A general invertebrate recording day at Altcar Training Camp (Sefton Coast, Merseyside) where we’ll be focusing on two species-rich meadows home to a number of rare plants such as Green-winged Orchid (Anacamptis morio). The afternoon will be spent on the extensive SSSI dune system, which has had relatively little attention from Entomologists over the years compared with most other sections of the Sefton Coast (as a result of limited accessibility) with the exception of moth recording – County Recorder Richard Walker has been undertaking regular light trapping on the training camp for the past 5-6 years.

The meadows are not far from the car parks and both are on flat terrain. The dunes are a 5-10 minute walk from the car park and can be difficult to walk through where they’re steep and unvegetated. Stout walking boots are recommended for this site and participants should also be fit enough to be on their feet for the majority of the day.

The emphasis is on recording invertebrates and therefore the day is not suitable for complete beginners.

Booking essential: Further details regarding meeting place etc. will be circulated a week before the day. You will be notified via email if the event is cancelled due to an adverse weather forecast.

The site is a 5 minute walk from Hightown Station. The nearest WC facilities and shelter are less than 1/2 mile away.

N.B. this site is not open to the public and is an active firing range – please do not attempt to visit the site without prior appointment.