This summer’s weather has been very inconsistent, to say the least. Summer certainly took a long time to get going, and lots of insects were conspicuous by their absence.
Still, many small animals, not so dependent on fine, settled weather, are out there in abundance, several of which you can find well into late summer and even into autumn.
In your garden, look for the distinctive Devil’s Coach-horse, our largest rove beetle; its larvae gorge themselves on all sorts of prey, including slugs. As it’s been so wet, I expect these beetles will have a real bumper year.
Likewise, if we have a decent spell of late, warm weather, keep your eyes peeled for Comma butterflies, which have two broods a year and have made a spectacular comeback from a precipitous decline in the 20th century.
Red Admiral butterflies can be seen on the wing right into November if conditions allow, feeding on rotting fruit and what nectar sources remain.
Ivy is one of the last nectar sources available. An ivy-clad fence, wall or tree in full late summer or autumn sun will be buzzing with all manner of insects.
Look out for the Footballer Hoverfly, it’s snazzy thoracic markings redolent of a football strip, and the Ivy Bee, which continues to expand through the UK at pace.
And should you find the Blister Beetle that parasitises this bee, I’ll happily buy you a drink!
