Noticing Nature Blog

Bryony Mining Bee This little bee is probably a Bryony Mining Bee (Andrea florea). These are quite rare nationally and only present in south-east England. They only collect pollen from White Bryony flowers. So, it was quite pleasing to find a few in the churchyard, enjoying the plentiful White Bryony that we encourage here.

The Marbled White butterflies have arrived! What a superb insect and there are good numbers of them around Staple. They need unimproved grassland and the Miller Woodland Trust site in Chalkpit Lane is an ideal site. The adult butterflies show a strong preference for purple flowers as this one is demonstrating by feeding on a Spear Thistle flower. Marbled White butterfly

The Red Admiral is another strong-flying migrant butterfly, making its way northwards from continental Europe on warm southerly airflows. There have been lots around the area in recent days, along with Painted Ladies which have arrived in huge numbers. Red Admiral

Lots of this rather striking plant around Staple. Most people walk past without a second glance but mention its name and.......................!&@!?** Hemlock (Conium maculatum)

Viper's Bugloss This huge, multi-stemmed Viper's Bugloss (Echium vulgare) plant in the churchyard is attracting lots of insects, especially Common Carder Bees that seem to love it. It adds a glorious splash of blue amongst the Ox-eye Daisies. Hopefully it'll seed and spread, it's a good plant to have in the mix. My first Humming-bird Hawk Moth of the year was also whizzing around today.

A Hairy Shield-bug (Dolycoris baccarum) in my front garden. Hairy Shield-bug