About this Workshop
Course tutor: James Common
Course length: 1 session, Saturday 11 October, 10.00 am-12.00 pm
Course structure: Field course
Meeting Point: Havannah Nature Reserve large carpark, NZ 21512 71869, haven.crazy.curve (///haven.crazy.curve)
Course Cost: £5 NHSN Members, £7.50 Non-Members
There are 46 species of ladybirds recorded in the UK. Once overlooked, the North East Ladybird Spot has shown that this region is home to an extraordinary variety, many of which you may never have encountered before. Ladybirds here display a striking diversity of sizes and patterns and can be found across a wide range of habitats.
In this session, we’ll explore one of the richest habitats of all: coniferous woodland. Together, we’ll search for some of the specialist ladybirds that thrive in this environment, while also learning how to identify several of the more common species often seen during the autumn months.
On a good day, participants might come across 7-spot, Pine, Harlequin, Striped, 18-spot, and Pine Scymnus ladybirds. With a bit of luck, there’s also the chance of spotting rarer species such as the Larch or Eyed Ladybird.
Please note that in the event of bad weather, this trip may be cancelled. Should this be the case, tickets will be refunded.
Additional Information
Questions (and identification queries) are welcome at any time by emailing james.common@newcastle.ac.uk.Please read the terms and conditions for NHSN education courses before booking.
Recommended Equipment
Some will be made available but a sweep net would be a big help. Small, portable ones can be purchased from NHBS. A hand lens and camera are option but recommended.
About the tutor
James works as Senior Naturalist at NHSN. Outside of work, he is a passionate wildlife recorder with a focus on botany and invertebrates. As a botanist, he is a joint BSBI Vice-County Recorder for North Northumberland and an iRecord verifier for South Northumberland. Away from plants, he is an enthusiastic recorder of ladybirds.
