Invertebrates are so numerous and diverse that nobody can fail to notice them: from bees and flies buzzing around garden flowers, to flying ants in late summer and the scuttling of house spiders across the lounge carpet in autumn! All are members of the huge group of small creatures without backbones that are collectively known as invertebrates.
In this section we have concentrated on surveying just two groups of invertebrates, butterflies and moths. Read on to discover how you can play apart in helping to conserve these beautiful insects.
Butterflies
Butterflies are familiar, popular and colourful invertebrates that can be found in almost every habitat. They brighten our spring and summer days but are very sensitive to minor changes in habitat and climatic conditions.
Unfortunately a number of once common species such as the small tortoiseshell and wall brown are declining. However, other species such as the speckled wood are faring much better and are expanding their populations.
Moths
Moths are excellent indicators of the health of the environment as they are very sensitive to climatic conditions. They play a very important role in plant pollination as well as being an important food source for a range of creatures such as bats and birds.
Although some species are expanding their range, many moth populations are showing signs of serious decline. To better understand the reasons for these changes it is important to monitor the status and distribution of moths so that appropriate measures can be taken to conserve these colourful and fascinating insects.
It has never been easier to start surveying moths; the range of equipment on sale is extensive and reasonably affordable, there is a wealth of useful information on the internet, and modern identification guides are first class.
Why not start a simple survey today?
Or perhaps you can contribute your records to one of several national surveys.
Big Butterfly Count
Moths Count