Trevor James BEM 1947-2020

With great sadness we report that Trevor James, Hertfordshire's long-time recorder for flora and beetles and an outstanding all-round naturalist, died peacefully in the Garden House Hospice, Letchworth  on Friday  5 June.

Trevor made a remarkable contribution to the study, understanding and recording of wildlife in the county where he lived for most of his life. He actively promoted 'citizen science' through his own volunteering and the generous practical help and encouragement he offered so that less experienced enthusiasts could develop their skills.

2020 Festival of Wildlife cancelled

We are sorry to report that the 2020 Festival of Wildlife, due to take place on 25 and 26 July at Panshanger Park, has been cancelled as a consequence of the continuing Covid-19 emergency.

Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust and Tarmac plc, who organise the annual festival in association with HNHS, have decided that a mass-participation event would not be appropriate at the end of July even if the current lockdown has been partially or wholly lifted by then.

BBC 'Winterwatch' features Herts butterfly expert

Fans of BBC TV's Winterwatch will have enjoyed this year's film on an intriguing study of butterfly hibernation that Malcolm Hull, Chair of Herts and Middlesex Butterfly Conservation, has been conducting at his home in St Albans.

After four years of monitoring scores of Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock butterflies that seek 'winter' shelter in a brick shed extension, Malcolm has discovered that the former in some years start hibernation as early as late June, with a major influx at the start of July. This is far earlier than 'the end of summer' suggested by field guides.