Ever wondered what the foamy like spittal in the grass is this time of year? Commonly known as Cuckoo Spit this froth serves a number of purposes. It hides a tiny Froghopper nymph from the view of predators and parasites, it insulates against heat and cold, thus providing thermal and also moisture control. Without the froth the insect would quickly dry up. The nymphs pierce plants and suck sap causing damage, and much of the excess filtered fluids go into the production of the froth, which has an acrid taste, deterring predators. Thanks as usual to the mighty Wikipedia!
However there is no explanation that I can find as to where Cuckoos feature! If anyone knows please post a comment!
and inside is....
The Froghopper nymph (me)
and this then becomes...
the adult with the funky goggles.... (Mark Hart)
Thanks folks!
Two theories I've found, both relating to the fact that it appears in spring when cuckoos arrive -
1. Many years ago (when cuckoos were far more common than they are now) they could be heard calling constantly, and people believed that they would have to clear their throats to do this, and that cuckoo spit was the result.
2. Springtime was, many years ago also known as cuckoo time, thus it was called cuckoo spit - meaning spit that appeared at cuckoo time ie. spring.
I like the first one best.
Found a couple of comments on the web that allude the fact Cuckoo spit begins to appear in late spring at a time when the familiar call of cuckoos can be heard, but otherwise has no connection with the bird.