Birder's Bonus 143

On Loughor estuary, Black-tailed godwit (Limosa limosa) appeared to be changing into summer plumage.

Seeing the Changes 861

It's May. So time for a nocturnal visit by a Cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha)!

Pre-Medical?

It's not exactly a new story but WHO have reiterated their warning that the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria could 'return us to an age where even mild infections killed' (http://www.theguardian.com/society/2014/apr/30/who-calls-urgent-action-antibiotics-antimicrobial-resistance). People (especially the very young or the aged) in developed countries would die in increasing numbers from conditions like diarrhoea and pneumonia. It is problematic that a) bacteria, because of their rapid life-cycles and ability to transfer genes to each other, evolve very quickly; b) these infective agents are rapidly transported by air travel; c) there is still much overuse of existing antibiotics in medicine and farming (giving resistant strains opportunities to arise) and d) the incentives for pharmaceutical companies to work on genuinely new alternatives is limited (as any new items would have to be curtailed in their use to limit resistance development). WHO do suggest an increased role for improved hand sanitation but that seems a rather desperate ploy.

Seeing the Changes 860

At Bynea, noted Flea beetles on a Hemlock. Between Loughor and Penclacwydd, noted various flowers including Rough chervil (Chaerophyllum temulentum), Common cleavers (Galium aparine), Bluebell (Endymion non-scriptus), Marsh hawksbeard (Crepis paludosa), Meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris), Silverweed (Potentilla anserina), Charlock (Sinapis arvensis), Black mustard (Brassica nigra), Wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana), Cultivated apple (Malus domestica), Changing forgetmenot (Myosotis discolor) and Black medick (Medicago lupina).

Pig's Ear

Disturbing news that at least 21 farmed boars have been released in a burglary in Maesteg (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-27184854). Such animals can be dangerous but, if they manage to re-establish themselves in the wild, can cause quite a bit of damage to woodland areas by their rooting and wallowing activities. This has been seen in other areas of the UK where boars have gone feral.

Seeing the Changes 859

In Bynea, Scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) could be seen without seeking.

Seeing the Changes 858

The first appearance this year of the Holly blue (Celastrina argiolus) in my Loughor garden.