This is the diary of special events, courses, field trips and holidays. Further diary entries will be added as they become known so be sure to check back for additional events.
The background colour of the date is used to show different types of meeting. Green is used for BDS and BDS Local Group organised field meetings and events, Blue where the BDS will have a stand or speaker(s), but is not responsible for the event itself (please follow any given links for further details) and Yellow for other dragonfly events. These last are listed for information only, using information as it was provided to us. The BDS is not directly involved in these events and therefore all details are solely under the control of the individual event organisers. We suggest you contact these organisers direct or follow the given links to confirm details.
Bouncing Bogs and Dragonflies
11am- 1pm
This event is now fully booked. Join Natural England and the British Dragonfly Society for a tour of this amazing floating peat bog with a chance to observe 20 dragonfly species including the rare white-faced darter dragonfly in its most southerly known location in Britain!
FULLY BOOKED
A518 near Chartley Grid ref: SK022289
£3 per person. Booking (and Wellingtons!) essential. Please always ensure you have sensible footwear and
clothing as paths can be muddy during wet weather.
Find out more at www.naturalengland.org.uk/nnr
Community Bio Blitz. As 2013 is the year of Natural Scotland we are going to record the wildlife found in Inveresk Lodge Garden. There will be BDS volunteers helping out near the ponds on sunday and other experts on hand for other species - you don't need to be an expert just come along and help to record the different species the garden holds.
For further information please call 0844 4932124.
11.00 - 16.00
Just turn up!
Garden admission charges apply.
Introduction to Dragons and Damsels
Keith Tomey or Dorothy Reich Tel: 01491 872265 Mob: 07553 112447
10:00am – 4:00pm
Withymead Nature Reserve, Bridleway, Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire RG8 0HS
Join Adrian Hickman to learn about the biology of these ancient insects and how to identify Dragonflies and Damselflies and their larvae..
Booking is essential as places are limited to 8 people: £25 cahrge.
Peter Reeve (01926 632400) email: peter@reeve60.org.uk.
Only on the day of the event: 07980 064079
There is a small car park on the river bank at Marlcliff approached down a track from the village (SP093505). Meet there for a 10.30am start. For a map see the meetings page on: www.warwickshire-dragonflies.org.uk.
Bring strong footwear and a packed lunch
The first occurrence in the county of Scarce Chaser was in 2010 and last year, 2012, they were seen in tens - both mating and egg laying. We will look for them this year and hope to find proof of breeding. Also, there is an established breeding colony at the site of the Club-tailed Dragonflies but records have been very sparse for the last two years. We hope to find it in greater numbers this year.
Meet: There is a small car park on the river bank at Marlcliff approached down a track from the village (SP093505). Meet there for a 10.30am start. For a map see the meetings page on:
www.warwickshire-dragonflies.org.uk.
Dave Smallshire (01626 853393; email davesmalls@btinternet.com)
At 10.00 a.m. at Ebear Bridge, Westleigh (ST060163): take A361 from M5 at junction 27; in 500m take slip road (signpost Tiverton Parkway); turn right at first and right at second roundabouts; follow minor road for 2 miles until alongside straight section with canal on left; park before canal bridge. The meeting will end at lunchtime.
Close-focus binoculars will be helpful. Booking not necessary.
Gardening Scotland
Visit the BDS stand in the Living Garden section of this comprehensive gardening show. The BDS Team will be offering advice on how to make gardens dragonfly-friendly and launching the new Large Red Damselfly survey for 2013.
Dragonfly walk, this is a joint Meeting with Cleveland Natural History Society.
Leaders - Paul Adams/Pete Hinks
Peter Hinks 01405 768891
11.00am - Landing Lane - SE866278, parking limited
Sardinia’s Dragonflies
An 8-day holiday on the scented Mediterranean island of Sardinia, in search of its exotic dragonflies, birdlife and endemic reptiles and amphibians
Cost £1,295 (single supplement £165). For further details and 2012 report see www.naturetrek.co.uk
Leader: Gerald Broddelez
Dragonflies & birds of Extremadura
Andy McGeeney andymcgeeney@talktalk.net
Renowned for its birdlife, Extremadura is also home to an extraordinary variety of dragonflies and butterflies. The richly varied landscapes and habitats of Extremadura are home to 55 of Spain's dragonflies and almost half of the country's butterfly species.
