Buckinghamshire Bird Club will be hosting an Indoor Meeting Swifts, Their Lives and their Conservation on 6 April 2017 – 19:30 to 22:00 at Wendover Memorial Hall, Wendover (Lat/Long 51.7662 and -0.739901)
The presenter is Edward Mayer
Swifts, highlighting the challenges they face, including their spectacular migrations to Africa and back, plus providing information on ideas for action to help end their sad decline.
Click on this link for more information:
Meadow Brown by Peter Hassett, Grendon and Doddershall Woods. 12 July2013
Butterflies are often considered as opportunistic nectar consumers that visit a range of flower species. The degree of specialisation in foraging behaviour and flower choice may, however, vary considerably at the inter-specific level, from highly specialised to generalist species. In generalist nectar use, there can be intra-specific variation in the availability and use of floral resources (diversity and abundance) among different populations. Knowing the preferences of nectar-feeding butterflies can increase the understanding of ecological relationships and resource use and help in developing better strategies for butterfly conservation.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Flower use of the butterfly Maniola jurtina in nectar-rich and nectar-poor grasslands: a nectar generalist with a strong preference? – Lebeau – 2017 – Insect Conservation and Diversity – Wiley Online Library
It was around 1.6 billion years ago that a community of small, bright red, plantlike life-forms, flitting around in a shallow pool of prehistoric water, were etched into stone until the end of time. Or at least until a team of Swedish researchers chipped their fossilized remnants out of a sedimentary rock formation in central India.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Complex Life Could Be Vastly Older Than Thought – Scientific American
Kermit the Frog’s distant real-life cousin has just been discovered in the jungles of Costa Rica. The new species, Diane’s Bare-hearted Glassfrog (Hyalinobatrachium dianae), is most remarkable for its translucent underbelly (hence the name “glassfrog”) and its bulging white eyes, which look just like Kermit’s!
Source: Scientists Discover Real-Life Kermit The Frog In Costa Rica | Bored Panda
Much has been learned in recent years about the amazing migration of the Painted Lady. Sightings from 67 countries, including many from Butterfly Conservation members, have enabled scientists to plot the annual, multi-generational migratory cycle from North Africa in early spring, northwards across Europe during spring and summer, and then followed by southerly migration back, ultimately, to Africa.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Butterfly Conservation – Desert crossing for high flying butterfly
By the four chimneys of Battersea power station, between tower cranes and builders’ cabins, is an unobtrusive metal mast. At the top, a watchful figure looks down upon the 3,000 workers bustling around this vast £9bn construction site.
“Female,” says David Morrison, with a deft glance through his binoculars. “She’s protecting her nest site. There was an intruding female about half an hour ago.”
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Flying high: why peregrine falcons are kings of the urban jungle | Environment | The Guardian
Insects can solve problems creatively, less robotic than previously believed
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Bumble bees are surprisingly innovative | Science | AAAS
House Spider by Peter Hassett, Preston Montford 25 September 2016
It’s true that some spiders respond positively to the changes that we make to the environment. Warming temperatures in particular are likely to benefit the growth and development of spiders. We may also see larger spiders in areas like cities where there is lots of food for them, just like you see fat pigeons living off food waste.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Is there anything good about that spider in the corner of my room? | Lizzy Lowe | Opinion | The Guardian
The RSPB North Bucks Local Group are leading a field trip to Harrold Odell Country Park on 2 April 2017:
Location: SP 956 566. In the village of Harrold, Beds.
Postcode: MK43 7DS (Google map)A return visit to this delightful venue in Bedfordshire. Many of the paths are paved but the picturesque river meadow walk is not. There is an excellent café. Leader Chris Coppock.
Time: 10.00 am
Price: Small car park fee.
See the RSPB North Bucks Local Group website for more information
Tom August, Charles George, Paul Scholefield and France Gerard explain how new drone technology – like that used in the film industry – is elevating CEH’s remote sensing capabilities…Remote sensing is a core part of CEH’s activities. Traditionally this has included the use of kilometre to metre scale spatial data collected from sensors on board satellites or manned aircraft and the use of detailed field-based point or transect measurements from handheld sensors.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Science takes to the skies with ‘Hollywood-style’ remote sensing drone technology | Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
Tree Bumblebee at Howe Park Wood by Harry Appleyard 3Feb16
Honey bees are highly valued for their pollination services in agricultural settings, and recent declines in managed populations have caused concern.
Colony losses following a major pollination event in the United States, almond pollination, have been characterized by brood mortality with specific symptoms, followed by eventual colony loss weeks later.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: An Inert Pesticide Adjuvant Synergizes Viral Pathogenicity and Mortality in Honey Bee Larvae : Scientific Reports
Photographer Sam Hobson will make you see city birds as you’ve never seen them before.
