Autumn Fungi: Introduction and Beginner Identification

Please note, this is the 2-day version of our 1-day fungi beginner courses (Autumn Fungi: An Introduction and Autumn Fungi: Beginner Identification).

This is the perfect course for beginners looking to further their fungi identification skills by looking more closely at the characteristics needed to start using keys. On the first day, we will focus on observational skills and the characteristics of fungi that can be used in identification. On the second day, we will explore commonly encountered groups of fungi with a focus on the on spore printing as a technique in the identification process. The course will introduce you to different types of keys and how to use them to identify a species to genus including written, digital and online. You will also gain an understanding of the importance of these species for ecology, conservation, and recording.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Understand key morphological features to begin a fungus identification.
• Describe the variety of habitats in which you can find fungi and how this can be used to make an accurate identification.
• Record useful field notes and use the correct equipment to safely collect fungi.
• Create spore prints from different fungi species and use them to aid ID.
• Understand how to get started with a key, become familiar with different types of keys, and gain experience in using a basic key to genus.
• Understand non-taxonomic and taxonomic classifications, why classification systems are important and subject to change.
• Explain the key morphological features that distinguish agarics, boletes and tooth fungi, how to collect them for identification and explain how to use these features for ID to genus level in agarics.

Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers, early career ecologists.

Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following web page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge – No existing knowledge, or experience is needed for this course, just a willingness to explore and learn.

PLEASE NOTE: There is no accommodation, or meal facilities included with this course. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be provided. 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.

Chris Knowles

Chris is both an ecologist and a consultant field mycologist, carrying out fungus surveys for a variety of clients. He is also an active member of his local fungus group and the recorder for Edinburgh & Lothians.

Chris Ford

Chris Ford has worked in environmental education for 15 years, working at in the London Region at Juniper Hall and Bushy Park and at the Blencathra Centre in the Lake District National Park. He is now working for the RSPB on the Suffolk Coast at RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve and continuing to share his love for the natural world from wildflowers to wading birds and invertebrates to interesting fungus. When he isn’t working Chris is often out on his bike or out in the garden but always with an eye out for anything interesting that might be spotted nearby.

Timings for this course may vary, so please check the start and end times for the course runs at the bottom of this page. Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly.

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. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be provided.

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  Expert Tuition

The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you build your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.

The course includes:

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

What to Bring

• Notebook and pencil
• Lunch and refreshments
• Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
• Hand lens x10
• Penknife
• Any up to date field guide of fungi

Recommended Literature

When you book this course, you will receive a discount code for the Field Studies Council recommended guides below.

• Fungi Name Trail Guide
• Distinctive Gilled Fungi
• Distinctive Non-Gilled Fungi

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.