Monday 6th August 2018

Butterfly Species: Comma (1) Common Blue (16) Gatekeeper (3) Green Veined White (6) Meadow Brown (5) Painted Lady (1) Red Admiral (1) Silver-washed Fritillary (2) Small White (2) Speckled Wood (5)

Painted Lady butterfly - Midford Viaduct

Another sunny ride along the path today. Although the temperature has now cooled to a 'modest' 24c I was expecting a good number of butterflies to be on the wing. But alas no. The Buddleja bushes along the Tucking Mill section of the path were weirdly quiet with barely a butterfly (or bee) to be seen. This was mid-afternoon but even so!

Common Blue Butterfly - Tucking Mill

The most common butterfly of this walk was appropriately the Common Blue. These are now in full flight and can be seen almost anywhere along the path where flowers are still providing nectar. A total of were 16 spotted along the way. This included the wooded sections which are completely unlike their normal open, grassy habitats.

Meadow Brown Butterfly - Midford

Meadow browns were still to be seen. Most are quite faded but some are looking fresh and recently 'emerged'.
Faded Red Admiral - Tucking Mill

At this time of year I would expect to see increasing numbers of 'Vanessids' (Red Admirals, Small Tortoiseshells, Peacocks and Painted Ladies) However these seem in short supply with only one Red Admiral and one Painted Lady spotted. Could this be as a result of the overly hot weather and drought? Or are we yet to see something special this butterfly year? Time will tell.


Painted Lady - Midford Viaduct



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