Water Stick Insect

Invertebrates > Insects

The Water Stick Insect (Ranatra linearis) is one of the most bizarre and cunning predatory insects inhabiting European freshwaters. Despite its common name, it is not a terrestrial stick insect (order Phasmatodea), but rather an aquatic true bug in the water scorpion...

Poplar Hawk-moth

Invertebrates > Insects

The Poplar Hawk-moth (Laothoe populi) is one of the most magnificent, common, and anatomically curious nocturnal insects of the European summer. Belonging to the hawk-moth family Sphingidae, this large, velvety-furred giant is an absolute master of deception. When...

Great Raft Spider

Invertebrates > Arachnids

The Great Raft Spider (Dolomedes plantarius), often known as the Fen Raft Spider, is one of the largest, rarest, and most magnificent arachnids in Europe. Inhabiting pristine, undisturbed lowland fens and wetland ditch systems, this giant semi-aquatic hunter does not...

Lime Hawk-moth

Invertebrates > Insects

The Lime Hawk-moth (Mimas tiliae) is one of the most exquisitely camouflaged and aesthetically stunning night-flying insects of the European summer. Belonging to the hawk-moth family Sphingidae, this large, heavy-bodied moth is a consummate master of mimetic...

Marbled Orbweaver

Invertebrates > Arachnids

The Marbled Orbweaver (Araneus marmoreus), affectionately known across North America as the ‘Pumpkin Spider,’ is one of the most vividly colored and recognizable arachnids of the autumn season. Found throughout the temperate forests of the Northern...