After a relentlessly wet start to the year, it has been nice to experience some sunnier weather. Insects have taken advantage of the warmer bright days, certain queen bumblebees and Brimstone butterflies (Gonepteryx rhamni) have been flitting about. Hibernating 7 spot ladybirds (Coccinella septempunctata) were getting together as well, should see some juveniles predating pests early in the season.
In gardens, a few things have shown themselves early on too, black spot fungal issues along with scale insects; all helped with the warmer climate and weather we’ve had so far this year.
It feels like a long time since snow drops first burst from the ground in February; their white blooms are now replaced with the yellows and purples of crocuses and daffodils. White flowers now edge roads with clouds of Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) filling hedgerows. Even the pink blossom of cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera) trees, together with Camelias in gardens are blooming too. Meteorological spring has definitely spung in the last week and it has lifted my spirits.
Bee in the Moment 