Story

Power of the sun

The sun provides radiant energy. When sunlight hits an insect, some of this radiant energy turns into heat.

Small animals such as insects absorb heat quickly. Because they are cold-blooded, their body temperature mostly matches that of their surroundings.

Warming up

Flying insects such as butterflies and dragonflies have to warm up their flight muscles before they can fly. When it’s cool outside, you often see them sitting still with their wings spread out to catch the sunlight.

Why do dark butterflies warm up faster than light ones?

Mammals

Small mammals such as mice and hedgehogs also benefit from the sun. On cold days, they lose heat to their surroundings. The sun’s warmth makes up for this.

Time of year

In spring and autumn, sunny moments can make all the difference. Air temperature may be low, but sunlight allows animals to be active. A cloudy day with the same temperature is likely to be much quieter.

Shift

The average temperature in the Netherlands has risen in recent decades. As a result, the growing season now starts earlier and the warm period lasts longer. For many insects, this means a longer period in which they can fly. You are likely to see them earlier in the spring and later in the autumn.

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Power of the sun

Power of the sun

Warming up

Why do dark butterflies warm up faster than light ones?

Mammals

Time of year

Shift

Flutter time