your sightings
sightings in the new forest
We are especially interested in sightings and signs in the New Forest as this is the only place in the UK where the rare noble chafer beetle has been found outside of traditional orchards. Please download our leaflet for a guide and how to help.
adult beetle sightings
Any possible noble chafer sightings are gratefully received, but they must be accompanied by a photograph (digital or film, together with a six-figure grid reference (eg SO364101) in order to verify the record. Please email laura.bower@ptes.org or write to the address above.
tracks and signs
Where old fruit trees in an orchard exhibit decay features, look for noble chafer signs…
- With your arm, a long handled spoon or similar implement, reach into any accessible hollows. Collect a handful of the wood mould that is inside. This will be fine, woody material produced by fungal activity during the decay process.
- Inspect the wood mould for noble chafer frass. It may be useful to use a white sheet or piece of paper for this as when shaken the pellets usually come to the surface. Noble chafer frass is approximately 3mm long and lozenge-shaped .
- If noble chafer frass is discovered please take a small sample and send it to the PTES office, with address and grid reference for confirmation and recording.
- If noble chafer larvae are discovered please leave them where they are but take a photograph if possible. Return the wood mould to the hollow.
Always be aware that other species inhabit tree hollows so please explore with care and keep disturbance to a minimum.
