Butterfly Conservation - North East Branch

The North East England Branch of Butterfly Conservation runs or participates in various events throughout the year, which members and other members of the public are welcome to attend. These include field outings, conservation work parties and our annual general meeting. Details of events are given here as far in advance as possible. Details of 2009 events can be viewed here.

Safety

Any activities undertaken outdoors involve an element of risk and we would ask participants to take note of our safety guidance.

2022

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22 October 2022
	Branch AGM and Members' Day at Durham Wildlife Trust, Rainton Meadows, Houghton Le Spring, DH4 6PU.
	Provisional date to be confirmed. If you are interested in attending please contact
15 July - 7 August 2022
	The Big Butterfly Count.
	Take part in the world's largest butterfly survey and help Butterfly Conservation Scientists to monitor the fortunes of our butterfly species. For details see https://bigbutterflycount.butterfly-conservation.org/.
18 June 2022
	Guided at Thrislington National Nature Reserve.
	13.00 to 15.00. Led by Dr Dave Wainwright in conjunction with Natural England. Target species will include Northern Brown Argus, White-letter Hairstreak and Dark Green Fritillary as well as other invertebrates and wildlflowers. Booking required; please contact Charlotte Pink for more information and to book.
11 June 2022
	Clearwing Pheromone lure training at Low Barns.
	A survey of Clearwing Moths is planned jointly between Butterfly Conservation and Durham Wildlife Trust and the event is aimed at demonstrating how pheromone lures (to be provided) are used to survey these species. NOTE: THIS IS A CHANGE FROM ORIGINAL DATE. Details to be finalised. Booking required please contact Dave wainwright for more information and to book.
31 May 2022
	Guided Visit to Teesside Small Blue Introduction Project.
	Note this is a revised date due to poor weather forecast for orginal date. Details to be finalised. Booking required lease contact Dave wainwright for more information and to book.
20 May 2022
	National Moth Night - moth trapping session at Flass Vale, Durham City.
	Meet at 21.45 at Flass Vale. Led by Dr Dave Wainwright in conjunction with Friends of Flass Vale. Please contact Dave Wainwright for further details
19 May 2022
	National Moth Night -moth trapping session at Castle Eden Dene.
	time to be confirmed. Led by Dr Dave Wainwright (Butterfly Conservation North of England Officer) in conjuction with Natural England. Booking required: please contact
23 October 2021
	Branch AGM and Members' Day at Durham Wildlife Trust, Rainton Meadows, Houghton Le Spring, DH4 6PU.
	Arrive at 1.00 pm. Meeting from 1.30 pm to 4 pm (approx). Speakers will be Dr Andy Suggitt on 'Can butterflies find refugia from climate change?' and Stephen Kirtley on 'Conservation of the Duke of Burgundy Butterfly in North Yorkshire. As numbers are limited, please advise Peter Webb as soon as possible if you intend to come and he will then e-mail you closer to the date to confirm the details

Until Further notice in 2020

In line with Government guidance and requirements issued as a result of the Coronavirus epidemic, Butterfly Conservation has announced that all Branch events, committee meetings and work parties should now be cancelled with immediate effect. At the present time we do not know how long these restrictions will be in place but until further notice they should be considered to apply to ALL of the planned events listed below. We shall update this advice as and when advised by BC head office and/or the government.

17 October 2020
	Branch AGM and Members' Day at the Stable Block, Gibside.
	Arrive at 10.00 am. Meeting from 10.30 am to 4 pm (approx). Full programme to be confirmed. We will also examine the contents of the Gibside moth trap set the previous night with Autumn species such as the November Moths, Red-green Carpet, Canary-shouldered Thorn, Feathered Thorn and the Sallows amongst potential catch. As numbers are limited, please advise Peter Webb as soon as possible if you intend to come and he will then e-mail you closer to the date to confirm the details

27 August 2020
	National Moth Night.
	Dave Wainwright will be running a moth trapping session in conjunction with Natural England at Castle Eden Dene. Target species is the Red Underwing moth. Details to be confirmed nearer the date. Contact:

18 July 2020
	Essex Skipper Identification Workshop.
	Dave Wainwright will be running a training session on identification of Small and Essex Skippers at Portrack Marsh, starting at 10.30 am. Contact:

2019

19 October 2019
	Branch AGM and Members' Day at the Stable Block, Gibside.
	Arrive at 10.00 am. Meeting from 10.30 am to 4 pm (approx). Speakers will include Dave Wainwright on the reintroduction of the Small Blue, Robert Woods on the moths and butterflies of industrial Teesside and Evelyn Taylor-Cox on the range expansion of the Speckled Wood Butterfly . Full programme to be confirmed. We will also examine the contents of the Gibside moth trap set the previous night with Autumn species such as the November Moths, Red-green Carpet, Canary-shouldered Thorn, Feathered Thorn and the Sallows amongst potential catch. As numbers are limited, please advise Peter Webb as soon as possible if you intend to come and he will then e-mail you closer to the date to confirm the details

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26 September 2019
	Moth Night at Castle Eden Dene.
	A joint event run by Butterfly Conservation and Natural England as part of National Moth Night. Meet and park at 7 pm or just before at the Natural England Office at Oakerside Dene Lodge, Stanhope Chase, Peterlee, Durham SR8 1NJ. From there we will be taken down to the Dene mouth (where parking is limited) in Natural England vehicles. They will then make the return journey at about 9.30 pm. Wear stout shoes and warm clothing. They might also wish to bring flasks, cakes, camping chairs and any other items required for their comfort. Booking is required so that transport arrangements down to the Dene mouth can be organised. Please contact Dave Wainwright

29 April 2019
	Butterfly Transect Monitoring Training.
	10.30 am to 12.30 pm (approx). The event will be run by Dr Dave Wainwright (Butterfly Conservation Senior Regional Officer for Northern England, in association with Coast Care. For more details see here. or contact

2018

20 October 2018
	Branch AGM and Members' Day at the Stable Block, Gibside.
	10.30 am to 4 pm (approx). Speakers will include Callum McGregor and Peter Mayhew both of York University who will be talking about their research on the ecology of lepidoptera. Full programme to be confirmed. We will also examine the contents of the Gibside moth trap set the previous night with Autumn species such as the November Moths, Red-green Carpet, Canary-shouldered Thorn, Feathered Thorn and the Sallows amongst potential catch. As numbers are limited, please advise Peter Webb as soon as possible if you intend to come and he will then e-mail you closer to the date to confirm the details

7 September
	Wildlife Area Open Day.
	Student Amy Charlton is working on a project to transform a piece of land on an industrial site into an oasis for butterflies and other wildlife. An open day on the project will be held from 10 am to 3 pm and anyone interested is welcome to come. The site is at DS Smith Newcastle, Planet Place, Killingworth, Newcastleupon Tyne, NE12 6DY.

7 July
	Field Trip to greenleighton Moss.
	Target species Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary and Large Heath. The site is on the edge of Harwood Forest north of Scots Gap. Meet at the National Trust car park next to Greenleighton quarry at 11:00am. Grid reference NZ034915. Nearest post code NE61 4JZ which is for Dyke Head Farm. Greenleighton Moss is about 2 miles from the meeting point over rough ground so walking boots are essential and the moss itself is boggy so it is recommended carrying wellies to put on at the site. As the whole trip will take 3 to 4 hours a packed lunch is also recommended. For additional details contact David stebbings (phone 01912859097)

10 March
	CANCELLED! Butterfly Conservation Day of Action Penshaw Hill.
	Unfortunately, the weather forecast for this event is for heavy rain in the morning and the site is expected to be very slippery and muddy so we have had to cancell the event. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of Butterfly Conservation we are organising a work party to cut back invasive scrub on Penshaw Hill, Sunderland, in conjunction with the National Trust who own the site. 10 am till 2 pm. In very bad weather - strong wind, heavy rain or icy conditions, the task will not go ahead. If the weather forcast is poor please check the branch website but, where possible, we will inform you by email if the event is cancelled and for this reason it would be advisable to inform us if you plan to attend. For additional details contact Peter Webb or Helen McDonald
	For further information click here.

2017

26 November
	Work Party at Havannah local nature reserve.
	We shall be clearing scrub (mainly gorse and birch) that is encroaching on important Dingy Skipper habitat. Tools and protective gloves will be provided. Please bring a packed lunch. Meet at 10 am in the large car park at the airport end of the reserve near the Dinnngton Rd junction - grid reference: NZ215718. For additional details contact David stebbings (phone 01912859097)

29 October
	Work Party at Havannah local nature reserve.
	We shall be clearing scrub (mainly gorse and birch) that is encroaching on important Dingy Skipper habitat. Tools and protective gloves will be provided. Please bring a packed lunch. Meet at 10 am in the large car park at the airport end of the reserve near the Dinnngton Rd junction - grid reference: NZ215718. For additional details contact David stebbings (phone 01912859097)

Various dates
	Cumbrian Branch Events.
	Our sister Branch in Cumbria has organized a programme of events for this year (some in conjunction with the Lancashire Branch) and has kindly extended an invitation to members of the North East England Branch to attend these. Cumbria hosts a number of butterfly species that do not occur in our region and these events provide an opportunity to see such rare species as High Brown Fritillary, Small Blue and Mountain Ringlet. Details of these events can be seen here. All butterfly-related events are susceptible to cancellation due to weather and we strongly recommend that you contact the event leader in advance of any event you plan to attend so that you can be advised should this be the case or if there are have been changes to the published plan.

14 October 2017
	Branch AGM and Members' Day at the Stable Block, Gibside.
	10.30 am to 4 pm (approx). Speakers will include Matthew Oates, National Wildlife Specialist for the National Trust and one of the country's leading and best-known butterfly experts. Full programme to be confirmed. We will also examine the contents of the Gibside moth trap set the previous night with Autumn species such as the November Moths, Red-green Carpet, Canary-shouldered Thorn, Feathered Thorn and the Sallows amongst potential catch. As numbers are limited, please advise Peter Webb as soon as possible if you intend to come and he will then e-mail you closer to the date to confirm the details

2 September 2017
	Guided walk at Wingate Quarry.
	Led by Ian Waller. Target species Late summer butterflies and possible Brown Argus. Meet in car park at grid ref NZ372373. Contact Ian Waller

CANCELLED 6 August 2017
	CANCELLED: Guided walk at Coatham Stob.
	Led by Ian Waller. Due to circumstances beyond our control this event has been CANCELLED.

