Identification Courses For Beginners

Discover the wonders of British wildlife with our Identification Courses for Beginners series, crafted especially for those new to natural history. Whether you're looking for a rewarding hobby to fill your time or seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, these courses offer the perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Our sessions are designed to be relaxed and beginner-friendly, making them accessible to everyone.

Each course begins with a gentle introduction to the topic, followed by an exploration of the essential equipment and reference books that will help you identify various species. We then dive into the basics of identification, discussing key features to look for and simple techniques to get you started. After a delicious lunch, we’ll head out for a guided walk, where you'll have the chance to put your new skills into practice and experience the beauty of British wildlife first-hand.

For a closer look at what each course has to offer, see the detailed descriptions below.

Birds

Birds are a familiar sight and often serve as our first introduction to the wonders of natural history. But when a little brown bird flits into your garden hedge, how can you tell if it's a sparrow or a dunnock? Join this course to uncover the secrets of identifying these common feathered friends and more!

Butterflies

With their delicate wings and vibrant colors, butterflies are a quintessential symbol of spring and summer. The UK is home to 59 beautiful butterfly species, but if you find yourself only recognizing cabbage whites or confusing a Small Tortoiseshell with a Large Heath, this is the course for you. Learn to identify these winged wonders and discover the diversity fluttering in your own backyard.

Dragonflies

Dragonflies and damselflies are nature's marvels, inspiring inventions like the helicopter and even the creature from Alien. These remarkable insects are often misunderstood, but their incredible life cycle, ecological importance, and astonishing biological design make them truly fascinating. Join this course to delve into their world and gain a new appreciation for these aerial acrobats.

Plants

From small and delicate to bold and showy, plants have the power to brighten even the dullest of days. Discover the beauty and diversity of the plant kingdom by learning how to use the various parts of a flower for identification. This course will open your eyes to the stunning variety of plant life all around you.

Fungi

Fungi may not have the bright colors of flowers or the charm of birds, but they are the hidden gems of the natural world. From the intricate patterns of a mushroom’s cap to the underground networks that help trees thrive, fungi play a crucial role in our ecosystems. Join this course to uncover the mysterious and fascinating world of fungi, learning how to identify different species and understand their vital ecological roles.

Coming soon: small mammals

From the elusive hedgehog to the nimble wood mouse, the UK’s small mammals are full of surprises. These tiny creatures often go unnoticed, yet they play essential roles in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems. Join this course to get up close and personal with the small mammals of Britain, learning to identify them by sight, sound, and even tracks. Discover their habitats, behaviors, and the conservation efforts that help protect them.