Professor P.Brain's blog

Seeing the Changes 447

2012-01-27T16:10:00.000Z

Changeable weather again and the catkins were emerging on Goat willow (Salix capra) in Bynea.

The Problem of Being Large

2012-01-26T11:33:00.000Z

It is not only big animals that have survival problems, as a recent study by Professor William Laurence of James Cook University has suggested that big trees are currently more at risk (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/jan/26/giant-trees-dying?INTCMP=SRCH ). In the past, substantial trees seemed to be relatively resistant to environmental pressures but forest fragmentation appears to make them more vulnerable than their smaller counterparts.

TT Tested?

2012-01-20T19:07:00.000Z

Yet more disturbance for the birds of Swansea Bay (part of which is a SSSI) with a plan to have 2 days (3rd and 4th of March) of motorcycle racing on the beach from the University to the Marriot hotel (http://visitswanseabay.com/index.cfm?articleid=47495 ). The intention might well be "...to bring this event to Swansea for the benefit of everyone" but it is difficult to predict what effect the disturbance is likely to have on feeding shorebirds. The effects could be relatively long term.

Baywatch

2012-01-20T10:21:00.000Z

I had hoped that the enthusiasm for converting coal under Swansea Bay in to gas had faded but the process is back in the news (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-16580702). The proponents are now trying to sell the idea as a 'greenish' form of energy production (along with wind power etc). As far as I understand it, however, the process has some similarities to the 'fracking' of shales to 'liberate' contained oil (with attendant risks of environmental contamination and even the generation of minor earthquakes). Even if potential problems can be mitigated, it does seem ill-advised to drill in an area frequented by porpoises, dolphins and migratory seabirds.

Seeing the Changes 446

2012-01-19T17:30:00.001Z

In Penclacwydd, there were Red campion (Silene dioica) in bloom.

Birder's Bonus 103

2012-01-17T15:47:00.000Z

A Great spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) on my peanuts in Loughor!

Spring or Winter?

2012-01-12T10:37:00.000Z

Readers will have noted the frequent recent references in this blog to unusually timed appearances of animals and plants this year. I have also been struck (as have others) by the early morning calls of birds (Blackbirds displaying territorial vocal displays as daylight appears). There have been national attempts to 'collect' such information by using the web (including, the very apposite for this case, 'Twitter'). It has been pointed out (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/jan/11/mild-winter-natural-world?intcmp=122) that organisms could be reacting as if the prevailing conditions are a) an early Spring or b) a Winter that has, thus far, failed to arrive. The first alternative appears more likely (and it may not last) but the latter can't be ruled out. It is even possible that different organisms are 'seeing' conditions differently.

Seeing the Changes 445

2012-01-11T15:14:00.000Z

Common ragwort (Senecio jacobaeae) in flower at Blackpill.

Seeing the Changes 444

2012-01-09T17:22:00.000Z

Another strange combination of sightings in Bynea. Bramble (Rubus fructicosus) and swarming midges (Chironomus plumosus) were seen together.

Birder's Bonus 102

2012-01-09T16:45:00.000Z

Got a nice shot of a female Blackbird (Turdus merula) eating berries at Mumbles.

Seeing the Changes 443

2012-01-08T12:35:00.001Z

Yet more signs of an early Spring in Loughor. Herb Bennet (Geum urbanum) was in flower and a bright green Speckled wood (Pararge aegeria) chrysalis promised flight.

Seeing the Changes 442

2012-01-07T17:37:00.000Z

The disruptions to the timing of local flowers continue to be evident in Loughor. Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) were in bloom but Hydrangeas were also out in the garden.

Seeing the Changes 441

2012-01-03T16:33:00.000Z

It was extremely windy in Loughor, resulting in some of the local trees having to be 'helped' to the ground. The aftermath was quite impressive but fallen wood is beneficial to both fungi and a number of beetle species.

Seeing the Changes 440

2012-01-01T14:32:00.000Z

The very mild and wet weather persists further confusing organisms. Both male and female catkins were evident on Hazel (Corylus avellana) at Penclacwydd and a bedraggled Bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) bumbled on the Bynea cycle bridge.

Going Out With a Bang?

2012-01-01T11:47:00.000Z

Somewhat mixed messages with the expensive firework displays in Auckland, London and Sydney and many other places. There is (apparently) little money for conservation but £100's of thousands can apparently be blown on a few minutes of a form of entertainment that nakedly adds to the levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Bah, humbug!

Birder's Bonus 101

2011-12-29T16:24:00.002Z

A very windy day at Oxwich. Masses of gulls (a variety of species) gathered in the shallows possibly because a shoal of sprats were driven in (in some places this reflects feeding activities of seals) but other people noted that the accumulations of seabirds were much greater than those normally seen in previous years.

Seeing the Changes 439

2011-12-28T13:12:00.000Z

The warm Christmas was welcomed by flowering Primrose (Primula vulgaris) in Loughor.

Saving a Rhino?

2011-12-28T10:34:00.000Z

An excited report that Malaysian authorities hope to 'save' the Borneo Sumatran rhinoceros from extinction by using a newly captured female to breed with a zoo-based male seem wildly optimistic (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/dec/27/malaysia-borneo-sumatran-rhino-extinction). It is never easy to breed 'difficult' animals in captivity and any offspring would have a) limited genetic diversity and b) probable difficulties in adapting to a wild existence. Given that the number of such rhinoceros in the wild are estimated to be around 40 individuals, it is likely they will be extinct within a decade. Even the Southern white rhinoceros (illustrated), which is in a far better state population-wise, is far from safe.

