A new species of ladybird has been recorded in the UK following this year’s hot summer, according to Professor Russell Wynn, director of the Wild New Forest.
The small arboreal ladybird, previously unrecorded in Britain, was discovered in moth traps in the New Forest. Professor Wynn explained that the insect, normally found in France and continental Europe, has now crossed the English Channel and established itself in Southampton and the New Forest.
The UK Species Inventory will formally recognise the ladybird as a new arrival. Professor Wynn, who also chairs the New Forest Biodiversity Forum, noted that while the hot weather has been challenging for wetland species, it has created favourable conditions for many insects, including ladybirds.
“There is a lot of evidence that moths and butterflies are moving north and gradually colonising,” he said, pointing to climate warming as a factor driving species migration into southern England.
The New Forest, with its ancient woodland, heaths, marshes and hedgerows, offers rich habitats for wildlife. Professor Wynn added that ongoing efforts to restore and expand these habitats have made the region an ideal landing place for species migrating from continental Europe.
He also confirmed that, for the first time in 20 years, 13 different ladybird species have been recorded at sites in the New Forest this year.
