Tags
bees, British insects, climate breakdown, climate change, hoverflies, insects emerging early, spring in winter
For the second day in a row, places in north Wales have posted record high winter temperatures and, though a chilly breeze has kept things a bit cooler here in the south, it’s still much warmer than it should be. And these unseasonable highs have been responsible for the early awakening of much insect life. On today’s wander I spotted several hoverflies and bumblebees, a Brimstone butterfly flew past my house earlier, and the cherry tree outside my window has been buzzing with bees all day. It’s wonderful to see all these critters out and about again but it’s also a worry as winter’s probably not finished with us yet.
Some of the temperatures recorded this week are the highest ever encountered in February, so this is not just weather variation but a reflection of climate change. Why are we not doing something serious to counter this change?
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I wish I knew the answer, Philip. So many people seem to be in denial. I get really angry about it – tackled the Met Service about their lack of corporate responsibility on Twitter yesterday after seeing one of their ‘Yay, it’s hot!’ tweets, and I’m very supportive of the young people campaigning to raise awareness. The issue’s being debated in parliament as I type this, and I did email my MP urging him to attend.
… Sorry … once I get started …
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I saw a few brimstones yesterday, but that was when I was in Andover.
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On Twitter yesterday, there were reports from all over the southern parts of the country. 🙂
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I am worried by this weather!
I have been seeing Brimstones (male) too.
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It is something to worry about!
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PS it went by quicky but he thought it was a Red Admiral.
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This has happened every year since we’ve lived here (in mid-Wales) – but unfortunately it has always been followed by a very cold snap, so I should imagine we’ll get some snow or heavy rain before spring has properly arrived. I’ve also seen bees – and, of all things, my husband saw a butterfly a few days ago.
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Lots of butterflies being seen in England and Wales now – I saw my first on 28 January!
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Wow!
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