Source: Check Out These Fantastic Photos of Birds in Urban Spaces | Audubon
Some moths use fruit of trees they pollinate as food for their larvae, but one East Asian moth matures within the fruit right until adulthood
Source: Plant keeps moths captive inside its fruits for almost a year | New Scientist
The National Trust is to go back to its roots after admitting it had lost sight of one of its core founding principles – to protect wildlife – in its quest to maintain country houses and estates
Source: National Trust returns to roots to reverse decline of threatened wildlife
Herald moth by Martin Kincaid, Manor Farm cellar
One major, yet poorly studied, change in the environment is nocturnal light pollution, which strongly alters habitats of nocturnally active species.
Artificial night lighting is often considered as driving force behind rapid moth population declines in severely illuminated countries.
To understand these declines, the question remains whether artificial light causes only increased mortality or also sublethal effects.
We show that moths subjected to artificial night lighting spend less time feeding than moths in darkness, with the shortest time under light conditions rich in short wavelength radiation. These findings provide evidence for sublethal effects contributing to moth population declines.
Because effects are strong under various types of light compared with dark conditions, the potential of spectral alterations as a conservation tool may be overestimated.
Therefore, restoration and maintenance of darkness in illuminated areas is essential for reversing declines of moth populations.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Artificial night lighting inhibits feeding in moths | Biology Letters
The proposal for the development at Linford Lakes of up to 250 houses will go before the Development Control Committee at the next Milton Keynes Council meeting on Thursday 30th March, 19:00 hrs at MK Council Offices.
Members of the general public are welcome to attend.
The Planning Officers have proposed that the application is rejected. Their 29 page summary is attached. The committee may choose to approve the plan, even though the Planning Officers recommend rejecting it.
There were objections from 48 residents, the Countryside Officer, the local Parish Councils and BBOWT & RSPB. Hopefully the work of these people and organisations will not be in vain and the planning committee will also reject the plans. If this is the case it may not be the last we hear from Templeview Developments but it may provide a breathing space to enable some protection to be placed on the site.
It would be a demonstration of the concern felt by MK residents, who know and love this site, if a good number of us could attend the meeting.
If you wish to speak at the meeting, in objection to the application, a request should be made to the Committee Manager, Dino Imbimbo, Committee Manager, on Tel: 01908 252458 or E-mail: dc-speaking-requests@milton-keynes.gov.uk in Democratic Services to arrive by 12 noon two clear working days before the meeting. Once the committee start the discussion of the plan no further public comments will be possible.
—
Jane Grisdale
FoLLNR Events Co-ordinator.
While most arachnophiles will likely find tiny spider dancers who can “swagger like Jagger” entertaining, it’s more than the dance that captures the fascination of one NSF-funded University of Cincinnati researcher.
It’s their ability to see color and the bright and bold color patterns on the male body parts that has Nate Morehouse, UC biologist, looking inside the many eyes of two groups of vividly coloured jumping spiders.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: When jumping spiders show their true colors, biologists look through the lens for the reasons
White patches on male collared flycatchers’ heads have been shrinking, as climate change mysteriously makes those with big patches less likely to survive
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Bird is evolving to be less flashy in response to global warming | New Scientist
Air pollution is having a devastating effect on Britain’s wild flowers by helping nettles, hogweed and other “thuggish” species turn the countryside into “monotonous green badlands”, major environmental groups have warned.
This topic has been covered by a number of Sources:
Pesticide is a threat to the environment and human health. Whether reducing pesticide would necessarily undermine crop productivity remains elusive. Analyses of data from 946 farms in France show that reducing pesticide rarely decreases productivity.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Reducing pesticide use while preserving crop productivity and profitability on arable farms : Nature Plants
Butterfly Conservation has today welcomed the prosecution of a collector found guilty of illegally catching and killing the UK’s rarest butterfly.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Butterfly Conservation – Collector convicted for illegally catching and killing the UK’s rarest butterfly
Picture of the first egg laid in 2017
You can find out more about the Aylesbury Peregrine Project and watch all the activity on the nest by using this link to their Web Cams.
Nymph of Roesel’s Bush Cricket by Paul Lund, Linford Lakes NR 16 June 2015
Monitoring biodiversity over large spatial and temporal scales is crucial for assessing the impact of global changes and environmental mitigation measures. However, large-scale monitoring of invertebrates remains poorly developed despite the importance of these organisms in ecosystem functioning. Exciting possibilities applicable to professional and citizen science are offered by new recording techniques and methods of semi-automated species recognition based on sound detection.
- Static broad-spectrum detectors deployed to record throughout whole nights have been recommended for standardised acoustic monitoring of bats, but they have the potential to also collect acoustic data for other species groups. Large-scale deployment of such systems is only viable when combined with robust automated species identification algorithms. Here we examine the potential of such a system for detecting, identifying and monitoring bush-crickets (Orthoptera of the family Tettigoniidae). We use incidental sound recordings generated by an extensive citizen science bat survey and recordings from intensive site surveys to test a semi-automated step-wise method with a classifier for assigning species identities. We assess species’ diel activity patterns to make recommendations for survey timing and interpretation of existing nocturnal data sets and consider the feasibility of determining site occupancy.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Potential for coupling the monitoring of bush-crickets with established large-scale acoustic monitoring of bats – Newson – 2017 – Methods in Ecology and Evolution – Wiley Online Library
Ten finalists capture the theme of ‘through young eyes’ in this young photographers’ competition that aims to engage youth around the world in wildlife conservation
Source: World Wildlife Day photography competition finalists | Environment | The Guardian
Exactly how tall is Mount Everest? That’s what scientists in India are trying to figure out.
