Science versus the vernacular

The use of Latin names in text books, field guides and web sites can be difficult for both beginners and experts alike.

The main advantage of the use of scientific (Latin) names is that they are agreed and constant worldwide. Vernacular English names can be very local and specific, for example, the Scarce Chaser is so called because in England it is indeed scarce (certainly in Bedfordshire!), but it's not uncommon in the rest of Europe.

Using scientific names overcomes such regional differences and ambiguities.

Whilst this is a local web site with a Bedfordshire theme, I hope it has interest and relevance much further afield. I've tried to have the best of both worlds and list both vernacular and scientific names throughout.

Help with Latin names

There's no escaping that Latin names can be difficult to learn and pronounce, but hopefully this table will help.

I found the Pronunciation of Biological Latin a very useful resource whilst compiling this list.