24 July 2017
	Big Butterfly Count at Gibside.
	Jointly with the National Trust. Full details to be confirmed.

22 July 2017
	Guided walk at Raisby Quarry and grassland.
	Led by Ian Waller. Target species White-letter Hairstreak, Northern Brown Argus and Dark Green Fritillary. Meet at Coxhoe, Station Rd. East of the A177: grid reference NZ324351. Contact Ian Waller

15 July 2017
	Guided walk at Littlewood Nature Reserve, Quarrington.
	Led by Ian Waller. Target species Marbled White, Northern Brown Argus and Dark Green Fritillary. Park and meet at entrance to reserve at grid ref NZ343380. Contact Ian Waller

4 June 2017
	Guided walk at Wingate Quarry.
	Led by Ian Waller. Target species Dingy Skipper and, possibly, Brown Argus. Meet at 10.30 in the car park at grid reference NZ372373. Contact Ian Waller

6 May 2017
	Emperor Moth/pheromone lure training day.
	Led by Dave Wainwright. Meeting place and time to be confirmed but will involve a field visit to Hedleyhope Fell. The aim is to demonstrate the use of artificial pheromone lures to survey this striking species. Weather permitting there should also be the possibility to record Green Hairstreak butterflies which are present on the site. Contact Dave Wainwright if you are interested in participating and he will contact you with further details nearer the date. Tel.: 01388 488428 Mobile: 07709 278407

19 February 2017 CANCELLED
	Conservation work party at Bishop Middleham Quarry.
	This event has been cancelled

18 February 2017
	Conservation work party at Cassop.
	Meet at 10 am at the footpath leading from the road north of Quarrington Hill (grid reference nz336377). The task will be scrub clearance and we will aim to finish by 15.00 depending on the weather. Bring a packed lunch. Please advise Mike Harris if you wish to attend.

15 January 2017
	Conservation work party at Town Kelloe Bank.
	Meet at 09.45 at the car park for Wingate Quarry - grid ref NZ371373). Under supervision of Durham Wildlife Trust, the task will be scrub clearance and we will aim to finish by 15.00 depending on the weather. Bring a packed lunch. The work party will only go ahead if a minimum of six volunteers participate and so we would be grateful if you could indicate your intention to take part at least a week ahead to Mike Harris

2016

18 December 2016
	Conservation work party at Bishop Middleham Quarry.
	Meet at 09.45 at the lay-by opposite the site entrance (nearest post-code is DL17 9EE; grid-ref NZ330326). Under supervision of Durham Wildlife Trust, the task will be scrub clearance and we will aim to finish by 15.00 depending on the weather. Bring a packed lunch. The work party will only go ahead if a minimum of six volunteers participate and so we would be grateful if you could indicate your intention to take part at least a week ahead to Mike Harris

27 November 2016
	Conservation work party at Town Kelloe Bank.
	Meet at 09.45 at the car park for Wingate Quarry - grid ref NZ371373). Under supervision of Durham Wildlife Trust, the task will be scrub clearance and we will aim to finish by 15.00 depending on the weather. Bring a packed lunch. The work party will only go ahead if a minimum of six volunteers participate and so we would be grateful if you could indicate your intention to take part at least a week ahead to Mike Harris

23 October 2016
	Conservation work party at Bishop Middleham Quarry.
	Meet at 09.45 at the lay-by opposite the site entrance (nearest post-code is DL17 9EE; grid-ref NZ330326). Under supervision of Durham Wildlife Trust, the task will be scrub clearance and we will aim to finish by 15.00 depending on the weather. Bring a packed lunch. The work party will only go ahead if a minimum of six volunteers participate and so we would be grateful if you could indicate your intention to take part as soon as possible (at latest by 16 October) to Mike Harris

9 October 2016
	Annual General Meeting.
	To be held at t National Trust, Gibside, Rowlands Gill, NE16 6BG 10.30 am to 4 pm. There will be reports on Branch activities; other agenda items will be confirmed nearer to the date. For additional details contact Peter Webb

25 July 2016
	Gibside Big Butterfly Day.
	At National Trust, Gibside, Rowlands Gill, NE16 6BG. Please join the North East Branch of Butterfly Conservation and the National Trust for this Summer Holiday Family Fun day at Gibside in Gateshead, Tyne & Wear. Visitors will be invited to take part in a Big Butterfly Count (www.bigbutterflycount.org), an annual citizen science survey launched by Sir David Attenborough, President of wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation. Further details will be announced nearer to the date.

