- Increased ladybird sightings across the UK are attributed by experts to high aphid populations and warm weather conditions.
- A swarm of ladybirds briefly interrupted the England versus India cricket test match at Lord's on Thursday, causing a pause in play. England’s vice-captain Ollie Pope said: “That’s a first that the crowd have got that today.”
- Ecologists, including Professor Helen Roy, confirm that many aphid-feeding ladybird species are appearing in high numbers this year due to abundant food and heat.
- Experts like Professor Tim Coulson encourage the public to appreciate ladybirds, highlighting their crucial role as natural predators that control aphid populations.
- Dr Peter Brown noted that the last significant ladybird boom year was during the hot summer of 1976, and the current increase should be viewed positively.
IN FULL
Why the UK is seeing an increase in ladybirds as swarm stops play at Lord’s
