Hummingbird Hawk Moths and Ivy Bees Among Species Expanding Range in UK Amidst Warmer Temperatures
Unusual insect sightings, including the hummingbird hawk moth and ivy bee, are becoming more common in Britain's West Midlands as warmer weather facilitates their spread.
Several insect species, including the hummingbird hawk moth and ivy bee, are being spotted in increasing numbers in Britain's West Midlands, a trend attributed to warmer summer temperatures. These sightings include species that were once considered unusual for the region.
The hummingbird hawk moth, characterized by its furry grey body, orange hindwings, and long proboscis, migrates to the UK from southern Europe and north Africa during the summer. James Benwell from the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust noted that the past year has been a "record year" for sightings of this species, which is frequently mistaken for a small bird due to its hovering flight pattern, achieved by wings beating approximately 80 times per second.
Ivy bees, which primarily feed on the nectar of ivy flowers, have also become more prevalent. Benwell stated that these bees are easily observed on buildings and have been spreading northward, with their first recorded presence in the Midlands dating back to 2015.
Other insects experiencing a rise in local populations include the clouded yellow butterfly, a migratory species known for peak years during unusually hot summers. Benwell suggested that if temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, these butterflies might become permanent residents.
The hornet hoverfly, which has yellow markings that resemble a hornet for predator deterrence, has also become common since its first recording in the region in 2004. Additionally, the cricket bat spider, named for its markings, has become more widespread in grasslands since its initial sighting in the area in 2019. The wasp spider, one of the UK's largest spider species, has been observed in the Midlands, extending more than 100 miles from its typical habitat.
Rosemary Winnall of the Wyre Forest Study Group noted the arrival of species such as the willow emerald damselfly, the southern oak bush cricket, and the purple emperor butterfly in the region. Other notable arrivals include the western conifer seed bug and the box bug.
Warm weather has also benefited butterflies that thrive in sunshine, including the holly blue and the pearl-bordered fritillary. However, Winnall pointed out that while some species are increasing, others are in decline. The once-common small tortoiseshell butterfly is now rarely seen, and there are fewer records of the two-spot ladybird. Wildlife organizations encourage the public to record sightings of common species, as they may become rare in the future.