What can I do for urban insect biodiversity? Applying lessons from ecological research

Introduction: In one sense, urban ecosystems might be thought of as unique in the range of challenges and opportunities for insects that they create. However, many of the ecological processes and anthropological effects they encapsulate can equally be found in other human dominated environments. So applying ecological lessons from both within and outside urban areas is important for insect conservation within our towns and cities. Methods: Here, I apply this principle by describing the entomological lessons relevant to urban insect conservation that I have learned from my work in both urban areas and agricultural systems. I will describe work on roundabouts and the importance of habitat management for insects. I will introduce you to some rare species in some urban green spaces. Results/Conclusion: I will show you what I have found in my studies of small-scale habitat heterogeneity, and consider how that might be applied to urban environments. I will finish by reflecting on the success, or otherwise, of my personal attempts to encourage insect biodiversity, and consider what I and we, as entomologists, need to be doing.