A leading entomologist and insect pheromone expert says the late Spring cold spell could have many knock on effects for wildlife and agriculture.

Dr Sam Jones, Technical Director for International Pheromone Systems, explains: “The extended cold weather in late Spring delayed development of many insects which certainly means there will have been fewer insects around for birds to feed their young. Many bird species will have delayed producing eggs and perhaps have laid smaller clutches in response to this. Many insects that overwinter as adults are likely to have suffered in the extended cold spell also.

“The Codling moth is the most damaging insect when it comes to apple crops. The larvae that overwintered would normally have developed into adult moths by mid May but this has been delayed a few weeks. If we don’t have a particularly hot summer it is likely that there won’t be a second generation of adults in August so there will be less damage from this pest during the year.”

But while fewer moths is good news for producers, the cold weather has also resulted in less blossom than normal which could mean less fruit.

Cheshire-based International Pheromone Systems offers a nature-based approach and specialist knowledge for natural and safe methods to monitor and manage pests in agricultural and domestic environments.

The company’s highly skilled entomologists find the answers from nature itself. Together with universities, scientific partners and growers, the IPS team works to find natural solutions to help reduce pesticide use and support Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in agriculture, horticulture and forestry businesses.

A healthier, safer and more productive environment is achieved by using the natural behaviour of pests and finding the right pheromone combination and trapping solution specific to a particular species.