Musical insects that were last spotted in the UK in the 1990s have returned to British soil.
The New Forest cicada became extinct in Britain roughly 30 years ago. But these critters are making an epic comeback, as the singing bugs have been introduced back into their natural habitat by conservationists who are hoping to replenish their lost population.
Eleven New Forest cicadas (AKA the cicadetta montana) were released into a habitat at Paultons Park, near the New Forest, this week by the Species Recovery Trust (SRT). They were brought into the country from northern France where they were collected.
It’s thought that some of the bugs are already pregnant and laying eggs in their newly created habitat. However, we won’t know if the re-introduction was successful until 2029 as the insects’ young spend four years underground before going out into the world.
When fully grown the cicadas are black with distinct golden rings and transparent wings. Females can grow up to 5cm long, while males are slightly smaller.
The SRT thinks the management of land contributed to the extinction of these cicadas in the UK in the ‘90s, but is hopeful that the warming climate will aid their future survival.
Charlotte Carne, SRT project officer, said: ‘This has been a really challenging project so it’s amazing to see New Forest cicadas in England after all this time.
‘It’s like bringing them back from the dead.’
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