ONE of history's very first Naturalists is the topic of conversation at an Oxford University lecture.

The lecture 'Maria Sibylla Merian – Naturalist and Illustrator 'par excellence'' will be held at The Weston Library, Broad Street, Oxford, on June 25 at 1pm by Dr Jeyaraney Kathirithamby.

Maria Sibylla Merian was one of the first naturalists to make careful observations of the metamorphosis of insects and amphibians, at a time when little was known about it.

All are welcome to attend the free event.k