'A symbol of hope': environmentalists choose their favourite invertebrates

Politicians, campaigners and charity workers make the case for their top picks, from bumblebees to blue beetlesInvertebrates are hugely important for ecosystems and the general health of our planet and there is a dizzying array of beautiful examples, from fluffy bees to glow-in-the-dark woodlice. But which do you prefer? We asked the great and good on the UK conservation scene to name their favourite invertebrate:Steve Reed, UK environment secretaryBetween 24 March and 2 April, we will be profiling a shortlist of 10 of the invertebrates chosen by readers and selected by our wildlife writers from more than 2,500 nominations. The voting for our 2025 invertebrate of the year will run from midday on Wednesday 2 April until midday on Friday 4 April, with the winner to be announced on Monday 7. Read the other wonderful nominations here. Continue reading...