Will we see record numbers of insects in Britain this autumn?

Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Professor Simon Leather, an entomologist at Harper Adams University, tells The Independent that, “as far as I am aware, insect numbers are actually lower than normal at the moment” and that although there are a high number of daddy longlegs visible at the moment, their number is “normal for this time of year”. But if the winter is not too cold and the spring is damp as well it’s quite likely that more will emerge.” Also convinced is biologist Professor Dave Goulson of Sussex University, who told The Daily Telegraph: “Plant growth has been really lush this summer, so roots underground will be particularly tasty for the leatherjackets.” If we are seeing more insects than usual as the season begins to turn, this summer’s weather is one possible explanation for the phenomenon. Speaking to The Independent, Professor Helen Roy, president of the Royal Entomological Society, said that insect numbers tend to fluctuate every year, with each species having “slightly different requirements” and vulnerable to knock-on impacts from elsewhere in the natural ecosystems in which they live. Brian Eversham, chief executive of the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire & Northamptonshire Wildlife Trust, spoke equally warmly of spiders, currently enjoying their mating season, telling ITV News that instead of fearing them, “I think people should be grateful for them - for all the insects they kill.” Those determined to deter bugs this autumn are advised to store their fruit in the fridge rather than in countertop bowls, not leave windows open with the light on, maintain garden ponds and keep their birdfeeders topped up to encourage the birds that will feed upon them.