Epping Forest, 2018

4 Locations 6 Animals 7 Birds 10 Mammals 12 Butterflies and Moths 14 Aquatic Invertebrates 15 Bees and Other Pollinators 16 Soil Invertebrates 17 Spiders 17 Other Invertebrates 18 Reptiles and Amphibians 20 Plants 21 Flowering Plants 24 Trees 27 Grasses and Grass-like Plants 28 Aquatic Plants 29 Ferns 30 Mosses and Liverworts 31 Fungi 32 Lichens 33 Botany 34 Habitats and Conservation 35 Habitats and Conservation 37 NVC and Phase 1 38 Marine and Freshwater Habitats 40 Manchester Metropolitan University Courses 41 Bursaries and Professional Development 42 How to Make a Booking 42 Join Us 43 Index of Courses by Location

Exploring Nature and the Arts

You might be interested in our programme of walking, photography, painting and craft holidays. These creative breaks help you to use the stunning scenery and local wildlife around our centres to inspire your artwork or learn more about the natural world. Find out more www.field-studies-council. org/arts or request a brochure.

field-studies-council.org

Our Locations We have a fantastic network of Centres across the UK, all carefully selected for their surroundings and unique wildlife often found within easy reach. Many of our Centres are close to UK National Parks, Sites of Special Scientific Interest and rare flora and fauna.

Accommodation

Food and Drink

We want your stay to be as comfortable as possible. Residential Centres all provide simple, sole occupancy accommodation. Some rooms are ensuite, please check at the time of booking, but if not shower and toilet facilities are close by.

Food is important at FSC – from tasty cooked breakfasts to indulgent afternoon cakes – it’s something which our visitors always remember! Ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible and our kitchen teams create menus of fresh, seasonal and varied meals, catering for any dietary needs.

Centres are well equipped for courses with classroom and laboratory spaces and relevant equipment available.You can also enjoy cosy bars, comfy lounges, dining rooms and large gardens – ideal spaces to share any relaxation time with newfound friends. Our Centres also have free Wi-Fi available for visitors.

There are complimentary facilities for making hot and cold drinks available at all times. Some of our Centres also have bars for evening drinks, if not you are welcome to bring a bottle to enjoy in a quiet spot.

field-studies-council.org

Preston Montford Kindrogan

Millport

Bishops Wood

Our residential fee includes cooked breakfast, picnic lunch, evening meal and homemade cakes during your course.

Orielton

Flatford Mill

The price displayed in the brochure is for sole occupancy accommodation. You can choose to share a room or attend a course without using our accommodation. Please visit our website or contact the Centre for these prices.

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Marsh C inquefo il - Rob in Sutto n Mossy S axifrage - Robin

Sutton

FSC Natural History courses are available at the locations indicated by AM Amersham BW Bishops Wood BL Blencathra CH Castle Head DF Dale Fort DG Derrygonnelly EF Epping Forest FM Flatford Mill JH Juniper Hall KD Kindrogan LDN FSC offers courses at other locations in London MT Malham Tarn MA Margam MIL Millport NC Nettlecombe Court OR Orielton PM Preston Montford RC Rhyd-y-creuau SL Slapton Ley TM Tollymore

field-studies-council.org

Animals

Within this section you will find over 110 courses covering the animal kingdom from the large animals such as birds and mammals through to invertebrate groups – the smaller animals without backbones. All the courses listed are designed to improve your identification skills and understanding of animal lifestyles.You can appreciate both common and rare species so much more if you have a real grounding in how to observe them and what to look for. In many cases, we also highlight the impact of human activities on bird and other animal populations and share concerns about relevant conservation issues. We are pleased to offer a range of courses in partnership with the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), The Mammal Society, Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) and Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) to promote understanding and good practice.

Levels

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Beginner Introductory courses for those new or relatively new to the subject. Open to all Courses where tutors are able to support learners at all levels. Intermediate Courses aimed at those who want to know more about a subject which they are already familiar with. Advanced Courses for those wishing to hone their skills, which require some prior knowledge or skills in the subject area (though not necessarily the detailed subject matter).

Centres AM BW CH DF EF FM HO

The price displayed for residential courses is for sole occupancy accommodation. You can choose to share a room or attend a course as a non-resident. Please visit our website or contact the Centre for these prices.

field-studies-council.org/animals

Amersham, The Chilterns Bishops Wood, Worcestershire Castle Head, Morecombe Bay Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire Coast Epping Forest, Essex Flat ford Mill, Suf folk ‘Constable Country’ Courses not at an FSC Centre, please contact Head Of fice for information JH Juniper Hall, Surrey KD Kindrogan, Scottish Highlands LDN London MT Malham Tarn, Yorkshire Dales MA Margam, South Wales MIL Millport, Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland NC Nettlecombe Court, Somerset OR Orielton, Pembrokeshire Coast PM Preston Mont ford, Shropshire Hills RC Rhyd-y-creuau, Snowdonia SL Slapton Ley, South Devon

Birds Winter Birdwatching Weekend FM

Fri 15 Feb - Mon 18 Feb

£395

Open to all

Animals

Tutor: Geoff Abbott

Wildfowl, shorebirds and other winter visitors such as thrushes, finches and buntings will be the main focus of interest on this late winter birdwatching weekend and there is always the possibility of scarcer visitors from the north and east if the weather has been particularly hard in previous weeks. The best local sites include the Stour and Orwell estuaries, Alton Water and Abberton reservoirs, which between them hold thousands of overwintering birds.

Discovering Birds by Sight, Song and their Calls in a Diversity of Habitats FM

Fri 08 Mar - Sun 10 Mar

Tutor: Steve Piotrowski

£270

Beginner

If you enjoy watching and listening to birds but are frustrated trying to separate different species, this course will certainly develop your knowledge and confidence. Learning good fieldcraft, how to make the most of your binoculars, to understanding plumage patterns and behaviour, and listening to and learning bird sounds in the field will all help you memorise how to identity the birds and their elusive sound patterns!

Recognising Birds by Sight and Sound: Especially for Improvers FM

Fri 22 Mar - Sun 24 Mar

Tutor: Steve Piotrowski

£270

Intermediate

Scottish Island Birds: Spring Migrants MIL

Fri 29 Mar - Sun 31 Mar

Tutor: Jack Lucas

£291

Open to all

The spectacular glacial landscape of the Clyde Sea provides a surprising range of habitats in a small area. From the Isle of Cumbrae, upland, coastal, and pelagic bird species are all within easy reach. In winter, the sheltered Clyde is a haven for wildfowl and a vital staging point for waders. This weekend course is a unique opportunity to get to grips with our waders and sea ducks, passage migrants, and west coast specialities.

Introduction to Birds AM

Fri 05 Apr

Tutor: Chris Ford

£42

Beginner

Fri 05 Apr - Sun 07 Apr

£270

Beginner

This course is designed for absolute beginners to birdwatching and will teach the basics of bird identification. This will include birds commonly seen in gardens and also the ducks and waders on the local estuary. Basic fieldcraft skills will be used to help identify birds from their behaviour, location, song and calls.

Sat 06 Apr

Non-residential

Tutor: Edward Hutchings

£35

Beginner

Get to grips with woodland bird identification on a relaxed spring walk around the ancient woodland that is Epping Forest. Our day will incorporate bird identification, bird vocalisations and bird behaviour as we explore this beautiful location. Two-thirds of it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation and the range of habitats it contains make it a valuable area for wildlife. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Top 50 Garden Birds.

An Introduction to Bird Watching RC

Fri 12 Apr - Mon 15 Apr

Tutor: Anne Brenchley

£325

Open to all

The aim of this course is to identify many of the more common breeding birds of North Wales by sight and sound. This will be a relaxing course, suitable for beginners. We will walk in some of the lovely places in the beautiful Conwy Valley. There will be a short introduction to the course in the classroom on the first evening and an opportunity to get out early in the morning to sample the dawn chorus in nearby woodland habitat. The course will also cover bird recording systems, the value of bird records and how to use “BirdTrack”. We will also explore bird ID sources of information including apps for phones and iPads.

Birdwatching in Bushy Park Sat 13 Apr

Non-residential

Tutor: John Van Den Bosch

£35

Beginner

Bushy Park is a great location to spot resident and migrant birds in spring. The course is designed to help you observe and identify birds. Spend the day visiting the open parkland, the ponds, the gardens with their wooded areas and the wetland being developed in the Brewhouse fields not usually accessible to the public. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Top 50 Garden Birds.

Birds of Cattawade Marshes FM

Sat 13 Apr

Non-residential

Tutor: Edward Hutchings

£80

Open to all

Visiting a variety of habitats around Flatford Mill, participants will explore marshland, grassland and the River Stour itself as the group make best use of local weather conditions to watch and discover more about the local avifauna. The emphasis will be on helping everyone feel more confident about identifying birds and understanding behaviour. The course is equally suitable for those new to birdwatching and those with more experience.

field-studies-council.org/animals

Habitats and Conser vation

Birdwatching for Absolute Beginners Tutor: Maureen Gibson

LDN

Non-residential

An introduction to identifying common (and occasionally less common) birds using sight and sound. No prior experience is necessary, just an enthusiasm to get out and have a go.

Woodland Birds of Epping Forest

Plants

This course is for anyone who feels fairly confident that they know their garden and woodland birds, and would like more experience of less frequently encountered species.You will improve your fieldcraft and spend time listening to, and learning, bird sounds in the field to help you memorise their elusive sound patterns! We will visit different habitats including Breckland, Heathland and Reedbeds to try to track down species such as Woodlark, Stone Curlew, Dartford Warbler, Cetti’s Warbler and Bearded Tit.

Kingfisher - Timothy Caldecott

Spring Birdwatching FM

Songbird Identification

Fri 03 May - Sun 05 May

£270

Tutor: Geoff Abbott

Open to all

Fri 10 May - Mon 13 May

Tutor: Kevin Clements

£395

Intermediate

Visiting a range of locations around Suffolk and Essex, as well making use of sites around Flatford Mill, participants will explore woods, heathlands or marshes as the group make best use of local weather conditions to watch and discover more about the local birdlife. The emphasis will be on helping everyone feel more confident about identifying birds and understanding behaviour. Skills learned during the day are reviewed through a variety of evening activities. The course is equally suitable for those new to birdwatching and those with more experience.

This weekend course in late spring is at the ideal time to see and hear songbirds. It will concentrate on identification skills using sight and song, with field notebooks as important aids to observation. There will be at least one early start and visits to a wide range of interesting habitats. *MMU

Birds in the Shropshire Springtime

Tutor: Chris Ford

Fri 03 May - Sun 05 May

£295

Tutor: Charlie Bell

Open to all

Shropshire in springtime is a delightful place in which to develop your bird identification skills. This course will visit a variety of different habitats within the county, which should enable a wide range of species to be encountered and give an indication of where to find different birds. It aims to improve identification by sight and sound and will look at some of the basic methods of monitoring birds. As spring is also a lovely time for other wildlife at the sites we shall be visiting, we will not restrict ourselves to just bird watching but get an all-round flavour of this wonderful county. Expect to be up with the larks and out with the night owls!

Spring Birds in Pembrokeshire OR

Sat 04 May - Wed 08 May

Tutor: Bob and Annie Haycock

£455

Open to all

May is an important month for both resident and migratory species. You will visit coastal, woodland and wetland habitats, learning to identify birds by sight and sound and examining their general ecology. The fee includes a visit to Skomer Island with its internationally important seabird colonies. On the last morning there may be an opportunity to visit the world famous gannetry on Grassholm (boat fees for Grassholm are not included), please contact us for details.

Bird Identification KD

Fri 10 May - Sun 12 May

Tutor: Dan Puplett

£232

Open to all

We will cover a variety of ways to accurately identify birds with an emphasis on recognising songs and other types of call. We will also cover some visual ID and you will learn to interpret bird behaviour and calls as an effective way to discover what other wildlife is around.

Birds for Beginners JH

Fri 24 May - Sun 26 May

£240

Beginner

An introduction to identifying common (and occasionally less common) birds using sight and sound. This course will visit a wide range of habitats in the Surrey Hills to develop your confidence and practise your new found skills. No prior experience is necessary just an enthusiasm to get out and have a go.

Birds of the North Wales Coast, Woodlands and Uplands RC

Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

Tutor: Kevin Clements

£370

Open to all

With the breeding season well underway, this is an ideal long weekend for birdwatching in the dramatic landscapes of North Wales. We will explore the coastal cliffs and estuaries, visiting seabird colonies on Anglesey and the RSPB Reserve at Conwy, walk through glaciated valleys for open country and woodland birds and take in higher ground for upland and moorland specialities. We will identify all the species by sight and sound and discuss their ecology and conservation status as well. The course will finish at 14:00 on the final day.

Identifying and Monitoring Birds of Prey MT

Fri 14 Jun - Mon 17 Jun

Tutor: Jimmi Hill

£375

Open to all

Learning how to identify the different bird of prey species and their behaviour can help us gain a greater understanding of how these birds live and how we can live alongside them. This course is aimed at those with limited or no experience of observing birds of prey in the wild and will introduce you to the different British birds of prey, their ecology and behaviours as well as various ways of monitoring them.

Bird Identification in Pembrokeshire OR

Mon 22 Jul - Fri 26 Jul

Tutor: John Martin

£455

Open to all

Enjoy watching a range of migrant and resident birds including local specialities such as Chough. This will involve some gentle walks as well as visits to beaches, estuaries, coastal cliffs and headlands. Weather permitting we will visit Skomer Island; boat and landing fees included. This course is for anyone who watches birds but would like to improve their identification skills - whatever your skill level you will learn something new.

Scottish Island Birds: Summer Seabirds MIL

Fri 26 Jul - Sun 28 Jul

Tutor: Jack Lucas

£291

Open to all

The spectacular glacial landscape of the Clyde Sea provides a surprising range of habitats in a small area. From the Isle of Cumbrae; upland, coastal, wetland and pelagic bird species are all within easy reach. In the late summer months, the marine environment is alive with seabirds that can be seen from the shore and from our research vessel, Actinia.

Birds of South Devon SL

Sun 04 Aug - Fri 09 Aug

Tutor: Sandy Hill

£535

Open to all

This course provides an opportunity to develop your knowledge and experience of birds within this classic English landscape. Ranging from the coastline up onto the rugged contours of Dartmoor National Park, we explore the birdlife around us, but also take stock of the diverse native flora and fauna, which are such an integral part of each habitat. Puffin - John Archer-Thompson

field-studies-council.org/animals

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) The following courses are run by the British Trust for Ornithology. For further information or to book onto any of the courses, please contact BTO directly or visit their website (see below).

CH Sat 10 Aug - Mon 12 Aug Open to all RC Fri 30 Aug - Sun 01 Sep Open to all £250 resident, £170 non-resident

Animals

Bird Identification

Tutor: BTO Trainers Learn how to identify Britain’s birds with confidence and discover how there is a BTO survey that you can take part in – no matter what your bird-watching experience. These courses begin with the basics of identifying birds by sight and progress during your stay to identifying the commoner species by songs and calls as well. Some time is spent in the classroom, but much of the course will involve exploring the surrounding areas.

Grey Heron vs Great White Egret Stephen Barlow

Bird Identification and WeBS FM Fri 25 Jan - Sun 27 Jan Open to all £250 resident, £170 non-resident

Autumn Birdwatching Weekend FM Fri 18 Oct - Sun 20 Oct to all

£270

Open

Tutor: Geoff Abbott

Siberian Week: Looking at Bird Migration Along the Suffolk Coast FM Mon 21 Oct - Fri 25 Oct to all

£495

Open

Tutor: Steve Piotrowski

To make a booking, or for more information on fees for the courses listed above, please contact Anne Cotton – email anne.cotton@bto.org or tel: 01786 458021. For information on course content and venues please contact Nick Moran – email training@bto.org or tel: 01842 750 050. Please note the fees advertised above are for non-professionals attending the course and are subsidised by BTO. If you wish to attend any of these courses through your company, please contact Nick or Anne to discuss further. BTO The Nunnery Thetford Norfolk IP24 2P Email: info@bto.org www.bto.org/training

Habitats and Conser vation

This course is designed to help you to find out more about bird identification and bird migration and the species likely to be encountered during migration periods. It is aimed equally at anyone who is a newcomer to birdwatching and those who wish to improve their skills in wild bird identification. It will also emphasise the adaptations of birds to their preferred habitats and lifestyles. We will explore migration marking techniques including: ringing, colour marking, radio and satellite tracking. Weather permitting, we will organise bird ringing demonstrations at the Flatford ringing site.

Participants will develop skills in visual identification of common species and move through to songs and calls as well, building your confidence to accurately identify a rang of birds. Focusing on wetland birds, the group will visit a range of appropriate sites in the area to develop identification skills, learn how to count birds and gain an understanding of the Wetland Bird Survey. The course will involve many outdoor sessions with plenty of opportunities to observe birds in their natural habitats and put what you have learnt into practice! Formal taught sessions will help reinforce the learning. Common species are encountered at all our venues, but each has a specific focus and may include local specialities.You will also focus on the BTO’s Wetland Birds Survey (WeBS)

Mainly Migrants FM Fri 25 Oct - Sun 27 Oct Intermediate

£270

Tutor: Steve Piotrowski

We will divide our time between watching birds in the field and working indoors reviewing and discussing what we have collectively learnt. We will observe as many species as possible and use the latest smartphone apps and DVD identification guides to cover those species that may elude us on the day. This will ensure that your stay has been as interesting and informative as we can possibly make it. We will explore migration marking techniques including ringing, colour marking, radio and satellite tracking. Weather permitting, we will organise bird ringing demonstrations, which will enable us to get really ‘close-up and personal’ with some of the birds.

Plants

In October there are often large numbers of winter visitors moving from northern latitudes through East Anglia. Wildfowl and waders have mostly completed their moult and are easier to recognise and there is always a chance of exotic species from Siberia to quicken the pulse! Field excursions during the day to some of the best birdwatching sites in Suffolk and Essex will help improve your identification of migrant and resident birds and these will be complemented by slideshows and other activities in the evenings. The course is equally suitable for those new to birdwatching and those with more experience.

Tutor: Steve Piotrowski

Starling - Stephen Barlow

field-studies-council.org/animals

Mammals Deer Ecology KD

Fri 05 Apr - Mon 08 Apr

£252

Tutor: Geoff Guy

Open to all

Explore the Scottish Highlands in search of British deer species. Learn to identify them from visual clues and indirect signs such as tracks and droppings. Discover more about their ecology and history – including the British pastime of stocking deer at stately homes and parks.

Introduction to Mammals AM

Sat 06 Apr

Non-residential

Tutor: Chris Ford

£42

Beginner

The aim of the course is to give an introduction to the identification, ecology and behaviour of our native small mammals both by physical characteristics and the signs they leave in the environment. It will include opportunities to observe some of our small mammals and learn about their adaptations, as well as to discuss the wider applications and possibilities of running small mammal surveys. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: A Guide to British Mammal Tracks and Signs.

Discovering Bats in Epping Forest EF

Sat 27 Apr

Non-residential

Tutor: Roger Havard

£45

Bat Ecology (Beginners to Intermediate) Wed 29 May - Fri 31 May

Tutor: Richard Crompton

£289

Open to all

The course will be of interest to the keen amateur as well as those training towards roost licenses and consultants and professionals in wildlife fields. It is suitable for those at beginner to intermediate level. Participants will require a certificate of vaccination against rabies and suitable gloves if they are to take part in any aspect of the course involving bat handling.

Identification of Bats PM

Fri 21 Jun - Mon 24 Jun

£395

Tutor: Lisa Worledge and Helen Miller

Intermediate

Bats make up almost a quarter of the world’s mammals, with over 1300 species, found on all continents, except Antarctica. In Britain we have 18 resident species, of which 17 are breeding here. All British bats are considered vulnerable or endangered and are protected by law. This weekend will shed some light on the activities of these fascinating flying creatures. *MMU

Thu 11 Jul - Thu 18 Jul

£731

Intermediate

Tutor: Dominic McCafferty, Anna McGregor, Chris Parsons and Jack Lucas This field course is an intensive, comprehensive yet thoroughly enjoyable introduction to studying marine mammals. With dedicated vessel surveys, lab practicals, shore work and lectures that cover the whole spectrum of marine mammal science; this course is a one-of-kind experience into the world of whales, dolphins and seals led by experienced professionals.

Fri 26 Jul - Sun 28 Jul

Tutor: David Hill

Open to all

Discovering Bats in Epping Forest EF

Sat 10 Aug

Non-residential

Tutor: Roger Havard

£45

Beginner

This extensive day and evening course assumes no previous knowledge of bats. Topics include identification, biology and echolocation with the chance to have a closer look at bats both in the laboratory and the field. Participants will learn about the behaviour of UK bat species as well as nomenclature and classification. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: A Guide to British Bats.

Scottish Mammals KD

Fri 16 Aug - Mon 19 Aug

Tutor: John Haddow

£252

Open to all

The latest in a series of in-depth courses covering a variety of mammal species in the Scottish Highlands. This weekend will introduce the biology, ecology and conservation status of pine marten, red squirrel, otter and water vole with an emphasis on the importance of fieldwork techniques, tracks and signs. Suitable for environmental consultants.

£280

field-studies-council.org/animals

Fri 23 Aug - Mon 26 Aug

Tutor: Debbie Alston

Open to all

£395

Intermediate

An exciting opportunity to encounter and identify many British mammals through field signs, live trapping and sightings. The course is practicalbased with field visits and laboratory sessions designed to introduce a range of detection and identification skills. *MMU

Bats and their Natural History Sat 31 Aug

Tutor: Roger Havard

This course will introduce you to a range of advanced techniques for surveying and studying bats in woodlands, including full-spectrum acoustic monitoring, capture methods and radio-tracking using practical demonstrations. The application of each technique will be illustrated with specific examples from the tutor’s own experience of bat research and survey work in the UK and overseas.

£460

A course to introduce you to the wondrous variety of mammals we have in the UK, from shrews and dormice to badgers and otters, deer and bats.You will learn how to identify them by sight, and the tell-tale signs they leave behind as well as some recognised survey techniques. Throughout the course you will explore Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve for signs of otters, badgers, small mammals and bats. Some early morning and evening activities are included!

LDN

Surveying Woodland Bats SL

Mon 29 Jul - Fri 02 Aug

Tutor: Debbie Alston

Land Mammal Identification

Marine Mammals MIL

An Introduction to British Land Mammals SL

Beginner

This extensive day and evening course assumes no previous knowledge of bats.Topics include identification, biology and echolocation with the chance to have a closer look at bats both in the laboratory and the field. Participants will learn about the behaviour of UK bat species as well as nomenclature and classification. Fee includes FSC foldout chart A Guide to British Bats.

Fallow Deer - Robin Sutton

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

Learn about bats on this course in The Regent’s Park with emphasis on the 17 species of British bats. Topics include their biology, evolution and environmental requirements for feeding, living and breeding, etc, as well as classification and names of our native species. We will learn identification techniques with the assistance of some live bats as well as how bat detectors identify bats via their echolocation calls. On the evening walk we will identify some of our common bats in flight using bat detectors. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to British Bats.

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Bat Conservation Trust (BCT)

The Mammal Society The following courses are run by The Mammal Society. For further information, or to book onto any of the courses, please contact The Mammal Society directly, or visit their website (see below).

Using Bat Detectors JH Thu 09 May Non-residential £165 Foundation

Mammal Identification KD Fri 28 Jun - Sun 30 Jun Open to all JH Fri 30 Aug - Sun 01 Sep Open to all MT Fri 06 Sep - Sun 08 Sep Open to all

The course will cover the different types of detector systems (heterodyne, frequency division, time expansion and full spectrum), the range of detectors available from the different manufacturers, choosing the most appropriate detector for your surveys, how to make recordings and perform basic identification in the field. It will also discuss the options available for later software analysis and will look at record keeping and how to add value to field data through the use of GPS information and Google Earth. There will be an optional evening bat walk with bat detectors to practice (weather permitting).