Price: €1,370 (single supplement: €125). Group size: 8-14. For further details see www.spainbirds.com
Leaders: Andy McGeeney & John Muddeman
Join us for a walk around the millennium wetlands, visiting the favourite spots of the dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies that call the reserve their home. Binoculars and ID guides will be provided to help identify any dragonflies we see. We will also be looking for exuviae – the part left behind when a dragonfly larva crawls out of the water and becomes an adult! This is a great chance to learn more about both of these groups of beautiful flying insects. If you would like to try to catch the larvae and find out more about them, don’t forget to join our pond dipping session at 2.30pm.
Just turn up
WWT Llanelli information desk - inside the centre
Free to visitors of WWT Llanelli. The dragonfly walk is weather permitting.
Looking for Scarce Chasers
David & Karen Anderson. Email: - Dragonflies@BNHS.org.uk
10:30AM. Sharnbrook Theatre Car Park at TL011591.
Please wear suitable footwear for waterside habitat, damp rough grass & uneven ground; Children need to be accompanied by an adult. Bring lunch if staying for the afternoon. Open to all.
Access by permission of Bedfordia Estates
A joint meetings of the british dragonfly society (BDS) & the Bedfordshire Natural History Society (BNHS.
A BDS Anniversary Event
Course: Dragonfly Photography
Bob Brind-Surch via website www.naturesphotos.co.uk
with Bob Brind-Surch.
Dragonflies are a challenging but rewarding subject for the macro photographer. This is a very special workshop with unique opportunities to learn how to photograph a demanding subject, take some stunning photographs and learn more about these mesmeric creatures. (also on 25th August 2013)
Bioblitz. Throughout both Saturday and Sunday wildlife surveys will be taking place to see how many different species of everything – from birds and plants to tiny insects – we can count on our site over two days!
Don’t miss our guided walk out on to the saltmarsh – normally inaccessible to visitors - to identify saltmarsh plants and look for creatures such as sea slaters and crabs! And join our mammal walk and water vole walk to see signs of mammal activity (including lots of poo!) and see live wild mammals up close!
You can also join us for an expert-led bat walk on Saturday night, where we will also search for other nocturnal wetland life. A moth trap will be set up and checked on Sunday morning (weather permitting).
We will also be running expert-led surveys of plants, minibeasts, dragonflies, butterflies and pond creatures, and there will be guides in the hides to record and help you identify birds.
This is a fantastic opportunity to get close to wildlife and not to be missed!
Pam Styles
Admission costs to the reserve apply.
Further information at www.wwt.org.uk/visit/llanelli/whats-on/2013/06/15/bioblitz/
A BDS Anniversary Event
Bob Dennison (01597 851702) and Chris Hodgson (01970 617827)
Meet in Free Car Park at The Plas, Machynlleth SH 745005
Booking is not necessary but Chris or Bob would appreciate a call a day or two before the walk to gauge likely numbers. Waterproof footwear (boots) necessary.
Bring food and drinks. Strictly no dogs. Any children must be accompanied by a family adult - preferably a parent.
A 9-mile, moderately difficult, circular walk in the Machynlleth area of Mid Wales. This free walk will be part of the Cambrian Mountain Society walks programme and will be in conjunction with the Aberystwyth Ramblers.
A BDS Anniversary Event
Dave Smallshire (01626 853393; email davesmalls@btinternet.com)
9:30 a.m at the visitor centre (SX833751; entrance off A382 to Newton Abbot, 300m from A38, 10 miles from M5) finishing by 4:00 p.m.
Bring lunch. Close-focus binoculars and wellies useful. Pay and display car park. Advance booking not necessary.
An introduction to dragonflies at one of their prime sites in Devon, with a walk in the morning and pond-dipping after lunch. In conjunction with a British Ecological Society centenary event.
Course: Dragonfly Larva Identification for Beginners
E-mail course@dragonflyproject.org.uk or phone 01733 204286
with Henry Curry and Henry Stanier
The aim of the course is for participants to identify dragonfly larvae to genus and understand the basic steps of keying out to species. The will consist of the Microscope-TV link, one-to-one guidance, self-study periods and, dependent on the weather, a hunt for larvae & exuviae.
Price £35.00.