Scotland's Legacy

2011-12-28T10:21:00.002Z

I suppose it was bound to happen, in these cash poor times, but a reduction in the funding of Scottish National Heritage will have a major impact on the ecology of the region (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/dec/27/spending-cuts-scotland-endangered-species). Many initiatives such as those concerning the encouragement of the Red squirrel European beaver and the Osprey and those directed at the eradication of the Signal crayfish, Rhododendron and Japanese knotweed will have to be curtailed. Such issues were formerly protected from cuts in Scotland but major percentages of the former spending (around 20%) are being 'redirected'.

Eggsalent Piece of Work

2011-12-27T17:53:00.000Z

It appears that environmental legislation has inadvertently made it an offence for even bona-fide museums to have egg shells from wild UK birds that were collected between 1954 and 1981 (http://www.guardian.co.uk/law/2011/dec/26/lawyers-crack-case-unlawful-eggs). This seems to have been a drafting glitch that has been seized upon by collectors. Changes are needed as it is difficult to defend retrospective alternations to the law.

Death Strimmer?

2011-12-21T16:06:00.002Z

I know it's a bit futile to complain, in these cash-strapped times, about any attempt to 'tidy up' the environment. It seems to me, however, that the people charged with clearing vegetation from the margins of cycle paths and public land in many cases do more harm than good (such that the location may take years to recover). Their basic approach generally seems to be to remove as much plant material as possible in the shortest possible time. The net result is that 'rough' areas, that were productive in terms of flower variety as well as insect and bird life, get converted into 'green desert'. It's a pity it can't be done in a more sensitive fashion. Perhaps one could develop a web site listing information about areas or zones that could/should receive more careful attention?

Eating Their Inheritance

2011-12-15T17:45:00.000Z

There is a disturbing report that lemurs are being eaten as bushmeat on the island of Madagascar to a much greater extent than in the immediate past (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-16138206). This is said to be largely the result of an influx of humans to the island who challenge the earlier tradition of the islanders that the lemurs are representative of human ancestors (and hence there was a taboo in terms of eating them). Decimation of the lemurs in their unique stronghold would greatly impoverish the biota. Strange how 'free meat' can have that effect.

Naughty Attenborough?

2011-12-13T13:53:00.000Z

There seems to be an unholy fuss about the Polar bear cub sequence in 'Frozen Planet' being filmed in a Dutch zoo (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/dec/12/frozen-planet-polar-bear-bbc?newsfeed=true). I must admit to being less than surprised about this section of the programme. Many 'natural history' films involve quite a lot of artifice - how did that convenient prey insect just land there as the cameras roll? I have argued that one could, by selection of footage, make even an erroneous tale seem convincing. The BBC did detail the origins of the cub shots in a brief item on their web (more than you get in many instances) and I don't think the actual sequence misinforms about what usually happens. Perhaps Sir David's crime is to irritate sections of the media with his observations on climate change?

Durban in the Dumps?

2011-12-13T13:39:00.001Z

I suppose that an agreement of sorts on climate change measures is better than no agreement at all (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/interactive/2011/dec/12/durban-climate-change-conference-2011-global-climate-talks) but the finally documented item does appear a bit on the feeble side. Clearly having widespread economic problems at the same time as recognising a need to reduce human impact on the atmosphere is not an ideal combination. I will be surprised if very much that is positive for limiting climate change actually happens. It has been suggested that solar panels in the desert could supply 'green electricity' but preventing the devices being etched or covered in sand by winds might be problematic.

Not So Much Head in the Sand

2011-12-12T16:27:00.000Z

It has always been claimed that ostriches and emus etc (the so-called ratites), differ from other birds, in that their males achieve penile erection by engorging the organ with blood (as do mammals). A recent detailed study (http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/16112188 ) has, however, confirmed that these birds, like the rest of the Aves, actually use lymph in this process. This suggests that the mechanism evolved early in this vertebrate Class.

Seeing the Changes 438

2011-12-12T10:34:00.001Z

It must be winter, as male (only the male has proper wings) Winter moths (Operophtera brumata) have started to gather around the light at my door in Loughor.

Enskilling the Welsh Workforce

2011-12-09T16:54:00.000Z

It is gratifying to be involved (on a part-time basis) with the Advanced Professional Training in Biosciences initiative at Swansea University (http://www.swan.ac.uk/aptbioscience/). This EU-funded programme aims to develop and deliver modules to help with Continuing Professional Development of bioscience workers in small and medium-sized enterprises in most of Wales. Four modules ('Pest control', 'Wild plant identification', 'Invasive plant species' and 'Laboratory skills') have been successfully delivered to enthusiatic acclaim from the participants. It is obvious, even from this initial list, that the modules are intended for both field and laboratory workers. It is also hoped that their provision will enhance employment prospects of recent graduates (they provide practical skills that can be lacking from degree programmes).

Seeing the Changes 437

2011-12-09T16:39:00.000Z

Yet another confused plant, Red campion (Silene dioica), at Penclacwydd.

Seawater on the Up?

2011-12-07T22:18:00.000Z

The last programme in Attenborough's 'Frozen Planet' series ('On Thin Ice') paints a pretty pessimistic picture of global change (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00zj39j). It appears that the rate of ice loss at both poles is accelerating and this is likely to have a dramatic effect on sea levels. It is particularly striking that the decline in ice at the north pole has made it much easier to extract oil and gas which, when burned, is likely to further increase global warming. The 'freeing' of the north-west passage from ice would also increase marine traffic between the Atlantic and the Pacific (furthering the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere). I must admit that Attenborough's graphic presentation of evidence is likely to be compelling to the lay viewer (in spite of the fact that much of the global warming debate has, apparently, failed to convince). His notes that some polar animals have 'adapted' to the changes (mainly by altering their location) but this would not seem to be an option for many human populations.

