Friday 18th May 2018


Butterfly Species: Small White (1) Brimstone (2) Orange Tip (1) Large White (2) Green-Veined White (2)


Quite a low total today (8) mainly due to the weather. Although the temperature was around 17c, high cloud diffused the sun and reduced butterfly activity. What was a surprise was the absence of Speckled Wood given the high numbers a week earlier. I would expect to see these to be flying in diffused sunlight.

The only new species seen on the cycle-path was a day flying moth, The Orange Underwing (Archieris Parthenias). Two of these were seen flying quite low over a grassy bank towards the Wellow end of the path.

Slightly off the path, two Dingy Skippers were spotted in a field a metre or so from the boundary fence. The field is close to Tucking Mill and is owned by Wessex Water. It adjoins the top of the embankment and the habitat is similar the path side of the fence. There is potential that this species could also be found on the path in this area.

The Hawthorn blossom was spectacular!



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