Dave Smallshire (01626 853393; email davesmalls@btinternet.com)
Bring lunch if staying for the afternoon. Binoculars will be helpful. Booking not necessary.
An introduction to the dragonflies and damselflies of the still and flowing waters in the area, in conjunction with Exeter City Council. Chances of seeing Red-eyed Damselfly, White-legged Damselfly, Banded Demoiselle, Hairy Dragonfly, Emperor, Black-tailed Skimmer and Scarce Chaser.
Peter Reeve (01926 632400) email: peter@reeve60.org.uk. Contact number on the day only: 07980064079.
Meet for a 10.30am start in the Barn at the Nature Centre. (SP385758). For a map see the meetings page on:
www.warwickshire-dragonflies.org.uk.
Bring strong footwear, lunch or eat at the Nature Centre café.
Adult identification workshop. Indoor and outdoor sessions to be held at the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust Nature Centre. There is a charge of £15.00 per person payable to Warwickshire Wildlife Trust to cover costs and to contribute to equipment for recording. Refreshments are included but not lunch.
Dragonflies in La Brenne & Vienne
An 8-day holiday in search of dragonflies, butterflies, birds and plants in two lesser-known areas of France, both outstandingly rich in natural history
Cost £1,295 (single supplement £140), including travel by train from London. For further details and 2012 report see www.naturetrek.co.uk
Leader: Nick Ransdale
Dragonfly training day. An opportunity to learn about these beautiful creatures and see them in their full glory (weather permitting!) with Rebecca Ward.
Rebecca Ward.
Tel: 01600 740600
Check the events page on www.gwentwildlife.org
Booking is essential. FREE for members, £5 non-members.
10:30am - 3:00pm
People with limited mobility please contact organiser in advance.
Dragonfly and damselfly walk and training event led by Deborah Sazer.
Emma Douglas tel: 07579 008578. Please call or use the e-mail contact form to book or for further information.
Coity Wallia Commons, Bridgend - further details will be given when you book a place.
Please wear suitable footwear, waterproofs, clothing suitable for outdoor wear and bring a packed lunch. The event is free of charge.
10:00- 15:00
The event is free of charge. Booking is essential.
A BDS Anniversary Event
Mick and Sue Parfitt - telephone: 01733 266087 - mob: 07745241061
Jacksons Bridge at 11.00 am. OS Map 142. Grid ref TL235848. Parking along Great Ravely Drain.
Bring pack lunch, binoculars, insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing and footwear in case of inclement weather. No toilet facilities on site.
We aim to see as many dragonflies as possible on this site.
Dave Smallshire (01626 853393; email davesmalls@btinternet.com) and Lesley Kerry (01395 567880; email lesley.kerry@ymail.com)
10:00 a.m. at SY06639155. From the A3052 Exeter-Sidmouth road, turn north at Halfway Inn onto B3180; in 1 mile turn right, signposted Venn Ottery; bear left at fork and car park is 500m on left.
A meeting to the site of the Southern Damselfly re-establishment project. Other species may include Golden-ringed Dragonfly and Keeled Skimmer.
Joint BDS/Snowdonia NP outing to observe some of the rarer species in North Wales
Gethin Davies 01766 772515, g.davies@eryri-npa.gov.uk; Allan Brandon (01492 651066; allanrowenconwy@sky.com).
10 am at the roadside car park [SH630372] along the lovely Llyn Tecwyn Isaf, above Cilfor village, south of Penrhyndeudraeth; then on to Cors Geirch NNR, Rhyd-y-clafdy [SH328349], Lleyn; finishing mid-afternoon at Tomen Fawr [SH453378].
Bring a packed lunch and essential wellies; nets & close-focusing bins optional but no dogs.
A joint BDS/Snowdonia NP outing to observe some of the rarer species in North Wales including Downy Emerald, Hairy Dragonfly, Scarce Blue-tailed Damselfly, Variable Damselfly and Small Red Damselfly, as well as other species including Beautiful Demoiselle, Golden-ringed Dragonfly and Keeled Skimmer.
Discovering Dragonflies- a series of 3 dragonfly identification workshops with County Recorder Sue McLamb. Aimed at beginners this series will enable people to identify a range of species that occupy different flight periods throughout the season. Classroom inputs during the morning will focus on identification of ‘seasonal species’ and an understanding of the natural history of these fantastic insects. Participants will also learn how the life cycle is adapted for species emerging at different times of the year. Following a brief lunch the afternoons will be spent outside at 3 different locations on the Long Mynd putting identification skills to the test in a variety of habitats.