Seeing the Changes 436

2011-12-07T18:09:00.000Z

Another confused plant! Cotoneaster, a Palaearctic alien, is in flower in Blackpill.

Hard Times-Green Times?

2011-12-03T11:35:00.000Z

There is presently an urgent need to intensify efforts to limit anthropogenic effects on world resources and climate change (not helped by burgeoning population increases). This is, however, occurring at the very same time as world financial pressures make lives very difficult for many people in the so-called 'Western world' (not to mention elsewhere). Studies of animal behaviour suggest that this will be a toxic combination. Species do not show any tendency to take account of longer term issues (it is difficult to think of any evolutionary mechanism that could do this). They are essentially programmed to deal with the immediate needs for avoiding starving or being eaten as well as finding enough resources to breed. Most of the immediate political responses to the current financial problems suggest that 'our' response will be exactly the same. For example, it has been claimed that attempts to limit carbon release into the atmosphere have forced more UK people into 'fuel poverty' (where more than 10% of their income is spent on lighting, heating and cooking). It has also been suggested that we in the UK need a relaxing of the planning laws (including the protection of 'green belt' land) to generate affordable housing and to improve transport links. The prognosis doesn't look good.

Clasping a Viper to His Breast?

2011-11-25T17:45:00.002Z

It's amazing how bigoted people can be about certain animals. Alexander Chancellor, for example, can see no utility in the 'adder' unless their conservation can be used as an argument against the development of wind farms (which he likes even less) in his native Northamptonshire (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/belief/2011/nov/24/emulate-christ-tribunal-cheek-slapped?INTCMP=SRCH). He doesn't seem to appreciate, in his Chancellorocentric view of the natural world, that the snake only bites people and their animals when they pick it up or tread on it (it's a waste of its hard-generated venom as the snake can't swallow them). Vipera berus is an important part of the ecology of many areas, as it largely feeds on rodents with the potential to show population explosions. The snake's loss from areas is generally a sign that the environment has suffered from intensive agriculture or urbanisation. The adder is actually a beautifully adapted little beast with the largest geographical range (southern Italy to the high Arctic) of any reptile. It's a good job that Alexander doesn't live in India or Australia as the tiger or the shark would be respectively doomed.

Seeing the Changes 435

2011-11-24T11:06:00.000Z

In Bynea, the Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) was impressively in berry.

Seeing the Changes 434

2011-11-23T16:21:00.001Z

Swansea University has, by using sections of tree trunk to limit carparking, created a wonderful substrate for the growth of fungi. Some populations are very impressive and extensive and one can certainly see masses of Sulphur tuft (Hypholoma fasciculare), Trooping Crumble cap (Coprinus disseminatus) and Coriolus versicolor brackets. More fungi were evident between Swansea and Mumbles. In that area, the flowers of Autumn are slow to go. Along with numerous Daisy, Dandelion, the odd Crucifer and Ragwort, Evening primrose (Oenothera spp), Bramble (Rubus fructicosus), Burnet rose (Rosa pampinellifolia), Sea rocket (Cakile maritima), Sea mayweed (Matricaria maritima) and Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) were still in flower. The first of the Winter heliotrope (Petasites fragrans) were, however, peeping though. Unremarkably, cultivated, foreign plants were also in bloom. At Blackpill, Oystercatchers (Haematopus ostralegus) massed on the beach.

Orchid of the Night

2011-11-22T16:57:00.000Z

A orchid (Bulbophyllum nocturnum) from an island off Papua New Guinea has been described by a Dutch scientist that, unlike the other 25,000 species of such plants (one is illustrated), only flowers at night (http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2011/nov/22/night-flowering-orchid-discovered?INTCMP=SRCH). This suggests that it must be pollinated exclusively by some nocturnal agent (a moth?). Unfortunately, the island is scheduled for logging activity.

Fungal Inventory

2011-11-19T20:34:00.001Z

News that the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew are to attempt to produce a genetic classification of the UK's fungi is interesting (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-15726717). The claim is that, without a clear understanding of the species we currently have, we will never know what we have lost to climate change, pollution events and urbanisation etc. It is clearly felt that relying on spore patterns produced by fruiting bodies only gives a partial picture. The fungi are incredibly important in natural recycling of carbon etc. The wax-caps are first on the agenda but it sounds as if the tiny soil fungi are not due for study any time soon.

Seeing the Changes 433

2011-11-18T09:53:00.001Z

It must still be warm, as we were visited in Loughor by an Feathered thorn (Colotois pennaria).

An Asalt on Our Senses?

2011-11-17T10:54:00.000Z

I have always argued that sodium chloride is sodium chloride and there is little point in paying for gourmet salts. A new study (http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/nov/17/gourmet-salt-health-celebrity-chefs?INTCMP=SRCH) has confirmed that both are equally bad for you. You probably only rarely need to add salt to processed foods. The manufacturers have leaped in with arguments that the 'trace elements' in sea salt etc are of benefit but they are present in tiny amounts and are variable impurities.

Froggone!

2011-11-17T09:34:00.000Z

Disturbing news that a recent report concludes that a 'perfect storm' of climate change, habitat loss and a fungal disease (chytridiomycosis) seems poised to flip most of the world's remaining Amphibia (frogs, toads, newts and salamanders) into extinction (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/nov/16/amphibians-terrifying-extinction-threat). The first two of these factors seem, in many parts of the globe, to be additive whereas chytridiomycosis seems to strike more locally and sporadically. I personally think that the loss of these fascinating beasts would be awful as well as having 'knock on' effects on the ecology of regions. Urgent action is needed! Hop to it!