Suitable for all levels of experience, this two and a half day course in beautiful surroundings is an excellent, in depth introduction to the mammals of Britain and Ireland and the techniques used to spot them in their habitat including sightings, calls and field signs. In the classroom you will cover identification techniques for each terrestrial species and learn how to put your skills into practice by recording mammals in the field. The course also includes practical sessions including a number of live small mammal trapping opportunities and owl pellet analysis. You will also have the chance to sit an optional assessment, which, if passed, will earn you a Certificate in Basic Mammal Identification jointly accredited by The Mammal Society and the Field Studies Council.

Bat Ecology and Conservation

Tutor: Mammal Society Trainers

JH Fri 10 May Non-residential £165 Foundation This one-day course is designed for those new to bat work.You will be given a comprehensive foundation to bat biology, ecology and conservation.You will learn about the different UK species, range and distribution, bat conservation and threats, bat taxonomy, physiological adaptations, life histories, foraging ecology, life cycle, roosting requirements and bat identification.

Surveying for Bats This course will give you the knowledge and skills to plan professional bat surveys, as well as learning practical survey skills and field sign identification. Over two days you will cover survey objectives, desktop and scoping surveys, health and safety, identifying appropriate survey techniques, survey skills, field signs, architectural terms and assessment of roosts.

Full weekend fee (includes all tuition, meals and accommodation)....................................£264 Full weekend fee for members of The Mammal Society.............................................£234 Student/concessionary members of The Mammal Society..............................................£195 For booking information or more details please contact: The Mammal Society 18 St John’s Church Road London E9 6EJ Tel: 02380 010 984 email: training@themammalsociety.org

Plants

NC Thu 16 May - Fri 17 May £398 residential, £340 non-residential Intermediate

Animals

The following courses are run by Bat Conservation Trust. For further information or to book these, or any other courses they run, please contact BCT directly or visit their website (see below).

www.mammal.org.uk

Discounts £5 discount for BCT members £25 paired discount if booking Using Bat Detectors and Bat Ecology and Conservation together. 10% multi-buy discount if booking 3 or more course places at the same time.

Grey squirrel - Timothy Caldecott

BCT organises a range of courses for professionals and volunteers. For more details or to make a booking visit:

www.bats.org.uk/training

Habitats and Conser vation

or phone Tel: 020 7820 7169 email: training@bats.org.uk Brown Long Eared Bat Hugh Clark, BCT

field-studies-council.org/animals

Butterflies and Moths

Larger Micro-Moths of Worcestershire BW

Sat 15 Jun

Tutor: Dave Grundy

Non-residential

£50

Open to all

An introductory course on larger micro-moths in a secluded countryside setting, aimed at anyone familiar with macro-moth species who would now like expert help with the identification of micros. It is aimed at total beginners as well as people with more advanced knowledge of micromoths - whatever your skill level we hope to stretch you. We will help you recognise the defining features of micro-moths and identify them to family level using moths trapped the previous night on site in ancient woodland and wildflower grassland habitats.

Smaller Micro-Moths of Worcestershire BW Butterfly Conservation fully supports the aim of promoting active conservation through learning. For more details about Butterfly Conservation or for membership information see www.butterfly-conservation.org

Highland Special Spring Moths KD

Mon 08 Apr - Sat 13 Apr

Tutor: David Brown

£355

Open to all

The Scottish Highlands provide an exciting start to the moth season where nationally scarce species Rannoch Sprawler, Rannoch Brindled Beauty and Sword-grass are to be found during March and April.

Sat 27 Apr

Non-residential

Tutor: Martin Harvey

£35

Beginner

An introduction to moths; their identification, natural history and conservation. This course is aimed at anyone with an interest in moths whether you are a beginner or are already moth-watching and want a little more ‘methodology’ and knowledge of the main moth groups. The afternoon will be a mix of presentations and activities and the evening session will be spent moth-trapping around the Centre as darkness falls. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to the Day-flying Moths of Britain.

Introduction to Butterflies and Day-Flying Moths LDN

Sat 18 May

Tutor: Tim Harris

Non-residential

Sat 13 Jul

Non-residential

Tutor: Martin Harvey

Learn about the different stages of butterfly and moth life-cycles and lifestyles, focusing on the importance of larval food plants and flowers for nectaring. Search for a variety of species in the mixed habitats of Bushy Park and receive Tim’s guidance on their identification. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to the Butterflies of Britain.

£42

Beginner

A wide variety of butterfly species can be found in the attractive grasslands and woodlands of the Chilterns, and they are joined by some distinctive day-flying moths. We will help you recognise the different species, learn how they depend on their habitats, and find out how to help conserve them. Using a mix of indoor activities, presentations and fieldwork in the varied habitats at our Amersham Centre we’ll help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to enjoy watching and recording butterflies and a range of day-flying moths.

Identifying Moths and Butterflies Fri 19 Jul - Sun 21 Jul

Tutor: Sheila Wright

Beginner

Open to all

Butterflies and Day-Flying Moths of the Chilterns

FM £35

£100

An introductory course on smaller micro-moths in a secluded countryside setting, aimed at anyone familiar with macro-moth species who would now like expert help with the identification of micros. It is aimed at total beginners as well as people with more advanced knowledge of micromoths - whatever your skill level we hope to stretch you. We will help you recognise the defining features of micro-moths and identify them to family level using moths trapped the previous night on site in ancient woodland and wildflower grassland habitats.

Spring Moths for Beginners

Sat 06 Jul - Sun 07 Jul

Tutor: Dave Grundy

£290

Intermediate

A weekend introducing the identification and natural history of perhaps the most visually appealing of all insect groups. Only live viewing techniques are used: light traps and sugaring for moths and sweep nets for butterflies. We will discuss the benefits of the different trapping methods and the different types of light trap. Working through the moth catch in the morning is complemented by afternoon excursions to look for and identify butterflies on the wing. *MMU

Daytime Moths of Worcestershire BW

Sat 01 Jun

Tutor: Dave Grundy

Non-residential

£50

Open to all

This one-day course will be for people of all abilities from beginner to much more advanced. We will be searching for moths in the very varied habitats of Bishops Wood (both macro-moths and micro-moths) by day using techniques such as sweeping, pheromones, beating netting and searching plants for larvae, eggs and mines etc.

Introduction to Moths and Moth Trapping LDN

Sat 08 Jun - Sun 09 Jun

Tutor: Tim Harris

£45

Beginner

An introduction to moth life-cycles and lifestyles. Around dusk, you will help set up a light-trap and watch it in action, before returning the following morning to examine the catch and participate, with Tim, in the identification session. Based in Greenwich Park. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to the Day-Flying Moths of Britain.

field-studies-council.org/animals

Dave Grundy Dave Grundy is an experienced naturalist and wildlife consultant specialising in bird, butterfly and moth surveying. He has a particular interest in moths and regularly leads training courses and public events and has studied Lepidoptera extensively across Wales, Britain and increasingly elsewhere in Europe and further afield. Since 2003 he has organised and administered the Garden Moth Scheme, which now covers over 300 gardens across Britain and Ireland. The scheme monitors changes in the fortunes of common moth species and uses the data as indicators of environmental change.

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

“Excellent course and I learned such a lot which has already helped me identify some moths in my trap this week. I can’t wait

Scarce Burnished Brass Moth - Dave Grundy

Animals

for the next course.“ Larger Micro-Moths of Worcestershire at Bishops Wood, 2018 Buff Ermine and Small Magpie Moths - Charlie Bell

Moths of the South Wales Coast and Countryside MA

Fri 19 Jul - Sun 21 Jul

Tutor: Dave Grundy

£289

Beginners Moths of the Devon Coast SL

Open to all

On this brand new course we will visit sites in beautiful Swansea Bay such as Kenfig Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve and ancient woodland habitats of Margam Park to set traps for moths. A series of moth traps will be set up on both nights of the course in a variety of habitats and each morning will be spent going through the traps to collect micro and macro moths ready for the afternoon identification session.

Mon 22 Jul - Fri 26 Jul

Tutor: David Brown

£495

Open to all

Moths of the Pembrokeshire Coast Mon 22 Jul - Fri 26 Jul

Tutor: Dave Grundy

Open to all

On this brand new course we will run moth traps along the stunning Devon Coast at sites such as Prawle Point and Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. This course is aimed at total beginners with moths as well as those who want to go back to the basics of learning about moth families - whatever your skill level we hope to stretch you. Each morning we will visit the traps to collect live moths ready for the afternoon identification sessions.

£475

Open to all

Weather permitting, we will trap moths at the National Trust’s beautiful Freshwater West sand dunes and stunning Stackpole Head cliff-top habitat, in addition to trapping in the excellent wooded grounds of the Centre at Orielton. This course is for anyone who would like to learn more about identifying moths from coastal habitats - whatever your skill level, it will be designed to stretch you.

Mon 19 Aug - Sat 24 Aug

Tutor: David Brown

£355

Open to all

Enjoy the butterflies and moths of the Scottish Highlands in summer. Electric observation lights will be operated to attract a wide range of moths.There will be daytime field visits to a variety of habitats to observe butterflies such as the Scotch Argus. Illustrated talks with slides will show the Scottish Red Data Book and nationally notable species and their habitats. Help will be given on recording methods, identification and classification.

Plants

The unique diversity of habitat within close proximity of Malham Tarn contributes to an interesting selection of Lepidoptera. Many nationallyscarce moths associated with fens, mosses and moorland are to be found, as well as a small selection of special butterflies. Help will be given on identification and information on the ecology of nationally significant species.

£315

Highland Butterflies and Moths

Butterflies and Moths MT

Fri 09 Aug - Mon 12 Aug

Tutor: Dave Grundy

Leaf-Mining Moths of the Surrey Downs JH

Fri 23 Aug - Sun 25 Aug

Tutor: Dave Grundy

£240

Open to all

On this course you will enter the exciting world of leaf-mining moth caterpillars in the beautiful downland setting of Juniper Hall.You will learn to identify the signs left behind by these moth caterpillars as they eat away at leaves of different tree species. The course is aimed at total beginners wishing to study leaf-mining moths, as well as people with more advanced knowledge of the group, but whatever your skill level it will be designed to stretch you.

Micro-Moths of the Shropshire Borders PM

Fri 02 Aug - Mon 05 Aug

Tutor: Dave Grundy

£410

Advanced

Butterflies and Moths PM

Mon 05 Aug - Fri 09 Aug

Tutor: David Brown

£425

Open to all

Develop skills in identification, trapping and methods to encourage butterflies and moths into our gardens. Butterfly walks and light trap catches will be used as field observation tools interspersed with slide talks and identification workshops.

Purple Hairsteak Butterfly - Stephen Barlow

field-studies-council.org/animals

Habitats and Conser vation

Following publication of the excellent field guide by Sterling, Parsons and Lewington in 2012 interest in micro moths has increased dramatically. This long weekend is aimed at anyone familiar with macro moth species, who would now like expert help with the identification of micros. We will set light traps each night in a variety of habitats in the grounds of Preston Montford and also depending on weather conditions will explore other nearby sites in the beautiful Shropshire countryside to give us a good range of live specimens to identify during the day.

Aquatic Invertebrates Identifying and Recording Water Bugs Fri 05 Apr - Sun 07 Apr

Tutor: Sharon and Peter Flint

£260

Open to all

This is an introductory course for anyone wanting to know how to identify water bugs. Anybody who has used a pond net, or been to a pond dipping demonstration, will have come across these insects which are often extremely abundant. Participants will be shown how to collect and handle water bugs, both in the field and in the laboratory, and will be introduced to using identification keys. Participants will also be shown how to submit records.

Fri 17 May - Sun 19 May

Tutor: Sharon and Peter Flint

£260

Open to all

Non-residential

Tutor: Maaike Milligan

£42

Beginner

Stoneflies (Plecoptera) and mayflies (Ephemeroptera) are two diverse orders of insects with fascinating life cycles and morphology and provide a vital source of food within aquatic ecosystems. This course will enable participants to identify key families from the aquatic nymph stage and have a good understanding of their ecology as well as their importance as biological indicators.

Identifying and Recording Juvenile and Adult Caddisflies MT

Fri 21 Jun - Mon 24 Jun

Tutor: Sharon and Peter Flint

£295

£375

Open to all

This course is intended to encourage an interest in the whole life cycle of Caddisflies, their ecology and life histories, where and when to survey for them and their habitat requirements in all life stages. A variety of techniques will be used to survey and record caddis at adult and larval stages.

Intermediate

We aim to introduce you close-up to many of the Shropshire species of dragonfly and damselfly so that you will leave confident in your own abilities to identify them and make species records. A mixture of classroom sessions and field visits will allow you to put your skills into practice, and to observe and understand the visual spectacle of these fascinating insects on the wing. *MMU

Identifying Freshwater Invertebrates MT

Fri 19 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

Tutor: Sharon and Peter Flint

Stoneflies and Mayflies Sat 08 Jun

Fri 19 Jul - Sun 21 Jul

Tutor: Sue Rees-Evans

This is an introductory course for anyone wanting to know how to identify water beetles. Anybody who has used a pond net, or been to a pond dipping demonstration, will have come across several different kinds of beetles. Participants will be shown how to collect and handle water beetles, both in the field and in the laboratory, and will be introduced to using identification keys. Participants will also be shown how to submit records.

Identification of Dragonflies and Damselflies PM

Introduction to Water Beetles MT

Male White-faced Darter - Stephen Barlow

£375

Open to all

A course for both beginners and those who wish to improve their freshwater macroinvertebrate identification skills. It includes field collection techniques, preservation and curation of specimens, use of identification keys and information on life histories. The Malham estate has a range of aquatic habitats supporting a wide variety of aquatic macroinvertebrates and you will have the opportunity to examine specimens from other locations.

Discovering Freshwater Invertebrates and Ecology LDN

Sat 20 Jul

Non-residential

£35

Tutor: Maaike Milligan

Beginner

Bushy Park is home to a network of ponds and streams supporting a wide range of species from insect larvae to amphibians. This course will provide an introduction to freshwater pond habitats with a focus on sampling and identifying freshwater invertebrates in the field. This will be a practical course with ample opportunity to sample and identify specimens from several different ponds. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Freshwater Name Trail.

Identifying Dragonflies BW

Sat 27 Jul

Non-residential

Tutor: Sue Rees-Evans

£45

Open to all

Dragonfly enthusiasts of all levels of ability are welcome to come along and learn more about these stunning insects. The day will start with a classroom workshop introducing this group of insects and focusing on their identification. We will then head to the pools and hopefully introduce you close-up to a good number of the local species. Weather permitting there will be ample chance to allow you to put your identification skills into practice and to observe and understand the visual spectacle of these fascinating insects on the wing.

Identifying and Recording Adult Caddisflies, Stoneflies and Mayflies MT

Fri 13 Sep - Mon 16 Sep

Tutor: Sharon and Peter Flint

Emerald Damselfly - Robin Sutton

field-studies-council.org/animals

£375

Open to all

This is an introductory course for anyone wanting to know how to identify adult Caddisflies, Stoneflies and Mayflies. Moth trappers often see these insects and anyone who uses a pond net will be familiar with their larvae. Participants will be shown how to collect and handle these insects, both in the field and in the laboratory, and introduced to the use of identification keys. Recording can be fun and participants will be introduced to using the National Recording Schemes. *MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Bees and other Pollinators

Introduction to Bumblebees

Identifying Hoverflies

Identifying Solitary Bees

Fri 26 Apr - Mon 29 Apr

Tutor: Stuart Ball

£395

Intermediate

This course is aimed at the novice hoverfly recorder and will take participants through all aspects of hoverfly identification using a mixture of set material, field collection and powerpoint presentations. The course has been successfully run for a number of Wildlife Trusts and Natural History Societies, and is designed to make sure that participants depart with a comprehensive understanding of hoverfly taxonomy and biology. *MMU

Identifying Bees with Steven Falk MA

Fri 03 May - Sun 05 May

Tutor: Steven Falk

£289

Open to all

An opportunity to learn how to record and critically identify bees with Steven Falk, author of the 2015 Field Guide to Bees of Britain and Ireland. The course will provide an introduction to bees, then a chance to identify them under the microscope using the dichotomous keys and images in Steven’s field guide. A field trip (weather dependent) will allow you to see living ones and develop basic collecting and field identification skills and better understand their ecology and conservation.

Sat 22 Jun

Non-residential

£45

Tutor: Ian Cheeseborough

Open to all

This bumblebee identification day course will be field-based. Bees will be caught and studied in the field to enable correct identification, where possible, and then released. To start the day a presentation will be given to introduce the genus and their ecology.

Sun 23 Jun

Non-residential

£45

Tutor: Ian Cheeseborough

Open to all

This short course is for anyone who would like to learn about the identification and ecology of these solitary insects. Time will be spent in the field observing and discussing the requirements of a variety of genera found around the Centre grounds. There will also be an opportunity to study and identify prepared specimens to species using a variety of entomological keys.

Animals

Bees, Hoverflies and Flowers: Pollinators and Pollination LDN

Sat 29 Jun

Tutor: Martin Harvey

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

Bees, hoverflies and other pollinating insects play an enormously important role in natural habitats and agricultural systems alike. Some pollinators are known to be declining, and their conservation is a cause for concern. This course introduces the insects that play a role in pollination, helping you to recognise them, understand how they interact with flowering plants, and find out how to play your part in conserving them. Based in Bushy Park. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to Bees of Britain.

Identifying Hoverflies FM

Sat 06 Jul

Non-residential

£80

Open to all

The course will appeal to anyone with an interest in the natural world. You won’t need any prior knowledge just a willingness to immerse yourself in the life of hoverflies for a day. There will be a mix of presentations, fieldwork and identification using various guides. The day will be varied with lots of opportunity to learn about these fascinating and incredibly diverse insects. By the end of the day you should have a good understanding of what makes them buzz and why they make such an attractive and fascinating group of insects to study. Bursaries are available for this course, generously organised by the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service. Please contact FSC Flatford Mill for details.

Solitary Bees: Identification and Ecology

Anthophora bimaculata – Stephen Falk

Identifying Bees with Steven Falk SL

Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

Tutor: Steven Falk

£315

Open to all

See course description 03 - 05 May. Please note this course is one day longer.

Fri 07 Jun - Sun 09 Jun

Tutor: Steven Falk

£260

Open to all

Wed 17 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

Tutor: Ian Cheeseborough

£675

Intermediate

This course will introduce participants to the identification and ecology of solitary bees. The identification of genera and species will be through a combination of presentations, field visits and microscopy using keys and prepared specimens. Suitable for those who have some previous experience of bee ID or who have attended an introductory workshop. By the end of the course participants will be more confident in identifying the more commonly encountered genera and species. Bursaries are available for this course, generously organised by the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service. Please contact FSC Flatford Mill for details.

See course description 03 - 05 May.

Solitary Wasps

Solitary Bees PM

Fri 14 Jun - Mon 17 Jun

Tutor: Ian Cheeseborough

£395

Intermediate

This course will introduce participants to the identification and ecology of solitary bees including nesting and foraging requirements, hosts and associated aculeate nest parasites. Introduction to the genera and species will be through a combination of presentations, field visits and microscope workshops using keys and prepared specimens. Field visits will enable you to put into practice what knowledge you have gained over the weekend and enable more appreciation of these fabulous insects and their needs. *MMU

Wed 24 Jul - Sun 28 Jul

Tutor: Ian Cheeseborough

£475

Open to all

This course introduces participants to the identification and ecology of solitary wasps including nesting and prey requirements, hosts and associated aculeate nest parasites. The identification of genera and species will be through a combination of presentations, field visits (including Stackpole and Freshwater West – outstanding sites for aculeates) and microscope workshops using keys and prepared specimens.

field-studies-council.org/animals

Habitats and Conser vation

Identifying Bees with Steven Falk MT

Plants

Tutor: John Biglin

Soil Invertebrates Soil Mesofauna PM

Fri 26 Apr - Mon 29 Apr

£455

Intermediate

Tutor: Mathew Shepherd, Peter Shaw and Felicity Crotty

This course, unique in the UK, has developed a reputation for excellence over the last few years. It introduces the fascinating and complex world of soil biodiversity and identification of soil mesofauna, in particular the identification of springtails and soil mites. The course is led by leading UK experts in these groups.

Land Snail Identification JH

Fri 03 May - Sun 05 May

Tutor: June Chatfield

£240

Open to all

Based in the classic snail country of the North Downs the weekend includes searching for land snails in their appropriate habitats with follow-up identification at the Centre. There is an excellent key to snails produced by FSC. Unlike some invertebrate groups there is a limited number of species making it an accessible group to learn but, at the same time, the species are sensitive to conditions of habitat so are useful environmental indicators, both for conservation and archaeology. Come and enjoy a weekend looking at snails.

Surveying Terrestrial Invertebrates PM

Fri 10 May - Mon 13 May

Tutor: Peter Boardman

£395

Intermediate

This course is designed for countryside professionals or amateur naturalists interested in surveying and recording of the invertebrates of terrestrial habitats. Field excursions will include a range of collecting and surveying techniques and workshop sessions will help improve your identification skills. *MMU

Limax maximus (Leopard Slug) - David Williams

Slugs and Snails OR

Fri 19 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

Tutor: Ben Rowson

Open to all

Britain has more than 40 species of slugs and 100 species of land-snails and this is an opportunity to learn more about this often overlooked group of invertebrates. They have fascinating lifestyles and varied roles in nature as composters, predators and indicators of environmental history; a few are protected by law. This course covers finding and identifying both groups, both in the field and the lab. The tutor co-wrote the AIDGAP Guide to Slugs of Britain and Ireland (2014).

Slug Identification BW

Wed 14 Aug

Tutor: Chris de Feu

Cepaea nemoralis - Robin Sutton

£360

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

This course includes an introduction to slugs and a review of the 45 or so species now present in the UK. This is followed by advice on species identification. Participants are asked to collect and bring some slugs from their own gardens, or elsewhere, as this has proved to be an excellent way of helping to map the distributions of this much under-recorded group of species. (Instructions for collection and recording will be sent to participants before the event). All species records will be submitted to the national mapping scheme and, during the day there should be opportunity to examine current species distributions on the NBN Atlas web pages.

BioLinks FSC BioLinks is an exciting project for FSC which brings together existing volunteers with skills in biological recording and identification, and new volunteers. The aim is to unite them in a community with a shared vision and sense of purpose by providing training and learning opportunities. This in turn will increase the quality of invertebrate species data being submitted to our national biodiversity datasets and develop individuals as more highly skilled biodiversity volunteers. The project is focusing on identification of: beetles, arachnids, slugs and snails, true flies, true bugs, bees, ants and wasps, soil invertebrates, freshwater invertebrates. We are delighted to have been awarded a National Lottery grant of £1.23 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for this project. Work began in 2018.

www.field-studies-council.org/biodiversity

Earthworm Recorder Training - Charlie Bell

field-studies-council.org/animals

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Animals

Dolomedes fimbriatus (Raft Spider) - Stephen Barlow

Spiders

Grasshoppers and Bushcrickets FM

Spider Identification DF

Sat 25 May - Wed 29 May

Tutor: Lawrence Bee

£440

Open to all

An Introduction to Britain’s Spiders Sat 22 Jun

Tutor: Lawrence Bee

Non-residential

£42

Open to all

This course provides an opportunity to learn about Britain’s spiders with an emphasis on the field identification of families and genera. Following an introductory session indoors, the range of habitats at Amersham will be sampled for spiders and other arachnids and various collecting techniques will be demonstrated.

Other Invertebrates

Non-residential

£80

Open to all

As a group the grasshoppers and bushcrickets are manageable for someone with an interest in natural history to get to know in a day. There will be a mix of presentations, fieldwork and identification using various guides. There are only a few species, many of which are quite common and can be found in most habitats.You will learn how to distinguish between bushcrickets and grasshoppers and find out about their lifecycles and ecology.You will get to identify grasshoppers and bushcrickets collected in the field and gain a good understanding of what makes them jump. Bursaries are available for this course, generously organised by the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service. Please contact FSC Flatford Mill for details.

Plants

Based at the stunning location of Dale Fort, this course will focus on field identification of spiders of woodland, grassland and coasts. There will be follow up sessions in the lab, allowing spiders to be identified more fully. It is suitable for beginners as well as improvers. The tutor is the coauthor of the recently published WILDGuide Britain’s Spiders.

Sun 07 Jul

Tutor: John Biglin

Identifying Leafhoppers PM

Fri 12 Jul - Sun 14 Jul

Tutor: Alan Stewart

£295

Intermediate

Leafhoppers, planthoppers and froghoppers are abundant insects in a wide range of habitats and are increasingly used in site quality assessment and monitoring. Nearly 400 species have been recorded in Britain. This weekend course will be aimed mainly at newcomers to this group of insects, although anyone with more experience is also welcome. Field visits will be made to local sites to collect specimens for species-level identification back in the laboratory. The course will also cover the natural history of this diverse and fascinating group of insects, as well as field collection techniques, the preservation of specimens and general recording methods. *MMU

Dipterists Forum Workshop Fri 15 Feb - Sun 17 Feb

£295

Tutor: Stephen Hewitt and Nigel Jones

Open to all

Empid flies (dance flies) form a large group of nearly 400 species in four families. They have long been popular as a jumping-off point into smaller flies as there is some excellent literature on them. They range hugely in size and shape, and occupy just about every habitat from fore dunes to mountain tops, with some very specialised niches in between, making them an interesting group to focus on ecologically. Their behaviour is rather more interesting than that of many flies, notably in their swarming and gift-giving during courtship, and in the evolution of sexual selection where females sometimes outshine males. Previous experience of Diptera identification would be an advantage for this workshop. Handouts will be provided.

Dolycoris baccarum (Hairy Shield Bug) - David Williams

field-studies-council.org/animals

Habitats and Conser vation

Discovering Diptera: Flies Under the Microscope EF

Sat 30 Nov

Non-residential

Tutor: Martin Harvey

Ferdinandea cuprea (Hoverfly) – David Williams

£50

Intermediate

This day course will provide an introduction to the Diptera, getting familiar with some of the major families and with a focus on some of the larger and more colourful species in the hoverfly, soldierfly, robberfly and related families. The course will be mostly based in the classroom, using microscopes and specimens to learn how to identify the different groups. We will also spend a short time outside searching for winter flies. This course is suitable for beginners with an interest in insects, as well as countryside professionals (but please note that we will be working with dead specimens, which are essential for identification in many cases).

Discovering Beetles NC

Fri 19 Jul - Sun 21 Jul

Tutor: Katy Potts

£280

Open to all

This course will cover practical aspects of finding, identifying and recording beetles. The weekend will include an introduction to this group of insects, focusing on their ecologies and life histories and will begin to look at the various families common to the UK. We will do this by looking at specimens of the different families with microscopes. A small synoptic teaching collection of beetle families for identification purposes will be provided and also a non-British collection so that people can see some of the diversity of beetles worldwide. There is the option to go out into the field to collect some beetles and learn about collecting methods with time to key out specimens using the British family key. An optional session on mounting techniques is possible for those who would like to learn or to continue looking at the specimens with the keys. Lesser Dung Fly - David Williams

Finding and Identifying Beetles JH

Fri 26 Jul - Sun 28 Jul

Tutor: Steve Bolchover

£240

Open to all

This exciting course at Juniper Hall will cover practical aspects of finding, identifying and recording beetles. The main focus of the course is on the diversity of beetles and their adaptations to their environment. Guidance on field and laboratory equipment and the treatment of specimens will be given, and on the literature, internet and other resources helpful in identification. The course is not aimed at experts but those people who would like to learn about beetles and to learn skills in fieldwork techniques, curation and identification of specimens.

Finding and Identifying Beetles and Other Invertebrates MA

Fri 09 Aug - Sun 11 Aug

Tutor: Steve Bolchover

£289

Open to all

This course will cover practical aspects of finding, identifying and recording beetles and other invertebrates. The main focus will be on beetles, but a number of other invertebrate groups will also be dealt with, though in less detail. Guidance on field and laboratory equipment and the treatment of specimens will be given, along with literature, websites and other resources helpful in identification.

Practical Microscopy: Go It Alone Weekend FM

Fri 09 Aug - Mon 12 Aug

Self Led - No Tutor

£170

Open to all

This long weekend is a chance for microscopists to get together and pursue their hobby in a laboratory, unhindered by distractions. There will be no tutor, but help will be forthcoming for those with less experience from participants with expertise and skills in a wide range of subjects. Many will wish to take advantage of the location on the River Stour to study freshwater organisms.

Introduction to the Insect Orders MA

Fri 16 Aug - Sun 18 Aug

Tutor: Wendy Harris

£289

Open to all

This course introduces this charismatic group of invertebrates with a range of classroom-based and practical sessions. The course will introduce the group and cover key identification characteristics as well as field survey techniques of both adults and nymphs. We will also study and observe the ecology of dragonflies, their mating strategies and territorial behaviour.

field-studies-council.org/animals

Reptiles and Amphibians Introduction to British Amphibians EF

Sat 23 Mar

Non-residential

Tutor: James Bromhead

£35

Beginner

An introduction to the basics of British Amphibian identification and ecology, this course will combine classroom-based discussion covering theory and practical sessions to apply skills in searching and identification. By the end of the day participants will have carried out at least three different surveying methods, be able to identify British native amphibian species, have a broad understanding of amphibian legislation and recognise key terrestrial habitat requirements. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Britain.

Great Crested Newts with Froglife EF

Wed 24 Apr

Non-residential

Tutor: Laurence Jarvis

£53

Intermediate

An introduction to identification, surveying and conservation of great crested newts.The day will consist of a combination of outside and indoor workshop sessions aimed at improving participants’ knowledge and understanding of this species.The course will be a useful foundation for those wishing to carry out surveys and eventually acquire a great crested newt licence. Fee includes pub lunch and an FSC fold out chart Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Britain.

Working Towards a Great Crested Newt Licence PM

Tue 30 Apr - Thu 02 May

Tutor: Jim Fairclough

£345

Intermediate

The course provides a balance of classroom and field-based sessions for those interested in acquiring a great crested newt licence. Coursework covers: species identification, the legislative framework and the ecology of great crested newts. Practical sessions will give participants hands-on experience of the relevant survey methods and practice in habitat assessment.

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust

Finding and Identifying Amphibians and Reptiles BW

Sat 11 May

Non-residential

Tutor: John Wilkinson

£50

Open to all

We will spend some time in the classroom learning amphibian and reptile ID features then, subject to the weather, search for amphibians and reptiles in the grounds of Bishops Wood to practise surveying and identification.

Great Crested Newts and Licensing for Surveys HO

Wed 03 Apr

Tutor: David Orchard

Non-residential

£90

Beginner

This course has been designed for ecologists, rangers or land managers who are looking to undertake professional great crested newt surveys. It will cover species identification and ecology, survey techniques, the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) and include opportunities to practice netting, bottle trapping, torch and egg searching. Please note this course is not based at an FSC Centre but will be held at Rixton Claypits Local Nature Reserve, Warrington, Cheshire WA3 6EB.

Working with Natterjacks HO

Thu 18 Apr

Non-residential

£90

Beginner

This course is specifically aimed at Environmental Consultants, Planners and FEP agents (working with DEFRA’s Environmental Stewardship scheme) but everyone with an interest in natterjack toads is welcome to attend. Please note this course is not based at an FSC Centre but will be held at Millom Network Centre, Salthouse Road, Millom, Cumbria LA18 5AB.

British Reptiles and Amphibians: Identification, Ecology and Survey Techniques Fri 26 Apr - Sun 28 Apr

Non-residential

£289

Open to all

An introduction to the ecology and identification of British reptiles and amphibians, as well as non-native species that occur.The course is run by professional ecological consultants and includes sessions on survey methodology and mitigation, with a number of case studies being discussed.

Reptile Survey Techniques JH Sat 04 May Non-residential £50 Intermediate Tutor: Rob Ward

This one-day course will cover reptile identification and ecology, an introduction to legislation, survey methods and survey planning. It will give participants a good understanding of the principles behind reptile surveying and will include a site visit to demonstrate best practice. Weather permitting, reptiles may be encountered during the course.

£50

Open to all

Discover more about the habits and life-cycles of Britain’s frogs, toads, and newts and what makes them unique! We will practise identification in the classroom and, subject to weather, with field sessions on campus and to nearby sites. This course is for anyone interested in exploring and comparing the ecology of British amphibians and acquiring or improving identification and survey skills.

Reptiles and Amphibians PM

Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

£395

Intermediate

In this course you will learn how to identify all the UK’s native amphibians and reptiles, as well as established alien species. The focus will be on diagnostic characters and practical experience of identification in the field. We will also discuss ecology, survey techniques and habitat requirements. *MMU

British Reptiles PM

Sat 07 Sep

Non-residential

Tutor: John Wilkinson

£50

Beginner

We will spend some time in the classroom learning reptile ID features then, subject to the weather, search for reptiles on campus and at a nearby site to practice surveying and identification.

Great Crested Newts, Licensing and Mitigation PM

Tue 03 Dec - Thu 05 Dec

£480

Tutor: Jim Fairclough and David Orchard

Intermediate

Plants

Tutor: Liam Russell

Sat 18 May

Tutor: John Wilkinson

Tutor: Yvette Martin and Ruth Popely

Animals

Frogs, Toads and Newts

This course has been designed for those ecologists with knowledge and experience of great crested newt survey techniques and limited experience of licensing and mitigation projects. It will include case-study, syndicate exercises, site visits and demonstration techniques to help participants understand license application and mitigation projects.

Habitats and Conser vation

Grass Snake - Timothy Caldecott

field-studies-council.org/animals

Plants

This section introduces the courses offered on the plant kingdom throughout the FSC. However, as you will see from the list of course titles, this phrase is interpreted fairly liberally and includes groups such as lichens, mosses and fungi, as well as the flowering plants. Most courses involve a strong emphasis on identification skills, starting with general principles and moving on to more detailed identification using appropriate guides and specialised ‘keys’. From the experience of the plants you discover during our courses, you should leave confident that you can recognise and name unfamiliar plants in future. The process and skills of identification are at the heart of our teaching, not least because they are the basis for all further investigations into the world of plants. We are pleased to offer a range of one-day courses in partnership with the British Lichen Society (BLS), who encourage all aspects of the study and conservation of lichens.

Levels

Fern - Adri

an Davies

Advanced Courses for those wishing to hone their skills, which require some prior knowledge or skills in the subject area (though not necessarily the detailed subject matter).

field-studies-council.org/plants

Centres AM Amersham, The Chilterns BW Bishops Wood, Worcestershire BL Blencathra, The Lake District DF Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire Coast EF Epping Forest, Essex FM Flat ford Mill, Suf folk ‘Constable Country’ JH Juniper Hall, Surrey KD Kindrogan, Scottish Highlands LDN London MT Malham Tarn, Yorkshire Dales MA Margam, South Wales MIL Millport, Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland NC Nettlecombe Court, Somerset OR Orielton, Pembrokeshire Coast PM Preston Mont ford, Shropshire Hills RC Rhyd-y-creuau, Snowdonia SL Slapton Ley, South Devon *MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Flowering Plants How to Use Plant Identification Keys LDN

Sat 27 Apr

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

Animals

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Are you embarrassed when you use picture guides to identify wild plants? Don’t, they are really useful! However, to get the most out of botanising, learning how to use keys is an essential tool. This course will take the fear out of ‘keying out’. Participants will be introduced to a range of different keys and their strengths and weaknesses will be explored. Guidance will also be given on how to use hand lenses. The group will also practise on plant material in the classroom and around the park. Based in The Regent’s Park.

Wildflowers and Ferns of Limestone Woodland PM

Sat 11 May

Non-residential

Tutor: Fiona Gomersall

£45

Intermediate

Llynclys Common nature reserve is one of the richest botanical sites in Shropshire. The reserve, managed by Shropshire Wildlife Trust consists of a series of former limestone quarries and a large common. The range of habitats, both limestone and mesotrophic grassland, cliff faces and scrub display a terrific array of species, but it is the woodland at this time of year which brings the naturalists. Herb Paris and both Early-purple and Greater Butterfly-orchids are just three of the numerous species to be found in May time. The day will be spent exploring this large reserve with its network of paths and small quarries, identifying a wide range of wild flowers, mosses and ferns.

Urban Wild Plants LDN

Sat 11 May

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

Woodland Plant Identification PM Wed 15 May Non-residential £45 Intermediate Tutor: Mark Duffell

A course visiting a fantastic woodland site, with a rich and diverse ground flora full of ancient woodland indicator species (AWIs). Previous courses have seen over 20 AWIs (including Town Hall Clock and Herb Paris) as well as many other interesting plants. Identifications will be made in comparison with similar or related species and emphasis will be placed on the key characters that are required to distinguish these species. How to assess Ancient Woodland status will be discussed during the day, along with the ecology and historical uses of many of these plants. As the site is generally level the only requirements for this course are an enthusiasm for plants and moderate walking ability.

Non-residential

Tutor: Laurie Wildwood

£35

Open to all

Sat 18 May

Non-residential

See course description 17 May.

£35

Open to all

£45

Beginner

This is one of four sessions, each of which will focus on 3-5 common wild plant families. Participants will be introduced to each family and their main vegetative and floral characteristics and then practise their identification skills, using keys, and examine the plants in the field. In some cases, where wild plants are not available, horticultural material may be used and the families explored may vary. The other sessions take place on 15 June: Pea, grass, rush and sedge, 20 July: Mint, figwort and borage and 17 Aug: Daisy, goosefoot, dock and willow. Attendance of all four sessions is not required.

Discovering the Flora of Chalk Grasslands and Woodlands JH

Fri 24 May - Sun 26 May

Tutor: David Streeter

£240

Open to all

Suitable for both beginners and more advanced botanists, this course provides an opportunity to study the exceptionally rich downland flora of Box Hill. This will enable us to become familiar with the identification and natural history of a wide range of chalk plants, including less familiar groups and some of the rarer species that are a speciality of the area.

Woodland Plants Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

£400

Intermediate

Woodlands in May are at their richest and most attractive – a wealth of plants to study and identify - carpets of spring flowers, overhanging catkins and blossoms, freshly unfurled ferns now bearing spores, plus lichens and mosses – all at their best to entice those who have not yet developed an interest in these evocative groups of plants. *MMU

Wild Flower Identification: The Top 20 Flower Families FM

Botany Beginnings: Wildflowers Tutor: Laurie Wildwood

Non-residential

Tutor: Ros Bennett

This beginners course will cover wildflower anatomy, terminology, and common families, and will teach simple methods of identification in a relaxed and passionate manner. There will be many handy tips and plenty of indoor and outdoor practical activities to aid learning. This course will leave you brimming with confidence to continue exploring the fascinating world of plants.

Sat 18 May

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

Tutor: Alanna Cooper

£415

Open to all

This course is for anyone with a recent or renewed interest in wild flowers, who would like to learn how to identify them correctly. By close examination and gaining an understanding of the floral structure of the major flower families that make up over three quarters of our British flora, you will make huge strides forward in your confidence and competence as a budding field botanist.

field-studies-council.org/plants

Habitats and Conser vation

Fri 17 May

LDN

Botany Beginnings: Wildflowers MT

Common British and Irish Plant Families 1: Cabbage, Carrot, Lily and Rose

Plants

Wild plants in urban areas are often very different to their counterparts in the countryside. This course will explore these differences, in particular the diversity of non-natives in urban habitats often exceeds that of natives. Participants will be introduced to non-natives of the London area that they are less likely to experience elsewhere in the UK. Participants will also be introduced to some basic identification skills and keys. Based in The Regent’s Park.

Heath Spotted Orchid - Robin Sutton

Botany for Beginners Mon 27 May - Fri 31 May

Tutor: Philip Wilson

Mountain Plants of North Wales £460

Open to all

This course aims to enable participants to identify common and not so common plants when in flower and not flowering. It will also explore relationships between vegetation, environment and management. It will take full advantage of the rich and varied habitats of south Devon and as much time as possible will be spent in the field.

Using a Flora Mon 27 May - Fri 31 May

Tutor: Ros Bennett

£530

Intermediate

The course will be particularly useful to countryside professionals and is intended for those with some knowledge of botanical terminology; it is designed for anyone who would like to increase their confidence in working with a flora as a means of identifying and getting to know more about our wonderful yet dwindling heritage of wild flowers. At Slapton we will find no shortage of material to work with. Participants will have the chance to become familiar with the key characters (and how to study them) of many families and genera. Familiarity with using a flora certainly turns a somewhat daunting prospect into an irresistible pastime. *MMU

Thu 30 May - Mon 03 Jun

Tutor: Mark Duffell

£440

Intermediate

The use of a botanical flora is an essential skill for anyone with a serious interest in field botany, whether for survey work or simply as a hobby. Naming plants correctly can be difficult. It’s a Buttercup, but which Buttercup? A Crane’s-bill, but which Crane’s-bill? And as for those little white things, the yellow dandelion-like things, and so on. The answers can be found by using a flora, generally in conjunction with an illustrated field guide. Floras employ identification keys which are very simple in principle but intimidating to the beginner due to the unfamiliar terminology and the frequent use of small, obscure plant characters. *MMU

LDN

Sat 01 Jun

Tutor: Pippa Hyde

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

An informal guide to flowering plants in Bushy Park, one of London’s Royal Parks. During the day you will see a variety of species in our flower-rich meadows and on the grazed acid grassland learning how to identify wildflowers and be aware of where to find further information. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Describing Flowers. Heath Dog Violet - Clive Hurford

£350

Open to all

A fascinating introduction to the ecology of some of Britain’s rarest and most ancient plant communities. Arctic alpines now survive in just a few shady upland refuges such as the spectacular mountains of Snowdonia. Suitable for beginners or experienced botanists. Involves off-path mountain walking (up to 1,000m with steep ascents and descents). Participants will need a head for heights for some sections of the routes walked - arctic alpine species do not grow in places that are easy to reach!

Top 10 Plant Families PM

Sun 02 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: John Handley

£45

Open to all

Plant identification is fun and rewarding, adding interest to countryside visits and often leading to further understanding of important wildlife sites. Getting to grips with plant families helps anyone to make a start and name that plant. This course is classroom-based to help you understand the layout in flower guides and inspire confidence in field identification.

Wild Orchids of South East England 1 Sat 08 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Simon Harrap

£60

Open to all

This course will cover the identification, ecology and distribution of orchids as well as the astonishing pollination mechanisms which have evolved. The field excursions will provide plenty of opportunities for photography. No previous knowledge is necessary; this is a course for anyone interested in wild orchids. By combining this course with the later orchid course at Kindrogan you will see almost half of all British orchid species. Book both course 1 and 2 and pay a discounted total of £100. Due to the location of orchid habitats this course requires a reasonable level of fitness involving a good deal of walking in some difficult terrain.

Wild Orchids of South East England 2 JH

Introduction to Wild Flowers

Sat 01 Jun - Tue 04 Jun

Tutor: Matt Parratt

Using a Flora PM

Sun 09 Jun

Tutor: Simon Harrap

Non-residential

£60

Open to all

Identifying Woodland Plants PM

Fri 14 Jun - Mon 17 Jun

Tutor: Sally Peacock

£395

Intermediate

This course is for botanists wishing to develop their skills in woodland plant identification, including trees and the more colourful flowering plants, but also on the traditionally difficult groups such as woodland grasses, sedges and ferns as well as providing an introduction to mosses and liverworts. Please note that this is in effect a ‘Level 2’ walking course, requiring a moderate level of fitness. *MMU

Wild Flowers of Chalk Grasslands AM

Sat 15 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Brenda Harold

£42

Open to all

Chalk grassland is a very attractive and species-rich plant community and we are lucky to have fine examples in the Chilterns. This course will introduce the characteristic species and give training in the identification of grassland species in general.

Common British and Irish Plant Families 2: Pea, Grass, Rush and Sedge LDN

Sat 15 Jun

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

See course description 18 May.

field-studies-council.org/plants

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Wildflower ID: Top 10 Flower Families BW

Sat 15 Jun

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Discovering Mountain Flowers and Ferns

Open to all

Heathland Plants PM

Tue 18 Jun

Tutor: Mark Duffell

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

Tutor: Theo Loizou

£263

Open to all

This course aims to visit a wide range of alpine flowering plants and ferns, contrasting more acidic habitats with lime rich areas. Although there will be emphasis on identification of vascular plants and ferns, the course will also examine aspects of the ecology and vegetation of the montane flora.

A Botanical Odyssey - 300 Species in 3 Days? Wed 17 Jul - Sat 20 Jul

Tutor: Chris Metherell

£350

Open to all

The best way to learn about plants is to see lots of them. This course presents a comprehensive tour through both the world of plants and the world of North Wales. We aim to see 300 wild plants in three days. We can’t promise that every one will be in flower but you will learn how to recognise them and hear about their ecology and even their folklore. Or just enjoy the flowers themselves. Each day we will be walking around 5 or 6 miles, on rough but not steep ground.

Explore the spectacular heathland of the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve in South Shropshire. Without travelling far you will be shown a rich variety of moorland species, ranging from the common to not so common. Learn how to recognise and identify the different Heathers and Heaths, Bilberry, Cowberry and Crowberry as well as some of the dominant grasses and sedges of these areas. Expect the unexpected with Sundews and Cottongrass amongst the wet heath and clubmosses nearby and the almost guaranteed flypast of Ravens or Red Kites over lunch. The only requirements for this course are an enthusiasm for plants and moderate walking ability.

Common British and Irish Plant Families 3: Mint, Figwort and Borage

How To Use a Botanical Key

LDN

Sat 22 Jun

Tutor: Rachel Cassidy

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

Sat 20 Jul

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

See course description 18 May.

Umbellifers for a Day: Understanding the Apiaceae Tue 23 Jul

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

This statuesque family deserves our attention and respect as an important food plant, for us, and for a wealth of species. They ornament our hedgerows with a sequence of colours from the start of the growing season. Some can cause injury and even death, making it a wise thing to be able to distinguish between species that at a glance can appear similar. This course will focus on the key differences between the members of this family, helping elucidate the guide books and enable the amateur to become proficient at determining what member of the Apiaceae they are looking at.

Plants

“Keying out” is a daunting but essential skill for anyone interested in Botany. This one-day introduction will explain how dichotomous keys work, how to find your way around them, and will guide you through their use and application - and their limitations. We’ll work mainly from The Vegetative Key to the British Flora by Poland and Clements (with reference to Rose, and Stace) and the FSC’s own publication. This practical course will take us outside as much as possible, using the diversity of Bushy Park. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

LDN

Animals

Finding out which of the top 10 plant families your flower belongs to is an important first step in plant identification. Field botany can be fun and rewarding adding interest to countryside visits and often leads to further understanding of our important wildlife sites. Getting to grips with plant families helps anyone starting out to name that plant. This course is classroom based to help you understand the layout in flower guides and inspire confidence in field identification. The course builds from the basics starting with understanding plant families and how each plant is classified by taxonomists into the relevant grouping which helps the beginner to recognise how plants are placed in families and by the end of the day all should be able to recognise the common species in 10 of the most popular plant families.