This week, India’s surveyor general announced that the government is going to remeasure Mount Everest, in a bid to determine whether the world’s tallest peak shrank (or grew) following a devastating earthquake in 2015. The expedition is the first Indian survey of the mountain in more than 60 years, but experts say obtaining an accurate measurement will be a tall order, and determining the earthquake’s effect on it may be even tougher.
Click this link to read the rest of the article: This expedition is trying to find out if the tallest mountain in the world shrank – The Verge
Research finds that though nestboxes can be useful, they offer a different environment to natural tree cavities.
At current rates of deforestation, rainforests will vanish altogether in a century. Stopping climate change will remain an elusive goal unless poor nations are helped to preserve them
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: We are destroying rainforests so quickly they may be gone in 100 years | John Vidal | Global Development Professionals Network | The Guardian
Great White Egret and Little Egret by Harry Appleyard, Floodplain Forest NR 23 August 2016
Ian Saunders has produced another of his excellent guides, this time he describes the Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve which was formerly known as Manor Farm.
Click here to visit the page in the Wildlife Sites section of this website.
House Spider by Peter Hassett, Preston Montford 25 September 2016
Australia has an incredible diversity of native spiders, including the potentially lethal funnel-web, the ubiquitous huntsman, and the charming peacock spider. Only two can be deadly for humans – the funnel-web and redback spiders – and we have antivenom for both.
Found all across the country, spiders play an important role in the environment as generalist predators. Increasingly, their venom is being used to develop novel human therapeutics and to create new, selective, sustainable insecticides.
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A review of the global threats to the world’s Numeniini (curlews, godwits & Upland Sandpiper) has just been published. It does not make for good reading. It is estimated that hundreds of thousa…
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Why are we losing our large waders? | wadertales
Rock and Fossil Day – Bucks County Museum 25 March 2017
Rock and Fossil day at the County Museum, on Saturday 25th March. It’s a free event, 11am – 3pm and fabulous opportunity to meet group members, bring in your mystery finds to see if we know what they are (no promises on that!) and to find out a bit more about Buckinghamshire’s deep and mysterious past. Suitable for adults and children alike, and a good family activity in the main museum itself which is always worth a wider visit.
Linford Lakes Nature Reserve is presenting a talk:
Prof. Jeff Ollerton will be talking at LLNR Wed 5th April on
‘Darwin’s Unrequited Isle: a personal natural history of Tenerife’
£2.50, doors 7.15pm for 7.30pm. Refreshments, raffle.
Today, the South African Department of Environmental Affairs announced that in 2016 1,054 rhinos were reported killed in the country. This is a decline from 1,215 in 2014 and 1,175 in 2015.
Enhanced enforcement efforts in the Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s biggest wildlife reserves and home to the world’s largest population of white rhino, also resulted in a decline in the number of rhinos killed. The number fell from 826 in 2015 to 662 in 2016 (a 20 per cent reduction) despite an increase in the number of reported incursions in the 19 500km2 park.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Latest official poaching figures show that South Africa is still losing three rhinos a day | WWF
When working with Icelandic farmers to conserve internationally important wader populations, a shared understanding of beneficial practises may be more important than financial incentives. Species …
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Do Iceland’s farmers care about wader conservation? | wadertales
LED street lighting can be tailored to reduce its impacts on the environment, according to new research by the University of Exeter.
The UK-based study found predatory spiders and beetles were drawn to grassland patches lit by LED lighting at night, but the number of species affected was markedly reduced when the lights were dimmed by 50% and switched off between midnight and 4am.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Featured news – LED lighting could have major impact on wildlife – University of Exeter
South Beds. Wildlife Trust Local Group are hosting a talk entitled ‘Talking Trees’ on Wednesday, 22 March 2017 at Dunstable Community Fire Station Lecture Theatre at 7.30pm. Please note: doors open 7.15pm.
Click on this link for more information
Most birds sense when their clutch is complete via tactile stimulation of their brood patch, the featherless area on their bellies that warms the eggs. But there is evidence that some species count their eggs by sight.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Do birds count the eggs in their nests? | Discover Wildlife
Buckinghamshire Fungus Group (BFG) are hosting a Fungi walk in Finemere Wood 19 March 2017.
Details of the event can be found here.
Please note that, if you are not a member of BFG, you are asked to contact Penny Cullington if you would like to attend any meetings.
OPen Sunday at Linford Lakes NR 19 March 2017 10:00-16:00hrs.
Bring friends and family and explore the reserve.
Come and see returning birds.
Refreshments, home-made cakes and facilities available
Crafts, second-hand books and bird seed for sale.
Viewing gallery open, also display of wildlife.
