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Diary: June 2004

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Astonishing variety

15th June 2004 in the garden diary...
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It seems that every time I spend more than a few minutes in the garden recently, I see a new insect.
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It really underlines the richness of the garden habitat and also the richness of our insect fauna. This week alone I've probably seen three or four hoverflies in the garden that I've never seen there before. By 'tuning in' to the insect fauna of your garden you can be rewarded and captivated by the wildlife there in a way that the less diverse larger animals cannot offer.
Garden hoverflies this week
These pictures of hoverflies were all taken in my garden over the last week

Meliscaeva auricollis
Meliscaeva auricollis (female). A pretty little hoverfly - I suppose a 'typical' looking hoverfly.
Bulb fly
A bulb fly (Merodon equestris); so called because the larvae feed on bulbs. This insect is a very effective bumblebee mimic.
Rhingia campestris
Rhingia campestris. A readily recognised hoverfly because of its long snout.
Bulb fly
Xylota segnis. This appears to be quite a territorial insect. One of them defended my compost heap against all-comers!

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North Merseyside Biodiversity Action Plan Do you live in Merseyside? Interested in its wildlife?