24 July 2016
	Butterfly Survey at Coatham Stob.
	Led by Ian Waller. We will be searching for Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak and White-letter Hairstreak. None of these species has previously been recorded at the site but there is suitable habitat present; we shall also be recording other butterflies present and will have the opportunity to search for dragonflies around the ponds. Meet at 10.30 at grid reference NZ394155 in the large free car-park. Bring a packed lunch. For additional details contact Ian Waller

23 July 2016
	Field trip to Cowpen Bewley.
	Led by Ian Waller. Target species is Essex Skipper which was discovered in County Durham for the first time in 2015. We will focus on the identification of this species and how to distinguish it from the very similar Small Skipper. A digital camera and/or close focussing binoculars will be useful to bring along if you have them. Meet at 10.30 at grid reference NZ479253 in the large free car-park. Bring a packed lunch. For additional details contact Ian Waller

2 July 2016
	Field trip to Sherburn Hill.
	Led by Ian Waller. Target species are Northern Brown Argus and Dark Green Fritillary but we expect to see a variety of other butterfly and day-flying moth species. We will also be able to see the management work carried out at the site and how this has benefitted the Northern Brown Argus. The site also offers excellent views across the Durham countryside. Meet at 10.30 at grid reference NZ323421. On street parking available nearby. Bring a packed lunch. For additional details contact Ian Waller

24 June 2016
	Field trip to Coatham Stob.
	Led by Ian Waller. Target species is the Forester an uncommon day-flying moth whose larvae feed on Common Sorrel. We also expect to see a range of grassland butterflies and inspection of the ponds should additionally provide opportunities to see and identify dragonflies and damselflies. Meet in the car park at grid reference NZ394155 at 10.30 am. Bring a packed lunch. For additional details contact Ian Waller .

10 June 2016
	Moth trapping at Gibside.
	Led by Keith Dover and Tim Barker, County Moth Recorders for Durham. We'll be setting up in the Walled Garden, hoping to catch some hawkmoths, the theme of 'National Moth Night' for 2016. We've had lime and poplar hawkmoths here in the past, as well as lots of other species. Gibside's gates will be open from 10pm. If you dont want to stay up so late we have a moth morning planned from 10.00am to 11.00 am on Saturday 11th June also in the walled garden. Please call Helen McDonald on 01207 541 825 if you have any questions or if you'd like to know more.

4 June 2016
	Transect training at Bishop Middleham.
	Led by Ian Waller. Ian will demonstrate how to set up a transect and monitor the butterflies on it. Guidance on butterfly identification will be give and we will walk part of the Bishop Middleham Transect. Start at 12 Noon. If you would like totake part please contact Ian Waller

13 May 2016
	Field trip to Stanley Moss.
	Field trip to Stanley Moss, jointly with Durham Wildlife Trust. Led by Dave Wainwright. Target species Green Hairstreak and Emperor Moth. Meet 10.30 on the B6299 between Sunniside and Stanley Crook, grid ref. NZ153381. Good boots, outdoor clothes required. For additional details contact DAve Wainwright

27 April 2016
	'Beautiful Burial Grounds' Conference.
	Organised by Caring for God's Acre, an organisation that champions the conservation of burial sites of all kinds. Talks will cover a variety of topics including conservation of wildlife in graveyards and - although yet to be confirmed - may include a speaker from the Branch talking on butterflies and moths. To be held in Hexham Abbey from 10 am to 4.15 pm. Tickets £15. For additional details contact Caring For God's Acre

22 April 2016
	CANCELLED!!!!!Moth Night, Flass Vale.
	Due to poor weather forecast this event will not now be going ahead.

13 March 2016
	Work Party at Paradise Nature Reserve, Scotswood Rd, Newcastle.
	The task is to clear invading Buddleia and Birch from a Dingy Skipper site. Meet at 10:00am at the eastern entrance which is the entrance to the Jobling-Purser industrial site next to Paradise. For those who don't know the Paradise site it is alongside Scotswood Road in Newcastle. Go along Scotswood Road from the A1 towards Newcastle for about a mile and a half to traffic lights at the junction of William Armstrong Drive. There is an Audi garage on the right at the junction. Turn right into William Armstrong Road and immediately turn right again into an industrial access road with large metal gates at the end. For additional details contact David stebbings

20 February 2016
	Conference on Urban and Garden Wildlife.
	Organised by the British Trust for Ornithology in Belmont Parish Hall near Durham. Speakers will include Butterfly Conservation's Regional Officer for Northern England, Dr Dave Wainwright. Other speakers will cover topics including birds, bats and other mammals. For additional details, include ticket price and booking arrangements, see http://www.bto.org/news-events/events/2016-02/bto-garden-and-urban-wildlife-conference.

