Techniques for monitoring ladybirds
Ladybirds occur in many habitats throughout the UK from gardens to wilder locations.
The abundance and bright colours of some of the more common
species of ladybird make them very easy to spot even by
a casual observer.
However, not all species are seen so
easily and more rigorous sampling techniques are essential
to thoroughly assess the different ladybirds found
in a specific area.
Beating
It is difficult to search some trees or
bushes and in such cases a beating tray can
be very useful. A beating tray simply consists of a piece
of white fabric stretched over a frame. The tray can be
placed under branches which are then beaten with a stout
stick. Any ladybirds falling from the branches will be
caught in the tray.
Beating trays can be purchased from
suppliers of ecological or entomological equipment but
alternatively an upturned umbrella can serve the same
purpose.
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