Discovering fungus (c) Debs Richardson-Bull
Ever wanted to learn more about the wildlife that lives alongside us in Worcestershire? Then why not book yourself onto one of our courses for adults?
Each year we run a series of natural history courses aimed at helping adults discover more about our local wildlife and environment.
All our courses involve indoor and outdoor sessions (please wear appropriate clothing and footwear). Refreshments are provided but you may like to bring your own binoculars, camera and notepad to use during the course.
No previous experience or knowledge is required (unless stated otherwise) and all our courses are delivered by natural history experts in a friendly and informal environment.
Wetland Wildlife
Saturday 10th March 10am to 1pm
Gwen Finch Wetland Reserve, near Birlingham
The importance of wetlands in Worcestershire is becoming increasingly high profile as we recognise their place in the countryside. Find out how best to manage land for water and wetland species on a large and small scale as well as how to identify common or interesting flora and fauna that use these places as their home. Wellies essential for this one!
Led by Water and Wetlands Officer Phil Smith.
Mosses and Liverworts
Saturday 24th March 10am to 3pm
Knapp and Papermill nature reserve, near Alfrick
Learn about the fascinating life of mosses and liverworts and how to identify them in the field. Course will include indoor and outdoor sessions. Suitable for beginners and those with some basic knowledge.
Led by Dr Ann Hill and Tessa Carrick.
Birdwatching for Absolute Beginners
19th May 10am – 1pm
Upton Warren reserve, near Wychbold
At our premier birdwatching reserve, an opportunity for complete beginners to learn about all aspects of birdwatching; from the equipment to use and how to identify key species on water and in flight to amazing breeding and migration habits. Whatever the weather, we should see some interesting birds from the comfort of the hides.
Led by Roger Pannell.
Woodland Creatures - Insects for Absolute Beginners
Saturday 23rd June 10am to 1pm
Wyre Forest Discovery Centre, near Bewdley
Insects are fascinating creatures – learn about their biology and lifestyle as well as how to identify them in the field (or your very own garden). Visit the Wyre Forest Discover Centre to gain a general overview of insect groups before venturing into the forest to experience a range of different recording techniques to look at woodland minibeasts at close quarters. Suitable for complete beginners.
Led by Rosemary Winnall.
Garden Wildlife for Absolute Beginners
Sunday July 8th 10am – 1pm
Lower Smite Farm, near Hindlip
Everyone can do their own bit of wildlife watching in their garden and make it a haven for local wildlife, whatever the size. Exploring the cottage garden, this course will cover key garden species and how to identify them, how to make your garden wildlife friendly and survey methods.
Led by Anna Bunney.
Summer Tree Identification
Saturday 21st July 10am – 1pm
Piper’s Hill & Dodderhill Commons nature reserve, near Hanbury
Learn about the biology of trees, their importance as a wildlife habitat and how to identify key species by their leaf and bark. We will also discover some of the oldest ‘veteran’ trees in the county at this reserve, learning about the key features for identification. This is a great course for complete beginners.
Led by Becky Lashley.
Crickets and Grasshoppers
Saturday 28th July 10am – 1pm
Lower Smite Farm, near Hindlip
One of the commonest questions asked about grasshoppers and crickets is how to tell them apart. Learn about the biology and habitats of crickets and grasshoppers, learning how to identify them in the field.
Led by Harry Green.
Fungi for Beginners
Saturday 20th October, 10am -1pm
Wyre Forest Discovery Centre , near Bewdley
Fungi spring up everywhere in the autumn months, some clinging to trees whilst others preferring the leaf littered woodland floor. Join us to discover what these fascinating organisms are, how they survive and how to identify the key species. Suitable for complete beginners.
Led by Roy Mantle.
Booking information
Please note: there is a limit of 2 courses per person to allow all those wanting to attend a course to have a chance to. In the past few years, interest has been so great that many people have missed out on attending any course at all.
All courses are £15 per person.
HOW TO BOOK
You can check availability and reserve your place by calling 01905 754919 or emailing us at enquiries@worcestershirewildlifetrust.org – please note that if the course is already full we can put your name on a reserve list in case of cancellations.
HOW TO PAY
You can pay using a debit or credit card by phone on 01905 754919 or you can post us a cheque made payable to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust within 7 days of reserving your place.
PLEASE NOTE
Your place on a course will only be confirmed once payment is received. Should you cancel your place within 3 weeks of the course date, we will be unable to offer a refund.
FOLLOWING PAYMENT
Your receipt and further course information will be sent by post. Due to their very nature, our courses are weather dependent. We always do our best to run them but if we really need to cancel you will be offered a full refund.
Contact 01905 754919 or enquiries@worcestershirewildlifetrust.org