Observations from readers
A strange insect crossed the patio. It was about 1.5in long and unlike any insect I have ever seen. We photographed it and the Wildlife Service suggested it was a mole cricket (Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa), later confirmed by Dr Jim O'Connor of the Natural History Museum, who said that only one, very old record existed in this country.
Colm Nohilly, Greystones, Co Wicklow
At Cork Harbour, I saw a hooded crow flying low along the shore carrying a small rabbit in its talons. It dropped it, landed a few feet ahead of it, walked back and started to eat it. When disturbed, the crow took off with the rabbit in its mouth but transferred it to its feet very quickly, then flew another 50m and continued with its meal.
Dan Linehan, Cork
On our village green, beside the River Suir, I saw a grey crow snatch a two-week old gosling, despite the attention of the mother goose. How swift death can come in nature!
Liam O'Sullivan, Clonmel, CoTipperary
I saw a flock of up to 50 hoodies working the ground in Bushy Park. I have watched them steadily become a city bird.
Michael D'Arcy, Terenure, Dublin 6W
Michael Viney welcomes observations at Thallabawn, Carrowniskey PO, Westport, Co Mayo; e-mail: viney@anu.ie Include a postal address