Botanical Skills NI: 3-day Field Meeting in Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim

Contributing to the Botanical Skills Northern Ireland project, this 3-day meeting will be held amidst the spectacular habitats and scenery of Rathlin Island off the north coast of County Antrim. 

We will be joined by Ric Else and Hazel Watson, local naturalists, who will show us around the island's best botany spots. We will focus particularly on the wide range of sedges found on the island, ranging from the delicate Carex limosa (Bog-sedge) to the huge Cladium mariscus (Great Fen-sedge). Other local species include Schoenus nigricans (Black Bog-rush), Carex diandra (Lesser Tussock-sedge) and Eleogiton fluitans (Floating Club-rush). 

There will also be opportunity to enjoy a variety of orchids and many of Rathlin's other notable plant species, plus for anyone with energy to spare there is the bonus attraction of the island's spectacular seabird colony at its peak.

Each day will involve a lot of walking: some on roads and paths but often on wet ground and occasionally on steep slopes. Good boots and raingear are essential. Packed lunch and drinks will usually need to be carried.

Accommodation

A hostel has been booked on the island with dormitory-style accommodation at a cost of £60 for the weekend. Places are limited, so advance booking and payment is essential.

Travel

Attendees must also book their own ferry transport from Ballycastle separately. Parking at the ferry terminal costs approximately £5 per day, so car-sharing may be advisable. Transport arrangements, plus hostel and catering details will be shared with registered attendees.

Programme

• Meeting times and locations for each day will be confirmed with registered attendees at a later stage
• Leaders: David McNeill, Ric Else and Hazel Watson

Further Information

Send queries to David McNeill (dw.mcneill13@gmail.com)

BSBI Privacy Policy: We hold the information requested from you in order to administer this event, and to suggest future BSBI events that may be of interest to you. We will treat your information as confidential, hold it securely and will never pass it on to third parties.

Our Privacy Policy is available to view here.

Safety and booking terms

Please read this guidance for participants at BSBI events carefully, before booking.