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 nature enthusiasts for a day of learning about, finding, identifying and recording fungi in an informal setting. Naturalists of all levels (from beginner to expert) are encouraged to attend, share their experiences with peers and help one another improve their knowledge and build confidence in biological recording. Fungi specialist Mark Spencer will be leading the day and providing guidance throughout.

What will the day involve?

• Practical experience of finding, identifying and recording fungi in the field.
• Access to a knowledgeable fungi specialist with the opportunity to discuss identification questions.
• A chance to meet like-minded nature enthusiasts.

What do I need to know in advance?

• This event is aimed at adults only.
• It’s free to attend and fungi recorders of all abilities are welcome, but booking is essential.
• This is not a foraging event. Foraging is strictly prohibited on our events and anyone foraging will be asked to leave the event.
• All identification will be completed in the field where possible, though please note that this event will involve some experienced individuals collecting fungal specimens for further investigation.
• We'll be outside for the whole day so please bring suitable clothing for all types of weather and please bring your lunch and any snacks you will require with you on the day.
• All records collected will be added to iRecord 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.
• Check out our Info for Field Recorder Day Attendees page for more info (including instructions for setting up iRecord): https://biologicalrecording.co.uk/info-for-field-recorder-day-attendees/

Fungi Specialist: Dr Mark Spencer

Mark Spencer is an internationally respected botanist who also has a strong interest in fungi. Mark has decades of experience with identifying and recording fungi, regularly leads fungi walks, and is an enthusiastic teacher keen to inspire newcomers to the wonderful world of mycology.

Welsh Harp

Welsh Harp (also known as The Welsh Harp, Welsh Harp Open Space or alternatively, Brent Reservoir) is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Local Nature Reserve (LNR) in North London, on the boundary of the boroughs of Brent and Barnet. Originally built in the 1830s to provide water for London’s canals, the site comprises 170 acres of open water, marshes, woodland and grassland. It is recognised as one of the most important bird breeding areas in Southern England. The varied habitats also support a range of other wildlife. Find out more here: https://www.welshharpfriends.co.uk/about