Fri 05 Jul - Mon 08 Jul

Limestone Flora of the Oswestry Hills PM

Sat 22 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Fiona Gomersall

£45

Intermediate

This course will enable you to identify a large number of flowers found on limestone, many of which are unique to this part of the county and include seven members of the Orchidaceae.You will spend most of the day in two nature reserves, Dolgoch and Blackbridge quarries with their limestone cliffs and relics of past quarrying. Flowers, ferns and mosses now cover the old spoil heaps and quarry floors.

Discovering and Identifying Wild Flowers KD

Mon 24 Jun - Fri 28 Jun

Tutor: Martin Robinson

£300

Beginner

Limestone Flora MT

Fri 28 Jun - Mon 01 Jul

Tutor: Ian Powell

£350

Intermediate

A weekend for building botanical skills with the specialist flora of limestone habitats amid the magnificent scenery of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Excursions will cover grasslands, flushes, woodlands and limestone pavement to identify a wide range of species in the field, making sure we don’t miss the ferns, grasses, sedges and the views. *MMU

Wild Daffodil - Sue Townsend

FSC is proud to support an alternative way of learning through the online botany course Identiplant in conjunction with BSBI. This is a distance learning course which gives participants first-hand experience along with expert written materials, enabling them to develop their understanding of plant families of the British Isles.

www.identiplant.co.uk

field-studies-council.org/plants

Habitats and Conser vation

This course will be an introduction to the flowers of the many exciting habitats close to the Centre. It is aimed at anyone who loves plants and would like to know more about them, how and where they live, how to use keys, what books to use and how to feel confident in putting a name to them.

Coastal Plants SL

Fri 26 Jul - Mon 29 Jul

Tutor: David Streeter

£315

Open to all

Slapton is an ideal location for the study of coastal plants. Famous for the unique shingle beach of Slapton Sands and for the freshwater lake of Slapton Ley, it is also within easy reach of the cliffs of Start Point and the sand dunes and salt marshes of the Avon Estuary.

Simply Wild Flowers SL

Fri 26 Jul - Mon 29 Jul

Tutor: Ros Bennett

Open to all

Difficult Plants Mon 29 Jul - Fri 02 Aug

Tutor: Ros Bennett

£470

Intermediate

We shall focus on plants that we find on our excursions in the lovely habitats of South Devon and we shall spend a little time studying and getting to grips with these. By the end of the course you should be inspired with confidence and enthusiasm to tackle “new” and attractive plants and so discover yet more of our amazingly beautiful, intriguing and surprisingly diverse flora.

Vegetative Keys for Identifying Plants FM

Wed 31 Jul - Fri 02 Aug

Tutor: Alanna Cooper

£295

Open to all

Summer is a good time to practise keys that focus on vegetative features. Most field guides focus on features of flowers and fruits to differentiate between species and this can be frustrating when the plant you are interested in has neither! A plant that may be easily recognisable when it is in flower can seem featureless when it is not. Also when they are present, flowers may look very similar between species within a genera, and plants with inconspicuous flowers may present a challenge.Vegetative features such as hairs, stomata and stems in cross-section can be diagnostic features, assisting in accurately identifying plants to species level. We will focus on using ‘The Vegetative Key’ by Poland and Clements but will also try some other vegetative keys for specific groups.

Flowers with Botanical Keys FM

Fri 02 Aug - Mon 05 Aug

Tutor: Alanna Cooper

£415

Open to all

This course will focus on providing a good grounding on flowering parts and the vegetative structure of plants required to use botanical keys successfully and with confidence. We will demystify terms that sometimes make it seem that botanists are using a ‘different language’. This course is especially useful for those who want to identify plants to the specieslevel for surveys and assessments and need to have confidence in what is recorded on a site. This course is suitable for beginners (no previous knowledge will be assumed) and it is also suitable for improvers.

Identifying Coastal Plants FM

Fri 16 Aug - Mon 19 Aug

Tutor: Ros Bennett

£405

Open to all

The East Anglian coastline is dominated by shingle spits, saltmarshes and muddy estuaries – exhilarating locations but utterly unacceptable habitats for most of Britain’s flora. The extraordinary plants that are adapted to cope with the appallingly stressful conditions of these coastal sites are mostly restricted to them and it is these remarkable plants that will be our focus during this course. At first sight, many are difficult to distinguish and identify but with guidance and perseverance participants will soon get to grips with this unique, fascinating and diverse flora. Bursaries are available for this course, generously organised by the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service. Please contact FSC Flatford Mill for details.

LDN

field-studies-council.org/plants

Sat 17 Aug

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

See course description 18 May.

Dandelions, Daisies and Thistles FM

£400

This is a course for anyone with a recent or renewed interest in wild flowers, who would like to learn how to identify them correctly. By close examination and gaining an understanding of floral structure of the major flower families you will ensure huge strides forward in your confidence and competence as a budding field botanist.

Common British and Irish Plant Families 4: Daisy, Goosefoot, Dock and Willow

Mon 19 Aug - Thu 22 Aug

£405

Tutor: Ros Bennett

Intermediate

By August many of our finest native plants have finished flowering, with the notable exception of glorious shows of thistles, ragworts, dandelions and mayweeds - a great time therefore to concentrate on the Asteraceae or the Compositae as we used to call them. The course will be essentially a practical one with ample time provided, under guidance, for the study of floral design under the low power microscope; a useful tool which undoubtedly aids future field identification. *MMU

Vegetative Plant Identification MA

Fri 30 Aug - Sun 01 Sep

Tutor: Mark Duffell

£289

Intermediate

In many books and courses the focus of plant identification is flowers. This course aims to help improve identification of plants vegetatively using a variety of field techniques and the Vegetative Key to the British Flora by John Poland. Looking at several families of plants across a variety of habitats, the participants will focus on the key structures and features which allow accurate identification of plants no matter what time of year.

Plant ID Using the Vegetative Key PM

Thu 12 Sep

Tutor: Mark Duffell

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

In many books and courses the focus of plant identification is on flowers, with foliage taking a back seat. This has changed with the Vegetative Key to the British Flora by John Poland, which relies solely on using vegetative characters for identification. Concentrating on the characters used in ‘Poland’ you will discover the weird and wonderful world of botany and find out how easy it can be to make an accurate identification. Using a hand lens or microscope you will come to marvel at the structures and details to be found in even the commonest species. Working through the ‘Flora’ together participants will discover a range of characters that regularly crop up in the key and these will be further illustrated with specimens and presentations.

Trees Identifying Broadleaf Trees in Winter PM

Tue 22 Jan

Tutor: Mar Duffell

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

Take the mystery out of winter identification of deciduous trees. By observing the different characters that each species has you will be able to accurately separate a wide range of species (mostly native but including some of the commoner introduced species). Emphasis will be placed on key characters to distinguish each species from similar-looking species such as Sessile and English Oaks, and Downy and Silver Birch.

Identifying Trees Without Leaf in Epping Forest EF

Sat 26 Jan

Tutor: Ken Adams

Non-residential

£53

Intermediate

This course will concentrate on identifying native broad-leaved trees and shrubs in the Epping Forest area. Identifying trees in winter can be a difficult process, therefore the main focus will be on identification using bark, twigs, buds, seeds and fruit. Fee includes pub lunch and FSC AIDGAP A Guide to the Identification of Deciduous Broad-leaved Trees and Shrubs in Winter.

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Trees in Winter AM

Sat 02 Feb

Tutor: Rachel Cassidy

Ancient Woodland Plants Non-residential

£42

Open to all

During the winter months broadleaved trees lose the leaves and flowers which help identification during spring and summer.We will look at features of buds and twigs to identify the more common species using examples from the Amersham Field Centre grounds. A practical, hands-on course which is suitable for complete beginners.

LDN

Sat 09 Feb

Tutor: Rachel Cassidy

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

During the winter months broadleaved trees and shrubs lose the leaves and flowers which help identification during spring and summer. Using the extensive collection of specimen trees and shrubs in Bushy Park we will look at features of buds and twigs to identify the more common species. A practical, hands-on course which is suitable for complete beginners: dress warmly, and bring along a hand lens if you have one. Fee includes FSC Winter Trees: a photographic guide to common trees and shrubs guide.

Winter Tree Identification RC

Fri 22 Feb - Sun 24 Feb

Tutor: Matt Parratt

£290

Open to all

Introducing and focusing on the skills needed to identify trees native to the British Isles in winter, as well as many common non-native species. Over the weekend both the broad-leaves and some conifers will be covered. By the end of the course you will be able to identify the more common trees to species level with confidence!

Identifying Conifers in the British Isles RC

Fri 01 Mar - Sun 03 Mar

Tutor: Matt Parratt

£290

Open to all

Introduction to Coniferous Trees LDN

Sat 16 Mar

Tutor: Rachel Cassidy

Non-residential

£35

There’s more to conifers than Leylandii and Christmas trees and the British Isles are a second home to many exotic species from around the world.The extensive collection of specimen coniferous trees in Bushy Park gives us an excellent resource to look at features such as leaves, bark, and cones which can be used to identify the more common species. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

£45

Open to all

The concept of Ancient Woodlands is distinct within British natural history; no other habitat is recognised in a similar manner.This designation identifies Ancient Woodlands as special places with consequences regarding conservation, management and development.This course will explain the concept of Ancient Woodlands and focus on developing the identification skills necessary to recognise Ancient Woodland Indicators across Britain. A range of material examining the history, management, use, folklore and ecology of Ancient Woodlands will be discussed during an entertaining and enlightening day.

Ancient Woodlands of Britain FM

Sun 07 Apr - Fri 12 Apr

£675

Open to all

Tutor: Gary Battell, Simon Leatherdale and Jonathan Spencer The course will look at woodland management and how native woods are managed and perpetuated. It will include studies of: shade, the reproduction of trees, soils, coppicing and other management practices as well as tree diseases.This course will be of interest to woodland managers, foresters, contractors, historians, biologist and anyone concerned with the management and conservation of woodlands as well as those with a general interest.This course is run in memory of Professor Oliver Rackham who led the course for many years at FSC Flatford Mill and whose books will be referenced to during the programme.

Introduction to Broadleaf Trees LDN

Sat 18 May

Tutor: Rachel Cassidy

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

Trees form an imposing and ecologically important part of the landscape of the British Isles but they are much more interesting if we know their names! During this course in Bushy Park, we will look at features such as leaves, bark, flowers and fruits which can be used to identify the more common species throughout the summer months. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

Big Tree Country 1: Tree Identification for Beginners KD

Beginner

Non-residential

Fri 24 May - Sun 26 May

Tutor: Jerry Dicker

£232

Beginner

Plants

Despite having only three native conifer species, we have a rich flora of exotic species from all over the world which have been introduced for use in forestry and horticulture. This course introduces the skills needed to identify the conifers which are commonly found in forests, parks and gardens in the British Isles.

Tue 19 Mar

Tutor: John Handley

Animals

Introduction to Trees in Winter

This course involves extended walks through stunning scenery to meet many of the native trees and the commoner conifer species of Perthshire’s ‘Big Tree Country’.This course complements and can be combined with the Tree Identification for Improvers course which follows immediately afterwards. Book both courses together to receive a 15% discount on fees.

Habitats and Conser vation

FSC Young Darwin Scholarships FSC Young Darwin Scholarships are awarded each year to support and encourage 16-17 year olds with a real interest in the natural world. We now have 105 Young Darwin Scholars and continue to offer courses and opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills of these young people.

www.field-studies-council.org/yds

field-studies-council.org/plants

Identifying British Trees BW

Thu 25 Jul

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

This is a great time of the year to tackle this extensive group whilst the leaves, fruit and even flowers are still present, helping you to become familiar with them before having to rely upon silhouettes, bark and buds. A range of specimens’ and use of keys will enable attendees to distinguish between many of the British trees.The focus of this one-day course will be broad-leaved trees although conifers will be looked at in less detail.This course will also look at the range of British woodlands, planted, semi-natural and ancient, their ecology and management.

Introduction to Woodlands BW

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

Tutor: John Handley

Big Tree Country 2: Tree Identification for Improvers

Woodlands create a changing environment throughout the year: great swathes of flowers that fill the woodland floor before the canopy bursts into life and dark, secret corners, venerable veterans, animal tracks and areas dominated by brambles or nettles. All these areas, and so much more, are accommodated within our glorious woodlands and they all have their own story to tell.This course will look at the history, management and use, ecology and folklore of our woodlands.

Sun 26 May - Thu 30 May

Tutor: Jerry Dicker

£330

Intermediate

This course builds confidence and skills in the identification of native, naturalised and exotic trees found in Perthshire’s ‘Big Tree Country’. It will also study spring woodland ground flora communities and woodland ecology, history and management.The course complements the preceding course, book both to receive a 15% discount on fees.

Trees and Tree Identification in Summer FM

Mon 27 May - Wed 29 May

Tutor: Alanna Cooper

£295

Open to all

Summer is a great time for looking at broad-leaved and coniferous trees: their leaves and needles are at their best and they are often already producing fruits and seeds.We will visit a number of sites with a rich diversity of trees, exploring around the Centre, local ancient woods, hedgerows, churchyards and parklands to find as many species as possible to identify in the field.We will spend time getting to grips with botanical terminology, including different growth patterns of branches, shapes of leaves and the structure and classification of fruits and cones.

Tree Identification: Summer LDN

Sat 01 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Bettina Metcalfe

£35

Beginner

The trees in The Regent’s Park are magnificent; there is a huge variety of tree species, so the park is ideally suited for learning how to identify trees. There will be an introduction to taxonomy and tree terminology.The course will be based on practical observation with the aim to sharpen our observational skills. At the end of the course, you should feel comfortable identifying the genus of many of the trees and also a number of species. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

Discovering Veteran Trees LDN

Sat 22 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Sharon Brown

£35

Beginner

The historic parkland of Greenwich Park, much of it on steep slopes giving stunning views across the Thames estuary, is also the setting for an array of veteran trees.We will survey their ecology and importance as a habitat and look at the development of the parkland within its landscape. Other activities will include assessment of veteran trees for their wildlife value, mapping the location of our surveyed trees and collating the gathered data. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

Identification of Deciduous Trees in Summer AM

Sat 29 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Rachel Cassidy

£42

Open to all

Trees form an imposing and ecologically important part of the landscape of the British Isles: but they are much more interesting if we know their names! During this course we will look at features such as leaves, bark, flowers and fruits which can be used to identify the more common species throughout the summer months.

Wed 31 Jul

Mixed Deciduous Woodland – Mel Cousins

field-studies-council.org/plants

Broad-Leaved Trees JH

Fri 23 Aug - Sun 25 Aug

Tutor: Ros Bennett

£268

Intermediate

Late summer is a good time to turn our attention to the broad-leaved trees. Soon they will start to transform our landscapes into a blaze of colour. Now is the time to learn what we can from the foliage and fruits, before we have to rely on twig formation and winter silhouettes to help us identify these important members of our natural heritage. *MMU

Identifying Woodland Trees in Leaf EF

Sat 07 Sep

Tutor: Andy Deane

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

On this course we will learn identifying features of many of the trees found in and around Epping Forest using leaves, bark, fruits, nuts and seeds to help us. Site visits will include ancient woodland plantation areas with non-native and common woodland trees alike. Putting these trees in context, participants will also learn something of the lives of these trees and their place in the woodland environment. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

Introduction to Orchards LDN

Sat 14 Sep

Tutor: Leslie Williams

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

Traditional orchards are a cultural feature in the local landscape and a fascinating wildlife habitat.There are thousands of apple varieties, many considered local to particular areas. How can you design and create a community orchard or one in a garden? Why are rootstocks important, and how can one encourage the trees during the first few years? Based in Greenwich Park. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to Foraging.

Tree Identification: Autumn LDN

Sat 21 Sep

Non-residential

Tutor: Bettina Metcalfe

£35

Beginner

There is a great variety of trees in The Regent’s Park and it is therefore well suited to learning how to identify different species. Participants will be introduced to tree terminology and will learn to identify trees accurately. We will focus on broad-leaved trees and shrubs concentrating on the shape of the tree, bark, twigs, leaves and fruit. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

Introduction to Hedgerows LDN

Sat 28 Sep

Tutor: Leslie Williams

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

Hedgerows are boundary features of the landscape and their history is usually reflected in their wildlife. Learn about how hedgerows were created – or planted, their trees and flora, and of species that help to indicate their origin. We will look at how to create a hedgerow, even within a small site, how to manage the hedgerow and how to encourage wildlife. Based in Bushy Park. Course fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to Hedgerows. *MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Discovering Veteran Trees of Epping Forest EF

Sat 05 Oct

Non-residential

Tutor: Sharon Brown

£35

Beginner

Fri 10 May - Mon 13 May

Tutor: Hilary Wallace

£395

Intermediate

This course aims to dispel the myth that grasses are one of the more difficult plant families to identify. Participants will be introduced to simplified dichotomous keys to demonstrate that most species of grass can be identified through the observation of a few diagnostic characteristics on non-flowering plants at any time of year. This field based course will visit a wide range of habitats and should be invaluable to those carrying out botanical surveys including Phase 1 and NVC.

Introduction to Grasses

Identification of Conifers PM

Fri 18 Oct - Sun 20 Oct

£295

Tutor: Mark Duffell

Intermediate

Sat 11 May

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

A charismatic group of trees, with aesthetically pleasing foliage and cones, that with a little experience can be placed into recognisable groups e.g. Spruces or Firs.What can seem like an initially challenging group can be broken down and identified to species. By a range of workshops, lectures and field visits, you will build confidence to accurately identify Conifers. By the end of the course you should be able to identify in the field and laboratory a range of the major genera of conifers and, have had practice looking for appropriate characters to confirm the species.

Grasslands are complex systems whose flora is determined by a range of factors including soil type, drainage, altitude and management. The species of grass present can help tease apart these characteristics and help determine the status: how natural, unimproved and diverse the site and inform management decisions. However grasses for many people are dishearteningly similar and difficult to tell apart. This course will help lay solid foundations enabling the individual to understand terminology commonly used in guidebooks though it will focus on identifying species in their vegetative state – commonly required for year-round recognition.

Getting to Know Conifers

Identification of Grasses

Fri 08 Nov - Sun 10 Nov

Tutor: Ros Bennett

£268

Intermediate

Autumn and winter provide a wonderful opportunity to focus our attention on the conifers, most of which are evergreen and still bear cones.The British flora is remarkably poor in diversity of native conifers but many introduced species form a major feature in our landscape.This course includes a visit to Bedgebury Pinetum in Kent which has a fine collection of this magnificent group of trees. *MMU

Fri 15 Nov - Sun 17 Nov

Tutor: Ros Bennett

£270

Open to all

This course is concerned with identification. Depending on weather conditions, much of Saturday will be spent at the Centre, sorting through specimens and getting to grips with the terminology of the features of the bare stems, the winter buds and (in the case of the conifers) needle arrangement and cones.We shall also practise working with different keys to identification. However, regardless of the weather, and especially on Sunday, we shall spend plenty of time exploring the local woods and hedgerows in order to put into practice what we have learned.This course is suitable for beginners and all those who love trees. No previous knowledge will be assumed.

Identifying Grasses in Spring JH

Fri 03 May - Mon 06 May

Tutor: Judith Allinson

£328

Open to all

This course is designed to enable anyone to identify grasses by their vegetative (non-flowering) characteristics and should be especially valuable to those engaged in botanical survey work, teachers of ecology as well as to amateur botanists.You will develop your skills through laboratory work, field visits to a variety of habitats and practice with botanical keys.

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

Grasses along with sedges and rushes make up nearly a third of our British flora and wherever you are, they can be observed forming an important part of our landscape. Often they are key species that allow the recognition of different plant communities or habitats. Learn to take the mystery out of grass ID by examining the flower structures of grasses, comparing different species and understanding the ways these help to make an accurate identification. Emphasis is placed on showing a range of key characters used to distinguish the different species. By the end of the course participants will be able to recognise the commoner grasses and have improved their skills to enable use of keys to identify those they do not recognise.

Grass Identification and Ecology FM

Fri 31 May - Sun 02 Jun

Tutor: Jonny Stone

£270

Beginner

A weekend for anyone relatively new to studying the grass family: one of the largest and most important group of flowering plants and one which plays a key role in many British plant communities. The weekend concentrates on the principles of grass identification down to individual species and also the broader ecological relationships within different grassland communities. We will visit a variety of habitats and by looking carefully at the detailed structure of the plants, will help you develop skills and confidence in identifying the more common species correctly and recognising the rarer species when you find them.

Field Identification of Common and Upland Grasses PM

Sat 08 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Fiona Gomersall

£45

Intermediate

This one-day field course is designed to help you get to grips with the field characters of both common and the upland grasses. There will be an introductory session in the classroom where we will look at the structure of grasses and their flowers but most of the day will be spent in the field, using both vegetative and floristic keys to identify around 20 to 30 grasses in mostly upland communities.

Identification of Grasses, Sedges and Rushes of Epping Forest EF

Sat 15 Jun - Sun 16 Jun

Tutor: Ken Adams

£114

Intermediate

Broaden your basic botanical knowledge and widen your expertise to include grasses, sedges and rushes on this course. Over two intensive days you will learn how to use illustrated keys and synopses for identification (devised by the tutor) using the wide range of habitats in Epping Forest and the Roding Valley. Fee includes a pub lunch on both days.

field-studies-council.org/plants

Habitats and Conser vation

Grasses and Grass-like Plants

Tue 21 May

Tutor: Mark Duffell

Plants

Trees and Tree Identification: The Challenge of Early Winter

Animals

If you appreciate old trees then this is the course for you; well over 50,000 trees within Epping Forest are classified as veteran trees of considerable age and beauty.These support a diverse array of organisms including birds, invertebrates and fungi. You will study a selection of these amazing trees, measure and age a few and observe some of the creatures associated with them. Caring for these trees is important and there will be discussions about the various techniques used in their management. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Tree Name Trail.

Vegetative Grass Identification

Meadows and Grassland Plants LDN

Sat 22 Jun

Tutor: Leslie Williams

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

Meadows and other grasslands present a range of plant communities and support a diversity of wildlife. Learn about hay meadows, their history and management, and identify some common plants and grasses. Using the diverse habitats in The Regent’s Park we will look at what needs to be considered when creating a wildflower grassland or lawn, and how then to manage the meadow. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Guide to Grassland Plants.

Botany Beginnings: Grasses, Sedges and Rushes MT

Sat 29 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Laurie Wildwood

£35

Open to all

This beginners course will cover anatomy and terminology, and will teach simple methods of identification in a relaxed and passionate manner. There will be many handy tips and plenty of indoor and outdoor practical activities to aid learning. This course will leave you brimming with confidence to continue exploring this beautiful and understated group of plants.

Sat 29 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Fiona Gomersall

Fri 12 Jul - Sun 14 Jul

Tutor: Ros Bennett

£270

Intermediate

This course is designed to give the beginner a sound foundation in these two groups. We shall not be hunting for rarities or clocking up a long list of species, but rather we shall spend time tackling the identification of the commoner members of each family. The intricate beauty of these attractive plants is often sadly overlooked. Instead they are frequently lumped together as being “green and dull and difficult to identify”. For two groups of plants that contribute such a major part to some of our wilder landscapes, it seems a pity to neglect them. Bursaries are available for this course, generously organised by the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service. Please contact FSC Flatford Mill for details.

£45

Beginner

Fri 19 Jul

Non-residential

£45

Tutor: John Handley

Open to all

Wet grasslands and mires are amongst the richest of habitats. The hydrology will vary over a site and also change throughout the year which means that a variety of plants adapted to different hydrological conditions will grow in such places. The habitats will be home to numerous sedge species along with different grasses and rushes. There are specialists like the carnivorous sundews and butterworts which have evolved mechanisms to cope with the low nutrient soils.

