Nature reserves spot rare species during heatwaves

Nature reserves in Hertfordshire and Middlesex have documented rare species this summer, with volunteers spotting wildlife not seen in decades and some even for the first time in specific locations. The Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust recorded a great white egret near Ware, more than 300 Chalkhill blue butterflies at Hexton Chalk Pit near Hitchin, and a glow-worm at the same site for the first time in 25 years. These findings coincide with unusually hot weather and increased monitoring efforts across the county.

The trust, which manages over 40 nature reserves covering nearly 810 hectares, attributes some of these discoveries to the warm summer conditions. Grasshoppers thrived, while butterflies completed their life cycles more quickly, leading to large emergences. However, bumblebees and hoverflies faced challenges during the heatwave. The Herts Invertebrate Project, established in 2015, played a key role in uncovering several significant species.

In late June, the project surveyed Fir & Pond Woods near Potters Bar and recorded Euides basilinea, a planthopper linked to reeds, marking its first appearance in Hertfordshire. At Aldbury Nowers near Tring, researchers documented Zygina hyperici, a leafhopper last seen in the county in 1916. Another leafhopper, Arboridia parvula, associated with Common Rockrose, was spotted for the first time in Hertfordshire since 1976. The survey also identified Agyneta mollis, a tiny nationally rare money spider.

Some species, like the Jersey Tiger moth, once primarily found in the Channel Islands, are now being recorded further north. Similarly, Hummingbird Hawk-moths are appearing more frequently in Hertfordshire. Dan Townsend, senior reserves officer at the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, emphasized the importance of these discoveries in guiding reserve management and supporting wildlife adaptation to environmental changes.

The trust’s findings highlight the impact of climate conditions and conservation efforts on local biodiversity. By tracking species presence and responses to their environment, conservationists can make informed decisions to protect habitats and promote wildlife resilience.

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