Two new insect species from Clive Knight: a flesh fly identified by Ian Bushell, our entomologist, as Sarcophaga carnaria, and a day-flying moth, Camptogramma bilineata, called yellow shell for the beautful striped pattern on its wings.
Clive found both specimens in hedges, the flesh fly in the hedge between Kestrel Field and Cornfield (I have marked it with a blue cross on the map) and the yellow shell in the hedge alongside the central path near Puddle Corner (a green cross). The adult forms of both the yellow shell and, despite its name, the flesh fly are nectar feeders, attracted to the flowers in the hedges.
Clive writes:
The reserve’s hedgerows are looking really lush and green despite the dry conditions. If the warm sunny weather persists it could be the right year for spotting insects. The hedges are full of dog roses, honeysuckle, spindle and bramble all out in flower and in places that are sheltered from the breeze, attracting many insects. I find that if you just take a bit of time and really look into the hedges they are buzzing with life at this time of year.
Thanks Clive.
Southwick Country Park Nature Reserve 