[1] The association, unlike others that specialized only in plants, birds, butterflies or other groups was aimed to be broader in its intent to promote the study of all branches of natural history.
[2] Nationally, it organises conferences, study days, field weeks and weekends, lectures, and exhibitions.
At branch level, there are talks and exploratory wildlife walks where newcomers can learn, and where experienced naturalists share their expertise.
As of 2019, recipients were: David Attenborough; Chris Baines; Trevor Beebee; David Bellamy; Gordon Benningfield; John Clegg; John Cloudsley-Thompson; Richard Fitter; Max Hooper; Harold Hughes; Simon King; Richard Mabey; George C. McGavin; Ian Newton; Bill Oddie; Oliver Rackham; Tony Soper; Richard Southwood; Roger Tabor; Kenneth Watkins; Sarah Wanless.
The Richard Fitter Memorial Medal is awarded annually to an individual who is a dedicated active field naturalist.