Seeing the Changes 432

2011-11-13T17:12:00.000Z

Quite a lot of speculation in the media about whether nature has been 'fooled' into producing a 'second spring' (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/nov/13/warm-autumn-wildlife-oddities?INTCMP=SRCH). This is largely based on seeing seasonal oddities. I don't think that too much should be read into them as strange timings for insects and flowers are not that uncommon. Locally, Orange hawkweed (Pilosella aurantiaca) is late in flower and the bushes in my garden are flowering for the third or fourth time.

Seeing the Changes 431

2011-11-12T15:20:00.000Z

Weather nice and bright, so the Shaggy ink caps (Coprinus comatus) stand out in Loughor.

Seeing the Changes 430

2011-11-07T18:41:00.001Z

In spite of the first frosts, we were visited by a Plain golden 'Y' moth (Autographa jota) in the house.

Westonbirt Wonders

2011-11-06T11:22:00.001Z

Went to Westonbirt Arboretum (near Tetbury in Gloucestershire) to check out the Autumn leaf colours. There were lots of impressively garish trees and some nice views of individual Acer leaves. Some of the fungi were also impressive and, in spite of the recent cold weather, flies were still active on the Cow parsley in the glades.

Religion and Conservation Philosophy

2011-11-04T10:22:00.000Z

Given the recent field course in Sikkim and our exposure to varied religions, it is interesting to note the debate about the increasing world population as seen from a Buddhist perspective (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/belief/2011/oct/31/population-growth-buddhist-reincarnation). Buddhists apparently do not believe that reincarnation is a matter of 'one out -one in' where which a permanent 'soul' persists but prefer to talk in terms of rebirth.

Birder's Bonus 100

2011-10-30T17:18:00.000Z

The changing of the clocks appeared associated with a mass gathering of Starlings (Sternus vulgaris) on a pylon in Bynea.

'Frozen Planet' Fundamentals

2011-10-27T15:53:00.000+01:00

In one sense it is gratifying (and important) that the first programme in the 85-year old David Attenborough's 'Frozen Planet' series attracted 6.8 million viewers (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/oct/27/david-attenborough-frozen-planet?newsfeed=true). This is still considerably less than 'Strictly Come Dancing's' 9.4 million but, hey, the dancing abilities of a group of 'celebrities' is clearly more important than what is happening on a planetary basis! There is no doubt that the photography in 'Frozen Planet' was generally stunning and the animal 'mini-dramas' appeared broadly accurate and compelling (if the outcomes appeared occasionally 'cosmetic') but I found the flicking for examples between the north and south poles somewhat confusing (and this is someone who knows something about the two regions already). Like some others, I am a bit ambivalent about the associated music. I am not certain that Attenborough's claim that we might be seeing some of the animals for the last time is true but it is worth thinking about.

Saltatory Sandhoppers!

2011-10-26T16:18:00.002+01:00

Caught in torrential rain whilst jogging between Blackpill and West Cross, I noted sandhoppers bouncing across the cycle path from the seaward to the landward side. I can't think of a reason why they would do this unless they all happened to be operating on the seaward side and the path was perceived as getting away from the rainwater.

Cactus Rustling

2011-10-26T11:28:00.000+01:00

News that two Germans have been arrested in Mexico with 543 cactus specimens in their suitcases (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/oct/25/germans-detained-cacti-mexico-airport?INTCMP=SRCH). These included several endangered species. This just goes to confirm my belief that gardeners are a major menace to conservation!

Contrary Effects of a Malaria Vaccine?

2011-10-23T11:56:00.001+01:00

It would be a churlish, callous individual who did not applaud the technical breakthrough of scientists developing a vaccine for malaria capable of halving death and morbidity in African children (http://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d6832.extract). This is the first time that a vaccine has been developed to a protozoan parasite and this, along with the distribution of bed nets and effective mosquito control, could transform human population dynamics in the sub-Saharan region, especially if vaccine use is encouraged by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This 'technofix' will not, however, come without some associated problems. The malarial agent is very variable and it might well prove difficult for vaccine development to stay 'ahead of the game'. A second problem is that, without a rapid change in reproductive behaviour, the increased survival might well lead to later economic development problems in the region. Finally, there has been some recent predictions that the world population for humans will reach around 10 billion by 2050 (http://www.worldwatch.org/node/6038). If this occurs, it might well prove to be catastrophic for the planet and its inhabitants. Child death and morbidity is not a good way to curtail population increases (by no means limited to Africa) but I would argue that vaccine application should be accompanied by dissemination of contraceptive advice and technology.

Seeing the Changes 429

2011-10-20T14:15:00.000+01:00

Late in the year but it has warmed up again. Saw a large dragonfly in flight in Bynea. It was possibly a Southern hawker (Aeshna cyanea).

Dangerous for Who?

2011-10-20T13:13:00.001+01:00

Somewhat disturbing news from Zanesville, Ohio USA where a Farm owner apparently released 'his' collection of around 48 'dangerous' animals shortly before shooting himself(http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/oct/19/ohio-dangerous-animals-breakout?INTCMP=SRCH). Rather predictably, the lions, tigers, bears, wolves etc also ended up being shot by the local police force (last I heard was that one 'monkey' was still 'on the run') who took the view that doing any less was imperilling the public. It is difficult to guess at the motivation of the Farm owner but it is rather sad that many endangered animals ended up being slaughtered for no good reason. Perhaps the Ohio laws on keeping exotic species need strengthening?