So it’s not a grass! But why isn’t it a grass? Are there many more like this and how can I tell the difference between the different sedges? Once the basics have been unpacked, this wonderful group of plants, some of which are key indicators of particular habitats, will prove to be incredibly enjoyable and rewarding. This course will involve looking at a range of specimens and guide you through the process of identification from the very beginning right through to identification to species level, providing you with the confidence to relish tackling unknown species.

One Third of British Sedges in Three Days

Grasses, Sedges and Rushes

Fri 05 Jul - Mon 08 Jul

Tutor: Judith Allinson

£350

Intermediate

Fri 19 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

Tutor: Mark Duffell

£395

Intermediate

A course for people who need to identify sedges for survey work, or want to see a good variety of sedges, including some rare ones, and associated plants in diverse habitats. The sedge genus (Carex) has c. 77 UK species and the Sedge family (Cyperaceae) has c. 107 species. Malham Tarn is superb as it is possible to see a third of each within three miles of the Tarn. We will practise using flowering part and vegetative keys at what is the best time of year to look at sedges.

Grasses, sedges and rushes can be seen as a bewildering mix of similar looking plants; through this course you will be able to understand the structures and characters that each of the species has. By the end of the course participants will be able to recognise many of the commoner species and be able to use a key to identify those they don’t recognise. We will visit a wide range of habitats and see how this group fits into the ecological landscape. *MMU

Grass Identification

Grasses, Sedges and Rushes

Fri 05 Jul - Mon 08 Jul

Tutor: Sarah Watson-Jones

£350

Intermediate

Introduction to Grass Identification AM

Sat 06 Jul

Non-residential

Tutor: Brenda Harold

£42

Open to all

Grasses are tricky because they lack showy flowers and their leaves are all very similar but they are important in most plant habitats. We will begin with the structure and terminology of the grass plant, then visit local sites to become familiar with the common species that are found in different types of grassland.

field-studies-council.org/plants

Fri 26 Jul - Mon 29 Jul

Tutor: Mark Duffell

The grass family is the fifth largest (in terms of diversity) and arguably the most economically important of the flowering plant families. However, with its small flowering parts it is also considered one of the more difficult to identify. With an emphasis on floral characteristics, this course is aimed at those with limited or no experience and will introduce the structure of grasses and the terminology used in identification.Visits to a variety of local habitats will give you experience of using keys and identifying a range of common and less well-known grass species in the field. *MMU

Sedges and Rushes

Introduction to Sedges

Marshes and Mires PM

Yorkshire Fog - Mel Cousins

£333

Intermediate

Aquatic Plants Aquatic Plants KD

Mon 17 Jun - Mon 24 Jun

Tutor: Nick Stewart

£597

Intermediate

The course will concentrate on the identification and ecology of aquatic and vascular plants and stoneworts in a wide range of habitats around Kindrogan, including ponds, lakes and rivers. It will cover all groups of water plants including swamp and fen plants growing around the edges of water bodies. Most of the time will be spent in the field studying the rich variety of water habitats in the locality. There will also be workshops on the more difficult groups such as water starworts (Callitriche), pondweeds (Potamageton), water crowfoots (Ranunculus) and stoneworts (Charophyta). Some time will be spent looking at aquatic plant communities and the various methods of their classification.

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Identifying Aquatic Plants PM

Fri 12 Jul - Mon 15 Jul

Tutor: Nick Law

£395

Chris Metherell

Intermediate

Aquatic Plants SL

Fri 19 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

Tutor: Nick Stewart

£315

Intermediate

The course will concentrate on the identification and ecology of aquatic and vascular plants and stoneworts in habitats around Slapton Ley and South Devon including: ponds, lakes and rivers. It will cover all groups of water plants including swamp and fen plants growing around the edges of water bodies. There will be evening workshops on the more difficult groups such as water starworts (Callitriche), pondweeds (Potamogeton), water crowfoots (Ranunculus) and stoneworts (Charophyta).

Ferns

Aquatic Plant Identification: Intermediate

Thu 25 Jul

Tutor: Ken Adams

Non-residential

£53

Intermediate

An introduction to the flowering plants of ponds, lakes and streams. Learn how to observe the characteristics needed to identify and classify them using a series of novel side-by-side annotated drawings (supplied) that summarise their key features. Some basic plant knowledge would be useful before joining this course. A follow-on Aquatic Plants: Advanced course is available on 26 July that will look at more difficult-to-identify groups of species. Fee includes a pub lunch and FSC fold out chart: A Guide to Commoner Water Plants.

Aquatic Plant Identification: Advanced EF

Fri 26 Jul

Non-residential

£57

Advanced

For those with some prior knowledge of aquatic plants who wish to learn the more critical groups such as water crowfoots, duckweeds, pondweeds, starworts and aquatic grasses. The course Aquatic Plant Identification: Intermediate on 25 July covering the commoner species provides a grounding for this course but attendance on both is not essential. Fee includes a pub lunch.

Fern Identification Fri 14 Jun - Mon 17 Jun

£252

Tutor: Heather McHaffie

Intermediate

This three-day course provides an introduction to fern identification and is suitable for the specialist as well as the keen amateur.Visits are made to woodland, moorland, montane scree and flushes, encountering over 30 species of ferns, horsetails and clubmosses.

Fern Identification RC

Sat 20 Jul - Tue 23 Jul

Tutor: Chris Metherell

£370

Intermediate

Three full days will be spent in the field looking at ferns and their allies in their natural habitats. Sites will include upland and lowland, acidic and alkaline habitats ensuring that a variety of species from a number of families will be observed. Study will primarily involve identification of species, but attention will also be given to basic fern ecology and factors that affect their survival. Daytime walks will be up to four miles long through the stunning rural scenery around Snowdonia with fine views on good days. *MMU

Introduction to Fern Identification BW

Sat 24 Aug

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Plants

Tutor: Ken Adams

Animals

Chris Metherell is the BSBI (Botanical Society of the British Isles) President,Vice County Recorder for North Northumberland and the referee for the genus Euphrasia. He regularly leads field trips for the Wild Flower Society and other interested groups

Shropshire and surrounding counties have a wealth of varied aquatic habitats with a wide range of species. We will use a range of keys to identify plants to family, genus and species, and laboratory sessions in the evening will provide the opportunity to use microscopes and to see voucher specimens of a wider range of specimens. *MMU

Open to all

The Victorians were captivated by this group and sought out rare and interesting species both here and abroad. For many people this group are a conundrum and there are still puzzles to be solved by experts. Ferns can be difficult to distinguish, though when one takes the time to look carefully distinctions can be seen that enable us to discriminate between species. This course will focus on learning the key characteristics used in keys and guide books to help separate species helping shed light on tricky terminology and unravelling the jargon that can stop us fully appreciating such marvellous plants.

Spiral Wrack - Jack Sewell

The Fern Guide BL

Mon 02 Sep - Fri 06 Sep

Tutor: James Merryweather

Fri 02 Aug - Mon 05 Aug

Tutor: Hilary Wallace

£395

Intermediate

This practical course is aimed at anyone wishing to gain experience in the recognition of the wide range of plants associated with bogs and mires, from heathers to sedges. The accent is on identification through examination of characteristic features aided by the use of simplified keys. Heathland and mire ecology (and NVC) will also be considered briefly together with some key bryophytes, including Sphagna. The course will be mainly field-based, visiting a variety of heathland and mire sites in the varied topography of Shropshire and mid-Wales. *MMU

Open to all

Days will be spent in the field visiting different local locations around the Centre and Derwentfolds woods with various habitats (woodland, crag, lake, mountain, limestone) to examine a significant proportion of Britain’s ferns, horsetails, clubmosses and quillworts - the pteridophytes. Our main objective will be identification, but ecology will also be a mainstay of the course. Days in the field will be illustrated and enhanced with lectures and lab examination of field gathered material. As a bonus, participants can hope to leave competent to identify, to a reasonable degree, the tricky five male fern species, differences between which are subtle but ecologically and evolutionarily important.

Fern ID PM

Tue 10 Sep

Tutor: Mark Duffell

Non-residential

£45

Intermediate

A day course aimed at the keen beginner and improver alike, providing an introduction to the commoner ferns and their allies. Our day will be spent in Benthall Edge Woods near the Ironbridge Gorge, a particularly interesting botanical site with a variety of woodland fern species.

field-studies-council.org/plants

Habitats and Conser vation

Plants of Bogs and Mires

£350

Mosses and Liverworts

Sphagnum RC

Fri 22 Feb - Sun 24 Feb

Tutor: Lucia Ruffino

£290

Beginner

A detailed insight and introduction into the life of mosses and liverworts will be provided by first-hand observation in the field and laboratorybased discussion. Snowdonia provides an excellent range of habitats for this course, within easy reach of the Centre. Field visits, supported by evening work using microscopes, aim to ensure participants develop skills in recognising species in the field and are able to confirm them by using identification keys.

A Beginners Guide to Mosses and Liverworts BW

Sat 09 Mar

Non-residential

Tutor: Martin Godfrey

£45

Beginner

Traditionally seen as a difficult group of plants to identify as they are small, have no flowers, and can look quite similar. This one-day workshop will provide an introduction to this diverse group based on common species. We will examine a variety of fresh material to illustrate the different types and structures. We will demonstrate ways of collecting and preserving plants for further study. Feel free to bring any ‘mystery’ specimens.

Fri 22 Mar - Mon 25 Mar

Tutor: Theo Loizou

£263

Open to all

For this three-day course we will examine the main differences between mosses and liverworts, and learn to identify significant groups. We will take advantage of the diverse environments close to the Centre and explore semi-natural and man-made habitats where an abundance of bryophytes can be found.

Tue 26 Mar

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

Identifying Mosses and Liverworts Fri 29 Mar - Mon 01 Apr

Tutor: Nick Law

£395

Intermediate

This course will provide an introduction to the skills that are needed to identify bryophytes. Field and laboratory sessions will involve the use of a field key and keys using microscopic characters to identify common species from a variety of habitats. This course is suitable for beginners and those with a limited knowledge of bryophyte identification. *MMU

Mosses and Liverworts KD

Sat 30 Mar - Sat 06 Apr

Tutor: Nick Hodgetts

Sat 18 May

Tutor: Ken Adams

£57

Intermediate

This course is for people who would like either a first introduction to mosses and liverworts, or a refresher in the features useful for identification. A range of species exhibiting particular characteristics will be examined under the microscopes to demonstrate what to look for when we go out into the forest and look at them under a x20 lens. The tutor’s picture keys to species in several genera of epiphytic bryophytes will introduce the species particularly useful for indicating levels of sulphur dioxide and ammonia pollution, and those indicative of acidic and alkaline habitats, and how to find them in the field. Fee includes a pub lunch.

Identifying Mosses and Liverworts PM

Fri 18 Oct - Mon 21 Oct

Tutor: Nick Law

£395

Intermediate

See course description 29 Mar - 01 Apr. *MMU

£597

Fri 18 Oct - Mon 21 Oct

Tutor: Nick Hodgetts

Intermediate

£252

Beginner

This short course is an introduction to the identification of liverworts and mosses found in bryophyte-rich sites near Kindrogan delivered through field trips and classroom sessions using microscopes.

A Beginners Guide to Mosses Fri 25 Oct - Sun 27 Oct

Tutor: June Chatfield

Ash woodlands are captivating places, with interest throughout the year, and the very best way of getting to grips with their range and diversity is to take time to look at the plants that commonly grow there. This course will look at these plants providing identification techniques for common or characteristic species such as toothwort, herb-paris and orchids. Ecological information will be provided to help naturalists understand these vital woodlands. A wide range of material will be covered looking at their history, management and use, ecology, folklore, the species that make up these woodlands and what the future might look like for these important woodlands.

Mosses and Liverworts: Introducing Bryophytes

Ash Woodlands: Plants and Mosses BW

Open to all

Bryophytes

Mosses and Liverworts KD

£290

This course will develop field and laboratory skills to enable a high level of competence in identifying species of sphagnum. We will fully utilise field sites in the area, where it will be possible to become familiar with most of the 30 or so British species. Suitable for beginners in this field and others wishing to extend their knowledge.

Mosses and Liverworts RC

Mon 06 May - Wed 08 May

Tutor: Lucia Ruffino

£289

Beginner

A weekend course based in the grounds of Margam Country Park that will introduce the principles of moss identification for the beginner focusing on the larger and most common species and where to look for them. Fieldwork will be followed up with the use of microscopes to look at features more closely. The ecological characteristics of the moss species will be pointed out. A good group of plants to study in winter.

Sphagnum Moss KD

Fri 25 Oct - Mon 28 Oct

Tutor: Nick Hodgetts

£330

Intermediate

This course consists of field trips to Scottish woods, bogs and lochs, with classroom sessions using microscopes and keys to identify species from this varied, colourful and important Sphagnum genus. The course is designed for both keen amateurs and professionals with an interest in NVC and land management.

Mosses and Liverworts LDN

Sat 02 Nov

Tutor: Pete Howarth

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

An introduction to the field identification of mosses and liverworts, using characters that can be seen using a hand lens. During the day the field characters of mosses and liverworts will be examined and we will identify a number of common species that can be found in London. Based in Bushy Park. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Mosses and Liverworts of Towns and Gardens.

Surrounded by an abundance of eye-catching common species, as well as Scottish rarities, Kindrogan is an ideal place to study bryophytes. Emphasis will be placed on field characteristics, backed up by work in the laboratory, including the use of identification keys. There will also be opportunities to concentrate on special interests as individual guidance will be given at all levels.

field-studies-council.org/plants

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Fungi

Advanced Macrofungi PM

Microfungi KD

Fri 10 May - Wed 15 May

Tutor: Bruce Ing

£392

Intermediate

Mushrooms and Toadstools – Develop your Skills in Identification Mon 02 Sep - Fri 06 Sep

Tutor: Paul Nichol

£350

Open to all

This course aims to introduce as wide a range of mushrooms and toadstools as possible during a combination of field meetings and indoor sessions. This will provide opportunities to either begin or further develop skills in identification for those with some experience. To acquire skills in identification necessitates some understanding of the ecology of fungi particularly their feeding habits. Collecting excursions to a diversity of woodland and grassland habitats will allow this aspect to be covered. Should course members be interested in using microscopes then opportunities will arise and instruction in their use provided.

Identifying Fungi KD

Fri 13 Sep - Fri 20 Sep

Tutor: Chris Knowles

£597

Intermediate

This week-long course is pitched at an intermediate to advanced level, focusing on those difficult groups which are often passed over for the larger and more obvious species. It will be a blend of fieldwork and laboratory sessions with visits to mostly old pastures and woodland sites.

Introduction to Fungi LDN

Sat 05 Oct

Non-residential

Tutor: Mark Spencer

£35

Beginner

Did you know that there are over 1,500 species of fungi in London? This course will explore Bushy Park showing how and where to find different species of fungi and examining their amazing life-histories. The introductory talk, followed by an exploration of the park, will help you start to learn the basic identification techniques. This course will not teach you how to forage fungi for food, although where relevant, edibility and toxicity will be discussed. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Fungi Name Trail.

Identifying Woodland Fungi in Epping Forest EF

Sat 12 Oct

Non-residential

Tutor: Mark Spencer

£35

Beginner

Epping Forest is one of the most important and well-studied areas for fungi in England. This course will explore the forest, showing how and where to find different species of fungi and examining their amazing life-histories. The introductory talk, followed by an exploration of the forest, will help you start to learn the basic identification techniques. This course will not teach you how to forage fungi for food, although where relevant, edibility and toxicity will be discussed. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Fungi Name Trail.

Identification of Macrofungi PM

Fri 18 Oct - Mon 21 Oct

Tutor: Jeanette Maddy Verdigris agaric - Sue Townsend

Advanced

£395

Intermediate

This is a training course on the identification of macrofungi using scientific identification procedures aided by keys and microscopy. By the end of the weekend participants should be able to place fungi into correct major groups and identify many common fungi to at least genus level. *MMU

Plants

This course will give participants the ability to improve their field identification skills and become confident in how to identify their finds to genus.You will also be given the guidance and time needed to learn and practise all the microscopy and lab techniques for identifying any fungi to species.

£575

Animals

An in-depth week of identification of microfungi, with a focus on the special spring species prevalent at this time of year in the Perthshire hills. The course includes mountain trips to find alpine species of myxomycetes and gives participants a chance to explore the different fungi groups in some depth.

Sat 14 Sept - Sat 21 Sept

Tutor: Geoffrey Kibby

Fungi for Beginners AM

Sat 19 Oct

Tutor: Chris Ford

Non-residential

£42

Beginner

An introduction to the wonderful world of mushrooms, toadstools and all things mouldy. The course is designed to enable you to identify some of our more common and more distinctive fungi and will discuss some of the weird and wonderful ecology and history of this rich and varied group. No prior experience is necessary just an enthusiasm to get out and have a go.

Autumn Fungi JH

Fri 25 Oct - Sun 27 Oct

£240

Open to all

An introduction to the wonderful world of mushrooms, toadstools and all things mouldy. The course is designed to enable you to identify some of our more common and more distinctive fungi and will discuss some of the weird and wonderful ecology and history of the rich and varied group. No prior experience is necessary just an enthusiasm to get out and have a go.

A Weekend with Fungi - Beginners Course MA

AIDGAP FSC is keen to ensure accurate identification skills continue to be developed. Back in 1976 we initiated the AIDGAP (Aid to Identification in Difficult Groups of Animals and Plants) project to produce high quality, clearly written identification guides for non-specialists. There are now over 30 available.

Fri 01 Nov - Sun 03 Nov

Tutor: June Chatfield

£289

Beginner

This is an introductory course on fungi exploring different places to find them in the grounds of Margam Country Park in south Wales. We will identify them initially to families and take some to species and use the names to find out more about their way of life and natural history. We are not intending to eat them. Come and enjoy a weekend with fungi and the environment of Margam Park.

field-studies-council.org/plants

Habitats and Conser vation

Tutor: Chris Ford

Lichens

The British Lichen Society

Lichens of Pembrokeshire OR

Fri 12 Apr - Tue 16 Apr

Tutor: Tracey Lovering

£440

Open to all

Explore lichens along the oak-clad Cleddau estuary, following the CENNAD Lawrenny lichen trail designed by Plantlife Pembrokeshire lichen apprentices. Uncover some of the Pembrokeshire saxicolous specialities decorating St David’s Cathedral, its gravestones and walls. Search for specialist niche lichens on Stackpole’s sandy cliffs and Broad Haven’s rocky shore. Optional extra day on Tuesday 16th April discovering the lichens of a Pembrokeshire island.

Lichens in the Dales MT

Fri 03 May - Mon 06 May

£350

Tutor: Allan Pentecost

Intermediate

The Malham Tarn area in rich in lichen species, over 300 having been collected within 3 miles of the Field Centre. A wide range of forms is present, occurring on ricks, trees and soil, allowing course participants the opportunity to learn how to identify lichens and begin to form a useful and informative collection of material.

Introduction to Lichens KD

Fri 10 May - Sun 12 May

£232

Beginner

The 1,500+ species of lichen in Scotland form an important part of its natural heritage. This course is an introduction to the basics of lichen biology, ecology, collecting and identification, using keys and microscopes. The course complements the following ‘Lichen Identification’ course. Book both courses together to receive a 15% discount on fees.

Lichen Identification Sun 12 May - Sat 18 May

£474

Tutor: Rebecca Yahr

Intermediate

This course will focus in detail on understanding the most important characters for identifying lichens, so that participants can gain confidence in using keys and identification guides for themselves. Over the years Kindrogan has recorded more than 250 species, so there will be plenty to see locally. Excursions will include local walks and day trips out to more distant sites characterised by different habitats and lichen communities. This course complements and can be linked with Introduction to Lichens which runs immediately before it. Book both courses together to receive a 15% discount on course fees.

Identifying Lichens FM

Fri 23 Aug - Sun 25 Aug

£270

Tutor: John Skinner

Intermediate

This intermediate level weekend on lichen identification is for anyone with some initial experience of this group who would like to take their interest several stages further. There will be a combination of field excursions, microscope work and use of keys to help you with lichen identification. At the end of the course participants should be able to apply a number of simple microscope techniques that are essential for proper identification. The content is also appropriate for anyone wishing to contribute to their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements. Bursaries are available for this course, generously organised by the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service. Please contact FSC Flatford Mill for details.

Lichen Habitats of Exmoor NC

Fri 25 Oct - Sun 27 Oct

Tutor: Pat Wolseley

£300

Open to all

From rocky coast to ancient woodlands, parklands and churchyards Exmoor supports a great diversity of habitats and environmental conditions for lichens. Nettlecombe Court is in a medieval parkland that is an SSSI for its lichens with ancient oak trees supporting both common and some nationally rare species. An introduction to lichen morphology and identification is followed by field excursions that will allow some collecting on Friday and Saturday for evening sessions where we can investigate the structure of lichens with the aid of an easy-to-use handbook, keys and microscopes. Beginners are welcome.

The BLS have been running popular one-day courses at FSC Centres for a number of years, introducing the intriguing world of lichens. The courses are run by members of the BLS, all of whom have extensive knowledge of lichens and a real passion for teaching others about these fascinating lifeforms.

Introducing Lichens EF

Sat 09 Mar

Tutor: John Skinner

Non-residential

field-studies-council.org/plants

£45

Beginner

LDN Sat 06 Apr Non-residential £45 Beginner Tutor: Joe Beale

Sat 08 Jun

Non-residential

Tutor: Catherine Tregaskes

Tutor: Rebecca Yahr

The British Lichen Society (BLS) encourages all aspects of the study of lichens and their conservation. For more information about the Society and how to join see www.britishlichensociety.org.uk

£45

Beginner

MT Sat 15 Jun Non-residential £45 Open to all Tutor: Allan Pentecost

Discover the world of lichens through this one-day course, which requires no previous knowledge. The day will offer both classroom and site fieldwork to introduce what lichens are, and learn to recognise some of the more common species. The use of simple charts and keys will also be introduced to help you identify species with confidence.

Introduction to Lichens BL

Sat 07 Sep - Mon 09 Sep

Tutor: April Windle

£250

Beginners

This course will consist of a blend of field and laboratory sessions to provide you with a general introduction to lichens as a group, focusing on morphology, biology, ecology and chemistry. The workshop will include a series of field visits to local sites around the FSC centre, in the iconic and clean habitats of the English Lake District. With the rich lichen diversity at Blencathra, the centre is perfectly situated for an introductory course to lichens, especially with the spectacular variety that can be found in the uplands. The knowledge and skillset acquired over the duration of this course with equip you with the confidence to delve further into lichens as a group, with follow up support on offer by the course tutor.

Pat Wolseley Pat Wolseley is a lichenologist and past president of the British Lichen Society who lives at Nettlecombe but continues to work at the Natural History Museum as a part time Scientific Associate. She has worked on lichens as indicators of environmental conditions at home and in the tropics and was instrumental in the development of the national OPAL air quality project which used lichens as indicators of air quality across the UK. More recently she has put together a checklist of lichens of Somerset, together with Brian and Sandy Coppins, which is in press and which we will use on the course to check distribution of lichen communities in Somerset.

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Botany

Introduction to Permaculture

Introduction to Plant Morphology

Permaculture is the design of more sustainable environments using nature as inspiration. In this course you will be introduced to permaculture, its history and origins and the core ethics and principles it is based on.We will then look at the gardens and features of Juniper Hall and how they fit into the permaculture model as well as learning about examples of permaculture projects from further afield.

