Making the most of the sun!

These ladybird adults and larvae were just some of, maybe 50+ seemingly enjoying this gate! Sadly they were all variants of the invasive harlequin species. I have seen a few native two- and seven-spotteds out and around this year, but not in this kind of density.

I find it hard to dislike them- the idea that they somehow don't belong in the UK seems odd to me. Through a humans' analysis, they are considered out-of-place, worthy of scorn and eradication, but only as a result of the rules and morals we ourselves have invented about the worthiness of native vs. foreign species.

Ecosystems and communities have changed countless times since life began and will do so for as long as there continues to be life. Although it's a real shame to see the myriad of native ladybird species outcompeted by this 'alien', I don't believe the harlequin should be any less welcome in the UK than our native species.