Introduction to Weevil ID

This workshop, held at the National Museums Collection Centre, will provide an introduction to weevils. Despite being one of the UK’s most diverse groups of beetles, with over 600 species recorded in the UK, their reputation for being difficult to identify can make them intimidating to beginners. This workshop aims to demystify British weevils and attendees will learn how to recognise the main groups as well as some of the commoner species. We will spend most of the time looking at and identifying specimens with expert guidance to help you. If you have specimens or photos to identify, please bring them, but we will have some specimens available for you to practise with if you do not have any of your own. The session will be led by Mark Gurney with support from Ashleigh Whiffin.

Suitable for: Beginners, ages 16+

Tutor: Mark is the organiser of the Weevil Recording Scheme, as well as the author of a number of well-illustrated identification guides to British weevils which are available through the UK Beetle Recording website.

Ashleigh is the Curator of Entomology responsible for the care, curation and development of the insect collection at National Museums Scotland.

What to bring: Notepad and pen recommended. Spare hand-lenses will be available, but do bring your own if you have one! Packed lunch recommended, but there are shops nearby if anyone prefers to purchase lunch on the day. Further details to follow.

Cost: Free – donations to TWIC welcome. Please note that a charge may apply for on-street parking - details of potential charges available on the Edinburgh Council Website.

Booking for this workshop is essential as places will be limited.

Choose either the free ticket type or the donation ticket type (minimum donation £1). Donations to TWIC will support our work in organising biological recording training workshops and events. If you prefer to donate directly to TWIC, please visit: https://wildlifeinformation.co.uk/support-us/make-a-donation/.

Travel: The National Museums Collection Centre is off West Granton Road in the North-West of Edinburgh. A number of busses run to this area – see the Lothian Busses website for details. Bike parking is available. Pedestrian access to the Collection Centre is the small gate to the right of the larger metal gate for vehicles. On street parking is available nearby – further details to follow.

Booking essential! Places limited to 10.

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TWIC acknowledges financial support from NatureScot.

Cover Photo: Sitonia lepidus courtesy of Mark Gurney

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

National Museums Collection Centre, 242 West Granton Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

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