Why identify grasshoppers and crickets?
Grasshoppers and crickets form the group Orthoptera, a group which is widespread and fairly common. However some Orthoptera are restricted due to habitat dependence, such as on heathlands and chalk downland. These require certain management in order to survive on a site. So, being able to identify this group in order to assess their presence and abundance is key to tailoring management to include them.
Few people are able to survey or monitor Orthoptera. However, with just under 30 species in UK and only 15 or so that are widespread, this is an easy group to get to grips with. Identifying them from their sounds makes surveying straightforward and sites can be quickly assessed and monitored for their Orthopteran importance.
The course
This one day course gives you the basics of how to identify Orthoptera by sight and sound. As with all Project Fred courses we intend to give you the tools with which to identify the subject, so that you can then identify Orthoptera when you are on your own.
Learn about
- How to tell Grasshoppers apart from Crickets
- Identification, both in the classroom and in the field
- How to identify Orthoptera from their sounds
- Orthoptera life cycles
- Books to use - there are few Orthoptera books available. We give you advice on what to look out for when choosing one, where to get them from and which ones we feel are best
- Grasshopper terminology - some of the technical terms for parts, explained!
Highlights include
- Unique keys, developed by Project Fred, to help you identify Orthoptera quickly by sight and by sound.
- Field work - to develop identification skills and field craft
- Slide show covering when to see Orthoptera, their habitats and identification characteristics
- Hand outs covering identification hints, books to use, Orthoptera life cycle and a glossary of Orthoptera parts
Equipment and things to bring
If you have a pair of binoculars that focus closely, down to about 1 metre, then it would be very useful to bring them. If you have a hand lens bring this along too.
A notebook and pencil are useful, plus any field guides that you may have. We recommended the following as a good guide for the beginner.
Judith Marshall and E.C.M. Haes. Grasshoppers and allied insects of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by Harley Books (1988) ISBN = 0 946589 13 5
The course will involve some walking, but there will be nothing too strenuous. Strong, comfortable walking boots or shoes are therefore important, as is a good selection of appropriate clothing to the time of year. A small rucksack will also be useful for carrying your equipment. Drinks and snacks can also be bought along.
Cost
£40 per person. Group size minimum 5 and maximum 15 people. Smaller groups can be catered for at a standard cost of £200 per course. Larger groups may also be accommodated. Conservation Groups and Charities may be able to get a discount. Please contact us to discuss.