Emily Knight 01694 725000
Please report to the National Trust’s chalet pavilion at Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6JG. The workshop will start at 10am and finish at 2pm. For further directions see
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/carding-mill-valley-and-shropshire-hills/how-to-get-here/
Packed lunch essential. Wellies/walking boots and waterproofs as we will be venturing out! Total walking will be no more than 1km. Identification guides and hand lens if owned. There is a charge of £10 per session.
NB: Weather permitting 2 afternoons will be spent at pools on top of the Long Mynd so some participants will need to drive and car sharing will be very much appreciated.
Dordogne Dragonflies & Wildlife
Around 60 species occur across a diverse range of wetland habitats
Cost £1495. Maximum group size: 12. For further details see www.naturalist.co.uk
Leaders: Dick Askew and David Simpson
Bulgaria’s Dragonflies
Naturetrek Wildlife Holidays www.naturetrek.co.uk
A 9-day tour in search of the dragonflies and other wildlife of the mountains and lowlands in central and southern Bulgaria. Can last year’s record 52 species be beaten?
Cost £1,495 (single supplement £140). For further details and 2012 report see www.naturetrek.co.uk
Leader: Dave Smallshire
This is a dragonfly walk.
Tom Hubball 01535 678334 after 6pm
Meet in the car park, Lund Hill Lane, Royston.
Bring packed lunch, binoculars and wear appropriate footwear.
10:30am
A BDS Anniversary Event
Henry Curry- telephone: 01733 204286 - mob: 07742606076.
Car Park Kings Dyke Nature Reserve at 11.00 am. OS Map 142. Grid ref TL246973. ( A605 heading towards Whittlesey, just after railway crossing, on the left signposted Kings Dyke Nature Reserve)
Bring pack lunch, binoculars, insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing and footwear in case of inclement weather. No toilet facilities on site.
Visitors and non experts welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
We aim to see as many dragonflies as possible on this site.
Dragonfly survey with Sue McLamb and Ian Cheeseborough. Join us as we identify and record the dragonflies and damselflies of The Bog and Shelve Pool. Suitable for all abilities we will introduce these fascinating creatures providing useful tools and tips towards successful species identification allowing participants to contribute to the survey records. Using sweep nets and pond nets we hope to get a close up look at both adults and larvae and use the opportunity to explain the stages of a life cycle that sees such beauties emerge from the bogs!
Telephone 01743 792294
Please report to The Bog car park (SO356980). The survey will start at 10.00am and finish at 3.00pm. For further directions see www.bogcentre.co.uk/maps.html
Packed lunch essential. Wellies / walking boots and waterproofs as we will be venturing out! Total walking will be approximately 6km. Identification guides, sweep net and hand lens if owned. Booking is essential. There is a £3 charge per person.
A chance to explore the rich mosaic of wetlands along an old tin streaming valley
Steve Jones, aparthenope@aol.com (no booking necessary)
From 10.30am to 3.30pm.
Directions to Great Wheal Seton, (Tolvaddon):
If you are travelling in a westerly direction along the A30 from Redruth take the first Camborne (Tolvaddon) exit, signposted “Pool, Camborne, Portreath A3047”. After entering the slip road take the right hand lane signposted “Portreath” & then bear right as you drop down to the traffic lights. At the traffic lights trun right on to the dual carriageway and pass under the A30. Immediately after passing under the A30 turn left on to the minor road. After 60 metres you will pass a pedestrian gate on your left leading to Tuckingmill Valley. Park sensibly anywhere along here, meeting outside of the old Cornwall Hydraulic Services factory 25 metres further along the road.
If you are travelling in an easterly direction along the A30 from Hayle take the second Camborne exit, signposted “Camborne, Portreath A3047”. After entering the slip road take the left hand lane. Immediately after the traffic lights at the Portreath junction, move into the right hand lane and take the next right, (if you pass under the A30 you have gone too far). After 60 metres you will pass a pedestrian gate on your left leading to Tuckingmill Valley. Park sensibly anywhere along here, meeting outside of the old Cornwall Hydraulic Services factory 25 metres further along the road.
