We had rather mixed and not especially summer-like weather here in Bristol during June 2024. But we still managed to spend a fair bit of time in the garden enjoying what little was about. As noted on our blog, the low numbers of just about all arthropod species has been a concern and something noted on several of the recording groups we have signed up to.
That said, we have managed to record a few new species and the return of many regular favourites. New arrivals include a species of spider belonging to the genus Clubiona. Some interesting records in the moth trap, including Clay Triple Lines (Cyclophora linearia) and Metalampra italica, a species first recorded in the UK only in 2003. Our third species of shield bug, the regal-looking Sloe Bug (Dolycoris baccarum), and a rather ferocious-looking nocturnal Ichneumon wasp belonging to the genus Ophion, were also recorded for the first time.
Plant wise we added Hedge Bedstraw (Galium album) and Salad Burnet (Sanguisorba minor) to our Garden Wildflowers as they finally decided to flower.
All the above species have been covered in our June Blog entries. One species we’ve failed to mention until now is an aquatic beetle belonging to the genus Helophorus, recorded on the 2nd June in our new wildlife pond. A genus otherwise known as Water Scavenger Beetles.
It just goes to show that even in poor years there are always new things to find. Of course it’s also great to see familiar species return and we do enjoy some of our close encounters with the natives, such as these two individuals below.
Wildlife Garden 