23/07/14
An intensive day course for those wanting to effectively survey for, identify and record Odonata Larvae, Cast Larval Skins (Exuviae) and the remains of predation. No previous knowledge of the subject is required as all essential topics are introduced, developed and practised during the course. Suitable for persons working in countryside management; nature conservation and biodiversity; teachers and all keen naturalists.
This course has a proven track record for persons in the public, private and NGO sectors, including from: Statutory Nature Conservation and Environmental Protection bodies, Local Government and Consultancies, Scientists/Researchers, Nature Reserves and Country Parks, Teachers, Individual Naturalists and many active in Community Biodiversity Groups.
The day has emphasis on both in-the-field and classroom, practical based, supported learning, including the use of hand lens and binocular microscope.
Topics include:
- Diversity, conservation and protective legislation
- Surveying: when, where and weather
- Selecting search areas and observation techniques - Larvae and Exuviae
- Live capture, examination and release techniques of Larvae
- Obtaining specimens in difficult situations
- Species ageing, sexing and identification in the hand - Larvae and Exuviae
- Species identification under the lens - Larvae and Exuviae
- Proof of breeding
- The first and latest Dragonfly Atlas
- Ongoing recording and mapping schemes at local, regional and national Levels.
- Monitoring species and populations
The day is in-depth and intense, with emphasis on in-the-field, practical based, supported learning after a necessary classroom session. We will take advantage of Rhyd-y-creuau's is close proximity to a diverse range of aquatic habitats enabling maximised learning time in typical real-life survey situations.
For those wishing to stay overnight before the course a special rate of £35 for meals and accommodation is available.
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