Royal Lytham and St Annes BioBlitz detects hundreds of species showing golf and nature co-exists ahead of Open

More than 333 species of wildlife were recorded when nature lovers took a deep dive into the diversity of insects and animals at Royal Lytham.

Organised by golf’s R&A Foundation, they wanted to show the intrinsic connection between golf and nature through a BioBlitz event ahead of this summer’s AIG Women’s Open.

It brought together local wildlife experts, community groups, nature enthusiasts and golf course staff to identify and record the diverse range of species found across one of the world's most renowned links courses.

The event forms part of The R&A’s wider work to highlight the important role golf courses can play in supporting biodiversity and creating spaces where both people and nature can thrive.

Royal Lytham & St Annes will welcome the world’s best players for the AIG Women’s Open from July 29 to August 2, providing a global platform to demonstrate how championship venues can deliver outstanding sporting experiences while also supporting wildlife and natural habitats.

Daniel Lightfoot, Director of Sustainable Golf at The R&A, said, "Golf and nature go hand in hand.

“While golf courses are designed to challenge and inspire players, they also provide important habitats for a wide range of wildlife.

“The BioBlitz helps us uncover and celebrate that biodiversity, bringing together local experts, communities and golf clubs to better understand the species that call these landscapes home.

"As we continue to open golf to the world, it is important that people understand the positive role golf courses can play in supporting nature. Events like the BioBlitz help tell that story and demonstrate how golf can create spaces where both people and wildlife can thrive."

Participants took part in a series of activities including a bat walk, bird walk, moth recording session and beekeeping demonstration, helping to identify hundreds of species across the championship venue.

Among the notable discoveries were a hedgehog, a Puss Moth, a Smaller European Elm Bark Beetle, a range of gorse-associated invertebrates and Greenfinch, a red-listed bird species.

The findings from the BioBlitz will also help shape fan engagement activities during the AIG Women's Open, where spectators will be invited to discover more about the wildlife found on the course through a dedicated Nature Trail and the ‘Giving Nature a Home’ activation delivered in partnership with Lancashire Wildlife Trust.