Blue-crowned Parakeets, Aratinga acuticauda. There are probably four species of parakeet that have established populations in the south of England, probably descendants from accidental or deliberate releases of captive birds.

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Library enquiries and contacts

Planning your visit

Please make an appointment at least 24 hours in advance. We are a reference library which means we will collect the items you wish to consult prior to your visit.

Search the catalogue and provide references (most importantly the title and location) at least 24 hours prior to your visit by using the relevant subject contact details below. If you have a more general interest don't hesitate to contact us and we can work together to find what you need.

Important: Off-site items

Some material is stored off-site; this includes all Entomology collections. Our catalogue will inform you if an item is stored off-site and please provide references 48 hours prior to your visit.

On your first visit you will be asked to show two forms of identification; photographic ID and proof of address (examples are listed on the reverse of the registration form), after which you will be issued with a reader's ticket. To speed up this process you can bring a completed registration form and intellectual property terms and conditions form with you. Please read the Conditions of Use before signing the registration form. Coats and bags will need to be placed in the lockers provided.

Email and telephone contacts

Enquiries about library holdings or requests to visit should be addressed to Library or Archives as appropriate.

Locations and opening hours

Once you have made your appointment you will be directed to one of the following locations:

Main Reading Room for Archives, Botany, General, Zoology, Entomology and Earth Sciences open Monday to Friday, 10:00-16:30. Located in South Kensington in the Blue Zone.

Ornithology Library (Tring) open Monday to Thursday, 9.30-15:30. Located at the following address: Akeman Street, Tring, Herts, HP23 6AP. See map for directions.

Photocopying and photography

Self-service photocopiers are available: 20p per sheet for A4, 40p for A3 and £1 for colour.

We also provide a postal copy service. A copy request form should be printed, completed and submitted by post or fax to the address given. Please include as much detail as possible and don't forget to sign the copyright declaration.

A permit is available if you wish to photograph an item using your own equipment.

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