One of the most invasive introduced plants that threatens the natural vegetated shingle habitat is seeding now. Each plant can produce thousands of seeds that are blown by the wind (see photo). The problem is that the plant is very attractive and much loved by visitors (and insects), so what are we to do?
A good range of rare and local moths in the light trap at Lime Kiln Cottage this morning. Notable micros included Ethmia bipunctella, Sitochroa palealis and Synaphe punctalis, while among the macros quality was provided by Kent Black Arches, Sand Dart, Rosy Wave, Oblique Striped and Pigmy Footman. The trap also contained a Small Scallop, a local species associated with damp habitats and notable in that it was only the third reserve record!
Synaphe punctalis
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