Tiny beetle spotted for only the 4th time in Europe at Rutland Water by local expert.

Measuring only 0.4mm, the Baranowskiella ehnstromi is the smallest beetle in Europe. Having only been previously spotted three times in Britain in East Anglia, this discovery by Tim Sexton is the first time this species has been spotted in the county. 

The Baranowskiella ehnstromi beetle is part of the feather-wing beetle family and only feeds on a specific type of fungus named Phellinus conchatus. The fungus itself is rare in Britain, making the finding of both the fungus and the beetles a great occassion for Tim Sexton, who spotted them.

The tiny beetle had to be viewed under a microscope to be properly identified. (Photo: Tim Sexton and Graham Finch)

Tim Sexton is the Senior Species and Recording Officer at Rutland Water. Interestingly, Tim Sexton also shares his name with a beetle. The Sexton beetle is one of several common beetle species in the UK that buries dead animals like mice and birds to feed on. 

Tim will be interviewed tonight (25.10.2024) on ITV Anglia about his amazing discovery.