Page 50 - BR August 2023

August 2023 August 2023
Troublesome Tech because young Adders won’t move far from where they hatched, almost
certainly confirming that we have breeding Adder on site too, considering it was
It's enough to phase an aged chap, in the middle of the site. That brings our reptile species for 4 out of 6 currently
I've got a problem with an app; recognised species in the UK (not including Wall Lizard, Western Green Lizard or
Aesculapian Snake which are colonising some of the UK). Just Sand Lizard and
my phone is meant to be so smart Smooth Snake to go until we have the full 6.
but a data load just will not start.
My even smarter watch should link This time of year is a great time to get out and try to spot Glowworms doing their
thing and lighting up the night. Not a worm at all, but in fact a beetle, these
so why it won't, I cannot think; bioluminescent beings emit a light created by a chemical reaction in their
there are so many things to try, abdomen to attract a mate. They are quite common down here in Dorset, with
so which are best and which apply? many heathlands and grasslands holding decent populations, including being
present at Wild Woodbury, where I have seen 12 so far this year (many in the day,
So with the phone upon my lap, and just a few glowing at night). The best time to attempt to see them is on a still,
warm evening, with a crescent moon, as they’re less likely to glow with a full
I opened up that faulting app; moon. Try not to use a torch and let your eyes adjust to the dark, which will make
the listed watch I then erased, picking out their glow much easier. Along with the Silver-studded Blues and
closed the app, no longer phased. reptiles, they’re one of many species which we hope will continue to increase in
I powered off the phone and watch, the coming months and years.
trusting this was not some botch; As ever, should you wish to get in contact with me, please drop me an email at
the phone, I powered on again shaggett@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk.
and hoped that all was not in vain.

I had to link the watch once more
into that app, just as before;
I typed in text and a number code
that on the watch dial had just showed.
Now fingers crossed that all is well
yet really, only time will tell.
I opened up that that faulting app;
it worked, I am a lucky chap.

In times before this age of tech,
a watch was for the time to check;
a phone was just to make a call
but nowadays that's just not all.
You need a phone for this and that,
for internet and online chat;
a drive to town is no mere lark,
you need an app just to park,

Chris Nother

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