Hands‑on peatland invertebrate workshop: set pitfall traps on Hatfield Moors, then examine specimens under the microscope at Humberhead

Overview of the Day

Join our peatland invertebrate ID workshop to explore the fascinating species that help keep peatland ecosystems healthy and functioning. Delivered through the LIFE Moor Space project and funded by the LIFE Programme, the workshop will highlight how peatland invertebrates play vital roles in nutrient cycling, food webs and the overall resilience of these internationally important habitats.

The workshop begins at 9:00am at the Humberhead Peatlands Office, where attendees can meet over a cup of tea before heading out into the field. Ample parking is available at the reserve base, and vehicles can be left there for the duration of the day.

The morning will be spent on Hatfield Moors, learning how to prepare and install pitfall traps and use a ‘Pooter’ and invertebrate “hoover” to collect samples from peatland habitats. This practical field session will be led by Senior Reserve Manager, Julian Small, who will guide participants through the techniques and ecological context of invertebrate surveying on lowland peat.

After returning to the reserve base for lunch, the afternoon will focus on reviewing collected specimens under the microscope. Please bring your own lunch, snacks and any drinks you require. Tea, coffee and water will be available at the base throughout the day.

Wellies and suitable outdoor clothing are essential for the fieldwork portion of the workshop, as conditions on peatland terrain can be wet and uneven. The event will conclude at approximately 3:00–4:00pm.

Accessibility and Participation

This workshop is open to all, regardless of prior experience or skill level. The fieldwork element requires a moderate level of fitness, and some sections of the route will involve uneven and challenging peatland terrain.