Posted on: Monday 25 September 2023
Wasp spiders have been discovered in two areas of Torfaen where grassland has been allowed to flower over the summer.
The species, which is more commonly found in southern England, has been spotted on a verge in Pontnewynydd and at Henllys Local Nature Reserve - the furthest north they have been recorded.
Veronika Brannovic, Local Nature Partnership Coordinator at Torfaen Council, said: "This type of spider has been moving northwards, probably because of climate change.
"This shows that our approach to sustainable grassland management is allowing species to move in response to climate change.
Around 120 grassland areas are part of Torfaen Council's sustainable grassland management programme, where routine mowing has been reduce to allow plants to continue flowering over spring and summer.
This provides habitats for insects and pollinators and allows plants to develop longer roots which means they can store more carbon in the soil – a key contributor to tackling global warming.
Next month, all areas will be cut back to encourage wildflowers and plants to grow again next spring.
Veronika added: “Now the plants have died off, cutting back the vegetation will help it to grow back again in the spring.
“The changes to mowing practices across the county borough have already shown that, even in small spaces, we can make a difference for wildlife and for wellbeing.
“We are seeing an increase in wildflowers, insects and other species and we are planning to expand the programme each year to maximise the benefits already seen and help to adapt to the effects of climate change.”
Watch a video about the sustainable grassland management programme
Earlier this year, councillors voted to add another 50 sites to the sustainable grassland management programme: nine in Blaenavon; two in Coed Eva; seven in Croesyceiliog; one in Fairwater; one in Garndiffaith and Varteg; three in Griffithstown East; three in Lowland and Avondal; one in Llantarnum; seven in Llanyrafon; one in New Inn; one in Ponthir; one in Pontnewydd, three in Snatchwood; one in Southvill; two in St.Dials; three in Trevethin; two in Two Locks; one in Upper Cwmbran and two in Wainfelin.
Find out more about the council’s approach to tackling the climate and nature emergency
Photo credit: Photograph by Gavin Vella.