All children must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring lunch, sun screen and hand cleansing gel. Wellies are essential.
A chance to explore the rich mosaic of wetlands along this old tin streaming valley, where the resident species include the Scarce Blue-tailed Damselfly – Ischnura pumilio, the Small Red Damselfly - Ceriagrion tenellum & the Keeled Skimmer – Orthetrum coerulescens. We will move on from Great Wheal Seton to other dragonfly sites along the Red River Valley LNR, (including Bell Lake Marsh), after lunch.
This event is free!
Slovakia Dragonflies, Birds & Butterflies
An 8-day wildlife tour to eastern Slovakia, running at the best time of year to see dragonflies on the wing
Cost £1595 (single supplement £100). Maximum group size: 12.
Leaders: Peter Kennerley and Dušan Šácha
FSC Dragonflies and Damselflies course. Tutor: Ian Cheeseborough.
Field Studies Council Tel:08453307378
Course based at Preston Montford Field Centre, Montford Bridge, Shrewsbury, Shropshire.
Course cost: 253.
Course: Introducing the Dragonfly
E-mail course@dragonflyproject.org.uk or phone 01733 204286
with Ruary Mackenzie Dodds.
Specifically designed for the beginner, this very popular course includes dragonfly biology, ecology and identification, and a field tour of dragonfly habitats on site. (also on Saturday 24th August 2013)
Price £35.00
Peter Reeve (01926 632400) email: peter@reeve60.org.uk. Contact number on the day only: 07980064079.
Meet for an 11.00am start on the Common at SO640790 close to the cattle grid where to unfenced road leaves the common land.
For a map see the meetings page on: www.warwickshire-dragonflies.org.uk.
Bring lunch, strong footwear. There is about a 2km round walk over rough ground to visit the prime part of the site.
A return visit to this special site, now a Shropshire Wildlife Trust reserve, where the target species are the Golden-ringed Dragonfly and the Keeled Skimmer. It is an excellent site for these species.
There is much else of interest on the Common including a good population of Bog Bush Cricket.
See also www.shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk Catherton Common page. Do not go to the location pinpointed on this page but to the one above!
Course: Adult Dragonflies and their Habitat for Beginners
E-mail course@dragonflyproject.org.uk or phone 01733 204286
with Stuart Irons and Karen Buckley
The aim of this course is for participants to identify common species of adult dragonflies and water plants. There will be sessions using colour photo presentations and water plant collections, Microscope-TV link, one-to-one guidance and a field tour of adult dragonfly and water plant habitats.
Price £35.00
Insect Festival
Just turn up!
10:00am to 4:00pm
BDS Yorkshire Branch will be represented.
A BDS Anniversary Event
Dave Mainwaring on 01778 571213 or mobile 07711 944305 or dmainwaring@btinternet.com
In the car park. Grid Ref TF182077
Directions: On the B 1166 road from Deeping St James to Crowland. Go over the railway level crossing at Deeping St James and at the sharp left hand bend as you approach the River Welland, turn right into the reserve at the bend. The car park is approx. 400 metres along the entrance track on the right.
Wear stout footwear as the ground is uneven. Bring hot weather items if appropriate plus drink. Any children must be accompanied by an adult.
2:00pm – 4:00pm. 15+ species have been recorded on this Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust Reserve. This walk is free.
A BDS Anniversary Event
David & Karen Anderson for more details. Email: - Dragonflies@BNHS.org.uk
10.30AM in the reserve carpark at SP986582
Bring lunch if staying for the afternoon. Open to all.
Please wear suitable footwear for waterside habitat, damp rough grass & uneven ground; Children need to be accompanied by an adult.
We aim to look for possible Norfolk Hawkers and other dragonflies & Butterflies in the meadow. A joint meetings of the british dragonfly society (BDS) & the Bedfordshire Natural History Society (BNHS.
Camargue for Dragonflies and Birds
Cost £1,295 (single supplement £140). For further details and 2012 report see www.naturetrek.co.uk
Leader: Dave Smallshire
BioBlitz
Brian Hedley brian_hedley@hotmail.com (07989 665794)
The Education Centre (not the main visitor centre) will be the ‘nerve centre’ of recording operations over the two days and will be open from 10am each day. On the Friday evening there will also be a moth and bat recording session from 9pm. Park in the main car park (£1 fee applicable) which is located at SK911662.