France has passed a new law to ensure all plastic cups, cutlery and plates can be composted and are made of biologically-sourced materials. The law, which comes into effect in 2020, is part of the Energy Transition for Green Growth – an ambitious plan that aims to allow France to make a more effective contribution to tackling climate change. Although some ecologists’ organisations are in favour of the ban, others argue that it has violated European Union rules on free movement of goods.
Source: France bans plastic cups, plates and cutlery | The Independent
The RSPB North Bucks Local Group are leading a field trip to RSPBNBLG Walk – Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve on Wolverton 18 March 2017:
Location: Map ref SP 816 421. Not our usual car park, which always seems too small for the numbers attending, but the one off the Haversham Road at the eastern end of the reserve.
Another visit to this excellent reserve on the northern edge of Milton Keynes, formerly called Manor Farm and much improved by the MK Parks Trust with new paths and 3 hides. Leader Brian Pratt.
Time: 10.00 am
Price: Free
See the RSPB North Bucks Local Group website for more information
Cowslip by Peter Hassett, Newton Bromswold 17 April 2016
We are doing Saturday mornings from 10 – 1 ish….. Tools provided … and lots of levels of strenuous-ness catered for …
Heat exhaustion not predicted ! unlike our event of last summer….My mobile no is 0777 243 7930Who will spot the first cowslip of 2017?Jenny Mercer
Butterfly Conservation have produced a collection of species factsheets and habitat downloads can be used to provide an overview on species ecology, assist with species identification and advise on best practice management for specific species and habitats.
Click on the link for more information: Butterfly Conservation – Butterfly Factsheets
The song and behaviour of the UK’s favourite bird is being affected by light and noise pollution, a study reveals.
Source: Light pollution dampens urban robins’ song – BBC News
Rooks mobbing Short-eared Owl by Harry Appleyard, Tattenhoe 19 October 2016
Dive bombing a much larger bird isn’t just a courageous act by often smaller bird species to keep predators at bay. It also gives male birds the chance to show off their physical qualities in order to impress females. This is according to a study in Springer’s journal Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology on predator mobbing behavior of birds where potential prey approach and harass would-be predators such as owls. The study was led by Filipe Cunha of the University of Zurich in Switzerland and the Federal University of Ouro Preto in Brazil.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Birds of a feather mob together
BMERC has been asked by the Bucks Geology Group to circulate information about an event which is happening this week at The Museum Resource Centre, Halton. NB this is part of Bucks County Museum but for those wishing to come it is not the main public galleries in Aylesbury; it is in fact near Wendover, in Halton Village, about 5 miles further south.
The speaker rarely gets into Bucks so the group are extremely please to have managed to secure a talk from him on a section of the south coast which many of us may be familiar with. See attached poster for details. For those who can’t open the poster the key details are:-
- The event is from 7:15 – approximately 8:30 in the evening.
- Thursday 9th March
- Bucks County Museum Resource Centre, Rowborough Road, off Tring Road, Halton. HP22 5PL.
- Free event but spaces strictly limited.
Please note booking is essential – and should be done by contacting Mike Palmer either by telephone on 01296 325223 or by email mpalmer@buckscountymuseum.org
Julia Carey
Environmental Records Centre Manager
Historic and Natural Environment Team
Transport, Economy and Environment
Green Shieldbug (Palomena prasina) by Peter Hassett, Old Warden Tunnel NR, 21 September 2016
The British Heteroptera checklist has been revised.
View the checklist here: Checklist of UK Heteroptera
Ravens over Whaddon (23rd July)
The British Trust for Ornithology has released a video to help you tell the difference between Crows, Choughs, Jackdaws, Rooks and Ravens
A growing body of evidence suggests neonics threaten the health of honey bees. But some argue there’s not enough evidence to justify an outright ban
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Is America’s most common pesticide responsible for killing our bees? | Guardian Sustainable Business | The Guardian
Red-Tailed Bumblebee by Harry Appleyard, Tattenhoe 11 April 2016
The British Trust for Ornithology have produced a report on their recent research
The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) is the UK’s leading independent research organisation studying birds and their habitats, with considerable expertise in the design and implementation of monitoring and research projects, from intensive studies to extensive surveys. The BTO also collects, analyses and shares information on other taxa, both through its core monitoring schemes and through the other projects with which it is involved, often working in partnership.
One of the great strengths of the BTO is its volunteer networks, and the organisation’s expertise in working with and supporting volunteers delivers valuable monitoring outputs across a broad range of taxa, from deer and butterflies through to bats and bush-crickets. Many of those interested in birds and birdwatching are also interested in other wildlife, and the BTO recognises the contribution that its volunteers can make to our knowledge of habitats and wildlife.
Lesser Spotted Woodpecker numbers have declined considerably here in recent years, and this bird is now on the UK red list. The reasons for this decline are not fully understood, but RSPB research has suggested that the birds have not been breeding successfully but it is not clear whether this is a widespread problem.
