Harlequin Ladybirds In Widnes

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SteveMcBill
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Harlequin Ladybirds In Widnes

Post by SteveMcBill »

Yesterday (Sunday 19/10/2008) whilst out successfully recording the fungus (Guignardia aesculi) and the Micro-moth leaf-miner (Cameraria ohridella) on Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) leaves I visited St. Luke's Church grounds, in Farnworth, Widnes.

Along the northern wall I found evidence of over 100 Harlequin ladybirds (Harmonia axyridis) in larval, pupal and adult stages. Approximately 60 larvae, approx. 50 pupae and about 30 adults. These were all on Sandstone gravestones under over-hanging Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) trees. Also on the same grave-stones were lots of aphids (presumably from the Sycamores) and plenty of the carnivorous larvae of the Marmalade Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus) and a few Lacewing larvae.

By far the most Harlequin Ladybirds I have ever found in one place (so far).

Steve :)
Adult Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis)
Adult Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis)
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