13 February 2016
	Work Party at Town Kellhoe Bank, near Coxoe.
	Further scrub control work at this Durham Wildlife Trust Reserve on which Northern Brown Argus, Small Copper and Common Blue all occur. We shall meet at 9.30 am Wingrove Quarry Nature Reserve where there is more parking available and travel on from there together to Town Kellhoe Bank. For additional details contact Mike Harris

7 February 2016
	Work Party at Stargate Pond.
	Continuing the scrub clearance begun on Jan 17. Meet at the site entrance just off the A695 (grid reference NZ171632) at 10 am. Bring a packed lunch. Tools will be provided. For additional details contact David Stebbings

24 January 2016
	Work Party at Town Kellhoe Bank, near Coxoe.
	We will be undertking work to control invasive scrub at this Durham Wildlife Trust Reserve on which Northern Brown Argus, Small Copper and Common Blue all occur. We shall meet at 9.30 am Wingrove Quarry Nature Reserve where there is more parking available and travel on from there together to Town Kellhoe Bank. For additional details contact Mike Harris

17 January 2016
	Work Party at Stargate Pond.
	We will be undertaking scrub-clearance work at this nature reserve. Meet at the site entrance just off the A695 (grid reference NZ171632) at 10 am. Bring a packed lunch. Tools will be provided.

2015

25 September 2015
	Moth Trapping at Flass Vale.
	Depending on the weather Dave Wainwright will be leading a moth trapping session in Flass Vale, Durham City (NZ 265 428) from 8 PM on 25th September. The site is reached by walking 200 m up the footpath from the car park of the King's Lodge Hotel at the end of Waddington Street, Durham DH1 4BG. Torch, warm clothing and hot drink recommended.

11 September 2015
	National Moth Night at Gibside.
	At National Trust, Gibside, Rowlands Gill, NE16 6BG. 8 pm til late. Join us for an evening of moth trapping, led by Durham County Moth Recorder, Keith Dover in Gibside's Walled Garden. The garden is close to the woodland edge and areas of grassland habitat, so we expect to catch a good variety of species. We will also have bat detectors available to listen for any passing bats. It's a good idea to bring warm clothes and a torch, we will provide hot drinks and cakes. And if you'd prefer something different, the Gibside pub and on-site pizza baker is open until 9pm. All Butterfly Conservation members are welcome to come along with no charge for entry into Gibside. For more details please call Helen McDonald on 01207 541 825.

29 July 2015
	Big Butterfly Count at Gibside.
	At National Trust, Gibside, Rowlands Gill, NE16 6BG. 11 am - 4 pm. Please join the North East Branch of Butterfly Conservation and the National Trust for this Summer Holiday Family Fun day at Gibside in Gateshead, Tyne & Wear. As part of Wildlife Wednesday, children will be invited to take part in a Big Butterfly Count (www.bigbutterflycount.org), an annual citizen science survey launched by Sir David Attenborough, President of wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation. Activities run from 11am until 4pm and include a butterfly hunt, butterfly and moth themed arts and crafts, a word search competition with prizes and a guided walk by a NT Ranger at 1pm. Advice will also be given on which plants are best to put in your garden if you want to help pollinators like butterflies and bees. *Please note there is an admin fee to get into Gibside, but all activities are free once inside. A family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) costs £22. An individual adult ticket is £8.70. Entrance is FREE to all National Trust members. For more information, please contact Helen McDonald on 01207 541825.

26 July 2015
	Butterfly Walk at Weetslade.
	Sunday 26th July, at Weetslade Country Park, Wideopen. Meet at the car park at 11:00am. The car park is at the eastern end of the site near High Weetslade Farm (NZ260723) on the B1319 near its junction with the A189. The walk will be led by David Stebbings and is planned to last about 2 hours. The site is great for a range of grassland butterflies and day-flying moths..

12 July 2015
	AGM and Members' Day.
	At National Trust, Gibside, Rowlands Gill. Events to include inspection of moth trap operated the previous night (10 am to 11.30 approx), talks on moths and butterflies (guest speakers Charles Fletcher and Stephen Doyle), AGM (1.30 pm), and judging of our photographic competition. Time 10.00 to 16.00. There will be a lunch break at 12.30 and participants may either bring a packed lunch or purchase food from the National Trust's facilities. All welcome. More details here.

4 July 2015
	Butterfly Walk at Bishop Middleham Quarry.
	Durham County Butterfly Recorder Steve le Fleming leads a walk at one of the region's best butterfly sites. A variety of butterflies may be seen including the Northern Brown Argus. The event, which is organised by the Natural History Society of Northumbria, is free but booking is required in order to manage numbers. See the Society's website for further details.

22 February 2015
	Work Party at Paradise Nature Reserve, Scotswood Rd, Newcastle.
	The task is to clear invading Buddleia and Birch from a Dingy Skipper site. Meet at 10:00am at the eastern entrance which is the entrance to the Jobling Purser industrial site next to Paradise. For those who don't know the Paradise site it is alongside Scotswood Road in Newcastle. Go along Scotswood Road from the A1 towards Newcastle for about a mile and a half to traffic lights at the junction of William Armstrong Drive. There is an Audi garage on the right at the junction. Turn right into William Armstrong Road and immediately turn right again into an industrial access road with large metal gates at the end. For additional details contact David stebbings

8 February 2015
	Work Party at Littlewood Local Nature Reserve, Cassop.
	The objective is to cut back invasive scrub that, if left unchecked will make the habitat unsuitable for the Northern Brown Argus and for the Dark Red Helleborine - a rare orchid that is present on the site. Meet at 10:00am. Park in the car parking area opposite Cassop Primary School which is on the B6291 between Cassop and Quarrington. The reserve grid reference is NZ 341 377 and the nearest postcode for GPS is DH6 4RA. For additional details contact Michael Harris

1 February 2015
	Work Party at the Spetchells, Prudhoe.
	The object is to clear invading non-native species from the Dingy Skipper habitat. Meet at 10 am at the Riverside Country Park car park, just behind Prudhoe station, Grid ref NZ086634. For additional details contact David stebbings

2014

7 December 2014
	Work Party at Greenleighton Quarry and Rothley Lake.
	The object is scrub removal at two locations on the Wallington Estate. Tools and work gloves will be provided. the public car park at Greenleighton Quarry at 10:00am, and we would aim to finish around 2:30pm so bring a packed lunch. The car park is along a minor road off the B6342 north of Scots Gap - Grid Reference NZ034916. For additional details contact David stebbings
22 November 2014
	Heart of Durham Project: the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary.
	Anne Porter from Durham Wildlife Trust will give us a talk about her Heart of Durham project, in particular the work she has been involved with to encourage the Small Pearl-Bordered Fritillary. 10.30 am in the Bowes Room at National Trust's Gibside Estate. Free entry for Butterfly Conservation members, as well as National Trust volunteers (please indicate to the staff at the site entrance that you have come for the talk). Free parking available.
16 November 2014
	Work Party at Greenleighton Quarry and Rothley Lake.
	The object is scrub removal at two locations on the Wallington Estate. Tools and work gloves will be provided. the public car park at Greenleighton Quarry at 10:00am, and we would aim to finish around 2:30pm so bring a packed lunch. The car park is along a minor road off the B6342 north of Scots Gap - Grid Reference NZ034916. For additional details contact David stebbings
8 November 2014
	Work Party at Morrison Busty Nature reserve.
	The aim is to clear areas used by Dingy Skipper of encroaching Birch and Willow scrub. Tools and work gloves will be provided. Meet at the reserve at 10 am; parking in layby at NZ178512. For additional details contact Dave Liddle
12 October 2014
	Work Party at Greenleighton Mire.
	The object is removal of fir and spruce saplings that are encroaching the mire which is a Large Heath site. Tools and work gloves will be provided; due to wet ground conditions it is advised that participants wear wellies. the public car park at Greenleighton Quarry at 10:00am, and we would aim to finish around 2:30pm so bring a packed lunch. The car park is along a minor road off the B6342 north of Scots Gap - Grid Reference NZ034916. For additional details contact David Stebbings
28th August 2014
	Creatures of the Night at Auckland Castle.
	With Durham Wildlife Trust a bat and moth night. We will start with an indoor talk about bats followed by a walk outside using bat detectors to identify different species. Butterfly Conservation Regional Officer, Dave Wainwright will be present to check the moth traps. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring a torch and sturdy footwear. Meet at the castle at 7.45pm. Free event, no booking required. Contact Durham Wildlife trust (0191 584 3112) for further details.
20 July 2014
	Discover Butterflies.
	Durham County Council is organising a Discover Butterflies event at Littlewood Local Nature Reserve between Cassop and Quarrington Hill. The event runs from 11 am to 1 pm and will include a chance to participate in some habitat management work, a butterfly walk with the rangers and some children's activities. See here for further details.
13 July 2014
	Guided Butterfly Walk.
	A guided butterfly walk is planned on Sunday 13 July at Weetslde Country Park just north of Gosforth. Weetslade is is a former mine site which has been converted into a country park and it is an excellent place for grassland butterflies and a variety of day flying moths. Meet at Weetslade car park at 11:00am - Grid Reference NZ260723. Contact Dave Stebbings for further details.
6 July 2014
	AGM and Members' Day.
	At National Trust, Gibside, Rowlands Gill. Events to include unveiling of moth trap operated the previous night (10 am to 11.30 approx), talks on moths, AGM (1.30 pm), guest speaker Dr Jim Asher (Chairman elect of Butterfly Conservation) and judging of our photographic competition. Time 10.00 to 16.00. There will be a lunch break at 12.30 and participants may either bring a packed lunch or purchase food from the National Trust's facilities. All welcome.
10 May 2014
	Litter picking.
	Volunteers invited to join a work party clearing litter from Tanfield Marsh Local Nature Reserve. Meet at the car park opposite the Ken Thomas skip hire depot, map reference NZ193548. Time 10.00 to 12.00. All welcome.
14 April 2014
	North-East Butterflies and Moths.
	Under the auspices of the Weardale Field Studies Society Peter Webb (Chairman, NE England Branch of Butterfly Conservation) will give a talk on his experiences in Teesdale. In the Dales Centre in Stanhope. Time 7.30 pm. All welcome, entry fee £1.50 to cover refreshments. Free parking available.
23 March 2014
	Muddy Mayhem.
	Durham County Council are organising a "a seriously tough obstacle-filled mud run" at Hardwick Park, Sedgefield. The event is supporting three charities, Butterfly Conservation, Help for Heroes and Butterwick Hospice and Butterfly Conservation plans to have a stand there on the day. For full details see.

2 February 2014
	Finding and Identifying Some of Our Larger Moths in the Spring.
	A talk by Peter Webb (Chairman, NE England Branch of Butterfly Conservation) on which moth species to look for during the spring months. An opportunity for anyone interested in moths to share their knowledge and experience of finding and recording moths (macro and micros) in the Northeast of England during the early months of the year. At 10.30am in the Stables Learning and Discovery Centre, National Trust Gibside, NE16 6BG. On arrival at Gibside you will find car parks located on the left hand-side of the entrance road as you enter the estate. Staff will meet you at the visitor centre. From here you can walk up to the Stables, which will take approximately 20 minutes or after 10.00am use the Visitor Shuttle bus.

12 January 2014
	Work Party
	A work party is planned to enhance habitat for the Dingy Skipper on the Spetchells, Prudhoe. The work will involve cutting back whitebeam to make some glades and cotoneaster to open up more bare ground. Meet at the Tyne Riverside Country Park car park in Low Prudhoe, just by Prudhoe railway station at 10:00am Bring a packed lunch. Tools provided.

2013

10 August 2013
	Moth trapping event.
	As part of National Moth Night Durham County Council ecologists are running a moth night at Waldridge Fell. Click here for further details.

2 June 2013
	Butterflies of Littlewood Nature Reserve (In conjuction with Durham County Council)
	Take part in a butterfly transect with an expert and find out more about butterfly monitoring and why it is important. 11 am to 1 pm at Littlewood, near Cassop School, on B6291, Cassop, DH6 4RA. Click here for more details

25 April 2013
	Moth Night
	A moth trapping event will be held at Flass Vale, Durham. Meet at 8 pm at the bench on the path behind the King's Head at the end of Waddington Street.

3 March 2013
	Work Party
	A work party is planned to reduce scrub encroachment at the Paradise SNCI site at Scotswood Rd, Newcastle. Meet at the Jobling Purser entrance on William Armstrong Drive (turn off Scotswood Rd at the Audi Garage on the south side) at 10:00am and aim to work until about 2:30pm. Bring a packed lunch. Tools provided.

16 February 2013
	Annual General Meeting
	The meeting will take place at Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, Houghton-le Spring at 2.00 pm. Reports will be given, followed by election of Officers for 2013. Any Other Business should be directed to the Chairman no later than twenty one days before the meeting. The meeting will be followed by a talk by Dr David Wainwright on Butterfly Conservation projects in the North of England.

4 January 2013
	Northern Brown Argus Project Training
	The Branch is launching a new survey of the Northern Brown Argus and its habitat. An initial training event, led by Dr Dave Wainwright is planned for 4th January. Anyone interested in becoming involved (no expertise required) is welcome to join in. We are meeting at 10am at Rainton Meadows (Durham Wildlife Trust HQ off the A690, Sunderland to Durham Road). This initial session will last approximately 3-4 hours. We intend visiting one or two sites close by to understand how to assess the quality of the NBA habitat sites and what habiatat management is required to make it more suitable for the butterfly. Contact Mike Harris for further details.

2012

15 August 2012
	Moth Night at Flass Vale
	Dave Wainwright will lead a moth trapping event at Flass Vale, Durham City, weather permitting. The location is at NZ266428, on the footpath running from the car park of the King's Head Hotel at the end of Waddington Street, Durham City. No equipment required but a hand torch could be useful and if you have one a folding chair. Warm clothing is recommended. Please contact Dave Wainwright for further details.

CANCELLED 7 July 2012
	Members' Day at the Rising Sun Countryside Centre, North Tyneside
	Unfortunately it has been necessary to cancell this event. We apologise to anybody who was intending to attend.

18 February 2012
	Annual General Meeting
	The meeting will take place at Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, Houghton-le Spring at 2.00 pm. Reports will be given, followed by election of Officers for 2012. Any Other Business should be directed to the Chairman no later than twenty one days before the meeting. The meeting will be followed by a talk by Butterfly Conservation's Director for Scotland, Paul Kirkland.

2011

5 August 2011
	Moth Night, Flass Vale
	Dave Wainwright, Northern England Regional Officer for Butterfly Conservation will be operating a MV moth trap to attract moths which will be caught for people to look at, identified and released. Everybody is welcome whether you are a beginner or an expert. Meet at 8.30 pm at the bench 150 yards from the King's Lodge Hotel, Flass Vale. Weather permitting the event will run as long as people are happy to stay but not beyond midnight. Bring warm clothing and shoes, insect repellent (not too strong!!!) and perhaps a folding chair as there will be some standing around. Please contact Dave Wainwright for further details.

24 July 2011
	Butterfly Walk at Weetslade Country Park
	Dave Stebbings will lead a walk around Weetslade Country Park, near wideopen. The Country Park is a former colliery site which has been planted with flower rich grassland and has grassland butterflies such as common blue, small skipper and small heath, plus grassland moths. Everybody is welcome whether you are a beginner or an expert. Meet at 11 am in the car-park which is on a minor road - the B1319, off the A189 roundabout just north of Gosforth Park (OS grid reference NZ260723). The walk will last about two hours. Please contact Dave Stebbings for further details.

