This summer we are collaborating with Pollenize in their ‘citizen science bioblitz’ project to identify the pollinators and plants in two large Plymouth parks.
There are still 3 more events to go, so why not come along š¶āāļøš¶āāļøš¶https://www.pollenize.org.uk/ Great fun for all the family – learn about nature and help it too š
In response to the continuing decline of insects in our urban environments, Pollenize are conducting these surveys to identify and count the existing species in Devonport Park and at Mount Wise.
These events are FREE for everyoneš. Not only are they a great opportunity for all ages to reconnect and learn more about nature, but you’ll be helping nature too by helping on this important research.
How many butterfly or bee species can you identify? š¤
Did you know that there are over 250 different bee species in the UK? š
Did you know that 90% of bees are solitary? š
Are you aware that over half of our butterfly species are in sad decline? š¦
Year after year, butterfly and bee species are diminishing in the UK; what can we do about it? š¦šš¦š
In the meantime, here are some photos from the last event in June at Devonport Park. Remember, all insects need: water, in these hot months; pesticide-free native flowers, for food and energy; and, cool shelter, to rest. š š¼ š³
White Clover, Trifolium repens, is a highly valuable forage crop and an excellent resource for pollinator conservation.Pineapple weed is distinguished by its pineapple-shaped flowerheads, and distinctive pineapple smell. Though an introduced plant, it is edible and very tasty. “the seeds are attractive to birds, which aid their dispersal, the species bears several English common names that emphasise this property, such as ‘Birdseed’ and ‘Bird’s Meat’ (Salisbury 1964). https://bsbi.org/in-your-area/local-botany/co-fermanagh/fermanagh-species-accounts/plantago-major-lThey do! š They also provide shelter and habitat for many insects, as well as seeds for food, so don’t underestimate them, they are also valuable.The food plant of the Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus), Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina), Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus) butterfly caterpillars š¦š¦š¦ The seeds and grass blades are eaten by the Common Sun Beetle (Amara aenea), Eupelix cuspidata, of the leafhopper family, and Myrmus miriformis, a grass bug. šŖ²Lolium perenne, has a very high protein count; it is drought resistance and hardy, so thrives well on well-trodden grassy areas.Orchard Grass, also known as Cock’s-Foot, Cat Grass, or Ascherson’s Orchard grass, offers nesting sites and cover for wildlife, like small mammals and birds. Cats enjoy chewing on it, hence the nickname Cat Grass. The seeds are important for wildlife.Lots of lovely grasses, providing food, shelter, protection and nesting sites for many wildlife species šŖ²š¦šš¦šŖ³š·ļøšššYew hedges are incredibly dense, offering protection and nesting opportunities for many birds. The fruit is eaten by birds, such as the Blackbird, Mistle thrush, Song thrush and Fieldfare; and small mammals, including squirrels and dormice. The leaves are eaten by caterpillars of the Satin Beauty moth. https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/a-z-of-british-trees/yew/What’s this lovely tree species, then? š¤Sycamore, of course. Sycamore trees provide food for a variety of animals, including bees, pollinators, caterpillars, birds, and insects. The leaves are eaten by caterpillars of a number of moths, including the Sycamore moth. Sycamore seeds are eaten by birds, such as Greenfinch and Goldfinch. Sycamore bark is eaten by insects, including Sycamore Lacewing and Sycamore Aphid. The flowers provide a good source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects, and the seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals. Wow! They are so amazing for wildlife! https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/a-z-of-british-trees/sycamore/Okay, check out the leaves, which species is this one? The flowers of the Horse Chestnut provide a rich source of nectar and pollen for insects, particularly bees. Caterpillars of the Triangle moth feed on its leaves, as does the Horse Chestnut Leaf-miner moth whose caterpillars provide food for Blue Tits.
#RebelBotanists 