Leicestershire's Natural Life collections

There is also an extensive reference library of books and volumes of periodicals and journals that relate to natural history and ecology. To support the collections we also have a vast photographic collection, a Biological Records database relating to the countryside of Leicestershire and Rutland, along with aerial photographs of the two counties, which are held at the Environmental Resources Centre in Birstall.

SO WHAT IS IN THE COLLECTIONS?

• Botany Collections: Vascular plants; Lichens;  Bryophytes; Algae
• Invertebrate Collections: Molluscs; Insects
• Vertebrate Collections: Reptiles; Birds; Mammals

PUTTING THE COLLECTIONS TO WORK

Through the information gained from our collections we aim to increase public awareness and knowledge of the natural world. The collections are ever growing with new specimens being collected each year  by staff, amateur naturalist groups and members of the public. These collections are a vital source of natural history information in a number of ways:

• Ensuring that a fascinating historical and genetic record is preserved for generations to come.
• Aiding the classification and comparison of new species. The collections are a valuable tool for scientists in mapping out the complex biodiversity of the natural world in which we live.
• Playing a key reference role for naturalists and students in their identification of plant and animal species.
• Voucher specimens act as vital evidence to support records provided by wildlife recorders, that may be queried in the future.
• Providing a valuable teaching resource for training in identification and showing people the true meaning of biodiversity.
• The collections allow us to assess the flora and fauna of specific locations in the area, and so help us to understand and respond to current environmental issues.
• Staff provide taxonomic identification services by drawing on our vast natural history collections and expertise.
• Specimens are frequently utilised in Museum exhibitions  bringing displays to life!