This large site will be hosting a multi-organizational Bioblitz event put together by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and the over two days ambitiously aims to record over 1000 species of flora and fauna. The habitat comprises flooded gravel pits, ponds and ditches. A fairly wide variety of common dragonfly and damselfly species are expected and with the right weather the site can be teeming with thousands of damselflies alongside the pathways. A variety of local experts will be around the site over the two days so come and see what you can record.
Café and toilets on site in the main visitor centre. All paths are level but sometimes muddy after rain. Binoculars and camera useful.
An introduction to the dragonflies and damselflies of southwest England
Field Studies Council email: enquiries.sl@field-studies-council.org; website: www.field-studies-council.org/slaptonley/
Tutor: Dave Smallshire
A long weekend for those seeking an introduction to the dragonflies and damselflies of southwest England, with visits to Dartmoor, the Bovey Basin and the Exe Marshes. Emphasis will be placed on the identification of adult stages in the field; some 20 species might be seen. Other topics to be covered include the identification of larvae and exuviae, habitat preferences, conservation and management for dragonflies and photography.
Fees and booking
Shared room: £305; sole occupancy room: £335; non-resident: £220. Pre-booking with Field Studies Council essential, by mail, phone, email or online (address: Slapton Ley Field Centre, Slapton, Kingsbridge, TQ7 2QP; tel: 01548 580466; email: enquiries.sl@field-studies-council.org; website: www.field-studies-council.org/slaptonley/.
National Dragonfly Week joint meeting with Ryedale Natural History Society. This dragonfly walk will be led by Keith Gitttens.
Keith Gittens 01845 523545
Meet Wheeldale Bridge - SE802970
Dr Pam Taylor (01692 670311)Email: pamtaylor@british-dragonflies.org.uk
10.00am at Upton Fen car park, TG379136. Postcode NR13 6EQ (Low Road), From Acle, Norwich or Wroxham head towards South Walsham, then follow signs for Pilson Green.
Booking essential, preferably by email stating ‘morning’. Numbers strictly limited.Wellies or boots, insect repellent. Packed lunch if staying on site (unguided) for the afternoon.
Morning walk to look for a broad range of dragonfly species, including Norfolk Hawker and Variable Damselfly.
on the day: Steve Bolton, Surrey Wildlife Trust (07799 894148) / Catherine Burton, HSBG & Surrey Biodiversity Information Centre (07919 664233)
0:30 am at TQ29455174 - car park off Nutfield Road between Mercers County Park and Holmethorpe Lagoons.
Directions: From Nutfield take the first right just after the Car Wash down Church Hill past the The Country Park with Aqua Sports on the right. Carry on until there is a width restriction in the road and a brick bridge. The car park is now IMMEDIATELY on your left before the sign to Watercolour New houses. The car park is set back on the left and rather easy to miss.
- From the west on the A25 turn left down Cornmongers Lane.
lunch, wellies
Visit the recently created Surrey WT wetland reserve in former sand quarry, comprising open water lagoons, marsh, grassland and river banks. Also good for birds. An open meeting of the Hants, Surrey, Berks Group.
A BDS Anniversary Event
David & Karen Anderson for more details. Email: - Dragonflies@BNHS.org.uk
10.30AM in the car park at Kimpston Mill at TL023476. Take the King William road next to the William IV public house and follow the road left into river view way and right towards the river.
Please wear suitable footwear for waterside habitat, damp rough grass & uneven ground; Children need to be accompanied by an adult
We aim to look for the general dragonflies in the area. A joint meetings of the british dragonfly society (BDS) & the Bedfordshire Natural History Society (BNHS.
A BDS Anniversary Event
Dr Pam Taylor (01692 670311)Email: pamtaylor@british-dragonflies.org.uk
2pm at Upton Fen car park, TG379136. Postcode NR13 6EQ (Low Road), From Acle, Norwich or Wroxham head towards South Walsham, then follow signs for Pilson Green.
Booking essential, preferably by email stating ‘afternoon’. Numbers strictly limited. Wellies or boots, insect repellent.
Afternoon walk to introduce you to the delights of Norfolk’s dragonflies. Target species will include Norfolk Hawker and Variable Damselfly.
