Lectures

The background/ ecology of white-clawed crayfish including the threats they face and reason for decline, with an introduction to the North Yorkshire Crayfish Forum and action plan for crayfish in North Yorkshire, past and current crayfish projects, and what you can do to help.

A number of birds and animal species were searched for with the names attached to the 18th century Prussian zoologist – plus much more! Especially the prized big cat of the Altai – the beautiful ‘Ounce’.

A further look at the relationships between the two using examples from Yorkshire woodlands.

Trends in Yorkshire’s butterfly abundance and distribution’ with an emphasis on new Nidderdale species like the Silver-washed fritillary and what happened in 2023, the effects of climate change and other drivers.

A brief insight into the wonders of the world of Apis mellifera and other bee species, including evolution, anatomy and environment, plus sections on how to help and what to plant. There may even be one or two rather bad bee jokes! 

In this varied talk with audio illustrations, Kevin will outline some of the many ways our feathered friends have been depicted in music over the centuries. Many familiar species will be featured although there could well be a few musical birds that can’t decide what species they are! All the musical extracts will be fairly short and there will definitely be something for all tastes!

Gardening for wildlife has become a major topic in recent years but there is still an emphasis on attracting bees and butterflies. Spiders are equally important. Geoff will explain some of the biology, and often bizarre lifestyles, of a selection of the common spiders to be found in Yorkshire gardens, and how to encourage them to take up residence.