This extraordinary harvestman, with forked pedipalps, is Dicranopalpus ramosus. It is currently living behind the door of our garage, still alive and apparently still active in the depths of winter.
This species is native to Morocco and was first noted in
Britain , in Bournemouth on the south coast, in 1957. Since then it has reached the
Scottish border and is still heading north.
This is only the second time I've seen it here in Durham. The first was in summer, when I found one in my greenhouse.
It's a real surprise to find this one in mid-winter, alive but missing a couple of legs.
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It's got its own cutlery!
ReplyDeleteRemarkable, isn't it?! makes this species very easy to ID
DeleteHow remarkable, Phil! I'd not been aware of the term 'pedipalps' before, so thanks for the educational bit.
ReplyDeleteDelighted to be able to comment, once again, on your blog after months of exclusion - not least as it enables me to wish you a joyful Christmas, and a healthy and proseprous 2017, which I do!
and best wishes to you for Christmas and 2017, Richard...
DeleteIsn't it lovely? I have found out where mine go when they disappear for a while, I was thrilled!
ReplyDeleteI would like to wish you greetings for the season too, I hope to continue reading you in 2017,
A belated Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you too, toffeeapple. best wishes, Phil
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