The Lyons Share

So tussocking has really provided the goods this week at Woods Mill. I have added quite a few new species and I've become well entrenched in my new office. I managed to get the Victorian gentleman's desk into my new house with a little help from Niall Basquille. So, the new set up works well. Anyway, back to the tussocking. I have recorded the following species this week, those highlighted in bold were new species for me. Nothing particularly rare here but considering I walk around Woods Mill near daily, I was surprised to get so many ticks!

Agonum gracile (above photo)

Tachyporus spp. (I think I have at least two species but need to spend some more time on them)

Stenus spp. (I have at least another two species, I need more time though!)

24-spot Ladybird

Common Pygmy Woodlouse

Common Striped Woodlouse

Common Shiny Woodlouse

Common Pill Woodlouse

Tibellus sp.

What this illustrates is the importance of over-wintering structure for invertebrates. I also realised quite quickly that a tussock on the high and dry in or next to a wetland can be rammed with invertebrates. My 403rd species, making 10% of the 4034 or so UK species, was Agonum gracile above.

Also this week I have got hold of the key to springtails. I have two large specimens to look at today and see how the key works...