The hot summer in the UK provided a much-needed boost for wildlife with butterflies, moths and grasshoppers all thriving, the National Trust says. The warm weather also led to an explosion of berries, nuts and seeds. The trust’s Matthew Oates said 2013 was "one of the most remarkable wildlife years in living memory".
But it said a cold, late spring meant badgers and hedgehogs did not have their usual quantity of worms, and some seabirds died from starvation.
Bees and crickets were among other winners.
The distinctive tree bumblebee – which only began to colonise in the UK 12 years ago – was seen north of Hadrian’s Wall for the first time. Many insects had been scarce last year because of poor weather. The cool spring also provided a long flowering season for snowdrops, primrose and bluebells. And in some places, there was an explosion of orchids.
"The way our butterflies and other sun-loving insects bounced back in July was utterly amazing, showing nature’s powers of recovery at their best."
Many birds and mammals had also recovered well from the cold spring.