Introducing Dragonflies
Join Sue McLamb of the British Dragonfly Society on a wonderful walk introducing absolute beginners to the fantastic world of dragonflies. Meet: Please report to reception at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre (S04382). For further directions see
http://www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshirehills.nsf/open/1EB8B5C45D770839802576CB00405CF7
Times: 1-3pm
Booking essential via Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre Tel:01588676060
Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, Shropshire, SY7 9RS.
Wellies/walking shoes suitable for walking to the ponds and a waterproof just in case! Total walking will be no more than 1km.
Cost: Free
A BDS Anniversary Event
Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre Tel: 01588 676060
Please report to reception at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre SY7 9RS (SO4382).
Wellies/walking shoes suitable for walking to the ponds and a waterproof just in case! Total walking will be no more than 1km.
1-3pm
Join Sue McLamb of the British Dragonfly Society on a wonderful walk introducing absolute beginners to the fantastic world of dragonflies. Cost : Free.
For further directions see http://www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshirehills.nsf/open/1EB8B5C45D77083980...
Course: Dragonfly Larva Identification - Advanced
E-mail course@dragonflyproject.org.uk or phone 01733 204286
with Henry Curry and Henry Stanier.
The aim of the course is for participants to further their dragonfly larva ID skills and gain a deeper understanding of the anatomy, physiology and ecology of this important stage in the life-cycle. The course consists of classroom work, one-to-one guidance and fieldwork looking at habitats, larvae, and exuviae.
Price £35.00
This is a dragonfly walk. It is a joint meeting with Scarborough Field Naturalists Society.
Leader John Hume Tel 01723 376615
10.30am North Landing Car Park TA238720
Dave Smallshire (01626 853393; email davesmalls@btinternet.com)
At 09.30 a.m. at Dunley Crossroads in the middle of Chudleigh Knighton Heath (SX837775). From A38 westbound, turn right on B3344 at Chudleigh; in ½ mile turn right through Chudleigh Knighton and right again after another ½ mile towards Bovey Tracey; turn left in a further ½ mile at crossroads and park on roadside. From A38 eastbound, take exit left to Chudleigh Knighton, 1½ miles after A382 (Stover) junction; park before crossroads in ½ mile.
Bring lunch if staying for Little Bradley Ponds in the afternoon. Wellies and binoculars will be helpful. Booking not necessary.
A joint meeting with Devon Wildlife Trust (Bovey Tracey Group) to see a range of late summer species, including Emerald Damselfly, hawkers and darters at two DWT reserves.
Peter Reeve (01926 632400) email: peter@reeve60.org.uk. Contact number on the day only: 07980064079.
Meet: Meet for a 10.30am start. Call at security on entering the park to get a permit and directions to the car park. For navigation use the post code B90 8AA, grid ref. SP143755. For a map see the meetings page on: www.warwickshire-dragonflies.org.uk.
Good paths but bring strong footwear and a packed lunch.
Set in a country park with a Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme - a SUDS - there are a number of water bodies that can and do sustain dragonfly populations. The aim of the day is to survey as much of the site as possible to record what species are present and to estimate their numbers.
More details about the Business Park is available by following the link: www.blythevalleypark.co.uk
Dragonfly Day at Wicken Fen
Lots of activities on offer from the BDS, Dragonfly Project and National Trust throughout the day including walks, larva feeding demonstrations, making model dragonflies, pond dipping and lots more. Join us from 10am onwards in the Dragonfly Centre and out on the reserve.
Charges may apply for the reserve and some activities.
The Double-Lives of Dragonflies
Caroline Rance at RSPB Vane Farm. caroline.rance@rspb.org.uk Tel:01577 862355
2.15pm. An hour and a half.
Directions: Brown signs from Junction 5 on M90 Google RSPB Vane Farm for map and exact directions. NGR NT160990, Post code KY13 9LX, Or Tel 01577 862355
There will be a charge for this event, with a reduction for RSPB members. For the precise amount, please check with Caroline and/or watch for details on the RSPB website.
Kids must have an adult with them. Is booking necessary? Yes. Maximum 20 people
A chance for beginners to find out about these amazing insects, both above and below water. Wear stout footwear, and there are steps (to and from the underpass). Even if the weather's bad, don't worry, we'll spend a bit more time indoors and you'll still find out a great deal.
