Wild Orchid Hunt

Let's go on a wild orchid hunt.

There are around 50 endemic species growing wild in the UK. Most are rare or very rare, but a small handful are quite widespread and can be found on grass verges and open fields. The Chilterns are home to around 15 – 20 species mostly confined to small, specialised nature reserves where they can be difficult to spot due to their low habit and limited flowering period.

Let’s see if we can find some in the Dancer’s End reserve near Tring. There are at least 7 species here including the Bee orchid, Butterfly, Pyramidal, Fragrant, Common Spotted, and rare Fly orchid (which mimics a wasp).

Oh, and we might see some bats too..

We will walk for no more than a mile and a half but some of this is fairly steep, therefore please wear walking shoes with a decent grip. Please also bring water and maybe a snack, perhaps a hat too, and a torch for overcast sections of the wood on the return trip (I will have a couple of spares with me). We will be following paths all the while so shorts should be fine.

Meet at 6.30pm sharp and we'll aim to start walking at 6.45. Reception is very poor here so don’t rely on me picking up last minute messages (my mobile: 07850 816008). We can expect to be back at the car park by or even well before 9.30pm latest.

Parking is free but limited so I would encourage car-sharing if possible.
We'll meet at the Dancer's End Nature Reserve car park located at:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RJ5XmGtNwNoGMXzRA
What 3 Words: ///snappy.bubbles.skillet
Postcode: HP23 6LB

This is next door to the Dancer's End Pump House and just across the road from the reserve.

Please consider making a £1 donation to Martin’s BW&S meetup fund using paypal.me/MartinJ1986 (choose the friends and family option).

NB: Attendees are expected to take responsibility for their own preparation and safety. Do please make me aware beforehand of any medical conditions or other concerns.
Thank you.