
Identifying Bees
(FULLY BOOKED)
An opportunity to learn how to identify and record bees with local entomologist Liam Olds.
Location: Bryngarw Country Park, Bridgend, Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 8UU
Duration: 2 days
Dates: Sat 9th April - Sun 10th April 2022
Tutor: Liam Olds
Cost: £100
Course Description
This course will provide an introduction to the identification and ecology of wild bees in the UK, including their lifecycle, nesting and foraging requirements, and associated predators and parasites. Microscopes and dichotomous keys (which will be provided) will be used to identify bee specimens in the lab, providing a unique opportunity to examine bees up-close to get familiar with key identification features. A field trip (weather dependent) to a local sand dune system will allow you to see living bees and develop collecting and field identification skills. This course will also discuss bee conservation and the important role of biological recording.
The course is suitable for general naturalists, local government ecologists/rangers, staff of government bodies (such as Natural Resources Wales) and environmental eNGOs (e.g. Wildlife Trusts, National Trust), university students/lecturers, etc. Prior experience of using a microscope or dichotomous keys is useful but not essential.
About the tutor
Liam Olds is a freelance entomologist specialising in solitary bees and brownfield habitats. Starting his journey in the profession as an entomology apprentice at the National Museum of Wales, he has quickly developed a reputation as a budding specialist. Liam has won several local and national awards for his work with invertebrates, including the 'Adult Newcomer Award' at the NBN Awards for Wildlife Recording in 2017. Liam also works as Conservation Officer for Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust, delivering invertebrate surveys and training across England and Wales.
About the venue
Just minutes from the M4 near Bridgend, Bryngarw Country Park attracts over 200,000 visitors each year to its glorious parklands. Set in over 100 acres, Bryngarw Country Park is a fantastic place for nature lovers with wildflower-meadows, formal gardens, mature woodlands, ponds and lakes and the River Garw which runs through the park. The magnificent Bryngarw House was built in the early 1800s and the estate itself stretches back further again. It was officially opened to the public as a country park in May 1986. For further information on the park, visit https://www.bryngarwcountrypark.co.uk/?setlang=no.
How to book
Please book by emailing Liam at collieryspoil@gmail.com. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your place, with any outstanding payment due prior to or on the day of the course. Further information about the course will be provided at the booking stage including what to bring with you. An invoice will be raised at the point of booking, and a receipt provided once payment is recieved.
Important Information
This course is aimed at adults only and course attendees must be at least 18 years old in order to attend. Welsh Government guidance will be followed regarding Covid-19.

Identifying Bees
Location: Denmark Farm Conservation Centre, Betws Bledrws, Lampeter, Ceredigion, SA48 8PB
Duration: 2 days
Dates: Sat 25th June - Sun 26th June 2022
Tutor: Liam Olds
Cost: £110
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Course Description
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This course will provide an introduction to the identification and ecology of wild bees in the UK, including their lifecycle, nesting and foraging requirements, and associated predators and parasites.
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Microscopes and dichotomous keys (which will be provided) will be used to identify bee specimens in the lab, providing a unique opportunity to examine bees up-close to get familiar with key identification features. The varied habitats of Denmark Farm will allow you to see living bees and develop collecting and field identification skills. This course will also discuss bee conservation and the important role of biological recording.
The course is suitable for professionals working in the conservation & environmental sector and also keen amateurs.
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For further information and to book your place, visit https://www.denmarkfarm.org.uk/events/identifying-bees/.

Introduction to Invertebrates
Location: Denmark Farm Conservation Centre, Betws Bledrws, Lampeter, Ceredigion, SA48 8PB
Duration: 2 days
Dates: Sat 16th July - Sun 17th July 2022
Tutor: Liam Olds
Cost: £110
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Course Description
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Invertebrates are a diverse group of animals with around 40,000 UK species. They comprise some of our most well-known animals including bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, earthworms, slugs and snails.
This course will provide you with an introduction to the most commonly encountered invertebrate groups in terrestrial and aquatic environments in the UK. Microscopes (which will be provided) will be used to examine some of these invertebrates up-close, allowing you to see key morphological features that help you to identify them and/or explain their ecology. Trips around the varied habitats of Denmark Farm will provide an opportunity see some of these invertebrates in the wild and develop collecting and field identification skills. This course will also discuss invertebrate conservation and the important role of biological recording.
This course would suit any beginner looking to improve their knowledge of invertebrates including their ecology, identification, and conservation.
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For further information and to book your place, visit https://www.denmarkfarm.org.uk/events/invertebrates-course/.