Bees, Butterflies, Moths and Bugs
Our Insects
Our insects are in trouble. It's so easy to not notice, but we need be worried: we depend on them.
UK children born in 2004 have seen a 64% decline in flying insects by the time they reach 18.
Since the 1970s, 80% of butterfly species have decreased in abundance or distribution or both. So sad to be losing their life-giving buzz, beauty and purpose around us.
These findings are from Bug Life's 'Bugs Matter' 2022 citizen science survey; download their full report (pdf).
What we are doing
Raising awareness and taking time to notice and enjoy them. Events so far have included:
Butterfly Walks. | |
Morning moth trap reveal get-togethers. Thanks to Chris Woods for sharing his knowledge. | |
Bug hunt and collage workshop (2023) at Colerne Primary with local artist Marian Hill; check out her website www.buzzandscuttle.com/. | |
This year's children's project will have the theme of butterflies and moths. Again joining forces with Colerne Primary school, there will be lots of fun looking for munching caterpillars and the adults in flight. Following on from last year's wildflower project, this year's focus will be on what the insects need in order to support their whole life cycle. Marion Hill will be doing a workshop on butterflies, moths and caterpillars, and we will be taking the children to look for them in the school grounds. | |
Insect information stalls and display boards. |
Can You Help?
- Are there dull spaces near you that could be transformed with some pollinator friendly planting - for our insects but also for us?
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Mow less often and use a higher cut.
- Leave a “wild area” to give our insects a bit of wild space, to feed, breed and complete their life cycles.
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Ditch the pesticides/herbicides!
