Our Nature’s Calendar project involves monitoring the phenology (timing of natural events) of common trees, shrubs and wildflowers to monitor the effects of climate change.

In partnership with the London Natural History Society (LNHS) and with funding from the City of London Corporation, we began a pilot Nature’s Calendar survey on Hampstead Heath in January 2023, as part of the LNHS Millennial Flora Survey.

Groups of volunteer Wildlife Monitors go out on weekly surveys of chosen trees, recording when the buds burst, flowers blossom, fruit ripens and leaves fall. Volunteers walk different set routes (or transects) across the Heath to account for differences in factors like aspect and elevation that may affect phenology.

We’re pleased that surveys are progressing well on this partnership project, and we have a great group of volunteers who are enjoying observing the subtle changes in trees through time. If you would like to join the surveys and can make a regular commitment to do so, please get in touch.