Birder's Bonus 99

2011-10-15T23:26:00.002+01:00

There was an unusual little bird at Rhossilli today. Not certain what this one is but the best suggestion thus far is a Northern wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe).

Seeing the Changes 428

2011-10-03T19:21:00.000+01:00

After record hot weather at the end of September, it became markedly cooler yesterday. The fungus Boletus badius was evident in Bynea along with some Gower ponies who appeared to have crossed the river. Lots of lepidopteran larvae were evident on the cycle path and a strange thrush-sized bird with a white rump operated on the strand line (some kind of plover?).

Himalayan Highlights 8. Miscellaneous 'bugs'

2011-10-03T12:50:00.000+01:00

These include the leeches at the Himalayan Zoological Park, the mating Robber flies at the Watergarden, Cicadas from the GB Pant Institute and the crickets from the Hidden Forest Retreat but there are other beasts.

Himalayan Highlights 7. Caterpillars

2011-10-03T12:40:00.000+01:00

Most of these were located around the grounds of the Hidden Forest Retreat. Most spectacular was the procession of tiny larvae along a branch but some of the hairy caterpillars were large and impressive.

Himalayan Highlights 6. Beetles

2011-10-03T12:30:00.000+01:00

There were masses of beetles ranging from a large, long-horn beetle, a weevil and a cockchafer at the Hidden Forest Retreat to various stag beetles attracted to the lights of the Guru Padmasambhava statue (some alive but most dead). A tiny cockchafer was caught in a web near the Temi Tea Plantation. A range of beetles were also spotted on plants throughout the area.

Himalayan Highlights 5. Dragonflies and Damselflies

2011-10-03T12:14:00.000+01:00

At the Sikkim Watergardens, recorded Black-tailed marsh darts (Ceriagrion fallax) and Blue-tailed forest hawks (Orthetrum triangulare). There were also striking blue and red dragonflies as well as red demoseilles. Other yellow dragonflies were seen at the Hidden Forest Retreat.

Himalayan Highlights 4. Spiders

2011-10-03T11:12:00.000+01:00

There were lots of interesting spiders. The Golden orb web spider (Nephila clavata) was found virtually everywhere. There were impressive Argiope spiders at some of the shrines and a very odd beast with a 'target' web near the government buildings in Gangtok. One can add to this an array of wolf and other arachnids.

Himalayan Highlights 3. Mammals

2011-10-03T11:00:00.000+01:00

Spotted my first Orange-bellied Himalayan squirrel (Dremomys lokriah) at the Hidden Forest Retreat. There were lots of Hanuman langurs (Semnopithecus entellus) on the road from West Bengal. Dogs (Canis familiaris) abound even on the main street (MG Marg) but only operate at night (they don't have any sweat glands). At the Himalayan Zoological Park, recorded the State Mammal- the Red panda or 'shining cat' (Ailurus fulgens) and the Himalayan black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus laniger).

Birder's Bonus 98 Sikkim Style

2011-10-02T11:53:00.001+01:00

I got some nice pictures of birds on the recent trip to Sikkim (NE India on the border with Tibet). Included were a Verditer flycatcher (Eumylas thalassina), a Red-billed leiothrix (Leiothrix lutea), an Oriental magpie robin (Copsychus saularis), a Dusky warbler (Phylloscopus fuscatus) and courting Red-vented bulbuls (Pycnonotus cafer). There were also a number of currently unidentified birds.

Himalayan Highlights 2. Butterflies

2011-09-30T21:50:00.000+01:00

In terms of butterflies, there were skippers like the Grass demon (Usaspes folus), the Indian tortoiseshell (Aglais casmirensis) and the Indian Red admiral (Vanessa indica) outside the Tibet Cultural Centre. There were also Common earl (Tanaecia julii appiades) and long-tailed blues at the watergarden. Common panther (Phalanta phalanta) were seen at Buddhist temples. The Hidden Forest Retreat had Red helen (Papillo helenus) and a whole range of forest butterflies.

Himalayan Highlights 1. Moths

2011-09-30T18:28:00.002+01:00

The group of Geography and Bioscience students that we took to Sikkim were excellent young folk. It turned out that we had two major methods of concentrating moths (from moon moths to clearwings- Syntomoides imaoni). One was the foldable moth trap that we took with us. The other was the giant, illuminated statue of Guru Padmasambhava bringing all these critters in from the surrounding hillsides. I haven't yet been able to get names for all the moths. Any help would be appreciated. The swallow-tailed moth is Asthenidia transversaria salax.

Shaken (but not Stirred)

2011-09-22T07:29:00.001+01:00

I am currently in Gangtok (NE India) where we have had a 6.8 Richter Scale earthquake. Fortunately, everything is fine and we are surrounded by amazing animals and plants. I am posting a picture of a large Emperor moth (Loepa miranda) but will regale you with many more images on my return.

Holiday Highlights

2011-09-11T00:18:00.003+01:00

In Gent (Belgium), noted Great-crested grebes (Podiceps cristatus) and their chicks near the city centre. In the Chartreuse region of SE France, recorded Alpine gentium (Gentiana nivalis), Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), Crown vetch (Securigera varia), Yellow alpine milk vetch (Astragalus frigidus), Grass of Parnassus (Parnassia palustris), Cornflower (Centaurea cyanaus) and Mountain everlasting (Antennaria dioica). There were also lots of bugs including Graphosoma italicum, moths namely the Hummingbird hawkmoth (Macroglossum stellatarum), butterflies with the White letter hairstreak (Strymonidia w-album) and the Duke of Burgundy fritillary (Hamearis lucina), long-horn beetles (Strangalia maculata) and the Bee beetle (Trichius fasciatus) and grasshoppers (Aiolopus thalassinus).

