Intertidal Investigations

The course will begin in The Seaside Museum with an introduction to marine plant and animal identification, and different types of survey methods. This will be followed by practical experience of surveying the variety of life in the habitat zones on the shore - an intertidal shoresearch activity.

Shoresearch is The Wildlife Trusts' national citizen science survey of the intertidal shore, the exciting world of extremes where the sea meets the land. It's a great way to explore your local coast, learn more about the wildlife found there and add to our understanding of this important habitat.

The data collected by this project helps experts to monitor our fragile sea life and better understand the effects of pollution, climate change and invasive alien species. Shoresearch data has been key to designating many of our Marine Conservation Zones.

A rough plan for the day is as follows:

13.30 Registration and Coffee
13:45 Indoor session in Seaside Museum
14.45 Break (snack will be provided)
15:05 Continue Indoor session in Seaside Museum
16.20 Low Water – Run intertidal shoresearch activity
18:20 Return to Visitor Centre
18:30 Review
18.45 Close

By the end of the course you should have learned how to identify and record wildlife found in the intertidal zone and be able to contribute to intertidal surveys.

Led by Max Renton – Coastal and Marine Ecologist at Adonis Blue Environmental Consultants

Suitable for complete beginners. Aimed at those with a little knowledge who want to learn more.

For further information, please visit the Study Days page of the Kent Wildlife Trust website.