We have had some quite mild spells of weather recently, record-breaking temperatures for February it seems, and the wildlife has responded accordingly. The first butterflies of the year were on the wing, emerging queen bumblebees were seeking nectar sources, moths took flight, amphibians were on the move, and birds have been breaking into song.

Now is the time to watch and listen out for more signs of spring. Yes, we have had more frosts, but there will be more mild days and nights on the way. Who will hear their first chiffchaff singing this year?

In recent weeks waders and waterfowl have been passing through the Fen. Winter visitors, such as golden plover have been on the move, and other species, such a shelduck have been more conspicuous. Corn buntings have started to sing, as have reed buntings, joining the skylarks and meadow pipits.

While it has not been a bumper year for short-eared owls, a maximum of six were recorded this winter (in February). However, we did get stonechats returning to the Fen early, for the breeding season, with some males singing.

As the trees are still bare, as well as watching the birds, you might like to look at the fungi, with the fruiting bodies of various species clearly visible. Birch polypore, blushing bracket, green elfcup, hoof fungus, smoky bracket, and turkeytail are just some of the species you might encounter on a woodland walk.

What has been more exciting, is that with the mild weather some of the invertebrates associated with this habitat have been stirring. The false ladybird (Endomychus coccineus), a stunning beetle associated with fungi, was spotted by one of our reserves officers, Jasmin Atkinson, a couple of weeks ago. These two adults (see below) had popped out from under the tree bark and so caught Jasmin’s eye. It is a great start, as we have a particular focus on invertebrates this year. With more sunshine on the way, keep your eyes peeled and your ears pricked and send me your records.

Henry Stanier (Great Fen Monitoring & Research Officer)