French Frolics

2011-08-30T13:54:00.000+01:00

Currently camping in the Chartreuse region of SE France. The temperature has ranged from 40 in the day to 4 at night. It is particularly nice to see fields full of Meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnal).

Fish Fight Failure?

2011-08-10T11:25:00.000+01:00

The Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall campaign to get the UK public to sample 'fish' outside the 'big five' (Cod, Haddock, prawns, Salmon and Tuna) seems, to a degree, to have some inherent problems (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/aug/08/fish-consumption-rises-despite-campaign). People have reportedly been eating more fish but have not generally shown a long-term increase in their uptake of less familiar species (such as Pollack, Megrim and Sardines). It has also been pointed out that, although his campaign to change the law to ban discards by EU fishing fleets (the throwing back of dead or dying fish when they exceed the quota) has received general support, a number of experts believe that the real problem is the need to make the catching of all species sustainable (rather than simply increasing the diversity of what we eat). There is also a particular problem of species being caught to turn into fish meal for agricultural uses (as fertiliser or chicken feed)- apparently including Mackerel.

Seeing the Changes 427

2011-08-09T22:52:00.001+01:00

Yesterday at the National Botanical Gardens Wales, noted some Waxcap toadstools (possibly Blackening waxcap Hygrocybe conica) in the farmed section. Also saw lots of Great burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) and Sneezewort (Achilla ptarmica) in bloom in the meadows. In terms of critters, got shots of Common blue damselfly (Enallagma cyathigerum), Caddis flies and a slim hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus).

Seeing the Changes 426

2011-08-07T17:09:00.000+01:00

In Penclacwydd, White melilot (Melilotus alba) and Common hemp-nettle (Galeolopsis tetrahit) were in flower. Lovage was visited by lots of black, yellow abdomen flies (possibly Sciara hemerobioides).

Polar Perils

2011-08-07T11:49:00.000+01:00

Sad news about the boy killed by a Polar bear (with others injured) whilst camping with the British Schools Expedition Service on Spitsbergen in the Svalbard Islands of Norway ( http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2023325/Norway-polar-bear-attack-Michael-Reid-hero-shot-dead.html?ito=feeds-newsxml). There is a claim that the group were camping in a bear 'hot spot' (http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/08/07/polar-bear-camp-was-perilous-place-to-put-up-camp-says-wildlife-film-maker-115875-23325235/). It also seems that the bears are generally spending reduced time on the declining ice floes looking for seals (a common prey) and have been forced to scavenge for alternative food sources on land. I would simply make 2 points. The first is that it is virtually impossible for people to be 100% safe in the vicinity of such animals (one of the very reasons that people go to this location). The second is that the bear didn't perceive itself as doing anything wrong (it's just the way they are). I do hope that the final outcomes don't involve a further removal of bears and/or a reduction in 'adventurous' activities.

Seeing the Changes 425

2011-08-05T09:14:00.000+01:00

In Bynea, there was what looked like the body of a Water shrew (Neomys fodiens) on the cycle track.

Seeing the Changes 424

2011-08-04T10:08:00.000+01:00

Visited, in Loughor, by a Migrant hawker (Aeshna mixta) dragonfly.

Not So Great Expectations

2011-08-03T13:29:00.000+01:00

It appears that a virus, Avian pox is decimating many small bird populations, including that of the Great tit (Parus major) in the UK (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/aug/03/garden-birds-avian-pox-virus?INTCMP=SRCH ). It is, apparently, difficult to see precise effects of the virus but it impairs both flight and vision. Concentrating the birds at feeding centres could facilitate transmission of the infective agent.

Planning Blight?

2011-07-29T15:15:00.001+01:00

Disturbing news that Eric Pickles (the Local Government Secretary) is advocating (with support from Vince Cable who views it as an economic boost) changes to the planning regulations that will change the presumption to there being likely approval for builders who want to build more houses and supermarkets on green field sites (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/jul/28/localism-bill-sacrifice-countryside-market?INTCMP=SRCH). It seems to me that green field sites need more (not less) protection. Everything that gets built on (and that currently seems every scrap of spare land around here) results in losses for what is an already pressured natural world. The only thing I would add is that, as agriculture appears almost as destructive of biodiversity as housing developments, the need to protect manicured farm land from the builders may be less imperative than keeping them off 'scruffy' scrub!

Terrapins Terror

2011-07-29T14:54:00.000+01:00

A rather sad tale about the fate of terrapins flown by, a charity, the British Chelonia Group (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/28/terrapin-haven-tuscany-derelict-carapax?INTCMP=SRCH) to spend their days at a sanctuary. The terrapins were generated by an earlier fad for 'Ninja turtles'. With the decline in enthusiasm for the programme and these reptiles, the owners handed them in or released them into UK environments (where they had detrimental effects on wildlife including young waterbirds). The collected terrapins (the released ones had to be recaptured at great expense) were freighted to 'Carapax' (the European Centre for Chelonian Conservation) near Pisa in Italy. Although food was provided, it turned out that the pools at the location were inadequate for the numbers of animals and many have died leading to closure of the 'sanctuary'. There are several messages here. The first, is that one should, if possible, avoid animals being purchased as a result of a fad (often the children and their parents have little idea about what they are getting into). The second, is that releasing the unwanted 'pets' into our natural environment is a distinctly bad idea (although it is likely to be the default response of most owners). The third, is that 'sanctuaries' have to be properly evaluated before being used (and even then, they may not prove to be a viable long-term solution).

