EVENTSThe Society runs different types of events covering many aspects of wildlife and natural history :
Lecture Evenings
These popular events cover many different wildlife topics, details below.
All lecture evenings will be held on Wednesdays in The Pallant Suite, Masonic Hall, South Pallant, Chichester.
(See Google map at bottom of home page)
Non-members cost £3, members free.
Lectures begin at 7.15pm. Doors will open at 6.30 pm.
Field Outings These field outings, generally led by one of the expert members of the society, enable participants to see different aspects of wildlife and nature in the field. No meeting will be cancelled because of the weather so please wear suitable clothing and footwear. These meetings are open to members and non-members, children over 8 are welcome but should be under parental control. These outings always start promptly so please arrive in plenty of time. Any questions about these events, or if help needed re transport, please contact Gill Hance (ghance98@gmail.com or 01243 825187). In addition, if members have any ideas for outings or can offer to lead one themselves, then please contact Gill. In accordance with Health & Safety Requirements, Chichester Natural History Society hereby gives notice- “The Society is prepared to assist members in making arrangements to enable them to participate in activities arranged by the Society. It cannot accept any responsibility whatsoever for any loss, injury or damage sustained by any person in consequence of their participation in any activity. Persons attending field outings do so on the understanding that they attend at their own risk”. 2020 - 7th Year of Surveys at Medmerry and we have started despite the coronovirus!! See Field Reports for results of 2020 surveys.
ALL surveys (approx. 2 hours in length) will start at 13:00 PROMPT, meeting at the RSPB Earnley Car Park at Grid Ref SZ 816 968, post code PO20 7JL, and then car sharing to appropriate Survey Site. (Little walking required on any date.) See Main Events List for more information. Sessions are open to all, no matter what your level of expertise, as guidance will be provided. We shall use the Society’s equipment but hand magnifiers, binoculars and reference books will always be useful. Any questions or if help required with transport then please contact Philippa Arnott on philippa.arnott@uwclub.net or phone 01243 575345 Pub Events
These are informal gatherings held at the Bull’s Head, Fishbourne. They are led by experienced members of the society with specialist knowledge of the subject and are a chance to learn more about some aspect of natural history or conservation in the company of an 'expert.' They usually last about an hour to an hour and a quarter. They are also social gatherings as we have lunch first, although there is no obligation to join this. There is a small charge of £1 per person.
These small meetings are limited to 15 members who must pre-book usually at the preceding lecture meeting.If that is not possible contact Chris Hardy or chair@chichesternaturalhistorysociety.org.uk. Start time is at 1:30pm – members may wish to meet for lunch beforehand at 12:30pm. (as we do not pay the pub for the room hire we would appreicate it if members who do not buy food would purchase a small drink). Thanks. For details click here Friday 7th August 13:00 start, RSPB car park at Earnley - FOURTH MEDMERRY SURVEY
Grid Ref SZ 816 968 Postcode PO20 7JL See above for detailed instructions.
Grasshoppers and Bush Crickets (using bat detectors and the Society's nets). Bring orthoptera books and/or iRecord Grasshoppers app (free for Apple and Android devices)
http://naturelocator.org/irecord-grasshoppers.html THIS OUTING HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO THE VIRUS
Monday 10th August 10:30 start, KITHURST HILL near Storrington
Leader David Hart
Grid Ref TQ 071125
Chalk downland plants, birds and butterflies. Members will visit the lovely wildflower area close to the car park, hoping for butterflies, and then make their way westwards to eventually enjoy a picnic with a view (bring something to sit on!) near Rackham Hill before returning, via a slightly different route, to the car park.
One mile west of Storrington on B2139, take great care turning south into unmarked lane just to the east of Springhead Farm (look out for one of David’s helpful signs). Route is easily accessible as there is excellent parking on the top of the Downs, adjacent to the South Downs Way. Although please note that there are no toilets. Friday 14th August 13:00 (back up day for Medmerry Survey if weather ‘stopped play’ on 7th August) THIS MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO THE VIRUS
Wednesday 2nd September Pallant Suite 19:15
The Rise of Northwood, Restoration of Woodland and Wooded Pasture at Northwood, Slindon National Trust. Hannah Thompson and Gabby Crisp, National Trust Rangers
THIS MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO THE VIRUS
Wednesday 7 October 2020 Pallant Suite 19:15
Flies by Dr Erica McAlister, Scientist and Senior Curator of Diptera at the Natural History Museum, London.
We are very fortunate to have Erica, the renowned enthusiast of Diptera (flies) to speak to us on the amazing world of flies. Erica has appeared on several Radio 4 programme and published a book “the Secret Life of Flies”.  Chichester, West Sussex |