Cuckoo spit protecting a tiny insect on a green plant

The original archive · 2011–2013

There is another world right under our noses.

Discover the insects and micro-fauna living in British gardens, told through Ray Burman’s observations and original photographs.

Welcome back

A small site about a remarkably busy world

Cuckoo Spit was created to give each visitor new insights into the fascinating world of insects and even smaller life forms.

These restored articles retain the curiosity, humour and personal observations of the original website. They are presented in their historic order, with the original photographs wherever they have survived.

“If you take the time to stop and actually look and listen, you may observe something no other human has ever witnessed before.”

From the archive

Latest historic entries

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Garden Spider

The other day while sitting in the front room I noticed something on the window… As it is in the beginning of February and therefore mid winter and we had just came out of a very cold snap, …

Bug With A Face Mask

This one is a particular favorite of mine. Ever since I looked close up after taking the picture I then noticed patterns on it back that resembled a face mask….

UK Spiders

Everybody will have some experiences with spiders, that is because they are so numerous.

Harlequin Ladybird

Apparently quite a few of our native species of ladybird are being effected by a none native species called the Harlequin.

Insect Hunters Kit

What if you are about to go on an expedition you will need to have your special kit at the ready to capture and then identify your catch.

What’s Your Favourite Insect?

We all have had a Favorite insect, while we were growing up. My top 20 are these:- Puss moth caterpillar Ants of all types Frog hopper / Leaf hoppers Zebra spider Humming Bird Hawk Moth Lady…