Saturday, 20 April 2024

What's In a Critter's Name? 3. Cockchafer

Because of its time of appearance, the Cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha) is also known as the Maybug. A 'chafer' is an insect that gnaws plants. The prefix 'cock' is a late 17th century term, denoting size and vigour.

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Tracing the 'Anthropocene' in the Fossil Record?

  Currently, humans have, by far, the biggest impact on the planet and the Earth's biota. In recognition of this, some folk have suggest...