Help us record the insects and other invertebrates of Tolworth Court Farm at this London Natural History Society event.

Recording invertebrate species allows us to track the diversity, abundance, and health of organisms that are vital to ecosystem functioning. Knowing which species are present at a site enables land managers to protect and enhance urban ecosystems effectively. In London, recording and monitoring invertebrates is particularly important because the capital often serves as the first point of arrival for species new to Britain, making early records crucial for detecting and managing potential ecological impacts. London’s brownfield sites also provide valuable refuges for specialised native species that are declining elsewhere. We also face challenges from invasive invertebrates – careful recording helps to identify and control these challenges. Beyond its scientific value, invertebrate recording is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that fosters a deeper connection with nature.

Join the London Natural History Society recorders for a day dedicated to discovering, identifying, and recording invertebrates. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced naturalist, this event offers a great opportunity to share knowledge, build confidence in biological recording, and refine your identification skills.

What will the day involve?

Hands-on experience using different methods to collect and record a variety of invertebrates.

Guidance on identifying invertebrates in the field and understanding which specimens require further examination under a microscope.

Practical experience in fieldwork, specimen collection and preservation.

A chance to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds who share an interest in entomology and wildlife recording.

What do I need to know in advance?

This event is aimed at adults only.

Attendance is free, but booking is essential as spaces are limited.

Invertebrate recorders of all abilities are welcome.

Identification will take place in the field whenever possible, but some invertebrate specimens may need to be collected and preserved for accurate identification under a microscope.

We'll be outside for the whole day so please bring suitable clothing for the weather

Please bring food for the day with you (i.e. lunch)

All records generated will be added to iRecord in order to share our findings with the site managers, Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL), London Natural History Society (LNHS) and relevant national recording schemes and societies.

Check out our ‘Info for Field Recorder Day Attendees’ website page for more info (including instructions for setting up on iRecord): https://biologicalrecording.co.uk/info-for-field-recorder-day-attendees/

Tolworth Court Farm (Kingston)

At over 50 ha, the large size and location of this urban nature reserve along the chalk stream of the Hogsmill River in Kingston mean it is an important place for nature. Since 2022 the site has been under a rewilding management programme – the Wild Tolworth project – which aims to improve the quality of the site for wildlife. Ongoing monitoring on the site has revealed a high diversity of species including many rare and protected invertebrates, from the Brown Hairstreak butterfly to the planthopper Ribautodelphax imitans. Following a range of invertebrate-focused events in 2022 with the FSC BioLinks project, we’re revisiting the site to record the wildlife and update the species list for the site.

This event is delivered by the Biological Recording Company in partnership with the London Natural History Society.

Description supplied by the event organiser.