In the last few years since the completion of the RSPB project very few lesser spotted woodpecker nests have been reported and monitored. However, two conservationists, Ken and Linda Smith, are now aiming to help bird watchers rectify this. With over 30 years experience of monitoring woodpecker nests they are hoping to build up a clearer picture of where the birds are and how well they are breeding. They began their research in 2015, and so far have been able to follow 10 nests each year, finding out whether the woodpeckers are successfully raising their young. In 2017 they hope to be able to study more.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Birders asked to help find Lesser Spotted Woodpecker nests, #ornithology news via @RareBirdAlertUK
An international team of scientists uncovered the first molecular evidence indicating that dung beetles evolved in association with dinosaurs. The findings place the origin of dung beetles (Scaraba…
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Dung Beetles Evolved in Association with Dinosaurs, New Research Suggests – Entomology Today
A successful restoration project on the Swindale Beck River provides an ideal habitat for breeding fish.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Meandering river in Cumbria attracts spawning salmon | Discover Wildlife
Over the next three winters, a new study focusing on Blackcaps wintering in Britain and Ireland will help reveal how novel migratory changes arise and spread. The study will look at genetic and morphological differences between breeding populations and migration strategies, as well as investigate aspects of wintering behaviour, movements and survival of individuals wintering in Britain.
Source: BTO Bird Ringing – ‘Demog Blog’
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iRecord Butterflies is a free app that will guide you through the identification of any butterfly that you see in the UK and allow you to add your sighting to millions of other valuable records that inform the work of Butterfly Conservation.
Click here for more information: Butterfly Conservation – iRecord Butterflies
Paul Duff, APHA Veterinary Investigation Officer, talks about how he volunteered to help Butterfly Conservation in their project to save the marsh fritillary butterfly in Northern England.
Source: Rare butterfly helped along by APHA Penrith | APHA science
Emperor Dragonfly, Stonepit Field, 15Jul14, Peter Hassett
Whilst ambling along your favourite riverside walk there’s nothing like the colourful glimpse of a dragonfly to tell you that summer is well and truly here. And though these vibrant insects might feel like a familiar sight, there’s plenty you may not know about them. Here’s a handful of facts that might make you see these winged wonders in a different light.
Click here to read the rest of the article.: BBC Blogs – Springwatch – Five things you didn’t know about dragonflies
Increased numbers of sea lice in farmed salmon could affect wild fish too.
Source: Wild fish at risk from salmon farms | Discover Wildlife
The much-loved creature of the suburban garden is in rapid decline – with new builds, roads and badgers to blame. Can we prevent their extinction?
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Apocalypse hedgehog: the fight to save Britain’s favourite mammal | Environment | The Guardian
Black-headed Gull by Peter Hassett Caldecotte Lake 29 December 2016
New research has shown a population of large gulls on a Scottish island declined sharply as the fish catch landed by the local fishing fleet fell.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: BTO: Hebridean gull decline linked to loss of fishing discards
Twin-spotted Quaker by Gordon Redford taken at Linford Lakes NR 03Apr15
The early spring period is just round the corner, and for many mothers this is one of the most exciting times of the year, especially after a long winter of rather extreme weather with only a few windows of trapping opportunity.
Following the very cold early winter of 2010–11 there was a bumper crop of macro-moths in March and April of that spring. The majority of these consisted of noctuids in the genus Orthosia. A cold second half to this winter could trigger another good emergence if the temperatures rise quickly in March.
This time last year we dealt with Challenging Chestnuts using a selection of images to illustrate variations among this tricky species duo. This year we will look at the range of Orthosias and observe some routine moths and later, some variations and potential pitfalls along the way.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Moths of the season: Spring Quakers and Drabs, Part I
The RSPB North Bucks Local Group are hosting a talk:
Location: Cruck Barn, City Discovery Centre, Bradwell Abbey, Milton Keynes
Postcode: MK13 9AP (Google map)
As Biodiversity Officer for the Trust, Martin Kincaid is perfectly placed to give us an insight into how they are conserving wildlife. In particular, he’ll be telling us about the Floodplain Forest reserve, which he believes is “the most exciting habitat creation scheme in Milton Keynes’ young history.Time: Doors open 7.15 pm for a prompt 7.45 pm start
Price: Group members £2.50, Non-Group members £3.50, Children £1
See the RSPB North Bucks Local Group website for more information
A decade ago, scientists first detected fast radio bursts (FRB). They’re so-called because they’re incredibly powerful bursts of radio signals, but they’re extremely short-lived: a few milliseconds in length. Last year, scientists finally managed to catch one happening in real-time. And now we’ve managed to pinpoint where a repeating signal – FRB 121102 – is coming from. What is causing it is still open to speculation.
Source: Scientists pinpoint location of unexplained space radio signals | Alphr
BloomsForBees has produced a video detailing how to identify the seven most common bumblebees in the UK.
Click on the play button to watch the video
Work Sunday at Linford Lakes NR on 5 March 2017 10:00-13:00hrs.
Refreshments available. Clearing Reeds, clearing paths. Help needed.
