The tardigrade and the earthworm share a notable distinction as the previous winners of the Guardian’s annual Invertebrate of the Year competition. This event celebrates various remarkable species from the natural world, emphasizing the essential roles that creatures like beetles, slugs, worms, and moths play in maintaining the ecological balance of our planet.

This year, contenders vying for the title previously held by the tardigrade include the familiar woodlouse and the fascinating immortal jellyfish. The complete list of nominees will be unveiled in the coming days.

Patrick, the Guardian’s natural history writer, is recognized as one of the leading nature authors in the UK. His literary contributions explore a range of subjects, including badgers, moths, and his enduring passion for nature. His recent articles have focused on topics such as rewilding initiatives, the nesting behaviors of swifts, and the intriguing phenomenon of people impersonating otters.

He has initiated this year’s Invertebrate of the Year countdown with a tribute to the often-overlooked woodlouse, which he describes as an “evolutionary trendsetter.” In his commentary, he also shared some of the creature’s charming nicknames, including “Chucky pig,” “Slater,” “Monkey pea,” “Roly-poly,” “Boat-builder,” “Butchy boy,” “Cheeselog,” “Hobbling Andrew,” and “Wood pig.”

Patrick will be available at 4 PM BST (11 AM EDT) to engage with readers and respond to their inquiries regarding this exciting project. Participants are also welcome to ask him about badgers or any other topics related to the natural world.

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