Hunting for orchids

Abstract

There is no great problem, technical or ethical, about looking for species whose status is scarce or common. The distribution maps show the general areas of occurrence and relative abundance, and the habitat and distribution sections of the species pages show what sort of ground within these areas is most likely to produce the required plants. A check against a fairly large-scale map (1:50 000 or 1 inch to 1 mile minimum) will indicate likely spots, and a personal reconnaissance, perhaps by car, will show up both advantageous and adverse features not marked on the map. From there it is just a question of looking around these suitable sites. It may take time, if luck is against you, but success is reasonably sure in the end.