Song Thrush by Harry Appleyard, Howe Park Wood 30 April 2016
In recent years, a number of Society members have expressed an interest in learning how to identify bird species by sound. Here at last is the opportunity!
A three-part introductory course aimed at Milton Keynes Natural History Society members in April/Mary 2017. Each session will be based at Linford Lakes Nature Reserve and we will also include a visit to nearby Little Linford Wood. By the end of the course attendees should be able to:
• Recognise up to 20 bird species by song alone.
• Distinguish between full bird song and other vocalisations.
• Improve their listening skills.
The course will be delivered by Society Members Peter Garner and Martin Kincaid. There will be no charge for this training course. To reserve a place, or for more information, please contact Martin at mkincaid1971@outlook.com
Common Frogs by Harry Appleyard, Howe Park Wood, March 2016 (Short-listed in Countryfile 2016 Competition)
Biosecurity for everyone
Everyone visiting a water body is responsible for helping to avoid the spread of non-native species on their clothes, equipment and everything else that comes into contact with water.
This guidance sets out simple instructions that can help everyone prevent the accidental transfer of non-native species.
Click on the link for more information: Biosecurity for everyone – Check, Clean, Dry – GB non-native species secretariat
“In 1795, the renowned naturalist Gilbert White observed that the first celandines usually appeared in his Hampshire village of Selborne on the 21st February. A hundred years later, exactly the same average date was observed…”
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Plantlife :: Have you seen a Celandine?
NASA has released the first photos from their new weather satellite and they’re stunning shots of the earth.
Click this link for more information: New NASA Satellite Captures Beautifully Detailed Images Of Earth
Winner. Hoverflies by Mark Strutton. 3 July 2016
Congratulations to the winners of the 2017 Photo Competition.
You can see the winning and shortlisted entries in the Gallery or by clicking here.
If anyone can remember the eight shortlisted entry, please let me know using this link.
Buckinghamshire Bird Club will be hosting an Field Trip on 5 March 2017 – 9:30 to 16:00 to Elmley National Nature Reserve, Elmley (Lat/Long 51.3772 and 0.783506)
Raptors, waders and seabirds.
Meet RSPB/NNR Car Park; TQ937678 Post Code ME12 3RN
Click on the link for more information:
Chemicals banned in the 1970s have been found in the deepest reaches of the ocean, according to a new study.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Banned chemicals persist in deep ocean – BBC News
Yellow Dung fly by Peter Hassett, Whipsnade Zoo, 6 September 2016
Flies have some of the most elaborate visual systems in the Insecta, often featuring large, sexually dimorphic eyes with specialized “bright zones” that may have a functional role during mate-seeking behavior. The fast visual system of flies is considered to be an adaptation in support of their advanced flight abilities. Here, we show that the immense processing speed of the flies’ photoreceptors plays a crucial role in mate recognition.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Flirting on the ‘fly:’ what blow flies can tell us about attraction, dating apps — ScienceDaily
It has been 400 years since Britain was home to beavers. Now they have returned, and they are rapidly proving their worth
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: BBC – Earth – Beavers are back in the UK and they will reshape the land
There is something primally horrifying about a spider or insect attacking and eating a furry or feathered animal. But this unsettling event happens all the time
Source: BBC – Earth – Monstrous spiders and centipedes that prey on large animals
Bluebells by Alan Piggott taken in Kings Wood across the road from Stockgrove Park car park.
We are running day courses for a number of different invertebrates species, including earthworms, moths and butterflies. As well as flower courses and a course on chalk streams.
An illustration shows the view from just above one of the middle planets in the TRAPPIST-1 star system, which is now known to host seven Earth-size worlds. ILLUSTRATION BY M. KORNMESSER, SPACEENGINE.ORG/ESO
The Earth-size worlds orbit a star just 39 light-years away, and most may have the right conditions to host liquid water on their surfaces.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Seven Alien ‘Earths’ Found Orbiting Nearby Star
Flounced Rustic Moth: light trap, garden ©Ian Saunders, Stoke Goldington 5 August 2018
The national E-moth newsletter Jan 2017 is out. Some fascinating statistics from it:There are now 20.9 million macro-moth records in the NMRS database; 621,587 more records than we reported in Se
Buckinghamshire Bird Club will be hosting an Indoor Meeting – Black, White & Gold in Finland on 2 March 2017 – 19:30 to 22:00 at Wendover Memorial Hall, Wendover.
Click on this link for more information
The RSPB North Bucks Local Group are leading a field trip to Draycote Water, Warwickshire on 1 March 2017:
Location: Map ref SP 463 691
Near Dunchurch, just south of Coventry, at the main car park.
Postcode: CV23 8AB (Google map)This is yet another new location for us. It is a 630 acre reservoir with a flat paved path all round. The bird list for 2016 (up to mid-May) covers 137 species. Leader Brian Lloyd.
Time: 10.00 am
Price: Free
See the RSPB North Bucks Local Group website for more information
Whether stubby, slender, spoon-shaped, flattened or sharply pointed, bird beaks can be highly specialized, and now, researchers have found that some even have built-in AC.
