Scientists from London’s Natural History Museum have described a new genus and species of parasitic wasp found within the museum’s collections and named it as a birthday present for the famous broadcaster and natural historian, set to celebrate the milestone birthday today.
While wasps may not be as universally beloved as Attenborough, there’s no doubt that the natural historian would appreciate Attenboroughnculus tau, named as a tribute to him.
Previously, Attenborough has spotlighted parasitoid wasps in his documentaries, describing them as “body-snatcher wasps” in The Trials of Life.
Measuring 3.5mm in body length, this wasp was originally collected in 1983 in the Valdivia province of Chile; only recently did volunteer Augustijn De Ketelaere spot the wasp’s unusual characteristics while undertaking a detailed examination of the ichneumonid collections.
The newly described insect is both a new species and genus because it is so distinct from its closest relatives that it can’t logically fit into any other established genus.
The parasitic Chilean wasp. Photo: PA
The species name tau refers to a striking ‘T’-shaped marking on the insect’s abdomen; this insect is believed to be one of the least understood groups of wasps, according to Dr Gavin R Broad, principal curator for insects at Britain’s Natural History Museum.
Many other species have been named after the natural historian, from Euptychia attenboroughi, a rare Amazonian butterfly, to Attenborosaurus conybeari – a dinosaur that roamed Europe during the Sinemurian stage of the early Jurassic period.
Meanwhile, the BBC is celebrating Attenborough’s 100th birthday today with a live event at the Royal Albert Hall – however, his colleague and friend has revealed that the TV presenter would rather be anywhere else.
Attenborough worked with documentary producer Alastair Fothergill on a number of nature documentaries, including 2001’s The Blue Planet, 2006’s Planet Earth and more recently, David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet.
Speaking about Attenborough ahead of him turning 100, Mr Fothergill told BBC Breakfast that the presenter “hates celebrity” – and would prefer to spend his birthday at home.
“He hates celebrity. He doesn’t like that at all and he’s realised that the has to do it,” Mr Fothergill said.
“He would like to be at home all day, nice glass of wine in the evening.
“However, he recognises that the British public want to say happy birthday to him and I think he’ll go home happy.”
The almost-centenarian’s life and career will be celebrated today with a special 90-minute live event hosted by Kirsty Young.