Fungi Field Recorder Day

Fungi are a diverse group of organisms that include moulds, yeasts, and mushrooms, and are classified in their own kingdom separate from plants and animals. They reproduce by releasing spores and obtain nutrients by breaking down organic matter, often playing a vital role as decomposers in ecosystems. Fungi can be beneficial, such as in food production, medicine (e.g. antibiotics), and nutrient recycling, but some species are harmful, causing diseases in plants, animals, and humans.

Join like-minded people with an interest in recording wildlife observations for a day identifying and recording fungi in an informal environment. Naturalists of all levels (from beginner to expert) will be able to share their experiences with peers and help one another improve their knowledge and build confidence in biological recording, all under the guidance of mycologist Mark Spencer.

What will the day involve?

• Practical experience of finding and identifying fungi in the field.
• Access to an experienced mycologist and the opportunity to discuss field mycology.
• A chance to meet fellow like-minded people from a range of different disciplines.

What do I need to know in advance?

• This event is aimed at adults only.
• Attendance is free, but booking is essential as spaces are limited.
• Fungi recorders of all abilities are welcome.
• Identification will take place in the field whenever possible, but some fungi specimens may need to be collected and preserved for accurate identification.
• This is not a foraging event. We have a strict no foraging policy on our recording events.
• We'll be outside for the whole day so please bring suitable clothing for all types of weather, as well as your lunch and any snacks you will require with you on the day.

Recording London's Wildlife

All records collected will be added to the LNHS iRecord activity in order to share our findings with the site managers, Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL), London Natural History Society (LNHS) and relevant national recording schemes and societies.

Botany & Fungi Specialist: Dr Mark Spencer

Mark Spencer is an experienced and internationally respected botanist. His expertise covers many disciplines including forensic botany, the plants of North-west Europe, invasive species and the history of botanical science. He also works globally as a seasoned writer, public speaker and television presenter. As a forensic botanist, Mark has worked on various missing person enquiries, murders and other serious crimes. He also has a strong interest in identifying and recording fungi.

Tolworth Court Farm Nature Reserve

At over 50 ha, the large size and location of this urban nature reserve along the chalk stream of the Hogsmill River in Kingston mean it is an important place for nature. A haven for Brown Hairstreak and other butterfly species, the Wild Tolworth project aims to improve the quality of the site for wildlife. Following a range of invertebrate-focused events with the FSC BioLinks project, we’re revisiting the site to record the wildlife and update the species list for the site.

This event is delivered by the Biological Recording Company in partnership with Citizen Zoo and Kingston Council as part of the Wild Tolworth project (supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund).