Spider Identification Training: From Field to Microscope

It’s often difficult to pack everything into a one-day identification workshop, so this series is designed to let you learn at a comfortable pace over four days: three practical workshops plus an optional lab day for extra support. No experience needed – you’ll build confidence and hands-on skills with guidance from Richard Gallon, National Organiser of the Spider Recording Scheme for the British Arachnological Society.

27th March (10:30 – 16:00) Introducing Spider Identification. World Museum, Liverpool. This session will introduce attendees to spider anatomy and the methods used to identify and record them. Attendees will have the chance to examine a range of preserved specimens to get familiar with various features.

17th April (10:30 -16:00) Recording Spiders in the Field. Rixton Clay Pits, Warrington. Attendees will use various sampling methods to collect and record their own specimens. Field craft and web identification will be covered. The aim will be to find and examine lots of different spider species in the field and also learn about the ecology and biology.

15th May (10:30–16:00) Optional – Spider Identification in the Lab. World Museum, Liverpool (included in price). Attendees can use this day to identify specimens they have collected at Rixton or elsewhere. Guidance will be on hand throughout the day to help attendees correctly identify their specimens.

29th May (10:30–16:00) Advanced Spider Identification in the Lab. World Museum, Liverpool.This will be a more in-depth workshop focusing on Money Spiders (Linyphiidae). The afternoon will be devoted to identifying specimens collected by attendees at Rixton. You’ll also be encouraged to bring additional specimens that you have collected from elsewhere to generate records for the Spider Recording Scheme.