Alder Leaf Beetle
07/01/2021
This shiny midnight blue beetle was believed to be extinct in Britain from 1946 until their rediscovery in 2004, since when it has increased in both range and abundance.
This dragonfly prefers a habitat with water and acid peat, such as our SSSI, where they can be seen on the wing throughout the summer. Unfortunately, their habitat preferences place them under threat, along with much of Britain’s heathlands. It has a characteristic darting flight. The males are a dusty blue colour when mature, yellow with black markings when immature. The females are yellow-brown.
This shiny midnight blue beetle was believed to be extinct in Britain from 1946 until their rediscovery in 2004, since when it has increased in both range and abundance.
The eye-catching caterpillars of this moth can often be seen in early autumn, wandering near trees, looking for somewhere to pupate.
This remarkably distinctive moth resembles a twig from a Silver Birch, one of the caterpillar’s foodplants, and can occasionally been seen resting on twigs by day.
The demoiselles are relatively large damselflies and have a graceful flight like that of a butterfly. They are particularly sensitive to pollution, so their presence here is very encouraging.
Keep up to date with the nature at Wellington. We will bring you all things species and habitats, keeping you informed on the latest about Welly’s Wildlife.
Keep up to date with the nature at Wellington. We will bring you all things species and habitats, keeping you informed on the latest about Welly’s Wildlife.
Keep up to date with the nature at Wellington. We will bring you all things species and habitats, keeping you informed on the latest about Welly’s Wildlife.