Our Wild Experience Days are a chance to learn new skills, assist in producing important data that helps manage reserves and learn what it takes to be in the survey and monitoring team. The group task for the day was to survey orchid species at Fulbourn Fen nature reserve, a crucial site for these rare and enigmatic plants.

During a short walk through the reserve to our designated survey sites, we encountered mating marbled white butterflies, singing chiffchaffs and beautiful wildflower meadows. After a brief introduction to the history of the reserve and the Wildlife Trust, the team were treated to a hands-on presentation looking at the various orchid species found on the reserve and learning the difference between them, including the subtleties of early and southern marsh orchid.

After a quick lesson in survey techniques, armed with newfound knowledge and some brightly coloured survey flags we set about looking for orchids in our first transect. This yielded no results but was a good chance to highlight to participants that no data is still important data when surveying. The second area we surveyed excitingly and unexpectedly produced our first pyramidal orchid as well as several southern marsh orchids. This was a great find as it was found in an area that had not previously seen this species - evidence of possible expansion on the reserve.

On route to our next survey site, eagle-eyed survey leader Iain found several exquisite bee orchids and the group enjoyed filling up their camera rolls, while getting up close to admire these stunning flowers. We were also lucky enough to see a single twayblade orchid, bringing our total up to five orchid species for the day.

Our next two sites were brimming with orchids. After carefully combing the area using the survey techniques learnt at the start of the day, the site was filled with colourful flags bringing a great visual overview of the density of orchids. From the two sites we surveyed here an impressive 56 pyramidal orchids were found, along with three hybrid species and hundreds of southern marsh orchids.

After enjoying a relaxing lunch in the shade, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature, the group took a guided walk around the reserve learning more about its history and management, taking in ancient oak trees, soaring buzzards and the historic moat.

The afternoon brought the opportunity to try our hand at some insect surveys, taking a closer look into the biodiversity of Fulbourn Fen and the many insect species that rely on the orchids as well as the many other wildflowers on the reserve. Using sweep nets and pond dipping equipment the team collected a variety of species ranging from efts (baby newts) and diving beetles to scorpion flies and small skipper butterflies.

The day was a resounding success, with lots of vital data gathered and plenty of new skills learned. Thank you to all the participants who were involved and especially to Arm, whose continued support allows the Wildlife Trust BCN to carry on its vital conservation work in our three counties.