I noticed these mating bugs in my again backyard. I initially thought they had been a species of fly, however on shut inspection they seem like moths. What species are they? Alan Thornberry, Dublin
It is a putting image of two stunning mating plume moths, so-called as a result of their unfold wings appear to be feathers or plumes. They belong to the class often known as micro moths. It’s a broadly distributed species.
This superb show of fungus seems on the aspect of this tree yearly at the moment. What’s it please? Clara Clark, Dublin
These fungi appeared close to a stream on the backside of our backyard. I used to be questioning what selection they’re and if they’re toxic? Helen O’Mahony, Waterford
Hubert Fuller, my mycology lecturer in College School Dublin fadó, says they’re each pictures of the dryads saddle, a species that causes white tender rot on deciduous bushes. He strongly advises me to offer no data on edibility due to the hazards in mistakenly figuring out a toxic mushroom as edible. Fuller additionally warns readers to not rely on the web to establish collected specimens. As he grimly factors out: “All mushrooms are edible — however a few of them solely as soon as.”
Is that this large hogweed? I noticed it on the highway close to Elphin; is it invasive or harmful? Brendan Fox, Co Roscommon
Sure, sure and sure. It’s the large hogweed Heracleum mantegazziianum. Initially launched as a decorative plant within the nineteenth century, it has grow to be an invasive species as a result of it dominates the vegetation by which it happens. It’s harmful if touched, as a result of its sap may cause a severe photoallergic response (phytophoto dermatitis) that causes pores and skin blistering when uncovered to daylight.
What is that this fowl of prey residing close to us in current months? There appears numerous calling forwards and backwards and I’m undecided if it’s a misplaced chick. Philip Neville, Co Cork
It’s a buzzard, a local species that has made a comeback naturally since lacing carcasses with poison was made unlawful. Children can proceed to beg for meals even after they’ve fledged, which is what the calling is about.