Ruspolia nitidula

Range & Status

Apart from occasional imports with plant material, the first natural occurrence was on the Isles of Scilly in 2003. In 2005 it was recorded near Poole, Dorset, and was seen again in 2006, suggesting a breeding colony (Sutton, 2006). It is possible that further undetected colonies could have been established on the south coast around this time.

Regional Distribution

Three males were found in the Isles of Scilly, with one on St. Mary' s and two on St. Agnes in August 2003. As females do not call, these might also have arrived but been overlooked. However, no further sightings were made in 2004 or subsequently, so no breeding colony seems to have been established. This species has been extending its range in Europe, and has recently spread northward into Normandy, so is a clear candidate for future colonisation in warmer spots of southern England. It could turn up again in Cornwall in a hot summer.

Habitat & Ecology

Its normal habitat on the continent is warm, moist, river valleys and tree sheltered marshland.

Threats

None known.

Conservation

None known.