The Ivy Bee, Colletes hederae, was seen for the first time in the UK in southern England 2001. This year sightings of the species are being reported from the Sefton Coast. It is likely that the species is present at other suitable sites in the local area so keep your eyes open
September was another relatively dry month. Although measurable rain fell on 12 days, there were significant amounts on only three dates. As a result, the sand-dune water-table at my Devil’s Hole measuring point continued to fall when it would usually be starting to re-charge. I had a letter published in the Radio Times pointing out that TV weather presenters are supposed to be educated people and should be aware that this country is only habitable because of regular reliable rainfall. Perhaps, therefore, they should stop perpetuating the myth that rain is bad. Evidently, they didn’t read it!