Ladybirds are loving Cloudforest Two!
Our good friend Aideen from The Native Irish Honey Bee Society has been checking out how things are growing in Cloudforest Two, and we are blown away to see her photos. The ladybirds are having a ball!
The Wild Carrot (Daucus carota) is blooming away, and is a real favourite with bees, butterflies - and ladybirds, as you can see. After it finishes flowering, the finches will move in to snack on the seedheads. We think these are 7-Spotted ladybirds (Coccinella septempunctata), our commonest garden ladybird - but do let us know if it’s not!
As exciting as seeing nature thriving in Cloudforest Two, is seeing our trees thriving too… That wonderful Alder was planted earlier this year, and looks to be flying along!
A little bit about our visitors to Cloudforest 2
Ladybirds, also known as ladybugs or lady beetles, are tiny, charismatic insects that captivate both children and adults alike. With their vibrant colors and distinctive round shape, ladybirds are easily recognizable and a beloved sight in gardens and parks. These small creatures play a vital role in the ecosystem by feeding on aphids, a common garden pest. Ladybirds are considered a gardener's friend, as they help control unwanted insect populations without resorting to harmful pesticides. Besides their beneficial ecological contribution, ladybirds are also symbols of good luck and are often associated with joy and happiness. Their gentle presence and delicate beauty serve as a reminder of nature's intricate and wondrous diversity.
