Natural HistoryMuseum -The 2009 Bluebell Survey

The Natural History Museum is now running the 2009 Bluebell Survey in conjunction with Plantlife and the Ramblers Association.

The 2009 Bluebell Survey, led by the NaturalHistoryMuseum, aims to reveal the exact nature and distribution of the various Bluebell species in Britain. This information will support the Museum’s research into the threat posed by hybridisation.

Native bluebell, Hyacinthoides non-scripta

Voted Britain’s most popular wild flower in a Plantlife poll, the UK is the international stronghold for the native Bluebell. In fact we have between 25% and 50% of the world's population!

So its perhaps not surprising we feel a responsibility towards protecting this cherished flower.

Since 2003, thousands of volunteers have helped Plantlife keep track of Bluebells in Britain. Why not join them in the 2009 Bluebell Survey?

Spanish bluebell, Hyacinthoides hispanica

Full details of the survey can be found by clicking here with clear information being provided regarding the different kinds of bluebell found in the UK, tips on plant identification, etc..

The Species Action Plan may be viewed on the Wildlife Trust website by clicking here

Plantlife have published a “Bluebells of Britain advice leaflet” and a “Bluebells for Britain Report” both of which may be downloaded from the links shown on the left of the page with the website article available here.

Wikipedia have published an article here but allowance should be made regarding accuracy as editing is open to the common domain.

Anyone wanting to see native bluebells in the wild will be able to find a good display in Aughton Woods when they come into flower – or join the Wildlife Trust Walk scheduled for the 9^th May (full details on the Home page).

Anyone wishing to submit a recording may do so via the NHM website or through our local recorder Martin Sherlock here.