Grasses, Sedges & Rushes Field Recorder Day

Join like-minded people with an interest in recording wildlife observations for a day identifying and recording grasses, sedges & rushes in an informal environment. Naturalists of all levels (from beginner to expert) will be able to share their experiences with peers and help one another improve their knowledge and build confidence in biological recording, all under the guidance of an experienced botanist.

This event is aimed at adults only. It’s free to attend and botany recorders of all abilities are welcome, but some experience is advisable as these groups can be quite tricky. Booking is essential.

All identification will be completed in the field where possible, though please note that this event will involve some experienced individuals collecting botanical specimens for further investigation.

What will the day involve?

• Practical experience of finding and identifying grasses, sedges and rushes in the field.
• Access to a renowned botanist and the opportunity to discuss field botany.
• A chance to meet fellow like-minded people from a range of different disciplines.

Recording London's Wildlife

All records collected will be added to the LNHS iRecord activity in order to share our findings with the site managers, Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL), London Natural History Society (LNHS) and relevant national recording schemes and societies.

Tolworth Court Farm Nature Reserve

At over 50 ha, the large size and location of this urban nature reserve along the chalk stream of the Hogsmill River in Kingston mean it is an important place for nature. A haven for Brown Hairstreak and other butterfly species, the Wild Tolworth project aims to improve the quality of the site for wildlife. Following a range of invertebrate-focused events with the FSC BioLinks project, we’re revisiting the site to record the wildlife and update the species list for the site.

This event is delivered by the Biological Recording Company in partnership with Citizen Zoo and Kingston Council as part of the Wild Tolworth project (supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund).

Botany & Fungi Specialist: Dr Mark Spencer

Mark is an experienced and internationally respected botanist. His expertise covers many disciplines including forensic botany, the plants of North-west Europe, invasive species and the history of botanical science. He also works globally as a seasoned writer, public speaker and television presenter. As a forensic botanist, Mark has worked on various missing person enquiries, murders and other serious crimes.