Seeing the Changes 423

2011-07-27T19:14:00.000+01:00

Around Westcross, Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) and Red goosefoot (Chenopodium rubrum) were in flower.

Seeing the Changes 422

2011-07-25T17:07:00.000+01:00

In Loughor, lots of fungi made an appearance. In Penclacwydd, Black garden ants (Lasius niger) were having their nuptial flight.

Seeing the Changes 421

2011-07-19T14:01:00.000+01:00

Got some nice shots in Bynea of the densest collection of Cinnabar moth (Tyria jacobaeae) larvae I have ever seen on Ragwort. I also got a good view of two amorous Rhagonycha fulva beetles.

Birder's Bonus 97

2011-07-17T17:15:00.000+01:00

On the cycle path between Bynea and Penclacwydd, spotted a male Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula).

Seeing the Changes 420

2011-07-17T17:10:00.000+01:00

In Penclacwydd, spotted Meadowsweet (Filipendulae ulmaria) and Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) in bloom.

A MamMoth Trapping Event

2011-07-14T19:45:00.001+01:00

I looked this morning at some of the captures in moth traps left out last night in and around Swansea by Dan Forman, Neil Price and Ian Tew. Amongst the numerous items were Elephant hawk moth (Deilephila elepenor), Swallowtail (Ourapteryx sambucaria), Buff ermine (Spilosoma luteum), Gothic (Naenia typica), Buff tip (Phalera bucephala), Peppered moth (Biston betularia), Plain golden 'Y' (Autographa jota), Angle shades (Phlogophora meticulosa), Scalloped oak (Crocallis elinguaria), Dot (Melanchra persicariae) together with Bright line brown eye (Lacanobia oleracea), Peach blossom (Thyatria batis) and Buff arches (Habrosyne pyritoides). To end the day, I encountered an Emperor moth (Saturnia pavonia) charging along the cycle path near Blackpill.

Whiten Up Our Day?

2011-07-14T13:31:00.000+01:00

A new species of UK butterfly, the Cryptic wood white (Liptidea juvernica) has been identified in Northern Ireland (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jul/13/new-butterfly-northern-ireland-wood-white). This species looks identical to the endangered Wood white but is not found in England, Scotland or Wales. It has more chromosomes than the regular Wood white and seems considerably older as a species. This is not, however, the type of species likely to be identified in the 'Big Butterfly Count'.

Seeing the Changes 419

2011-07-13T17:13:00.001+01:00

At Blackpill, the Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) is in flower.

Big Butterfly Count?

2011-07-13T10:19:00.001+01:00

It is usually maintained that UK butterflies are good indicator species of environmental change. There is a scheme to get the general public to do a UK wide survey (supported by Marks and Spencer) based on 15 minutes of counting of butterflies and day-flying moths in locations near them over part of July and August (http://www.butterflyworldproject.com/media/news/articles/countdown-to-the-big-butterfly-count-at-butterfly-world/?id=0000000017). It is, of course, already known that some species (e.g. Small tortoiseshell) are in decline whereas others (e.g. Comma) are expanding their ranges. I am not certain whether the results will actually help to identify the reasons for population changes (these might well vary from species to species) but most butterflies are 'relatively' easy to identify and there are fewer than 60 species to contend with in these islands. The timing of the survey might also be a problem as a number of species will not be visible so late in the season. I suppose the activity might at least stimulate some interest in the natural world.

Seeing the Changes 418

2011-07-12T17:27:00.000+01:00

Coots (Fulica atra) were busy feeding their chicks at Sandy Water-park (Llanelli).

Seeing the Changes 417

2011-07-11T19:32:00.004+01:00

Lots of plant and animal activity on the cliff path between Caswell and Langland. Flowers included Purging flax (Linum catharicum), Broad-leaved everylasting pea (Lathyrus latifolia), Tormentil (Potentilla erecta), Common rock rose (Helianthemum nummularium), Spurge laurel (Daphne laureola), Small scabious (Scabiosa columbaria) and Woodruff (Galium odoratum). Lords and ladies (Arum maculatum) in the area won the race to develop orange berries. In terms of butterflies, there was lots of activity by Large skippers (Ochlodes venatus), Small blues (Cupido minimus) and Graylings (Hipparchia semele). The beetles included Violet ground beetle (Carabus violaceus), a probable Leptura livida and Rhagonycha fulva males trying to force apart mated pairs. The insects attracted the attention of Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara) whilst triads of Buzzard (Buteo buteo) circled.

A Tax Too Far?

2011-07-11T12:18:00.000+01:00

It seems that the Australian Government (a Labour/Green party coalition) is in trouble over a relatively modest (according to many commentators) carbon tax (http://www.businessgreen.com/bg/news/2092749/gillard-australian-carbon-tax-promises-clean-energy-future). The proposals (hitting the 20 or so major polluters in the country) have led to furious demonstations and claims that the measures will 'destroy the Australian way of life'. This seems superficially odd given the fact that the Australian economy seems to be the most vulnerable (consider the 'fire storms', droughts and floods of recent times) of the developed nations to the effects of climate change. Australians are, however, on a per capita basis major generators of carbon dioxide release and big business, with media help, seems intent on not even entertaining the possibility of anthropogenic effects on climate.

