Sprung!

Last week saw some spring arrivals to the garden, and some preparations for those to come.

First off was a very aptly named Spring Usher, a new moth for the garden, and for me.

Spring Usher

Next was a March Moth, right on cue.

March Moth

And the crocuses provided a welcome source of nectar for a queen Buff-tailed Bumblebee.

Buff-tailed Bumblebee

A queen Common Wasp was out sunning herself, demonised by most, but a great garden pest controller for those who understand these valuable, voracious predators.

Common Wasp

In preparation for the Swallows arriving back in April, I've completed building a log store for them to nest in. Hope they appreciated it!

Swallow Hut

Free Pest Control

If you take a moment to watch wasps, then you quickly realise that without them we could be knee deep in all sorts of other insects, such as this fly, seen here getting despatched and eaten by a Common Wasp.

Common Wasp

Wasps patrol every leaf and stem of the plants in our garden, searching for prey.

If people realised how effective they are at keeping plants free of 'pests', then they would probably be on sale in garden centres!