Make a start on identifying these notoriously difficult yet intriguing, beautiful and environmentally sensitive plants.
This course is an introduction to the basic structure and ecology of lichens, including the importance of lichens as indicators of environmental pollution.
The course will start in the training room at Tyland Barn, where the main focus will be on how to identify some of the most commonly found lichens, using characteristics that are observable with a hand lens. In the afternoon you will be visting Hothfield Nature Reserve and the graveyard at Hothfield Church, where you will practise ID skills in the field.
Completing this course will enable you to acquire a basic knowledge of lichens and learn how to identify a range of the more common species. It is hoped that you will also gain the inspiration to pursue the subject further.
Led by Ros Bennett, Botanist and Ecologist
Suitable for beginners
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Cafe/refreshments
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Disabled parking
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Toilets
Additional information
Sites visited: The morning will be spent at Tyland Barn but you will be visting Hothfield Nature Reserve and the graveyard at Hothfield Church in the afternoon. Partcipants will need to travel in their own cars - hopefully sharing transport where possible.
What to bring:
Notebook and pencil.
- A x 10 (and if desired a x 20) magnification hand lens (available on loan or for purchase c.£9).
- Suitable outdoor clothing,
- Drinks and a picnic lunch.
We shall not be near shops or a pub at lunchtime, and there will be limited access to public conveniences during the afternoon.
There is now an independent café in the Barn which is usually open on Saturdays so you may be able purchase additional refreshments there.
Tyland Barn is wheelchair accessible. Disabled access to the barn and nature park (with a short nature trail) is very good. Max distance to walk at Hothfield Common will not exceed 1.5 miles. The terrain is generally easy. Regrettably neither afternoon venue is very suitable for wheelchair users.