British Birdwatching Fair
Come and visit us on the joint British Dragonfly Society and Dragonfly Project stand at this hugely popular event. You will need a whole day, if not more, to visit all the marquees. Various wildlife talks and other events take place on site throughout the entire weekend. For more details please see the official Birdfair website at http://www.birdfair.org.uk/
This is a dragonfly walk. It is a joint meeting with the Cleveland Naturalists.
Leader: Bill Hall tel. 01642 823170 or 07753663589
10.30am at Grid Reference: SE162972
Bring packed lunch, binoculars and wear appropriate footwear. Entry is through Cambrai Barracks; drivers will need photo ID such as their driving license
A BDS Anniversary Event
Mike Averill (07758 702349) email mike.averill@blueyonder.co.uk
11:30 AM at the National trust visitor centre (off a minor road between Severn Stoke and Besford SO888452 Sat Nav WR8 9OW
A walk to see a range of dragonflies including the Small Red-eyed damselfly at this National Trust Park.
This walk will be along the dragonfly rich lakes that lie at the heart of the Park.
There will be a charge of £5.90 for non members of the National Trust. Why not come for the day and explore the whole park. Café on site
Discovering Dragonflies- a series of 3 dragonfly identification workshops with County Recorder Sue McLamb. Aimed at beginners this series will enable people to identify a range of species that occupy different flight periods throughout the season. Classroom inputs during the morning will focus on identification of ‘seasonal species’ and an understanding of the natural history of these fantastic insects. Participants will also learn how the life cycle is adapted for species emerging at different times of the year. Following a brief lunch the afternoons will be spent outside at 3 different locations on the Long Mynd putting identification skills to the test in a variety of habitats.
Emily Knight 01694 725000
Please report to the National Trust’s chalet pavilion at Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6JG. The workshop will start at 10am and finish at 2pm. For further directions see
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/carding-mill-valley-and-shropshire-hills/how-to-get-here/
Packed lunch essential. Wellies/walking boots and waterproofs as we will be venturing out! Total walking will be no more than 1km. Identification guides and hand lens if owned. There is a charge of £10 per session.
NB: Weather permitting 2 afternoons will be spent at pools on top of the Long Mynd so some participants will need to drive and car sharing will be very much appreciated.
Peninsula Malaysia for Dragonflies and other wildlife
Dave Smallshire davesmalls@btinternet.com
Aim to see a good selection of the country’s 235+ dragonfly species … and much more besides
Cost £2700, excluding flights (single supplement £440). Group size: 12-14.
Leaders: Dave Smallshire and Phil Benstead
Course: Introducing the Dragonfly
E-mail course@dragonflyproject.org.uk or phone 01733 204286
with Ruary Mackenzie Dodds.
Specifically designed for the beginner, this very popular course includes dragonfly biology, ecology and identification, and a field tour of dragonfly habitats on site. (also on Saturday 6th July 2013)
Workshop: Dragonfly Photography
Book through Bob Brind-Surch's website www.naturesphotos.co.uk
with Bob Brind-Surch.
Location: The Learning Centre at Wicken Fen Cambridgeshire
Dragonflies are a challenging but rewarding subject for the macro photographer. This is a very special workshop with unique opportunities to learn how to photograph a demanding subject, take some stunning photographs and learn more about these mesmeric creatures. (also on 15th June 2013)
Ben Coleman, Education Ranger, Ryton Pools Country Park on 02476 305 592, email: bencoleman@warwickshire.gov.uk. Web site: countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk
We will meet for a 10.30am start in the car park by the café and interpretive centre (SP370724). Note, there is a charge for car parking at Ryton (currently £2.50). For a map see the meetings page on: www.warwickshire-dragonflies.org.uk and countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk
Good paths but bring strong footwear and a packed lunch.
To join in an open Discover Dragonflies event organised by the park rangers. The aim is to find Hawkers and other late fliers including Small Red-eyed Damselflies - which have been recorded at the site. In the afternoon the ranger will lead a guided walk for which a small charge is made – very suitable for children.
Wild about Norfolk
10am to 4pm
Come and visit us on the BDS stand at this Wildlife Conservation Fair. The 2010 event had over 2,000 visitors and 50 exhibitors, including information stands, environmental games and lots of activities for old and young alike. Admission free.