Sunday 7th August 2022

Species: Brimstone (2) Brown Argus (2) Comma (6) Gatekeeper (8) Green-veined White (1) Holly Blue (1) Large White (4) Meadow Brown (16) Peacock (2) Silver-washed Fritillary (6) Small Copper (2) Small Skipper (1) Small Tortoiseshell (2) Small White (1) Speckled Wood (6)

Small Copper - Tucking Mill 07-08-2022

It was a warm (23c), sunny afternoon when I arrived at the Tucking Mill viaduct on the 7th August. I headed on towards Midford and over the viaduct towards Wellow. Just past the first gate there are several Buddleia bushes growing near the path. This is a good spot for butterflies at this time of year. 

Silver-washed Fritillary - Midford 07-08-2022

Several Silver-washed Fritillary butterflies were swooping around, occasionally settling on the nectar filedl flowers. A pristine Large White was also making good use of the food on offer.

Comma - Horsecombe Vale 07-08-2022

Heading back towards Tucking Mill, I paused for a while to survey the tall Wych Elms that grow on the embankment near Midford Castle. It is late in the season for White-letter Hairstreak and I was  unsurprised by their absence.

Brown Argus - Tucking Mill 07-08-2022

A little further along the path I stopped off at the embankment. Plenty of Common Blue butterflies could be seen in the adjoining field along with a single Brown Argus on the embankment side of the fence. 

Hoverfly (Possibly Eupeodes Luniger) - Horsecombe Vale 07-08-2022

Following a short walk along Horsecombe Vale where I photographed a Comma and some Hoverflies, I headed up towards the fields. These south-west facing slopes are now dry and brown following the long hot summer. 

Brown Argus on Common Rock-rose - Tucking Mill 07-08-2022

Another Brown Argus butterfly was seen taking an interest in the Common Rock-rose which grows here. This is a key larval foodplant for the Brown Argus.

Meadow Brown - Tucking Mill 07-08-2022

Also seen flying in the fields that day were Meadow Brown, Small Skipper and (a very approachable) Small Copper (See photo above)

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