The Wildlife Trusts have been running a ‘30 days Wild in June’ programme and I have been taking part by writing down everything I spot whilst out on a walk, a bike ride, on the horse or just sitting in the garden. I am also wracking my brains in how I am going to construct a bigger bug hotel to go in my little woodland.

One week in early June was spent travelling across France staying in Burgundy and the Alps. As most of our species in Britain are European many are the same but some are more prolific such as Black Kites found near rivers, Dippers and Grey Wagtails or on the roof tops Redstarts and Black Redstarts or Painted Ladies (butterflies) on the lavender in gardens and more Bee Flies and Hummingbird Hawk moths etc.

However, I am pleased to know that many of the insects are also over here and have been seen by our wildlife watchers. The French wasps are smaller and more aggressive and I was quite surprised to see them making a nest in the open, on a tiny branch of a shrub, rather being sneaky like ours that nest under the eaves or in a disused vole hole. Also it has been reported in the UK that the insect splat rate on car windscreens has rapidly decreased over the last decade but we certainly seemed not to be able to see out of our car quite quickly in France, by the number of ex-bugs on the glass. The French government have put into place legislation that restricts the use of pesticides and chemicals, perhaps this is why there are more bugs about or is it the more frequent forested areas? Climate change is certainly happening across Europe with soaring temperatures and less summer rainfall and terrific winter storms.

I am pleased to report that my eucalyptus  although a foreign species, is in flowers again and is buzzing with bees, Hooray!                 

I have had wonderful reports from our local watchers; one discovering a common orchid in the wildflower meadow above Franklands plus a slow worm in their garden, first one spotted for years. Another spotting: a pair of nesting oyster catchers at the Wellington Quarry lakes alongside hearing many different warblers too. Someone else reported a young grass snake in their compost and another saw a full size grass snake crossing the road at the same area and helped it to the field on the way it was going. In early June the cuckoo had not changed his tune and was still in full call however many of our garden species of bird have fledged and we have all sorts of youngsters popping around trying to keep out of trouble. One young woodpecker flew into the back door and unfortunately succumbed to its injuries. The bird silhouettes are now on more windows.

Enjoy the summer and keep the 30+ days wild going and record what you have seen. It is amazing how much wild life is out there especially when you are quiet and stop look and listen whether in the garden or out and about. Let me know at the end of the summer what you have seen.

There are many exciting events going on at HWT and much to enjoy. Loads of reserves to visit. Many talks, walks events and information. Visit HQ at ‘Queenswood Arboretum’ or look at the website it is: www.herefordshirewt.org.uk . To contact Jess ring 01568797227 and leave a message or e-mail jessicatidball60@gmail.com    Jess Tidball June 2022