2009 has been a great year for butterflies. The buddleia is unfortunately going over and numbers of Painted Ladies have fallen away, but on August 16th, I observed 5 Small Tortoiseshells nectaring. This is particularly pleasing for two reasons - firstly, this is not a butterfly that I have seen very often in the garden, so a multiple occurrence is very unusual; secondly, this butterfly has seen a drastic national decline over the past couple of years and this year appears to be showing a reversal in its fortunes - long may it continue.
Yet another Silver-washed Fritillary was seen today (August 16th). I watched it sailing up and down the back garden, before it eventually alighted on the patio table to sun itself. This allowed me to identify it as a rather worn male.
On the avian front, an adult Hobby was watched flying westwards over the garden mid afternoon. Adults show red 'trousers', whereas juveniles do not.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment