In a recent letter the writer mentioned the change in insects and spiders in their garden.

I have become aware of the change in butterflies and bumble bees visiting my garden.

The ones I normally expect have only visited once or twice before moving on.

They are replaced by unfamiliar butterflies who have visited my garden before.

They have also only stayed a short time despite my garden containing butterfly and bee friendly plants and shrubs this is evident in the field hedges.

It is claimed this can due to global warming, climate change, use of agricultural and horticultural sprays and loss of habitat not forgetting the beast from the East in the Spring which may also have been a contributing factor.

My garden is now hosting bees and small white butterflies along with variety of other insects.

One can only hope the familiar butterflies and bumble bees will return.

Elizabeth Farrell

Avalanche Road

Portland