Garden Wildlife

Sadly, our wildlife is under increasing threat from the reduced and changed nature of rural habitats. This means that our gardens become increasingly valuable 'corridors' for native species. Part of the joy of gardening is the chance encounter with a furry or feathered friend: the green woodpecker on the lawn, or a red spotted going hammer and tongs on a neighbours aerial.

Shortly RedLadybird are hoping to bring you some of the things which can provide sanctuary and sustainable refuge for the most welcome of garden visitors. But first did you know........

In Britain we have 46 species of ladybirds living in our gardens. Not all of them are brightly coloured and spotty; some are really quite dull looking and are not recognisable as ladybirds. There are 27 species from the ladybird family (scientifically called the Coccinellidae) that actually look like ladybirds and here are some fun facts about them.

Why are ladybirds so-called?

The most common species of ladybird in Britain is the seven-spot ladybird. This bright red ladybird has seven spots and is thought to have inspired the name ladybird: "Lady" referring to the Virgin Mary (Our lady) who in early paintings is seen wearing a red cloak; the seven spots are symbolic of the seven joys and seven sorrows of Mary.

Watch out for our new Ladybird Spotters Children's Club due summer 2010