I saw this beetle-like creature, about 2.5cm long, walking in the sand on the Long Strand after a strong storm. What species is it?
â Jens Uhl, Clonakilty, Co Cork
Itâs the great diving beetle, which flies from freshwater pond to pond during the breeding season. Both adults and the shrimp-like larvae attack frogs, newts, fish, tadpoles and other animals in the pond. Tortoiseshell butterfly
I saw this early-season visitor in our garden on St Patrickâs Day: hopefully a sign of better days ahead.
â Eoin OâFlynn, Termonfeckin, Co Louth
The welcome, small tortoiseshell butterfly appears early in March.