For the first time, scientists were able to image tiny structures inside nasal cavities in song sparrow beaks. These structures function like air conditioning units, cooling airflow during breathing and helping to reclaim moisture in dry habitats.
Previous studies have examined the role that beaks’ sizes and shapes play in regulating birds’ body temperatures, and how certain bill types are linked to particular climates. But far less was known about how beaks’ internal structures were involved
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Bird Beaks Are Cooler Than You Think — Literally
Small White Tattenhoe Park Harry Appleyard 14th October 2016
Over the course of 20 years, 28 species of butterfly in urban and countryside environments were monitored and the results are a cause for concern.
In rural areas, butterfly numbers declined by 45%, while in urban environments, a 69% decrease occurred.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Butterflies face a sharp decline in urban areas | Discover Wildlife
Red-Tailed Bumblebee by Harry Appleyard, Tattenhoe 11 April 2016
Many flowers are attractive to bees, with different types of bee varying in their particular preferences. In particular, long-tongued bumblebees such as Bombus hortorum tend to favour deep flowers, and of course short-tongued bumblebees such as Bombus terrestris prefer shallow flowers. Sometimes short-tongued bees rob deep flowers by biting a hole in the side of the flower so they can reach the nectar.
In general herbs and cottage garden perennials are good, and annual bedding plants are best avoided (because they have been intensively bred and have often lost their rewards or become so mishapen that insects cannot get in to them – also, many have been drenched in insecticides).
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: The best garden flowers for bees : Resources : Goulson Lab : School of Life Sciences : University of Sussex
Poster – Wildlife in Milton Keynes talk 13 March 2017
Stony Stratford in Bloom have arranged a talk in Stony Stratford Library on Monday 13 March 2017 at 7 p.m., when Martin Kincaid of the Milton Keynes Parks Trust will speak on ‘Wildlife in Milton Keynes (focusing on Ouse Valley Park)‘.
Wine, juice and cake will be provided after the talk. For tickets, contact Judy Deveson at judith.deveson@gmail.com or on 01908-562876.
Tickets are free of charge, but donations will be requested on the night to cover costs.
Nymph of Roesel’s Bush Cricket by Paul Lund, Linford Lakes NR 16 June 2015
Experts assessed the conservation status of grasshopper, cricket and bush-cricket species found across Europe for a IUCN report.
They discovered that more than 25 per cent of the 1,082 species studied were at risk of extinction due to intensive agriculture, wildfires and tourism development.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Grasshoppers and crickets are in trouble | Discover Wildlife
Bee by Paul Lund. Taken in Paul’s garden using two flash guns to freeze motion.
Research on urban insect pollinators is changing views on the biological value and ecological importance of cities.
The abundance and diversity of native bee species in urban landscapes that are absent in nearby rural lands evidence the biological value and ecological importance of cities and have implications for biodiversity conservation.
Lagging behind this revised image of the city are urban conservation programs that historically have invested in education and outreach rather than programs designed to achieve high-priority species conservation results.
We synthesized research on urban bee species diversity and abundance to determine how urban conservation could be repositioned to better align with new views on the ecological importance of urban landscapes. Due to insect pollinators’ relatively small functional requirements—habitat range, life cycle, and nesting behavior—relative to larger mammals, we argue that pollinators put high-priority and high-impact urban conservation within reach. In a rapidly urbanizing world, transforming how environmental managers view the city can improve citizen engagement and contribute to the development of more sustainable urbanization.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: The city as a refuge for insect pollinators – Hall – 2017 – Conservation Biology – Wiley Online Library
The first ever European Red List of Habitats reviews the current status of all natural and semi-natural terrestrial, freshwater and marine habitats and highlights the pressures they face.
Using a modified version of the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems categories and criteria, it covers the EU28, plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and the Balkan countries and their neighbouring seas. Over 230 terrestrial and freshwater habitats were assessed.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Red List of Habitat Types – Nature – Environment – European Commission
Common Toad by Harry Appleyard, Howe Park Wood 23 March 2016
Toads spend the winter underground.
They use their back legs to ‘knead’ their bodies into the soil, submerging themselves completely when the days get shorter and nights turn colder.
There is increasing concern that this could pose problems for the animals in milder conditions.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: How do warm winters affect hibernating toads? | Discover Wildlife
Tom.bio has been working with moth trap designer Paul Palmer to produce a series of short films, designed to accompany his book ‘How to Build Your Own Moth Trap’. Paul has designed a low cost, lightweight and highly portable moth trap which can be easily built at home using household tools and a few bits of specialist equipment.
Source: How to build your own moth trap – video guides | Tomorrow’s Biodiversity
Active Hedgehogs were being seen in gardens well into December, according to reports from the British Trust for Ornithology’s weekly Garden BirdWatch (BTO GBW) scheme. Volunteer Garden BirdWatchers reported more Hedgehogs in November and December than in previous years.
