Observations on nature
Recently, I disturbed a nest of ants in my compost heap. I lifted the lot with a spade and laid them gently on to the soil a yard or so from the compost heap. The ants began moving back in the direction of the compost heap, carrying what looked like Rice Krispies, which I presumed were probably eggs. But then I thought - how could such small ants lay such large eggs?
John Kelly, Dublin 3
The ants were carrying the cocoons that contain the pupae of the developing young. Ant eggs are quite small and when the larvae emerge they feed and grow until they are ready to pupate.
On Great Saltee Island on Monday, June 7th, there was a migrant swarm of at least 2,000 painted ladies and about 200 red admirals. The day was warm and humid, with cloud cover and banks of sea fog.
It was clear on Monday night and by dawn, 90 per cent of the butterflies had gone. The red admirals were being quite territorial and were even seen chasing a wren off their patch.
Oscar Merne, Bray, Co Wicklow