Subscribe now

Society

Count the bugs "splatted" on your car to help track insect decline

Add a 'splatometer' to your car to help researchers at the Bugs Matter project investigate the worrying global decline in insect populations, says Layal Liverpool

By Layal Liverpool

29 June 2022

J3TX0E Splattering of dead insects on a car windscreen, windshield whilst driving along a road with signs and road white markings.

CBCK-Christine/Alamy

HAVE you noticed a drop in the number of bugs splatted on your car windscreen in recent years? Researchers think this “windscreen phenomenon” is one indicator of a worrying global decline in insects, and your observations could help them to investigate the scale of the problem.

If you live and drive in the UK, you can get involved in this biodiversity research directly by participating in the Bugs Matter project this summer. You will need a “splatometer” – a sampling grid that you can stick to the number plate of your vehicle. This will be posted to you when …

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 14th June 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account