17 July 2011
	Butterfly Walk at Havannah LNR
	Dave Stebbings will lead a walk around the Havannah Local Nature Reserve, near Hazelrigg village outside Newcastle. The reserve has a variety of habitats and there should be an opportunity to see a number of different butterfly species. Everybody is welcome whether you are a beginner or an expert. Meet at 10 am in the car-park at the end of the reserve nearest the airport (OS grid reference NZ215718). The walk will last about two hours. Please contact Dave Stebbings for further details.

10 July 2011
	Joint botany/entomolgy field trip to Bishop Middleham Quarry
	Butterfly Conservation memebers are invited to join this trip organised by the Natural History Society of Northumbria. Join entomologists and botanists for a day looking at the relationships between insects and plants, at this disused Magnesian limestone quarry. The quarry is now managed as a nature reserve by Durham Wildlife Trust and, as well as having a good range of limestone plants, it is a key site for butterflies, including Northern Brown Argus, Ringlet, Common Blue and Small Heath. Access to the quarry floor is by steep steps. Otherwise, walking is level, but it may be rough underfoot. The reserve is ½ mile north of Bishop Middlham village, to the west of the A177 at O.S. Ref. NZ331326. Parking, in two small roadside lay-bys near the reserve entrance, is limited, so car-sharing is advised. Booking is essential. Please contact the NHSN office for further details Tel. 0191 232 6386; . Alternatively for Butterfly Conservation, please contact Steve le Fleming, Tel 0191 386 7309;

19 June 2011
	Bugs and Botany at Close House
	The Natural History Society of Northumbria, in collaboration with the Royal Entomological Society and Newcastle University, is running a 'Bugs and Botany' Event at Close House. Catch and identify insects and see some of the experiments on plant ecology that are running at the Close House Field Station. Moth traps are also included. The event is suitable for people of all ages with an interest in insects and plants - from beginner to expert, and runs from 10am - 4pm. You can drop in for a short visit or stay for the whole day. The Field Station is on the Close House Golf Centre site; O.S. Ref. NZ128659. Access is from the old Hexham Road, B 6528, west of Heddon-on-the-Wall. Please contact the NHSN office for further details Tel. 0191 232 6386; .

15 May 2011
	Darlington Green Fair
	The North East England Branch of Butterfly Conservation will have a stand at the Darlington Green Fair. The Fair will be held at South Park, Darlington and will be open between 11am and 4pm.

19 February 2011
	Annual General Meeting
	The meeting will take place at Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, Houghton-le Spring at 2.00 pm. Reports will be given, followed by election of Officers for 2011. Any Other Business should be directed to the Chairman no later than twenty one days before the meeting. The meeting will be followed by a talk by Robert Woods of INCA about his studies of moths in the Teesmouth area.

2010

4 December 2010
	Cancelled: Work Party at Havannah Local Nature Reserve
	We apologise but due to the present harsh weather it has been necessary to cancell the work party arranged for Saturday 4th December at Havannah Local Nature Reserve, near Hazlerigg. Hopefully we will be able to re-arrange further work parties in the New Year when conditions are more favourable.

19 October - 27 November 2010
	Exhibition of butterfly paintings
	La Fiesta Cafe in Heaton is hosting an exhibition of Andrew Mills' butterfly paintings as well as paintings of bees and abstract works based on natural patterns. 10% of all sales of butterfly paintings, prints and cards will be donated to Butterfly Conservation. Packets of wildflower seeds will also be handed out. La Fiesta is on Heaton Park Road, Newcastle upon Tyne.

4 September 2010
	Moth Night, Cowpen Bewley
	Dave Wainwright of Butterfly Conservation, in conjunction with the Stockton Borough Council Countryside Ranger service, will be leading a public moth trapping event at Cowpen Bewley from 8pm to 10 pm. For further details contact Tony Pybus, Countryside Ranger on 01642 371633 or 01642 360376.

27 June 2010
	NHSN Field Trip to the Spetchells
	The Natural History Society of Northumbria is running a field trip to the Spetchells, near Prudhoe. The Spetchells are a group of man-made chalk mounds along the riverside at Prudhoe that have developed an interesting flora and fauna and the aim of the field trip is to investigate the relationsips between the plants and insects present on the site. Because of insurance considerations the event is only open to NHSN members and so the Society has kindly arranged that any Butterfly Conservation members who wish to attend can obtain an honorary 1 day membership. If you wish to take advantage of this offer to attend this event please contact the NHSN on 0191 232 6386 in advance of the date; numbers are strictly limited.

13 February 2010
	Annual General Meeting
	The meeting will take place at Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, Houghton-le Spring at 2.00 pm. Reports will be given, followed by election of Officers for 2010. Any Other Business should be directed to the Chairman no later than twenty one days before the meeting. The meeting will be followed by a talk on butterfly conservation by Dave Wainwright, from Butterfly Conservation's Regional Office for the North of England.