Rhayder by Nature Invertebrate Study group meetings (butterflies,dragonflies,moths,grasshopper and other spineless beings!) will appear on this page. For those interested in building our knowledge of these generally quite large and relatively easy to identify insects and other invertebrates. Discovery, identification, recording and training are what these forays are all about and are assisted by local expert entomologists Phil Ward and Mike Paskin. Moth trapping will be going on throughout the spring-autumn period at various sites – phone Richard Knight on 01597 811169 if you want to come along.
Small Copper August 2008
‘Rhayader by Nature’ Invertebrate Study Group meetings April-Sept 2012 (butterflies, dragonflies, moths, grasshopper and other spineless beings ! )
Due to a very much appreciated grant from Environment Wales the surveying of invertebrates within our study area moves to a new level. We now have three lightweight easily transportable moth traps which enable us to carry out moth trapping and recording almost anywhere. We can now reach the parts we couldn’t reach before - deep in the woods, across the moorlands and out in the fields. This presents a very exciting prospect and already we have caught a moth previously unknown in Radnorshire. Below we have six field forays for those interested in identifying and building their knowledge of invertebrates. Discovery and identification are what these forays are all about and are assisted by local expert entomologists Phil Ward and Mike Paskin. These forays provide opportunities for members and friends to explore the fascinating world of invertebrates with two extremely knowledgeable local enthusiasts.
Moth trapping excursions additional to those listed below will be going on throughout the spring-autumn period at various locations, ‘phone Richard on 01597 811169 if you want to get involved or just wish to come along and see the catches - note below the National Moth Night event on Saturday 24th June.
Important note - in the event of poor weather please ‘phone Phil on 01597 811049 or Richard on 01597 811169 to confirm that these meetings are still on.
April: Sun 22 - Pond minibeasts - a visit to a pond (site to be decided) in search of aquatic invertebrates. Meet in Rhayader at the main car park by the Leisure Centre at 2.30pm (return approx. 4.45pm). Guided by Phil Ward.
May: Sun 13 - Bumblebees along the Elan Valley Trail - come and find out which bumblebee is which and which flowers they like the best. Meet in Cwmdauddwr at the start of the Elan Valley Trail at 2.00pm (return approx.4.30pm). Map ref. SN965677. Guided by Phil Ward.
June: Sun 24 - Moth morning at The Cwm - see what moths and other invertebrates were caught in the traps the night before. Meet at The Cwm, Llanwrthwl at 10.00am (return 12.45). Map ref. SN 953638. Guide: Richard Knight and others. Telephone for directions if uncertain of meeting point.
July: Thurs 19 - Evening search for Glow-worms at Gilfach - help us find and locate all the glow-worms at Gilfach. Meet at the Radnorshire Wildlife Trust Centre Gilfach at 9.00pm. Map ref. SN 964716. Guided by Phil Ward.
Aug: Thurs 23 - Insects in Waun Capel Parc - come and be amazed at the variety of bug life around the park. Meet at Gas works lane car park, Rhayader at 7.00pm. (return 9.00pm). Map ref. SN 968679. Guided by Phil Ward & Mike Paskin.
Sept: Sun 16 - Dragonflies and other life in Llyn Gwyn Lake - with permission from Rhayader and Elan Valley Angling Association we investigate the aquatic life of this lake near Nant-glas. Meet at Llyn Gwyn private lakeside car park at 2.00pm. (return 4.30pm). Map ref. SO 010651. Guided by Phil Ward
