The Distribution of Flying Insects in and Near a Tall Hedgerow

The patterns of distribution of insects in and near a tall (H 7 m), complex hedgerow were measured with suction traps in two consecutive years. Two suction traps were sited in the hedgerow on the eastern and western sides respectively, another at a distance of 3H in the middle of a wheat crop east of the hedgerow and a fourth over a weedy site 8ffeast of the hedgerow. In both years insects were most numerous on the western side of the hedgerow irrespective of speed and direction of wind. Numbers of insects were smallest in the trap at 3H but in the trap at 8H were greater, though less than on either side of the hedgerow. This pattern of distribution appeared to be determined primarily by the comparative richness of the vegetation surrounding trapping sites, the western side of the hedgerow having the most varied flora.