03/06/2026
Night time walks can be a lot of fun, let your eyes adjust to the darkness without using a torch, or use a red light so as not to startle wildlife and to preserve your night vision.
In late June and July glow- worms can be seen along path and woodland edges in Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve. Glow-worms are actually beetles, the male looks like a typical beetle but the females have no wings and look similar to the larvae.
The females climb up plant stems at night and emit a greeny-orange light from their abdomen, attempting to attract a mate. The larvae feed on slugs and snails by injecting a mixture of paralysing and digestive juices.
Glow-worms can also be spotted in gardens, hedgerows, woodland rides and heathlands. If you do see any glow-worms in HCPNR please let us know the location. Remember to respect these tiny creatures, don't collect or touch them as they are extremely delicate. Let them keep shining.
With thanks to Andy Phillips and Lucy for the photos.
