Survey Techniques and Habitat Management for Amphibians (with a focus on Great Crested Newts)
Tuesday 6 - Wednesday 7 April 2010 (Please note this workshop date has changed from previously advertised - was originally planned for 13-14 April 2010)
Location: Croy, North Lanarkshire
Tutor: Paul Baker MIEEM
Level: Beginner – Intermediate
The first day of this workshop is designed to introduce surveyors to the amphibians found in Scotland, current legislation, and how to distinguish between species, sexes and ages of our newt species. The course is field-based and will commence by looking at ponds in a variety of locations and be followed by practical demonstration of survey techniques (torching, sweeping, egg searching, refugia, and bottle trapping) and will provide an opportunity to compare the species at close quarters. The second day is designed for those involved in habitat management and habitat creation for great crested newts in particular, and will involve field visits to several locations to look at potential enhancement/examples of enhanced sites and mitigation projects.
NB. Accommodation IS NOT included in the cost of this workshop.
IEEM Members £160 (£140 if booked before 6 February 2010).
Non-members £320 (£280 if booked before 6 February 2010).
Who should attend this workshop?
Amphibian surveyors and ecologists involved in site management or habitat creation/restoration projects where amphibians are a key consideration.
Anything participants need to know/read before coming on the training event, or need to have with them?
Bring:
- Outdoor field clothing.
- Waterproofs.
- Waders (if possible).
- A packed lunch.
- A torch - high powered torches will be provided but please bring personal torches for general walking between ponds.
- FSC Identification guide to Reptiles and amphibians of Britain and Ireland by Roberts, Froglife and Ovenden, 1999.
- Great Crested Newt Conservation Handbook.
What will participants learn from the workshop (learning outcomes)?
- Identification of native amphibians found in Scotland.
- Survey techniques.
- Habitat management/enhancement techniques.