During late 2023 and into 2024, our team surveyed a site in East Suffolk where we encountered an unusual small ant species. Initially identified as the Erratic Ant (Tapinoma erraticum), further examination raised doubts. Wanting to confirm our findings, we sent specimens to Mike Fox, a national expert affiliated with the Bees, Wasps & Ants Recording Society (BWARS).
After careful analysis, Mike confirmed that the ants belonged to the Tapinoma simrothi species group; a group of four ant species (Tapinoma simrothi, Tapinoma insularis, Tapinoma phoeniceum and Tapinoma karavaievi) that had never previously been recorded in the UK. This species group is typically found in and around the Mediterranean, suggesting that the ants may have been inadvertently introduced to Suffolk though human activity.
While the discovery of a new species in the UK is always significant, there is currently no indication that this ant poses an ecological threat. The collected specimens consisted only of worker ants, making precise species identification difficult, as male specimens are typically required for confirmation. However, based on current knowledge, Mike Fox considers it unlikely that this species will establish a permanent population in the UK due to the country’s cooler climate.
In addition to the discovery of this new ant species, our surveys recorded several other significant invertebrates across multiple sites.
This inconspicuous butterfly, classified as Near Threatened (IUCN GB Post 2001 NT, NERC S41), was encountered at several sites. It only flies in sunshine and rarely settles more than a metre above the ground. This relatively widespread butterfly can occupy a range of habitat types and, although its range has changed a little, many colonies have disappeared in recent decades. The caterpillar feed on fine grasses, including fescues (Festuca spp.), meadow-grasses (Poa spp.) and bents (Agrostis spp.).
Recorded during a terrestrial invertebrate survey in East Suffolk, this striking moth is a rare sight outside of southern England and the Channel Isles. It thrives in gardens, rough and disturbed ground, hedgerows, coastal cliffs, under-cliff and the higher parts of beaches, with caterpillars feeding on a variety of herbaceous plants.
This iconic species was recorded at several sites in the south-east. Known for its striking yellow and black markings, the wasp spider has been expanding its range in the UK.
Our surveys also identified the painted nomad bee (Nomada fucata), bee wolf (Philanthus Triangulum), German hairy snail (Pseudotrichia rubiginosa), oak jumping spider (Ballus chalybeius) and the rosy knot-horn moth (Oncocera semirubella).
Findings like these highlight the value of invertebrate surveys in understanding the movement of species and potential changes to biodiversity. Whether monitoring protected species, identifying invasive threats or uncovering rare and unexpected finds, our work ensures that important ecological data informs conservation and land management decisions.
Our invertebrate team looks forward to the upcoming season of surveys throughout the UK, where they will continue to document these vital but often overlooked species. If you’re interested in getting a quote for survey work, please get in touch by emailing info@bakerconsultants.co.uk or call 01629 593 958.