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.
Other useful equipment
Containers for collecting ladybirds (any solid container
with a secure lid can be used but plastic containers produce
less condensation, which can kill ladybirds, than glass
containers. Remember to keep containers with ladybirds
in out of direct sunlight because this will rapidly kill
ladybirds)
- Soft paintbrush (particularly useful for handling the
more fragile larval stages)
- Hand lens (at least x 10)
- Field guide: Majerus, M. and Kearns , P. (1989) Ladybirds.
Richmond Publishing.
|