Seeing the Changes 416

2011-07-09T18:32:00.000+01:00

They seem to be doing something on the river bed on the seaward side of the Loughor Bridge. Meanwhile in Bynea, Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) was in berry and Sea mayweed (Matricaria maritima) in flower.

Seeing the Changes 415

2011-07-07T18:58:00.000+01:00

In Bynea, Common fleabane (Pulicaria dysenterica), Marsh mallow (Althaea officinalis) and Marsh sow-thistle (Sonchus palustris) were in flower.

Arctic Avarice?

2011-07-06T17:13:00.002+01:00

Global warming appears to have stimulated 'exploitation fever' in the Arctic region. Even rich and civilised Norway (producing all their electricity from hydroelectric schemes) seems keen to grab much of the newly-accessible oil, precious stones, uranium, rare metals and gas as possible (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/damian-carrington-blog/2011/jul/06/norway-arctic-natural-resources?INTCMP=SRCH). This seems certain to exacerbate the effects of warming on that region as well as having profoundly detrimental effects on the organisms and peoples who operate in that icy region.

Toon Birds

2011-07-05T07:42:00.001+01:00

Surprised to see lots of nesting Kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) on the stone supports of the Tyne Bridge in the centre of Newcastle. They had also taken over all the surrounding offices and were voiding the guano. They must think it's a convenient cliff.

More Northern Days

2011-07-04T18:53:00.002+01:00

Got some nice shots of a Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) at Tynemouth where I also noted nesting gulls near the North Pier. At Corbridge (Northumberland) there were masses of wild flowers near the Tyne including Greater knapweed (Centaurea scabiosa) and White campion (Silene alba).

Northern Days

2011-07-03T10:51:00.003+01:00

Around Jesmond Dene in Newcastle, alien Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) was in vogue as were Clustered bellflower (Campanula glomerata) and Nettle-leaved bellflower (Campanula trachelium). In Newton Links in Northumberland, there was lots of Common toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) along with masses of Ladies bedstraw (Galium verum) and nesting Arctic terns (Sterna paradisaea) on the shore. Also got some nice shots of a Meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis) with a butterfly.

Seeing the Changes 414

2011-06-29T16:13:00.000+01:00

Between Blackpill and Westcross, noted Crow garlic (Allium vineale), Golden samphire (Inula crithmoides) and Traveller's joy (Clematis vitalba) in flower. The Burnet rose (Rosa pimpinella) had turned to hips.

Krazy Kenfig

2011-06-28T23:43:00.001+01:00

The day started with a striking Large emerald moth (Archiearis parthenias) in Loughor. Went on the Zoology trip to Kenfig where we saw Sea holly (Eryngium maritimum), Early marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza incarnata) and Marsh helleborine (Epipactis palustris). Critters included mating Dark green fritillaries (Mesoacidalia aglaja), Bee beetles (Trichius fasciatus), a Ruby tail (Chrysis ignita) and an orange-bodied Hymenopteran.

Seeing the Changes 413

2011-06-26T20:48:00.002+01:00

A hot day in Oxwich! Pyramidal orchids (Anacamptis pyramidalis) were past their best and Common rock-rose (Helianthemum nummularium), Common centaury (Centaurium erythraea), Wood sage (Teucrium scorodonia) and Bloody cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum) were making an appearance. There were many butterflies including Painted lady (Cynthia cardui) on the Wild thyme, Meadow brown (Maniola jurtina), Small heath (Coenonympha pamphilus), Small blue (Cupido minimus) and Small skipper (Thymelicus flavus). There were also sand wasps (Ammophila sabulosa), Scorpion flies (Panorpa germanica), pale flies (Thereva annulata), Grey bush crickets (Platycleis albopunctata) and grasshoppers.

Seeing the Changes 412

2011-06-25T23:14:00.000+01:00

In Penclacwydd, Hemp agrimony (Eupatorium cannabinum), Beaked hawksbeard (Crepis vesicaria), Lady's bedstraw (Galium verum) and Bullrush (Typha latifolia) were in flower. In Bynea, Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii), Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) and Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum) were blooming. In that location, Cinnabar moth (Tyria jacobaeae) larvae were noted on the Ragwort.

Seeing the Changes 411

2011-06-24T19:10:00.001+01:00

In Loughor, the Large-flowered evening primrose (Oenothera erythrosepala) was in bloom. In Bynea, it was the turn of the Great willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum), Field pansy (Viola arvensis), St John's wort (Hypericum sp) and Sun spurge (Euphorbia helioscopia) were in flower. Field rose (Rosa arvensis) had produced hips.

Norwegian Would

2011-06-23T09:08:00.003+01:00

In Sunndalsora in Norway (home of a major aluminium smelting plant that uses 5% of the entire country's hydro-electricity generation), there were surprising varieties of wild flowers including Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris), Wild perennial lupin (Lupinus perennis), Northern marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza purpurella), Heartsease (Viola tricolor), Harebell (Campanula uniflora) and Bladder campion (Silene vulgaris). The Pied wagtails (Motacilla alba) were actively feeding in the very extended days.

Seeing the Changes 410

2011-06-19T18:14:00.000+01:00

The Ringlet butterfly (Aphantopus hyperantus) has returned to the playing fields of Loughor.

Neath Valley Highlights

2011-06-19T00:01:00.001+01:00

Did the standard hike with Hipkin, Naylor and Tew on the Biology field course around the waterfalls including the impressive Sgwd-yr-Eira. Amongst the interesting organisms seen were Sulphur tuft fungus (Hypholoma fasciculare), a hoverfly that looked like a bumble-bee (Volucella bombylans), the bobbing chick of a Dipper (Cinclus cinclus) and a busy Grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea).