Woodland Plants for Beginners

Course Tutor: James Common

Start Date: Thursday 2 April, 11 am-2 pm

Course Length: 1 Session

Location: Morpeth Rugby Club carpark, NZ190861, hack.fish.ultra

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Course cost: £7.50 NHSN Members / £10 Non-Members

Ancient woodlands can often be recognised by the presence of certain special plants known as Ancient Woodland Indicators. These plants vary from region to region, but across the UK, they provide vital clues that help us distinguish old woods from new. As a rule of thumb, the more species you spot, the richer and more valuable the woodland is.

In this beginner-friendly trip, we will explore one of Northumberland’s ancient woodlands, learning how to identify key species found in long-established woods and other plants regularly encountered in this interesting and beautiful habitat.

This session will include:

• An introduction to AWI species, with a focus on Northumberland

• Key identification features of common and scarce woodland plants

• Hands-on development of practical botanical skills in the field

In the event of poor weather, every effort will be taken to reschedule missed sessions.

Most trips are planned to include areas of flat, even walking. However, some visits may involve uneven ground, rough terrain, or steps. Parking is available at or close to all sites.

These field courses are designed to be chatty, friendly, and informal and are suitable for beginners, as well as for botanists looking to visit interesting places as part of a group.

Questions (and identification queries) are welcome at any time by emailing [email protected].

Please read the terms and conditions for NHSN education courses before booking.

Recommended Equipment:

If you have one, please do bring a hand lens. Walking boots and a waterproof jacket are also recommended.

About the tutor:

James works as Senior Naturalist at NHSN. Outside of work, he is a passionate wildlife recorder with a focus on botany and invertebrates. As a botanist, he is a joint BSBI Vice-County Recorder for North Northumberland and an iRecord verifier for South Northumberland.

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