LDN

Sat 13 Apr

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

Willy Lott’s Volunteer Weekend FM Fri 03 May - Sun 05 May Open to all

£75 (shared room only)

Tutor: Rosie Molten

If you’re looking for time away from the rat race this weekend could be for you. Spend time in a beautiful setting and help us create inviting educational spaces at Flatford including the garden of the world famous Willy Lott’s House.Working with Centre staff, this weekend will be one of sharing ideas, some hard work, lots of cake and plenty of laughs. No experience is necessary, the course is open to all.

Learn to look at Plants: An Introduction to Field Botany Sat 18 May

Non-residential

Tutor: Karen Van Oostrum

£42

Beginner

Open to all

Advanced Botanical Identification PM

Fri 14 Jun - Sun 16 Jun

Tutor: Mark Duffell

£295

Advanced

Troubled by the Yellow ‘Dandelion’ look-alikes, mixing up your Cow Parsleys, wanting an introduction to Ferns, or help in tackling some of the trickier Sedge groups.This course is for those botanists and ecologists looking to extend their botanical knowledge further and wanting an introduction to the more challenging groups of flowering plants. Giving you a scientific introduction to the identification of higher plants concentrating on a range of families and groups including sedges, grasses and pteridophytes (ferns and their allies) plus other families traditionally viewed as difficult such as umbellifers and crucifers.

Botanical Surveying for Professional Ecologists MT

Fri 14 Jun - Sun 16 Jun

Tutor: Laurie Wildwood

£260

Open to all

This course will equip participants with the skills and knowledge frequently required in the fields of ecology and conservation.We will cover botanical anatomy and terminology, common families, the use of flora keys, indicator species, Phase 1 survey methodology and an introduction to the National Vegetation Classification (NVC).

Forensic Ecology LDN

Sat 13 Jul

Tutor: Mark Spencer

Non-residential

£45

Beginner

The use of environmental and botanical data in forensic science has a long history dating to at least the early 20th century. Participants will learn about the ways in which vegetation and other forms of environmental evidence can be used to help understand criminal activity.They will also practise some basic investigatory skills that may be used at a crime scene. Please note, some aspects of this course may be challenging to some participants as it will be necessary to discuss scenarios involving the ecology of the decomposition of human remains. Based in Bushy Park.

Grass Identification at Malham Tarn, 2018 field-studies-council.org/plants

Habitats and Conser vation

“The location of the course was stunning and all staff were friendly and helpful. Our tutor Sarah pitched the course at the right level to cover the scope of the varied candidates. She had a wealth of knowledge on the subject and was always prepared to spend time going over areas to help consolidate information for those that required it”

Plants

This day course, based mainly outdoors, is for anyone wanting to learn about the common plants that grow in our fields, hedgerows and woods. Participants will develop their confidence in recognising and naming key plants during guided ‘nature walks’. Practise using a field guide and get your plant questions answered!

£200

Animals

When trying to identify plants using keys are you confused by botanical terms and can’t quite understand what terms like ligule, phyllary or stipule mean? Worse still, you can’t even find them on your specimen! This course aims to guide you through the basic elements of flowering plant anatomy and explain what some of the apparently tortuous language refers to. Participants will use hand lenses to examine ‘simple’ flowers such as buttercups right through to the ‘dreaded’ grasses (the basics of which are a lot easier than people think).This course, based in The Regent’s Park will not cover everything you need to know to identify wild plants but it should help!

Fri 31 May - Sun 02 Jun

Tutor: Bob Mehew

Habitats and Conservation Levels

Beginner Introductory courses for those new or relatively new to the subject.

nstis ah A r a S tats Habi d n a l Up

Open to all Courses where tutors are able to support learners at all levels.

The courses in this section cover broader issues of ecology and conservation including: • Ecological principles • Higher level species identification • Biological recording • Biological surveying • Habitat management • Habitat overviews • National Vegetation Classification Course programmes are designed for those seeking training or Continuing Professional Development (CPD), as well as for amateurs with a general interest in ecological and environmental issues. Most are offered at an intermediate level, reflecting the depth and breadth of course content, often linking theory and concepts with practical techniques and skills.

field-studies-council.org/habitats

Intermediate Courses aimed at those who want to know more about a subject which they are already familiar with. Advanced Courses for those wishing to hone their skills, which require some prior knowledge or skills in the subject area (though not necessarily the detailed subject matter).

Centres AM Amersham, The Chilterns BW Bishops Wood, Worcestershire DF Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire Coast EF Epping Forest, Essex FM Flat ford Mill, Suf folk ‘Constable Country’ JH Juniper Hall, Surrey KD Kindrogan, Scottish Highlands LDN London MT Malham Tarn, Yorkshire Dales MA Margam, South Wales MIL Millport, Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland OR Orielton, Pembrokeshire Coast PM Preston Mont ford, Shropshire Hills SL Slapton Ley, South Devon HO Courses not at an FSC Centre, please contact Head Of fice for information *MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Habitats and Conservation

Forest Gardening Course MA

£395

Intermediate

An increasing number of ecologists and biological recorders are using QGIS software to help them visualise, explore and analyse their spatial data. During this course, participants will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of GIS and using QGIS as a tool to explore biological records and ecological data. *MMU

Introduction to Small Holding Management JH

Fri 01 Mar - Sun 03 Mar

Tutor: Sean Grufferty

£240

Open to all

Working from Juniper Hall and a 90 acre working farm in Carshalton, Surrey along the top of the North Downs ridge, this course will be run by the farm manager and will deal with all aspects of keeping sheep and cattle, touching on keeping other animals as well. It is aimed for beginners and those who would like guidance or an idea of where to begin; what is involved in keeping a small flock or herd of livestock. Practical sessions will include carrying out sheep health checks, various methods of rounding animals up into pens, dealing with common ailments and livestock fencing. Classroom-based theory will be informal with flexibility to discuss participants’ own interests and questions. It will focus on the shepherd’s yearly calendar, lambing methods and equipment, selection of animal breeds or species and some of the basic legal requirements for keeping livestock, including both animal welfare and record keeping.

A Holistic and Practical Introduction to QGIS

Woodland Management and Conservation OR

Sat 04 May - Wed 08 May

Tutor: Jerry Dicker

£440

Open to all

This course is aimed at professionals and amateurs with an interest in practical management techniques as well as the ecology and history of woodlands. You will visit a variety of woodlands to examine their different management regimes and the effect on woodland flora and fauna.The course includes identification of trees, shrubs, woodland plants and other indicator species.

Plant Identification for Field Surveyors MA

Fri 10 May - Sun 12 May

Tutor: Mark Duffell

£289

Intermediate

The plant kingdom is hugely varied and it can be very difficult and daunting to start to identify specimens, especially for families and species that you have never seen before. Most botanists start out identifying plants by comparing their specimens to photographs or illustrations in books.This course is aimed at those people wanting to progress from picture book identification onto proper Floras. By using simple techniques and field guides we aim to identify a wide range of plant families and species.The only requirements for this course are an enthusiasm for plants and moderate walking ability.

Plant Identification for Field Surveyors PM

Tue 14 May

Tutor: Mark Duffell

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

Biological Recording

Graduate Fieldwork and Identification Skills

Fri 26 Apr - Sun 28 Apr

Tutor: Matt Davies

Fri 26 Apr - Mon 29 Apr

Tutor: Mark Duffell

£300

£395

Open to all

Intermediate

This three-day course is designed to give you a skills base for biological recording in the UK. It is a stand-alone unit which will focus on the skills needed to plan and carry out biological recording in the field and how to present your findings. During the course you will be working on a project (independently or jointly) that is tailored to your particular natural history interests with the support of a tutor; this will provide you with practical and reporting skills. *MMU

Fri 31 May - Sun 02 Jun

Tutor: Centre Staff

£289

Plants

QGIS is a freely available open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) that matches the functionality and usability of commercial products like MapInfo and ArcGIS. It has been adopted by governments, businesses and NGOs around the world. The course is suitable for beginners to GIS, those looking to refresh their skills or those looking to migrate to QGIS software. It will help ecological consultants, wildlife organisations, biological recorders and recent graduates visualise, explore and analyse spatial data.

Most botanists start out identifying plants by comparing their specimens to photographs or illustrations in books. This course is aimed at those people wanting to progress from picture book identification onto proper ‘Floras’. This course will introduce simple techniques and the use of keys to enable identification of a wide variety of plant families and species. The course will concentrate on the key characters needed for identifying a range of families and recognition of an individual as belonging to a particular family. We will concentrate on using the keys in the ‘industry standard’ Stace’s New Flora of the British Isles; learning how to master the keys and not be put off by the botanical terminology it contains.

Animals

Fri 15 Feb - Mon 18 Feb

Tutor: Richard Burkmar

£289

This is a two-day introduction to the concept and techniques of forest gardening, involving theory and practice from visioning to harvesting. The course will assist participants to visualize, plan, establish and continue to maintain, harvest and learn from a forest garden, be it at home or on someone else’s land such as a community garden, school garden, etc.

QGIS PM

Fri 03 May - Sun 05 May

Tutor: Chris Evans

Intermediate

This course is designed for all undergraduates or recent graduates who would like to gain experience in ecological fieldwork skills and identification of species in a variety of ecosystems including rivers, sand dunes and woodlands. The aim of the taster course is to gain experience which can be useful when entering environmental careers such as ecological consultancy, research or teaching.

Wildlife Tracking FSC Publications have a huge range of handbooks, distribution atlases, synopses and fold-out charts – in fact over 130,000 are sold each year and they are very highly respected across the sector. www.field-studies-council.org/publications

Sun 04 Aug - Fri 09 Aug

Tutor: John Rhyder

£535

Open to all

This track and sign workshops is designed to both introduce a prospective new tracker to the general concepts involved in interpreting track and sign and add to the knowledge of the more experienced naturalist. Although we can’t import wildlife to the area and therefore give a definitive list of the sign we will find, anything that makes a track on the ground is fair game for our attention.

field-studies-council.org/habitats

Habitats and Conser vation

FSC Publications

Ecology of the Isle of Cumbrae MIL

Fri 09 Aug - Sun 11 Aug

£291

Tutor: Jack Lucas

Open to all

This course will explore different habitats, looking at ways to sample both the environment and the organisms that live in them and discuss their ecology in a wider context. The Isle of Great Cumbrae is situated in the glacial fjord of the Firth of Clyde and contains a wide array of accessible marine and terrestrial habitats for studying. The shores of the island contain a huge diversity of marine invertebrate species, which make it a perfect wintering ground for many species of wildfowl and waders, while the surrounding seas support large numbers of seabirds and marine mammals. Inland one can also find woodland, farmland, heathland and wetland habitats.

Wildlife Tracking KD

Fri 23 Aug - Mon 26 Aug

Tutor: Dan Puplett

£252

Open to all

A detailed look at track and sign left by a range of birds, mammals, reptiles and invertebrates. Tracking develops our ability to observe subtle details and connect them to landscape-scale patterns.You will build confidence in sign recognition and interpretation while learning practical applications of tracking for conservation and education as well as simple enjoyment of the natural world.

Fens and Bogs: Plants and Processes MT

Fri 30 Aug - Mon 02 Sep

Tutor: Ros Tratt

£350

Intermediate

Explore and investigate the fascinating variety of wetland habitats around Malham Tarn, from acidic peat bogs to calcium-rich springs, with tutor Ros Tratt. Learn to identify characteristic wetland plants, including bryophytes, and distinctive wetland plant communities. Find out more about the environmental conditions that support the diverse range of vegetation found in these fantastic sites.

Monitoring and Surveying for Conservation PM

Sun 01 Sep - Sun 08 Sep

Tutor: Centre Staff

£575

Intermediate

A practical course focusing on techniques for surveying and monitoring selected groups of organisms for the analysis of habitat and communities.

Mon 21 Oct - Wed 23 Oct

Tutor: Jonny Stone

£270

Open to all

Soils are a natural part of the landscape and contain a lot of information about its development. This course explores the field characters of natural soils around the field centre unlocking the fascinating evidence for their geological origins and the dramatic changes brought about by the Ice Ages and human intervention.

Traditional Hedgelaying Workshop EF

Thu 24 Oct - Fri 25 Oct

Tutor: Peter Vaughan

£90

Intermediate

This two-day workshop offers both theory and practical sessions on the non-mechanised method of hedgelaying in the South of England style (Participants can also bring jpegs of hedgerows they may need guidance with). Day one will cover topics such as the history, ecology and management of hedgerows, knowledge of the techniques and traditional tools used for hedgelaying and day two will be ‘out in the field’ working on a hedgerow. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: A Guide to Hedgerows.

Woodland Ecology and Management: The Basics EF

Sat 26 Oct

Tutor: Andy Deane

Non-residential

£35

Beginner

A course for woodland lovers whether you work, volunteer, own a patch or just enjoy the woodland environment. This course aims to explain how differing management techniques, past and present, affect the habitats and ecology of a site with lots of tree ID along the way. The course, which is a mix of classroom theory and field site visits, reviews many scenarios and no previous knowledge is required. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Woodland Plants.

RSPB RSPB is the largest nature conservation charity in the country, consistently delivering successful conservation, forging powerful new partnerships with other organisations and inspiring others to stand up and give nature the home it deserves.These courses are part of their wide training offer:

An Introduction to Wet Grassland HO

Wed 17 Jul

Tutor: RSPB

Non-residential

£120

Beginner

An introduction to lowland wet grassland and its management for wildlife, and in particular breeding waders. We will cover the ecology of key species and the basics of hydrological control, the effect of soil types, sward management and grazing regimes. The management, restoration and creation of this habitat will be discussed. There will be a site visit in the afternoon. This a standalone course, but it can be followed by our Advanced Lowland Wet Grassland course. Please note this course is not based at an FSC Centre but takes place at RSPB Otmoor.

Advanced Lowland Wet Grassland HO

Thu 18 Jul

Tutor: RSPB

Non-residential

£120

Advanced

A standalone, or a follow-on course from the An Introduction to Wet Grassland course. We will look in more detail at some of the advanced management solutions available for wet grassland, particularly climate mitigation and colonising species, and the outcomes they can deliver. We will also look at site assessment and monitoring techniques. There will be a practical session included in the day. Please note this course is not based at an FSC Centre but takes place at RSPB Otmoor.

An Introduction to Reedbeds

Soils in the Landscape FM

Reedbed at RSPB Leighton Moss - Ben Hall

field-studies-council.org/habitats

Tue 03 Sep

Tutor: RSPB

Non-residential

£120

Beginner

An introduction to reedbeds and their management for wildlife, focusing on reedbed specialist species. We will cover the ecology of key species and the basic reedbed vegetation types, hydrology and management techniques. As well as discussing management, we will also touch on restoration and creation of this habitat. There will be a site visit in the afternoon. This is a standalone course, but it can be followed by our Advanced Reedbed Management course. Please note this course is not based at an FSC Centre but takes place at RSPB Leighton Moss.

Advanced Reedbed Management HO Wed 04 Sep Non-residential £120 Advanced

Tutor: RSPB

A stand-alone course, or a follow-on from the An Introduction to Reedbeds course. We will look in more detail at some of the advanced and dynamic management solutions available for old or degraded reedbeds, and the outcomes they can deliver. We will also look at the more practical elements of management, including climate mitigation, survey techniques and monitoring. There will be a practical session included in the day. Please note this course is not based at an FSC Centre but takes place at RSPB Leighton Moss. RSPB Leighton Moss, Storrs Ln, Silverdale, Carnforth LA5 0SW. RSPB Otmoor, Otmoor Lane, OX3 9TD. To book one of these courses please do so at www.field-studies-council.org/habitats or contact FSC’s Head Office on 01743 852100 enquiries@field-studies-council.org Find out more about RSPB at

www.rspb.org.uk

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

NVC and Phase 1 Phase 1 Habitat Survey: Plant ID BW

Wed 27 Mar

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

Phase 1 Habitat Surveys for Site Assessments and Environmental Audits FM

Fri 05 Apr - Sun 07 Apr

Tutor: Jonny Stone

£330

Open to all

This course introduces and gives practical field experience in using Phase 1 Habitat Surveys, the standard method for assessing wildlife habitats and sites. Anyone needing to carry out basic ecological surveys in relation to planning and development or site conservation and management will find this course covers the essential techniques. The course fee includes a personal copy of latest JNCC Phase 1 Handbook.

Phase 1 Habitat Surveys for Site Assessments and Environmental Audits FM

Mon 15 Apr - Wed 17 Apr

£330

Open to all

Thu 16 May

Non-residential

£45

Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

Tutor: Mark Duffell

Open to all

Accurate Phase 1 surveys require the surveyor to be a good field botanist, able to identify a wide range of common species. This course will cover those species important for separating out the major habitats within grasslands and heathland, including dominant species such as the commoner grasses, sedges and rushes, and flowering plants. By the end of the course participants will be able to distinguish a wide selection of dominant species and be able to separate and make habitat identifications more reliable. A must for anyone embarking on a career as an ecologist, as well as being suitable for those who have already got experience of Phase 1 surveys but would like to brush up on their identification skills.

£395

Intermediate

This course provides an introduction to, and practical field experience in, using Phase 1 Habitat Surveys, the standard method of assessing and recording wildlife habitats and sites. Anyone needing to carry out ecological surveys in relation to planning and development, or site conservation and management, will find this course covers the essential techniques. Working with fellow participants you will learn how to survey a site, identifying the different habitats present and then produce a map and description of the site. Further days will be spent in a variety of habitats to see how to classify them. *MMU

NVC Woodlands Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

Tutor: Ben Averis

Plant ID for Phase 1 Habitat Surveys: Grasslands Tutor: Mark Duffell

Phase 1 Habitat Surveys

See course description 05 - 07Apr.

The Darwin International Scholarship Programme aims to develop ‘better naturalists’ in the spirit of Darwin’s love of nature and observing the natural world. It provides an opportunity for young post-graduates from around the world to broaden and deepen their skills in taxonomy and biodiversity. The 2019 scholarship takes place 14th - 24th August.

£252

Beginner

We will visit local woodlands to study their vegetation, classify them using the NVC and consider their ecology and how they fit into the patterns of variation among British woodlands generally. There will also be three evening indoor sessions. This course complements and can be linked with the NVC Grasslands and NVC Heathlands and Mires courses in June 2019. Book multiple courses together to receive a 15% discount on the fees.

Plants

Tutor: Jonny Stone

Darwin International Scholarship Programme

Animals

A fundamental technique employed by ecologists, developers, land managers and conservation organisations to help provide a broad-brush understanding of large areas of land, to identify areas that require further investigation, and to target areas for development or conservation. First-rate identification skills are essential to distinguishing plants that determine the habitat, define the dominant species and forms the basis for an evidence-based report. This one-day course will outline exactly how to undertake a Phase I survey, the preparation required, tools needed, what constitutes a useful target note, map and well written report. It will focus on developing key identification skills to undertake this technique effectively across the range of grasslands covered within Phase I surveys.

Introduction to Phase 1 Surveys with Plant ID Focus EF

Sat 08 Jun - Sun 09 Jun

Tutor: Sharon Brown

£90

Intermediate

Habitat Survey – Mel Cousins

field-studies-council.org/habitats

Habitats and Conser vation

A two-day course introducing the Phase I Habitat Survey method and a focus on plant identification geared to the requirements of the technique. A general knowledge of plant species is required to complete Phase I surveys, thus guidance will be given on developing this area of expertise. The relationship of habitat type to topography, substrate and hydrology will also be highlighted. We will be looking at a number of habitat types available to us within Epping Forest and in the local area including broadleaved woodland, lowland heath, acid and neutral grasslands, marsh, running and still water and hedges. As we visit each habitat we will look at key species identification and what site information to obtain for our assessment of habitat quality. The writing of target notes will be developed and habitat maps will be produced for the sites visited. Current technology will also be discussed.

Introduction to NVC KD

Mon 17 Jun - Wed 19 Jun

£242

Tutor: Ben Averis

Open to all

You will receive a comprehensive introduction to the NVC. We will visit a wide range of plant communities to study their vegetation and ecology, classify them using the NVC and look at sampling methods. There will also be two evening indoor sessions covering the development of the NVC, methods of data collection/analysis and the use of the NVC in site evaluation. This course complements and can be linked with the NVC Grasslands and NVC Heathlands and Mires courses which run immediately after it. Book multiple courses together to receive a 15% discount on the fees.

Marine Science Camp - Jack Sewell

NVC Grasslands KD

Wed 19 Jun - Fri 21 Jun

Tutor: Ben Averis

£242

Marine Science Camps

Intermediate

Run in partnership with the Marine Biological Association (MBA), our series of five marine science camps are for young people between 16 and 24 years old who are interested in marine biology and marine science. Each camp, held in different parts of the UK, will have its own unique flavor but all will include sessions on rocky shore ecology, marine citizen science, and marine conservation as well as giving insights into careers and Higher Education courses: Flatford Mill, Suffolk: 26 Apr – 28 Apr Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire: 13 Apr – 18 Apr Millport, Scotland: 22 Jul – 26 Jul Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire: 21 Jul – 26 Jul Slapton Ley, Devon: 12 Aug – 16 Aug

We will visit local grasslands to study their vegetation, classify them using the NVC and consider their ecology and how they fit into the patterns of variation among British grasslands generally. There will also be two evening indoor sessions. This course complements and can be linked with the Introduction to NVC and NVC Heathlands and Mires courses which run immediately before and after it. Book multiple courses together to receive a 15% discount on the fees.

NVC Heathlands and Mires KD

Fri 21 Jun - Sun 23 Jun

Tutor: Ben Averis

£242

Intermediate

We will visit local heaths and mires to study their vegetation, classify them using the NVC and consider their ecology and how they fit into the patterns of variation among British heaths generally. There will also be two evening indoor sessions. This course complements and can be linked with the Introduction to NVC and NVC Grasslands courses which run immediately before it. Book multiple courses together to receive a 15% discount on the fees.

NVC Summer Habitat Survey

Phase 1 Surveying OR

Fri 19 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

Tutor: Paul Ashton

£455

Open to all

Phase 1 Habitat Survey is the standard approach to assessing landscape use. This course will provide basic skills in the process, then develop this knowledge with experience across a variety of habitats. No prior knowledge is assumed, although those wishing to extend their experience are very welcome; it is particularly suitable for those working in conservation and consultancy.

Introduction to Habitat Surveying OR

Fri 26 Jul - Tue 30 Jul

Tutor: Philip Wilson

Financial support from the FSC Young Environmentalists Fund may also be available for participants with limited funds. See page 41 Visit www.field-studies-council.org/young-people for full details

£455

Open to all

Marine Science Campt - Jack Sewell surveying and explores Phase This course builds on Phase 1 habitat 2 surveying, NVC, Annex 1 and Priority Habitats as well as future development of integrated survey methods. It will be 80% field-based and will include a large element of identifying indicator species. A key aim is to give participants awareness of the potential of these techniques and the means to go further after the course.

Fri 02 Aug - Tue 06 Aug

Tutor: Philip Wilson

£500

Intermediate

The use of the NVC to build up a picture of a site that can be effectively communicated both to other vegetation scientists and the layperson will be reviewed. We will learn about techniques for the assessment of vegetation condition and how plant communities fit into management for biodiversity. As much time as possible will be spent in the field including an opportunity to search for rare coastal plants, with evening sessions for discussion, examination of data and identification of specimens.

NVC Bogs and Mires PM

Fri 16 Aug - Mon 19 Aug

Tutor: Hilary Wallace

£395

Intermediate

The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) provides a formal description of British Plant Communities with many practical uses for site assessment and management. The course will introduce the background to the development of the NVC and visit a wide range of upland and lowland sites to demonstrate how the system works. *MMU

Introduction to Grassland NVC BW

Sat 27 Jul

Tutor: John Handley

Non-residential

£45

Open to all

The National Vegetation Classification system is a standard technique used by ecologists and conservation agencies to determine and describe the various plant communities within Britain. Grasslands are intricate systems composed of communities of species determined by factors such as drainage, nutrient status, altitude and management. This course will explain the methodology, with a specific focus on identifying grassland indicator species.You will also be introduced to a range of different communities and explore the tools and techniques available to support classifying a community.

