Beetle Field Recorder Day

Beetles are vitally important insects that contribute significantly to biodiversity and ecosystem health. Many species help recycle nutrients by breaking down leaf litter and deadwood, while others control pests in gardens and parks, and others are pollinators. London’s brownfield sites, green spaces, and waterways provide refuges for specialist and rare beetles that are declining elsewhere, and the city is also often an entry point for species new to Britain. Recording beetle species enables site managers to identify and protect important habitats and maintain the ecological balance of our green spaces.

On this Field Recorder Day, we invite you to join fellow nature enthusiasts for a day dedicated to finding, identifying, and recording beetles in a relaxed and supportive setting. 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 – all with guidance from beetle specialist Connor Butler.

What will the day involve?

• Hands-on experience using different methods to collect and record a variety of beetle families.
• Practical training in specimen collection and preservation.
• Guidance on identifying beetles in the field and understanding which specimens require further examination under a microscope.
• A chance to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds who share an interest in entomology and wildlife recording.