Before the onset of winter Hedgehogs are busy foraging for earthworms and insects to gain plentiful fat reserves. These reserves are crucial for surviving during their hibernation, which is normally from November to March. However, timing of hibernation varies between individuals and depends on weather conditions. This year results from Garden BirdWatch show that more Hedgehogs were active later in the year than usual, likely as a result of mild weather.Click on the link to read the rest of the articleWhy are you still awake? Rise in Hedgehog sightings due to late start to winter | BTO – British Trust for Ornithology
Tadpoles and Sticklebacks by Harry Appleyard, Howe Park Wood 23 May 2016
Julia Carey of the Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Environmental Records Centre has asked for help to record frog and toad spawn.
We have been asked by the Freshwater Habitats Trust (Pond Action or Pond Conservation Trust for those of us who have known them a while…) to forward information on this year’s survey effort for frog and toad spawn. See below and attachments for information. Looks simple, and even the BMERC staff can manage this one!
If anyone has trouble opening the forms can they let us know at erc@buckscc.gov.uk and we will see if we can get a different version for you. If needed, I’m sure we can also print some paper copies for those who aren’t happy to record straight onto the web. The data will be collected direct by the FWHT, and once considered like other Record Centres we will welcome a copy of it back to local centres so whatever you capture will be back in Bucks later. No need to copy us in. NB for those not in Bucks, it doesn’t matter, the survey is national.
Given how warm and sunny it is today this may be of use sooner rather than later.
Happy recording.
Julia Carey
PondNet Spawn Survey 2017 Recording Form
PondNet Spawn Survey 2017 PosterClick on this link for more information on the survey: PondNet Spawn Survey 2017
Since the website was launched, we have posted details of recent sightings of wildlife in the Milton Keynes area. These sightings have been published as weekly news items called “What’s About”.
Our members have said that they would prefer a single page with all sightings, rather than the individual weekly news items.
From January 2017, we have introduced a new page on the website called “Recent Sightings”. You can access the page from the menu at the top – choose “News”, then “Recent Sightings”. There is also a quick link in the right hand sidebar under the Magpie logo called “Click Here For Recent Sightings”.
Sightings are listed in date order with the most recent at the top of the list.
We hope you like this change. Please send your sightings and photos to sightings@mknhs.org.uk so that we can share them with everyone interested in wildlife in the Milton Keynes area.
The new sightings mailbox has been added to the contact form on the contact us page.
The winter months are normally a busy time for Blue Tits in our gardens. However, the latest figures from the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) show that numbers are down, probably due to a wet summer.
During the winter months a lack of food in the wider countryside encourages both adult and juvenile Blue Tits into gardens, to make use of feeders. However, this November BTO Garden BirdWatchers reported the lowest numbers of Blue Tits in gardens since 2003, thought to be due to a lack of young birds this year.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Blue Tits missing from gardens after washout summer | BTO – British Trust for Ornithology
Male Wigeon by Harry Appleyard, Emerson Valley 3 February 2017
Linford Lakes NR is hosting an evening presentation on Wednesday 22nd February 2017. Doors open at 19:15hrs for 19:30hrs start.
“Waders, their conservation and inspirational qualities”.
Given by:- Rick Simpson of Wader Quest.
Come and learn of Ricks passion for there lovely birds.Friends and family welcome. £2:00 per adult.
Robin by Peter Hassett, College Lake 29 December 2016
Join volunteer Mike Bird on a walk to discover the wildlife of neighbouring Rammamere Heath – a site of Special Scientific Interest managed by The Greensand Trust on behalf of landowner Tarmac – and Kings Wood. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult – warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended. The walk is funded by Natural England under Higher Level Stewardship Park and meet at the Stockgrove entrance – £2 car parking fee applies
Click on the link for more information: Discover the birds and wildlife of Rammamere Heath and Kings Wood Tickets, Tue, 21 Feb 2017 at 10:00 | Eventbrite
The State of Britain’s Hedgehogs report is the definitive assessment of how hedgehogs populations are fairing in Britain, across rural and urban areas.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: State of Britain’s Hedgehogs 2015 – Peoples Trust for Endangered SpeciesPeoples Trust for Endangered Species
Robin by Peter Hassett, College Lake 29 December 2016
National Nest Box Week takes place each year from 14-21 February, and after more than 15 years it is now an established part of the ornithological calendar.
NNBW aims to encourage everyone to put up nest boxes in their local area in order to promote and enhance biodiversity and conservation of our breeding birds and wildlife.
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: National Nest Box Week | BTO – British Trust for Ornithology
Logs tend to get all the headlines when it comes to giving nature a home with deadwood, but I’m here to shout out for the humble stick. On its own, it may not be much, but with a load of its friends, it can make a great habitat.
Source: Let’s get sticky! – Gardening for wildlife – Homes for Wildlife – The RSPB Community
Athayde Tonhasca suggests that there is more to the sexton beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides than meets the eye. If you go for a stroll in the woods now and then, you may have come across a dead bird…
Click on the link to read the rest of the article: Species of the month: the sexton beetle | Scotland’s Nature