Cornfield Annuals – Robin Sutton

field-studies-council.org/habitats

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Marine and Freshwater Habitats

Spiny Starfish - Phil Cowie

Thu 21 Mar - Mon 25 Mar

£440

Tutor: Jen Jones

Intermediate

The course features species found on Pembrokeshire shores in the lower intertidal zone. Many are very difficult to identify with any degree of certainty in the field, so the emphasis will be on learning how to collect samples, making a spicule preparation, and examining their ‘skeleton’ under a microscope. It is suitable for amateurs and professional surveyors – whatever your skill level we will aim to stretch you.

Sun 21 Apr - Fri 26 Apr

Tutor: Jack Lucas

£504

Open to all

Marine Plankton H £402

Open to all

Forming a key pillar of the marine food web, plankton is an essential and fascinating element of marine eco-systems. This course will introduce aspects of the biology and ecology of both zooplankton and phytoplankton, and include practical identification sessions of live plankton. There will also be a plankton sampling session from our research vessel (weather permitting) in the Firth of Clyde.

Identifying Freshwater Invertebrates for Biological Surveying and Recording Mon 27 May - Fri 31 May

£540

Open to all

Identifying Coastal Plants H Tue 28 May - Fri 31 May

Tutor: John Archer-Thomson

Sun 30 Jun - Fri 05 Jul

£504

Open to all

With significant amounts of time spent on our research vessel and undertaking surveys from the shore, this course focuses on developing the practical skills needed to undertake marine mammal and marine bird surveys. Time in the field and back in the laboratory will also be spent developing identification skills.

Freshwater Algae KD

Mon 01 Jul - Mon 08 Jul

£670

Intermediate

£370

Intermediate

Designed to help the beginner, this course will give participants practical experience in the identification of saltmarsh and sand dune plants. There will be time to carry out vegetation surveys and consider the process of ecological succession. This is an accredited course suitable for professionals or interested amateurs. *MMU

This course provides an introduction to the diversity and identification of freshwater algae and involves informal lectures, field collection from a variety of sites and microscope work. A basic knowledge of biology is required.

Identifying Marine Species and Habitats: The Biotope Approach H MIL

Fri 05 Jul - Mon 08 Jul

Tutor: Paula Lightfoot

£318

Intermediate

The Marine Habitat Classification for Britain and Ireland (v04.05) was developed through the analysis of biodiversity datasets and is an important tool for marine management and conservation. This course will cover the theory and practice of recording marine ‘biotopes’, with a particular focus on identifying the flora and fauna of rocky shores and subtidal reefs. Fieldwork will include sampling species communities at a range of intertidal sites. *MMU

Detecting Marine Mammals Using Acoustics DF

Mon 22 Jul - Wed 24 Jul

Tutor: Stephanie Barnicoat

£425

Open to all

This course is ideal for anyone with an interest in marine mammals who is keen to learn more about tracking and monitoring. It will include classroom sessions covering marine mammal vocalisation and use of passive acoustic monitoring systems before going out in a chartered boat to put theory into practice. This course is run in partnership with Seiche Marine Acoustic Solutions which specialises in the design, development and manufacture of underwater measurement and acoustic systems.

Rocky Shore Invertebrates H DF

Sun 20 Oct - Wed 23 Oct

Tutor: John Archer-Thomson

£370

Intermediate

This course gives practical experience in the identification of common rocky shore invertebrates, based on field characteristics. Sheltered and exposed shores will be visited; species identification will be a priority but the fieldwork will be structured to provide an ecological framework in which to view the organisms. This is an accredited course suitable for professionals or interested amateurs. *MMU

field-studies-council.org/habitats

Habitats and Conser vation

Climate change has underlined the importance of monitoring freshwater ecosystems.This course is designed to help professional surveyors and amateur naturalists increase their understanding of the large and diverse group of invertebrates that inhabit our rivers and ponds. Illustrated talks and field excursions will demonstrate the latest practice in sampling methodology and preservation of specimens. Identification sessions will cater for both amateur and professional interests and needs. Bursaries are available for this course, generously organised by the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service. Please contact FSC Flatford Mill for details.

Marine Mammal and Bird Surveys H

Plants

Fri 24 May - Mon 27 May

Tutor: Adrian Chalkley

£35 Beginner

Tutor: Eileen Cox and Elliot Shubert

Tutor: Tom Stevenson

Non-residential

Tutor: Jack Lucas

A variety of different techniques are used to sample the marine environment. This course will introduce participants to some of these techniques including: water sampling, plankton sampling, beam trawling, grabbing and habitat mapping using a HD camera. Pros and cons of these techniques, sampling design and statistical analysis will also be discussed.

MIL

Sat 29 Jun

Epping Forest is home to over 100 temporary and permanent ponds supporting a wide range of species from insect larvae to amphibians. This course will provide an introduction to freshwater pond habitats with a focus on sampling and identifying freshwater invertebrates in the field. This will be a practical course with ample opportunity to sample and identify specimens from several different ponds. Fee includes FSC fold out chart: Freshwater Name Trail.

MIL

Marine Biological Sampling H MIL

Tutor: Maaike Milligan

Sponge Identification H OR

Discovering Freshwater Invertebrates and Ecology

Animals

Members of The Marine Biological Association or Marine Conservation Society can claim a 10% discount on any courses in this Marine and Freshwater Habitats section with prices marked with a H.

Accredited Courses

Identifying Difficult Invertebrates

Manchester Metropolitan University

This course is designed to help students develop higher-level skills in the identification of insects and other invertebrates. There will be a blend of field and laboratory sessions (including specimen curation) to build skills in accurate species identification for biological recording. *MMU(M)

MSc Biological Recording and Ecological Monitoring PGCert Biological Recording The MSc Biological Recording and Ecological Monitoring and PGCert Biological Recording are run by Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) in association with FSC. These courses are part time and mainly at weekends. The whole course is designed to give students the ability to use and collect biological records and subject them to critical analysis. They are helped many students to gain new employment or promotion in jobs in ecological and biological recording, especially those with an emphasis on high quality field skills and record interpretation. There are a number of information days to which prospective students and/or employers are welcome. The units listed below are a small part of the two-year taught course. They are available to FSC customers as stand-alone units to help them to enhance their academic and theoretical understanding of the topics covered. It is expected that course members will have identification skills and some experienceof field recording. For full details and an application form please contact:

Division of Biology and Conservation Ecology Manchester Metropolitan University (Shrewsbury Office) The Gateway, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY1 1NB Telephone: 01743 355137 E-mail: biorec@mmu.ac.uk Website: www.sste.mmu.ac.uk/recording

PM Fri 19 Jul - Mon 22 Jul £505 Advanced Tutor: Martin Harvey

Site Assessment Using Invertebrates PM

Fri 30 Aug - Mon 02 Sep

Tutor: Martin Harvey

£505

Advanced

Through a mixture of fieldwork, classroom and laboratory sessions this course will provide experience of undertaking an invertebrate site survey and interpreting the results obtained using a variety of analytical tools. *MMU(M)

Identifying Bryophytes for Conservation and Recording PM Fri 20 Sep - Mon 23 Sep £505 Advanced Tutor: Nick Law

This course will focus on developing the higher level field and laboratory skills required to identify some of the more difficult genera. This will involve fieldwork and laboratory sessions. Short talks will cover the conservation of bryophytes and bryophyte recording in the British Isles. *MMU(M)

Certificate in Biological Recording and Species Identification This qualification is now being taught out and is no longer accepting any new students. If you are a current student you can see the courses suitable for this qualification within this brochure, marked *MMU.

Bird Survey Techniques PM

Fri 17 May - Mon 20 May

Tutor: Kevin Clements

£505

Advanced

This course covers collecting bird data to contribute to accurate, longterm surveys which are essential to measure population trends. It is aimed at keen amateur ornithologists and wildlife professionals who would like to learn some basic bird survey techniques, and it will include a dawn survey. *MMU(M)

Identifying Difficult Higher Plants PM Fri 07 Jun - Mon 10 Jun £505 Tutor: Tim Rich and Mark Duffell

Advanced

This course is designed to give a scientific introduction to the identification of higher plants and also an analytical approach to the use and presentation of higher plant distribution data. Key skills to be developed include introductory sessions on identification of a range of families and groups typically including sedges, grasses, pteridophytes (ferns and their allies), umbellifers, yellow composites and crucifers (which families are covered depends on the season to some extent), construction of dichotomous and other types of key, and identification and recording of critical taxa. *MMU(M)

Site Assessment Using Vegetation PM Fri 21 Jun - Mon 24 Jun £505 Advanced Tutor: Tim Rich and Mark Duffell

How can you tell if a site or area is botanically poor, good or outstanding? This course will give you the skills to assess such sites for their conservation value, looking at the plants and vegetation communities present. Repeat visits will be made to a botanically diverse site with a range of habitats, first to assess its quality using the Phase 1 Habitat survey methodology and then revisiting some of these habitats and assessing them with the National Vegetation Classification.You will be shown how to collate and analyse the data and produce an ecological report giving values to the habitats and plant communities present on the site. *MMU(M)

field-studies-council.org

FSC Certificate in Biological Recording From 2019 FSC will be offering a Level 3 Certificate to develop individuals’ skills and knowledge and enable evidence based conservation through informing the management interventions and supporting the accurate communication of the successes and concerns in British wildlife management. This course is suitable for you if you are: • A volunteer recorder for any species or group • A university student wishing to become better at species identification • A teacher or educator • A practical conservationist • A land owner, manager or ranger • A consultant or planner who requires wildlife data • An observer of wildlife e.g. gamekeeper, photographer, landowner who wants to know how to record what they see to help conservation management. It will last over two years and comprise of one compulsory residential course, and a choice of five others, held at FSC field centres. If you are interested in the new certificate please contact reception@field-studies-council.org or call 01743 852100 for more details.

Bursaries and Professional Development Bursaries The Wild Flower Society (WFS) The Wild Flower Society has generously donated a number of bursaries to encourage a wider understanding of wild flower identification among younger people. Anyone aged 18 to 25, who wishes to attend courses in the flowers, trees, grasses, freshwater plants and other plants sections of ‘Flowers and Other Plants’ (i.e. excluding ferns, mosses and liverworts, lichens and fungi), is eligible to apply for these grants. Please contact FSC Head Office for further details of the WFS bursary scheme. www.thewildflowersociety.org.uk

The Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland The Botanical Society of the British Isles offers a limited number of grants for those wishing to improve their plant identification skills in order to progress their career and/or recording activities. Each grant is worth up to £200 and will be paid to the applicant on completion of the course. To apply, download a form from: www.bsbi.org.uk

British Lichen Society The British Lichen Society makes small bursaries available from the WallaceBurnettGilbert fund for members of the Society needing financial support to attend lichen courses and field meetings. Application forms are available on the Society website and should be sent to the treasurer for consideration for a grant at least six weeks before the date of the course. Information about the Society, and how to join,can be found on its website: www.britishlichensociety.org.uk

The British Ecological Society Training & Travel Grants are available to support the training and development of students and postgraduate research assistants (RAs) or their equivalent. Grants of up to £1,000 are available. They have been created to help PhD students and postgraduate research assistants (RAs) or their equivalents to meet the costs of specialist field training courses. An application form must be completed and grants will be allocated on a firstcome-first-served basis. There is no application deadline but instead there are two opening dates within a 12 month period. www.britishecologicalsociety.org/grants-awards

The British Bryological Society The British Bryological Society offers a limited number of meetings and courses grants for those wishing to increase their experience or undertake training to improve their identification skills. Each grant is worth up to £150. For further details and an application form please visit the website and select Bequest Fund from the homepage. Note that grants are only available to members of the society. www.britishbryologicalsociety.org.uk

Flatford Mill Natural History Bursaries Thanks to the generosity of a regular visitor, Flatford Mill has been able to offer a special bursary fund for young adults who otherwise might find it difficult to attend a natural history course. Bursaries cover 50% of the resident or non-resident course fee for participants who are 18-25 when the course commences. They are available on Flatford Mill courses in the Animals, Plants or Habitats sections. For full conditions and to apply please visit www.field-studies-council.org/flatfordmill

Suffolk Biological Recording Bursary Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service (SBIS) and Suffolk Naturalists Society (SNS) have kindly offered a bursary to support individuals who wish to attend some of the Natural History courses offered at FSC Flatford Mill. The bursary will provide for up to 100% of the non-residential fees for courses. Successful applicants will still need to pay for any accommodation they require. SBIS and funding partners decide each year as to which courses at FSC Flatford Mill will be eligible for support, depending upon sufficient funds being available at the time of application. For eligible courses and to apply visit www.field-studies-council.org/flatfordmill

FSC Young Environmentalists Fund FSC wants to support young people (16-25yrs) at the time when they are making career choices and building their experiences in biodiversity. Apply for up to 50% off course fees and help with travel costs for FSC summer camps and selected natural history courses. Support is available, for those who can demonstrate financial need, thanks to generous funding from The Jean Jackson Charitable Trust. For details please visit: www.field-studies-council.org/young-people

Professional Development FSC is one of the UK’s leading providers of career development and professional training in the environment. To help identify suitable courses to develop your skills and knowledge, courses are split by subject matter and graded according to the level of experience required (see page 3 for details of levels).

Partnerships FSC works in partnership with other organisations and included in this brochure are courses offered in conjunction with Bat Conservation Trust, British Trust for Ornithology, The Mammal Society, Lichen Society, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust and RSPB.

Marine Biological Association The charitable aims of the Marine Biological Association (MBA) are to promote scientific research into all aspects of life in the sea, including the environment on which it depends, and to disseminate to the public the knowledge gained. The MBA provides a unified, clear, independent voice on behalf of the marine biological community. Members of the MBA are eligible for 10% off marine courses at Dale Fort and Millport. www.mba.ac.uk

Surrey Wildlife Trust If you have attended a Surrey Wildlife Trust day course you are entitled to 10% off residential courses at FSC Juniper Hall. Subject to availability. To find out more about Surrey Wildlife Trust’s courses visit the website: www.surreywildlifetrust.org/courses

The Marine Conservation Society The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the UK’s leading charity for the protection of our seas, shores and wildlife. For over thirty years MCS has been the voice for the sea for all the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves, for our breath-taking coastal environment, for all those who make a sustainable living from the sea and for everyone who simply enjoys visiting the beach and our glorious coastline. Members of the MCS are eligible for 10% off marine courses at Dale Fort and Millport. www.mcsuk.org

field-studies-council.org

How to Make a Booking When you have chosen a course you would like to attend you can book your place securely in two different ways:

Book online through our website www.field-studies-council.org/naturalhistory Telephone or email the centre where your course is taking place. Contact details for each centre can be found on the back cover of this brochure. Full booking terms and conditions can be found on the FSC website www.field-studies-council/terms

Join us By becoming an FSC Member or making a donation you will help us provide that vital help which can make a real difference to a young person and their future. For as little as £3 a month you can become an FSC Member and all of your membership subscription is used to provide financial support for young people. As a Member you will receive access to an exclusive members’ preview of our annual programme of natural history, arts and family courses. FSC Kids Fund gives grants to support groups of young people who are disadvantaged in some way through health, social or financial circumstances to experience the FSC.

FSC Bursary Fund supports individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to take part in an FSC curriculum-focussed course with their school class.

”All the Brownies had a wonderful experience on many fronts. As Brownie Leaders we have decided we will come back annually to the Centre and raise funds to help subsidise with funding. I have already made enquires to attend a day visit for the children we did not bring. We have all increased our awareness of how we need to protect our environment. Especially relating to plastics on the beach.”

“Students were encouraged to take risks and ask questions and not be afraid to get something wrong which will really help to build confidence and resilience.” Hemlington Hall Academy

FSC Young Darwin Scholarships are awarded to support and encourage young people (aged 16 and 17) who have a real interest in the natural world – the Darwins of the future. We now have 60 Young Darwin Scholars and continue to offer courses and opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills of these enthusiastic young people. Summing up the experience of the 2018 introductory course one Young Darwin Scholar said:

“It was a fantastic experience and affirmed his comfort in following his passion for the natural world. The way you and your team exposed a group of young minds to such a wide range of experiences is humbling.” Parent of 2018 Young Darwin Scholar

Glasgow Brownies

By joining or supporting the FSC or making a donation you can help us support even more young people in 2019: www.field-studiescouncil.org/help-us

field-studies-council.org

Index Date

Course title

Tutor

Page No.

Date

Amersham

The Chilterns 02 Feb Trees in Winter 05 Apr Introduction to Birds 06 Apr Introduction to Mammals 18 May Learn to look at Plants: An Introduction to Field Botany 08 Jun Stoneflies and Mayflies 15 Jun Wild Flowers of Chalk Grasslands 22 Jun An Introduction to Britain's Spiders 29 Jun Identification of Deciduous Trees in Summer 06 Jul Introduction to Grass Identification 13 Jul Butterflies and Day-Flying Moths of the Chilterns 19 Oct Fungi for Beginners

Rachel Cassidy Chris Ford Chris Ford Karen Van Oostrum Maaike Milligan Brenda Harold Lawrence Bee Rachel Cassidy

25 7 10 33

Brenda Harold Martin Harvey

28 12

Chris Ford

14 22 17 26

Martin Godfrey

John Handley John Handley John Handley John Handley John Wilkinson

25 30 37 27 19

Dave Grundy Dave Grundy

12 12

John Handley

Ian Cheeseborough 15 Ian Cheeseborough 15 Dave Grundy 12 John Handley John Handley

28 23

John Handley Sue Rees-Evans John Handley John Handley Chris de Feu John Handley

26 14 38 26 16 29

Blencathra

The Lake District 02 Sep-06 Sep The Fern Guide James Merryweather 29 02 Sep-06 Sep Mushrooms and Toadstools Paul Nichol 31 Develop your Skills in Identification 07 Sep-09 Sep Introduction to Lichens April Windle 32

Castle Head

The Lake District 10 Aug-12 Aug Bird Identification

BTO Trainers

Dale Fort

Pembrokeshire Coast 25 May-29 May Spider Identification 28 May-31 May Identifying Coastal Plants 22 Jul-24 Jul

Detecting Marine Mammals Using Acoustics 20 Oct-23 Oct Rocky Shore Invertebrates

Tutor

Page No.

Epping Forest

Bishops Wood

Worcestershire 09 Mar A Beginners Guide to Mosses and Liverworts 19 Mar Ancient Woodland Plants 26 Mar Ash Woodlands: Plants and Mosses 27 Mar Phase 1 Habitat Survey: Plant ID 11 May Introduction to Grasses 11 May Finding and Identifying Amphibians and Reptiles 01 Jun Daytime Moths of Worcestershire 15 Jun Larger Micro-Moths of Worcestershire 15 Jun Wildflower ID: Top 10 Flower Families 22 Jun Introduction to Bumblebees 23 Jun Identifying Solitary Bees 06 Jul-07 Jul Smaller Micro-Moths of Worcestershire 19 Jul Introduction to Sedges 23 Jul Umbellifers for a Day: Understanding the Apiaceae 25 Jul Identifying British Trees 27 Jul Identifying Dragonflies 27 Jul Introduction to Grassland NVC 31 Jul Introduction to Woodlands 14 Aug Slug Identification 24 Aug Introduction to Fern Identification

Course title

Lawrence Bee 17 John 39 Archer-Thomson Stephanie Barnicoat 39 John Archer-Thomson

Essex 26 Jan

Identifying Trees Without Leaf in Epping Forest 09 Mar Introducing Lichens 23 Mar Introduction to British Amphibians 06 Apr Woodland Birds of Epping Forest 24 Apr Great Crested Newts with Froglife 27 Apr Spring Moths for Beginners 27 Apr Discovering Bats in Epping Forest 18 May Mosses and Liverworts: Introducing Bryophytes 08 Jun Introduction to Phase 1 Surveys with Plant ID Focus 15 Jun Identification of Grasses, Sedges and Rushes of Epping Forest 29 Jun Discovering Freshwater Invertebrates and Ecology 25 Jul Aquatic Plant Identification: Intermediate 26 Jul Aquatic Plant Identification:Advanced 10 Aug Discovering Bats in Epping Forest 07 Sep Identifying Woodland Trees in Leaf 05 Oct Discovering Veteran Trees of Epping Forest 12 Oct Identifying Woodland Fungi in Epping Forest 24 Oct-25 Oct Traditional Hedgelaying Workshop 26 Oct Woodland Ecology and Management: The Basics 30 Nov Discovering Diptera: Flies Under the Microscope

Ken Adams

John Skinner James Bromhead Edward Hutchings Laurence Jarvis Martin Harvey Roger Havard Ken Adams

32 18 7 18 12 10 30

Sharon Brown

Ken Adams

Maaike Milligan

Ken Adams

Ken Adams Roger Havard Andy Deane Sharon Brown

29 10 26 27

Mark Spencer

Peter Vaughan Andy Deane

36 36

Martin Harvey

Flatford Mill

Suffolk â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Constable Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 25 Jan-27 Jan Bird Identification and WeBS 15 Feb-18 Feb Winter Birdwatching Weekend 08 Mar-10 Mar Discovering Birds by Sight, Song and their Calls in a Diversity of Habitats 22 Mar-24 Mar Recognising Birds by Sight and Sound: Especially for Improvers 05 Apr-07 Apr Phase 1 Habitat Surveys for Site Assessments and Environmental Audits 05 Apr-07 Apr Birdwatching for Absolute Beginners 07 Apr-12 Apr Ancient Woodlands of Britain

13 Apr Birds of Cattawade Marshes 15 Apr-17 Apr Phase 1 Habitat Surveys for Site Assessments and Environmental Audits 03 May-05 May Spring Birdwatching 03 May-05 May Willy Lott's Volunteer Weekend 24 May-27 May Wild Flower Identification: The Top 20 Flower Families 27 May-29 May Trees and Tree Identification in Summer 27 May-31 May Identifying Freshwater Invertebrates for Biological Surveying and Recording 31 May-02 Jun Grass Identification and Ecology 06 Jul Identifying Hoverflies 07 Jul Grasshoppers and Bushcrickets 12 Jul-14 Jul Sedges and Rushes 17 Jul-22 Jul Solitary Bees: Identification and Ecology

BTO Trainers Geoff Abbott Steve Piotrowski

9 7 7

Steve Piotrowski

Jonny Stone

Maureen Gibson

Gary Battell, 25 Simon Leatherdale and Jonathan Spencer Edward Hutchings 7 Jonny Stone 37 Geoff Abbott Rosie Molten Alanna Cooper

8 33 21

Alanna Cooper

Adrian Chalkley

Jonny Stone John Biglin John Biglin Ros Bennett Ian Cheeseborough

27 15 17 28 15

field-studies-council.org

Date 19 Jul-21 Jul 31 Jul-02 Aug 02 Aug-05 Aug 09 Aug-12 Aug 16 Aug-19 Aug 19 Aug-22 Aug 23 Aug-25 Aug 18 Oct-20 Oct 21 Oct-23 Oct 21 Oct-25 Oct 25 Oct-27 Oct 15 Nov-17 Nov

Course title

Tutor

Page No.

