Wiltshire Holiday Part 1; 28th/29th May
Just returned from a family holiday to Wiltshire and Dorset and with some brownie points banked a couple of butterfly trips were enjoyed.With the west of the UK enjoying the sunny conditions,I was hopeful of adding a couple of 'lifers' to my list in the shape of Duke of Burgundy and Marsh Fritillary.
First stop on 28th May was Bentley Wood's East clearing to catch the Pearl Bordered Fritillary before they ended. We noted approximately 15 worn examples;
We were then treated to high speed flyby of a Small Pearl Bordered Fritillary, a brilliant orange colour compared to the PBF. Unfortunately the two examples we saw never settled, although just before leaving we did see this example (not sure if it is SPBF or PBF). Happy for someone to confirm for me.
As we approached marker point 4, we saw a couple of small butterflies in an aerial display. As one landed, it proved to be my first ever Duke of Burgundy.
Also noted at Bentley Wood were Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Comma and a large number of Speckled Yellow Moths.
A fine start to the holiday, if a little muddy
Regards Kev