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More Butterflies and the odd Bat for a blog.

Re-visited a site near Bergh Apton on Sunday, rich in Butterlfy and Insect life. Literally 100's of Meadow Brown and Ringlet were seen, the next numerous species probably Small Tortoiseshell. Red Admiral numbered just 2, Large Skipper 2 and Small/Essex Skipper c10. My first Gatekeepers of the year, 2, and 3 White species completed a super haul. The Cinnabar and 6-Spot Burnet were the day flying Moths were also encountered. 2 Brown Hawker patrolled the nettle beds, and a large Hawker went unidentified. Some choice pictures below.

Looking back to the 25th of June, a NBSG survey at Rainthorpe Hall near Taswood Lakes proved very productive and also marked a change in the weather for the warmer. The Hall itself is a quite stunning relic, well maintained and a privilege it was to walk the grounds. Before dark, a Barn Owl flew in front of the car and a Tawny Owl called. At least 3 Fox were seen as dusk fell and finally, James, you were spot on- I saw a Glow Worm! Once the Bats were out we were busy. Soprano and Common Pipistrelle were the frequent flyers tonight, and we also enjoyed good views of Noctule and Daubenton's.  Upon receiving results it seems a possible Barbastelle was recorded, but too faint to be sure.

On the 11th of July, a site record of 2 Little Egret were feeding on the lagoon at Surlingham Church Marsh. Both appeared to be adults, and legged it before I got a chance to capture them feeding. Green Sandpiper numbers are stable at 2.





Comments

  1. Paul Davidson15 July 2013 at 14:25

    Hi Jim. Good to see that you have visited Bergh Apton again. Your observations are pretty much in line with what I have been observing. There are also Speckled Wood butterflies usually on the wooded footpath at the back of the site. Dragonflies are still relatively sparce at the moment and yet to reach their peak. Regards Paul

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