Identifying Moths and Butterflies Vegetative Keys for Identifying Plants Flowers with Botanical Keys Practical Microscopy: Go It Alone Weekend Identifying Coastal Plants Dandelions, Daisies and Thistles Identifying Lichens Autumn Birdwatching Weekend Soils in the Landscape Siberian Week: Looking at Bird Migration Along the Suffolk Coast Mainly Migrants Trees and Tree Identification: The Challenge of Early Winter

Sheila Wright Alanna Cooper

12 24

Alanna Cooper 24 Self Led - No Tutor 18 Ros Bennett Ros Bennett John Skinner Geoff Abbott Jonny Stone Steve Piotrowski

24 24 32 9 36 9

Steve Piotrowski Ros Bennett

9 27

Juniper Hall

North Downs 05 May Reptile Survey Techniques 01 Mar-03 Mar Introduction to Small Holding Management 03 May-05 May Land Snail Identification 03 May-06 May Identifying Grasses in Spring 09 May Using Bat Detectors 10 May

Bat Ecology and Conservation

24 May-26 May Birds for Beginners 24 May-26 May Discovering the Flora of Chalk Grasslands and Woodlands 31 May-02 Jun Introduction to Permaculture 08 Jun Wild Orchids of South East England 1 09 Jun Wild Orchids of South East England 2 26 Jul-28 Jul Finding and Identifying Beetles 23 Aug-25 Aug Leaf-Mining Moths of the Surrey Downs 23 Aug-25 Aug Broad-Leaved Trees 30 Aug-01 Sep MS Mammal Identification 25 Oct-27 Oct Autumn Fungi 08 Nov-10 Nov Getting to Know Conifers

Rob Ward Sean Grufferty

19 35

June Chatfield Judith Allinson Bat Conservation Trust Bat Conservation Trust Chris Ford David Streeter

16 27 11

Bob Mehew Simon Harrap

33 22

Simon Harrap

Steve Bolchover Dave Grundy

18 13

Ros Bennett Mammal Society Trainers Chris Ford Ros Bennett

26 11

Theo Loizou Nick Hodgetts Geoff Guy David Brown Dan Puplett Rebecca Yahr Bruce Ing Rebecca Yahr Jerry Dicker

30 30 10 12 8 32 31 32 25

Ben Averis Jerry Dicker

37 26

Heather McHaffie Ben Averis Nick Stewart Ben Averis Ben Averis Martin Robinson

29 38 28 38 38 23

11 8 21

31 27

Kindrogan

Scottish Highlands 22 Mar-25 Mar Mosses and Liverworts 30 Mar-06 Apr Mosses and Liverworts 05 Apr-08 Apr Deer Ecology 08 Apr-13 Apr Highland Special Spring Moths 10 May-12 May Bird Identification 10 May-12 May Introduction to Lichens 10 May-15 May Microfungi 12 May-18 May Lichen Identification 24 May-26 May Big Tree Country 1: Tree Identification for Beginners 24 May-27 May NVC Woodlands 26 May-30 May Big Tree Country 2: Tree Identification for Improvers 14 Jun-17 Jun Fern Identification 17 Jun-19 Jun Introduction to NVC 17 Jun-24 Jun Aquatic Plants 19 Jun-21 Jun NVC Grasslands 21 Jun-23 Jun NVC Heathlands and Mires 24 Jun-28 Jun Discovering and Identifying Wild Flowers 28 Jun-30 Jun Mammal Identification 01 Jul-08 Jul 05 Jul-08 Jul

Mammal Society Trainers Freshwater Algae Eileen Cox and Elliot Shubert Discovering Mountain Flowers and Theo Loizou Ferns

field-studies-council.org

Date 16 Aug-19 Aug 19 Aug-24 Aug 23 Aug-26 Aug 13 Sep-20 Sep 18 Oct-21 Oct 25 Oct-28 Oct

Course title

Tutor

Scottish Mammals Highland Butterflies and Moths Wildlife Tracking Identifying Fungi Bryophytes Sphagnum Moss

John Haddow David Brown Dan Puplett Chris Knowles Nick Hodgetts Nick Hodgetts

10 13 36 31 30 30

Rachel Cassidy Rachel Cassidy Joe Beale John Van Den Bosch Mark Spencer Mark Spencer Mark Spencer Tim Harris

25 25 32 7 33 21 21 12

Mark Spencer

Rachel Cassidy Pippa Hyde Bettina Metcalfe Tim Harris

25 22 26 12

Mark Spencer

Leslie Williams Sharon Brown Rachel Cassidy Martin Harvey

28 26 23 15

Mark Spencer Maaike Milligan

33 14

Mark Spencer

Roger Havard Leslie Williams Bettina Metcalfe Leslie Williams Mark Spencer Pete Howarth

10 26 26 26 31 30

London 09 Feb 16 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 13 Apr 27 Apr 11 May 18 May

Introduction to Trees in Winter Introduction to Coniferous Trees BLS Introducing Lichens Birdwatching in Bushy Park Introduction to Plant Morphology How to Use Plant Identification Keys Urban Wild Plants Introduction to Butterflies and Day-Flying Moths 18 May Common British and Irish Plant Families 1: Cabbage, Carrot, Lily and Rose 18 May Introduction to Broadleaf Trees 01 Jun Introduction to Wild Flowers 01 Jun Tree Identification: Summer 08 Jun-09 Jun Introduction to Moths and Moth Trapping 15 Jun Common British and Irish Plant Families 2: Pea, Grass, Rush and Sedge 22 Jun Meadows and Grassland Plants 22 Jun Discovering Veteran Trees 22 Jun How To Use a Botanical Key 29 Jun Bees, Hoverflies and Flowers: Pollinators and Pollination 13 Jul Forensic Ecology 20 Jul Discovering Freshwater Invertebrates and Ecology 20 Jul Common British and Irish Plant Families 3: Mint, Figwort and Borage 17 Aug Common British and Irish Plant Families 4: Daisy, Goosefoot, Dock and Willow 31 Aug Bats and their Natural History 14 Sep Introduction to Orchards 21 Sep Tree Identification: Autumn 28 Sep Introduction to Hedgerows 05 Oct Introduction to Fungi 02 Nov Mosses and Liverworts

11 39 23

Page No.

Bloody Nosed Beetle - Charlie Bell

Date

Course title

Tutor

Page No.

Date

13 Sep-16 Sep Identifying and Recording Adult Caddisflies, Stoneflies and Mayflies

Scottish Island Birds: Summer Seabirds 09 Aug-11 Aug Ecology of the Isle of Cumbrae

Allan Pentecost Laurie Wildwood Sharon & Peter Flint Laurie Wildwood Steven Falk Laurie Wildwood Jimmi Hill

32 21 14 21 15 33 8

Allan Pentecost 32 Sharon & Peter Flint 14 Ian Powell Laurie Wildwood

23 28

Sarah Watson-Jones 28 Judith Allinson 28 Sharon & Peter Flint 14 David Brown Ros Tratt

13 36

Mammal Society 11 Trainers Sharon & Peter Flint 14

Matt Davies

Liam Russell

Steven Falk Chris Evans Mark Duffell

15 35 35

Richard Crompton 10 Centre Staff

Dave Grundy

Mark Duffell Steve Bolchover

28 18

Wendy Harris Mark Duffell June Chatfield June Chatfield

18 24 30 31

Millport

Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland 29 Mar-31 Mar Scottish Island Birds: Spring Migrants 21 Apr-26 Apr Marine Biological Sampling 24 May-27 May Marine Plankton 30 Jun-05 Jul Marine Mammal and Bird Surveys 05 Jul-08 Jul Identifying Marine Species and Habitats: The Biotope Approach 11 Jul-18 Jul Marine Mammals

Page No.

Jack Lucas

Bat Conservation Trust Katy Potts Pat Wolseley

Jen Jones Tracey Lovering Jerry Dicker

39 32 35

Bob and Annie Haycock Paul Ashton Ben Rowson John Martin

Sharon & Peter Flint 14

Margam

South Wales 26 Apr-28 Apr A Holistic and Practical Introduction to QGIS 26 Apr-28 Apr ARC British Reptiles and Amphibians: Identification and Survey Techniques 03 May-05 May Identifying Bees with Steven Falk 03 May-05 May Forest Gardening Course 10 May-12 May Plant Identification for Field Surveyors 29 May-31 May Bat Ecology (Beginners to Intermediate) 31 May-02 Jun Graduate Fieldwork and Identification Skills 19 Jul-21 Jul Moths of the South Wales Coast and Countryside 26 Jul-29 Jul Grasses, Sedges and Rushes 09 Aug-11 Aug Finding and Identifying Beetles and Other Invertebrates 16 Aug-18 Aug Introduction to the Insect Orders 30 Aug-01 Sep Vegetative Plant Identification 25 Oct-27 Oct A Beginners Guide to Mosses 01 Nov-03 Nov A Weekend with Fungi Beginners Course

Tutor

26 Jul-28 Jul

Malham Tarn

Yorkshire Dales 05 Apr-07 Apr Identifying and Recording Water Bugs 03 May-06 May Lichens in the Dales 17 May Botany Beginnings: Wildflowers 17 May-19 May Introduction to Water Beetles 18 May Botany Beginnings: Wildflowers 07 Jun-09 Jun Identifying Bees with Steven Falk 14 Jun-16 Jun Botanical Surveying for Professional Ecologists 14 Jun-17 Jun Identifying and Monitoring Birds of Prey 15 Jun BLS Introducing Lichens 21 Jun-24 Jun Identifying and Recording Juvenile and Adult Caddisflies 28 Jun-01 Jul Limestone Flora 29 Jun Botany Beginnings: Grasses, Sedges and Rushes 05 Jul-08 Jul Grass Identification 05 Jul-08 Jul One Third of British Sedges in Three Days 19 Jul-22 Jul Identifying Freshwater Invertebrates 22 Jul-26 Jul Butterflies and Moths 30 Aug-02 Sep Fens and Bogs: Plants and Processes 06 Sep-08 Sep Mammal Identification

Course title

Jack Lucas Jack Lucas Tom Stevenson Jack Lucas Paula Lightfoot

7 39 39 39 39

Dominic McCafferty, 10 Anna McGregor, Chris Parsons and Jack Lucas

Nettlecombe

Somerset 16 May-17 May Surveying for Bats 19 Jul-21 Jul Discovering Beetles 25 Oct-27 Oct Lichen Habitats of Exmoor

18 32

Orielton

Pembrokeshire Coast 21 Mar-25 Mar Sponge Identification 12 Apr-16 Apr Lichens of Pembrokeshire 04 May-08 May Woodland Management and Conservation 04 May-08 May Spring Birds in Pembrokeshire 19 Jul-22 Jul 19 Jul-22 Jul 22 Jul-26 Jul 22 Jul-26 Jul 24 Jul-28 Jul 26 Jul-30 Jul

Phase 1 Surveying Slugs and Snails Bird Identification in Pembrokeshire Moths of the Pembrokeshire Coast Dave Grundy Solitary Wasps Ian Cheeseborough Introduction to Habitat Surveying Philip Wilson

38 16 8 13 15 38

Preston Montford

Shropshire Hills and Severn Valley 22 Jan Identifying Broadleaf Trees in Winter Mark Duffell 15 Feb-17 Feb Dipterists Forum Workshop Stephen Hewitt and Nigel Jones 15 Feb-18 Feb QGIS Richard Burkmar 29 Mar-01 Apr Identifying Mosses and Liverworts Nick Law 26 Apr-29 Apr Biological Recording Mark Duffell 26 Apr-29 Apr Soil Mesofauna Mathew Shepherd, Peter Shaw and Felicity Crotty 26 Apr-29 Apr Identifying Hoverflies Stuart Ball 30 Apr-02 May Working Towards a Great Crested Jim Fairclough Newt Licence 03 May-05 May Birds in the Shropshire Springtime Charlie Bell 10 May-13 May Vegetative Grass Identification Hilary Wallace 10 May-13 May Songbird Identification Kevin Clements 10 May-13 May Surveying Terrestrial Invertebrates Peter Boardman 11 May Wildflowers and Ferns of Fiona Gomersall Limestone Woodland 14 May Plant Identification for Field Mark Duffell Surveyors 15 May Woodland Plant Identification Mark Duffell 16 May Plant ID for Phase 1 Habitat Mark Duffell Surveys: Grasslands 17 May-20 May Bird Survey Techniques Kevin Clements 18 May Frogs, Toads and Newts John Wilkinson 21 May Identification of Grasses Mark Duffell 24 May-27 May Phase 1 Habitat Surveys Mark Duffell 24 May-27 May Reptiles and Amphibians John Wilkinson 30 May-03 Jun Using a Flora Mark Duffell 02 Jun Top 10 Plant Families John Handley 07 Jun-10 Jun Identifying Difficult Higher Plants Tim Rich and Mark Duffell 08 Jun Introducing Lichens Catherine Tregaskes 08 Jun Field Identification of Common Fiona Gomersall and Upland Grasses 14 Jun-16 Jun Advanced Botanical Identification Mark Duffell 14 Jun-17 Jun Solitary Bees Ian Cheeseborough 14 Jun-17 Jun Identifying Woodland Plants Sally Peacock 18 Jun Heathland Plants Mark Duffell 21 Jun-24 Jun Identification of Bats Lisa Worledge and Helen Miller

24 17 35 30 35 16 15 18 8 27 8 16 21 35 21 37 40 19 27 37 19 22 22 40 32 27 33 15 22 23 10

field-studies-council.org

Date

Course title

Tutor

Page No.

21 Jun-24 Jun Site Assessment Using Vegetation

22 Jun 29 Jun 12 Jul-14 Jul 12 Jul-15 Jul 19 Jul-21 Jul

23 28 17 29 14

19 Jul-22 Jul 19 Jul-22 Jul 02 Aug-05 Aug 02 Aug-05 Aug 05 Aug-09 Aug 16 Aug-19 Aug 23 Aug-26 Aug 30 Aug-02 Sep 01 Sep-08 Sep 07 Sep 10 Sep 12 Sep 14 Sep-21 Sep 20 Sep-23 Sep 18 Oct-20 Oct 18 Oct-21 Oct 18 Oct-21 Oct 03 Dec-05 Dec

Tim Rich and Mark Duffell Limestone Flora of the Oswestry Hills Fiona Gomersall Marshes and Mires Fiona Gomersall Identifying Leafhoppers Alan Stewart Identifying Aquatic Plants Nick Law Identification of Dragonflies Sue Rees-Evans and Damselflies Identifying Difficult Invertebrates Martin Harvey Grasses, Sedges and Rushes Mark Duffell Micro-Moths of the Shropshire Dave Grundy Borders Plants of Bogs and Mires Hilary Wallace Butterflies and Moths David Brown NVC Bogs and Mires Hilary Wallace Land Mammal Identification Debbie Alston Site Assessment Using Martin Harvey Invertebrates Monitoring and Surveying for Centre Staff Conservation British Reptiles John Wilkinson Fern ID Mark Duffell Plant ID Using the Vegetative Key Mark Duffell Advanced Macrofungi Geoffrey Kibby Identifying Bryophytes for Nick Law Conservation and Recording Identification of Conifers Mark Duffell Identifying Mosses and Liverworts Nick Law Identification of Macrofungi Jeanette Maddy Great Crested Newts, Licensing Jim Fairclough and and Mitigation David Orchard

40 28 13 29 13 38 10 40 36 19 29 24 31 40 27 30 31 19

Rhyd-y-creuau Snowdinia 22 Feb-24 Feb 22 Feb-24 Feb 01 Mar-03 Mar 12 Apr-15 Apr 06 May-08 May

Mosses and Liverworts Winter Tree Identification Identifying Conifers in the British Isles An Introduction to Bird Watching Sphagnum

Lucia Ruffino Matt Parratt Matt Parratt Anne Brenchley Lucia Ruffino

30 25 25 7 30

Date

Course title

24 May-27 May Birds of the North Wales Coast, Woodlands and Uplands 01 Jun-04 Jun Mountain Plants of North Wales 17 Jul-20 Jul A Botanical Odyssey - 300 Species in 3 Days? 20 Jul-23 Jul Fern Identification 30 Aug-01 Sep Bird Identification

Tutor

Page No.

Kevin Clements

Matt Parratt Chris Metherell

22 23

Chris Metherell BTO Trainers

29 9

Steven Falk Ros Bennett Ros Bennett Philip Wilson Nick Stewart David Hill Ros Bennett David Streeter Ros Bennett Debbie Alston

15 21 22 22 29 10 24 24 24 10

Philip Wilson John Rhyder Sandy Hill Dave Grundy

38 36 8 13

Slapton Ley

South Devon 24 May-27 May Identifying Bees with Steven Falk 24 May-27 May Woodland Plants 27 May-31 May Using a Flora 27 May-31 May Botany for Beginners 19 Jul-22 Jul Aquatic Plants 26 Jul-28 Jul Surveying Woodland Bats 26 Jul-29 Jul Simply Wild Flowers 26 Jul-29 Jul Coastal Plants 29 Jul-02 Aug Difficult Plants 29 Jul-02 Aug An Introduction to British Land Mammals 02 Aug-06 Aug NVC Summer Habitat Survey 04 Aug-09 Aug Wildlife Tracking 04 Aug-09 Aug Birds of South Devon 09 Aug-12 Aug Beginners Moths of the Devon Coast

The following courses are not based at an FSC Centre. Please contact FSC Head Office to book a place: 03 Apr Great Crested Newts and David Orchard Licensing for Surveys 18 Apr ARC Working with Natterjacks Yvette Martin and Ruth Popely 17 Jul An Introduction to Wet Grassland RSPB 18 Jul Advanced Lowland Wet Grassland RSPB 03 Sep An Introduction to Reedbeds RSPB 04 Sep Advanced Reedbed Management RSPB

19 19 36 36 36 36

Male Common Hawker in Flight - Stephen Barlow

field-studies-council.org

*MMU Accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University. See page 40.

Exploring and the Natural World Our Walking and Natural History courses can be found in full in our Exploring Nature and the Arts brochure or on the website. These are the courses on offer in 2019 which all introduce the wonderful wildlife and scenery surrounding our centres:

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park DF

Mon 15 Apr - Sat 20 Apr

£560

Late Spring Walking Weekend: Exploring South Suffolk and ‘Constable Country’ FM

Fri 26 Apr - Sun 28 Apr

£270

Sat 04 May - Wed 08 May

Fri 31 May - Sun 02 Jun

£270

Fri 21 Jun - Mon 24 Jun Sat 06 Jul - Sat 06 Jul

Fri 19 Jul - Sun 21 Jul

£380

Exploring Pembrokeshire DF

Mon 22 Jul - Mon 29 Jul

£690

Wild Walks in West Somerset NC

Mon 29 Jul - Fri 02 Aug

£420

History and Natural History of the Conwy Valley from Source to Sea RC

Sun 11 Aug - Fri 16 Aug

£450

Beachcombing and Seashells MA

Fri 16 Aug - Mon 19 Aug

£333

The Secret Hills of Shropshire PM

Mon 19 Aug - Fri 23 Aug

£425

Summer Guided Tour of Suffolk FM

Mon 19 Aug - Fri 23 Aug

£540

Autumn Walks to Perthshire Pubs KD

Fri 11 Oct - Mon 14 Oct

£252

£1,800

Fri 29 Mar - Sun 31 Mar

£291

Fri 03 May - Sun 05 May

£170

Fri 03 May - Mon 06 May

£325

Introductory Geology in Perthshire KD

£289

Fri 19 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

Sat 02 Nov - Sat 09 Nov

The Geology of Northern Snowdonia

£455

Exmoor Big 10 NC

£1,800

Geology KD

Walking and Natural History in Margam Park MA

Fri 12 Jul - Sat 20 Jul

Geology and Scenery in Perthshire

£35

Thu 18 Jul - Mon 22 Jul

MIL

Summer Wildlife Watch OR

£1,200

Great Geology at Great Cumbrae

£252

The Natural History of Bushy Park LR

Tue 07 May - Tue 14 May

Island Trip – Islay

£455

Summer Walks to Perthshire Pubs KD

HO HO

Navigable River: An Entertaining History of the River Stour FM

Island Trip - Coll

Island Trip - Harris and Lewis

Spring Wildlife Watch OR

Exploring Scottish Islands

Fri 19 Jul - Fri 26 Jul

£597

Geology and Scenery of the Pembrokeshire Coast OR

Fri 26 Jul - Thu 01 Aug

£595

A Field Study of the Geology, Botany and Marine Biology in South Devon SL

Fri 02 Aug - Fri 09 Aug

£720

Geology and Scenery of Shropshire and the Borderlands PM

Fri 09 Aug - Fri 16 Aug

£575

Geology and Scenery of North Wales RC

Fri 16 Aug - Fri 23 Aug

£580

Flora, Fauna and Geology in the Uplands BL

Fri 06 Sep - Sun 08 Sep

£225

Find out more: Request an Exploring Nature and the Arts brochure from FSC Head Office. Visit www.field-studies-council.org/exploring Contact the relevant Centre (contact details on back cover).

Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall, North Wales - Mel Cousins

field-studies-council.org

contact details Please address all enquiries to Field Studies Council at the following locations: Amersham Field Centre Mop End, Buckinghamshire HP7 0QR Tel: 01494 721054 email: enquiries.am@field-studies-council.org

Margam Discovery Centre Margam Park, Port Talbot SA13 2UA Tel: 01639 895636 email: enquiries.mp@field-studies-council.org

Bishops Wood Field Centre Crossway Green, Stourport-on-Severn Worcestershire, DY13 9SE Tel: 01299 250513 email: enquiries.bw@field-studies-council.org

Millport Field Centre Isle of Cumbrae KA28 0EG Tel: 01475 531420 email: enquiries.mil@field-studies-council.org

Blencathra Field Centre Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4SG Tel: 017687 79601 email: enquiries.bl@field-studies-council.org

Nettlecombe Court The Leonard Wills Field Centre Williton, Taunton, Somerset TA4 4HT Tel: 01984 640320 email: enquiries.nc@field-studies-council.org

Castle Head Field Centre Grange over Sands, Cumbria LA11 6QT Tel: 01539 538120 email: enquiries.ch@field-studies-council.org

Orielton Field Centre Pembroke, Pembrokeshire SA71 5EZ Tel: 01646 623920 email: enquiries.or@field-studies-council.org

Dale Fort Field Centre Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA62 3RD Tel: 01646 636205 email: enquiries.df@field-studies-council.org

Preston Montford Field Centre Montford Bridge, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1DX Tel: 01743 852040 email: enquiries.pm@field-studies-council.org

Epping Forest Field Centre Loughton, Essex IG10 4AF Tel: 0208 502 8500 email: enquiries.ef@field-studies-council.org

Rhyd-y-creuau The Drapersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Field Centre Betws-y-coed, Conwy LL24 0HB Tel: 01690 710494 email: enquiries.rc@field-studies-council.org

Flatford Mill Field Centre East Bergholt, Suffolk CO7 6UL Tel: 01206 297110 email: enquiries.fm@field-studies-council.org Juniper Hall Field Centre (please also contact for London bookings) Dorking, Surrey RH5 6DA Tel: 01306 734501 email: enquiries.jh@field-studies-council.org Kindrogan Field Centre Blairgowrie, Perthshire PH10 7PG Tel: 01250 870150 email: enquiries.kd@field-studies-council.org

Slapton Ley Field Centre Slapton, Kingsbridge, Devon TQ7 2QP Tel: 01548 580466 email: enquiries.sl@field-studies-council.org FSC Head Office Preston Montford, Montford Bridge, Shrewsbury SY4 1HW Tel: 01743 852100 email: enquiries@field-studies-council.org Website: www.field-studies-council.org Chief Executive: Mark Castle

Malham Tarn Field Centre Settle, North Yorkshire BD24 9PU Tel: 01729 830331 email: enquiries.mt@field-studies-council.org

Also available from FSC Exploring Nature and the Arts Courses Real Family Holidays

w w w.field-studies-council.org w w w.real-family-holidays.org Tel: 01743 852100

2016

FSC is a limited company registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and aMetropolitan Charity No. 313364. Charity registered *MMU Accredited by Manchester University. See page 40.in Scotland SC039870.