Butterfly Identification and Survey Training Day, Fineshade Wood

Butterfly Conservation's new 'Threatened Species Recovery for Northamptonshire's Woodlands' project includes three target butterflies: Dingy Skipper, Grizzled Skipper, and Wood White.

In order to understand the effects of recent habitat management work on these species and the current health of populations, we need volunteers to complete timed counts and transect surveys at the following Northamptonshire sites in 2024: Bearshank Wood, Fermyn Woods Country Park, Fermyn Cherry Lap, Fineshade Wood, Lilford Wood, Salcey Forest, Sywell Wood, Hardwick Wood, Bucknell Wood, and Hazelborough Wood. 

If you think you can donate some of your time to carry out 1-2 timed count surveys at any of these sites (regardless of whether you're a newcomer to surveying or a rusty pro), please come along to our butterfly ID, timed count and transect survey training day! 

Booking is essential (and free!): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/884977681067

The event will also feature an introduction to Chequered Skipper identification and surveying for the ongoing reintroduction of the butterfly to Rockingham Forest.

The day will begin with an hour of presentations on Chequered Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Grizzled Skipper, and Wood White identification and survey techniques, followed by a walk into Fineshade Wood for field-based training and support.  

Programme:

9:15-9:30 Arrive at Little Barn
9:30-10:30 Presentations (butterfly ID, timed count and transect surveys)
10:30-13:00 Depart Little Barn for field-based training in Fineshade Wood
13:00 Finish

Please bring lunch with you into the field, or purchase food and drink from the Grounds Café before or after the event. Tea, coffee, and light refreshments will be available in Little Barn. Wear clothing and footwear suitable for being outdoors in long grass (long trousers and walking boots are recommended). Tick advice. 

We will be joined by Jamie Wildman (Northamptonshire Landscape Officer, Butterfly Conservation), Susannah O'Riordan (Chequered Skipper Project Manager, Butterfly Conservation), and local butterfly experts Douglas Goddard and Andy Wydles. 

Location details: 

Little Barn (at Top Lodge, Fineshade Wood)
Kirby Lane
Corby
NN17 3BB

Forestry England parking charges will apply. Please see the latest charges here (click the parking and prices tab): https://www.forestryengland.uk/fineshade-wood. 

This event is supported by Butterfly Conservation's 'Threatened Species Recovery for Northamptonshire's Woodlands' project funded by Natural England’s Species Recovery Programme Capital Grant Scheme.