Seeing the Changes 109

In Bynea, the Great mullein (Verbascum thapsis) is coming into flower (in spite of the Mullein moth [Cucullia verbasci] larva nibbling at it -one of the few insects that can handle its silica defenses). A burying beetle Nicrophorus vespillo was also seen in this location, along with Yellow meadow ants (Lasius flavus) emerging from their 'eggs' (pupae). Lots of Ragged robin (Lychnis flos-cuculi) near the cycle track in Gowerton and the alien Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) at the Swansea end. In Singleton Park, the two Mute swan (Cygnus olor) have 3 cygnets and the Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) many ducklings.