Talk: Animal Camouflage - Amazing Ways Birds and Other Species Hide

A 45-minute photographic talk via Zoom, followed by a Q&A

Speaker: Ian Alexander, London-based local wildlife expert

Free to our members. Non-members welcome for a donation, see ticket info below

Join us to learn some fascinating facts about animal camouflage - there's much more to it than the leopard's famous spots!

Find out how a variety of birds, insects and other animals manage to disappear in plain sight.

Some paint out their shadows, break up their outlines, even illuminate themselves; they mimic dangerous animals or innocent objects (and some make themselves conspicuous) - being spotted is the least of it.

The tricks of the animal world have of course also been copied by humans.

Just some of the topics covered include: how to hide on a carpet; how to paint yourself flat; transparency; distraction; motion dazzle - and much more.

Images above, all © rspb-images.com (Flower Crab Spider and Bittern by Ben Andrew; Nightjar by Verity Hill; Peppered Moth by Tom Marshall) except Ptarmigan © Ian Alexander

About the speaker

Ian Alexander is a retired engineer and local wildlife expert with a lifelong love of nature, whether birdwatching, hillwalking, gardening, fossil-hunting or photographing insects.

For many years he has been a regular volunteer with the London Wildlife Trust at his local nature reserve.

He has written a book, The English Love Affair with Nature, and contributed chapters to another book about the widllife of west London.

Image above of `````Long-eared `Owl by Ben Andrew © rspb-images.com

How to join the talk

This event will be streamed live via ZOOM to members of the RSPB Central London Local Group. There is no charge for members to attend, but it is essential to book a place. (If you are sharing a screen with someone you only need one ticket.)

Non-members are also welcome to attend for a donation of your choice, which will support the work of the RSPB. Please select a non-member ticket.

If you would like to join the RSPB Central London Local Group (£10 a year or free if you are aged 16-24) please email rspb.cllg.contact@gmail.com

Newcomers are very welcome, whether you are a beginner, a seasoned birdwatcher or interested in learning more about nature and the environment in general.

Image of Golden Plover chick above © John Buckingham