Wildflowers, Orchids and Grasses with Leif Bersweden

The ability to identify wildflowers, orchids and grasses in the field opens up a whole world of discovery, transforming any trip outdoors. This workshop aims to introduce and inspire you to quickly and confidently identify a range of wildflowers, orchids, and grasses. It will focus on the more common species you are likely to encounter on any walk in the countryside, whilst also touching on a few interesting rarities we have at Kingcombe.

The Kingcombe Meadows Nature Reserve, which surrounds the Kingcombe Centre, is famed for its wide-ranging habitats and species and was designated a National Nature Reserve in 2021.

Suitable for any level of experience from beginner upwards. There will be some walking on rough ground during the workshop and time in the field.

Leif Bersweden has had a lifelong interest in nature, born in 1994 and growing up exploring rural Wiltshire looking for wild plants. Leif is the author of The Orchid Hunter (2017) and most recently Where the Wildflowers Grow (2022) and regularly helps to lead plant identification courses for The Species Recovery Trust. Leif graduated from Oxford University where he read Biological Sciences and has just completed a PhD at Kew Gardens, with a research focus on orchid genetics.

DAY 1

Neutral grassland teaching in the field (AM)

Chalk grassland teaching in the field (PM)

DAY 2

Neutral grassland revision in the field (AM)

Chalk grassland revision in the field (PM)

All money raised helps to support the vital conservation work of Dorset Wildlife Trust, protecting wildlife now and for future generations to come.

Times: Arrival from 10am. The course will start at 10:30am and finish at 4pm on Sunday.

What to bring: Please be prepared for the weather (sunhat, suncream, warm clothing, and waterproofs are advisable).

Terms and Conditions for Participants

DWT reserves the right to cancel the course at any time. In the event of DWT cancelling an event, a full refund will be issued.

DWT reserves the right to reschedule events in the event of unfavourable conditions and offer alternative dates or issue a full refund.

Courses will only take place if the minimum number is achieved. If the minimum number is not achieved, an alternative date will be offered, or a full refund will be issued.

Cancelling your booking

Cancellations are accepted at the discretion of Dorset Wildlife Trust and a reasonable cancellation cause should be provided by the participant.

You may request a cancellation up to 14 days before the date of the course or workshop. You may be charged an administration fee.