Field ID of Bryophytes on Chalk

Box Hill has is one of the best sites for bryophytes in the South East. Some of the rarer species found here include: Tortella squarrosa, Entodon concinnus, and Loeskeobryum brevirostre. Along with a wide range of typical calcareous bryophytes.

By the end of the course you will:

• Learn to identify the mosses and liverworts of Box Hill in the field

Who Should Attend? – This course is for adults 18+ (see FAQs), aimed at natural history enthusiasts, students, conservation professionals and ecologists.

Knowledge Level – Beginner to Intermediate. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge – Some basic knowledge of bryophytes would be advantageous but this is not essential.

PLEASE NOTE: There is no accommodation or meal facilities provided with this course. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be available. If we are unable to reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 4-5 weeks prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.

Bookings will close if course capacity is reached. 

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.

Pete Howarth

Pete is the London Natural History Society bryophyte recorder, who has studied bryophytes for over 10 years and has been an elected member of the Council of the British Bryological Society.

This course will involve both classroom learning and field excursions to cover all of the learning objectives.
Lunch is not included, so please bring your own food that you can take with you on the field excursion. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be provided at the centre.

Example Timetable

Please note that this timetable may be subject to change due to the weather or the needs of the group, but it should give you a good idea of what to expect.

• 10.00 – 10.30 Welcome and introduction
• 10.30- 15.30 Field excursion (including lunch)
• 15.30-17.00 Classroom session to review species found and conclusion

• 
  Expert Tuition

The course includes:

• Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
• Field excursions to apply new knowledge
• Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
• Clear objectives and progression
• Refreshments (tea and coffee)

You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.

Student Discount

This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.

Natural History Bursaries

There are a number of natural history bursaries available to help with the cost of your course. To find out if you and your chosen course are eligible, find out more here.

There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.

Please Bring:

• Notebook and pencil
• Please bring your own refreshments and pack lunch
• Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
• Scrap paper to make moss collection packets
• A small bag to carry personal items

If you have them:

• Hand lens (x20 if possible)
• Your own preferred bryophytes guides

Recommended Literature

• Atherton I, Bosanquet S, Lawley M (2010).  Mosses and Liverworts of Britain and Ireland – a field guide’.  British Bryological Society.
• Look at the British Bryological Society website for information about bryophytes, including resources for bryophyte identification and events in your local area.