False Apollo

[Wurzel]

Is it the warmer temperatures or the presence of the sun that brings out the Cloudies Mike? If it's the later I might have to make my way back to Dorset

Have a goodun

Wurzel

[millerd]

Is it right that they've been see down there in every month of the year except January? Is the colony still persisting throughout the year with larvae holding on through the winter? It is such a reliable spot for them.

Dave

[False Apollo]

On the off chance I might see a Purple Emperor I visited Straits Enclosure at Alice Holt, Hampshire this morning, but was put off as soon as I arrived by a chap who was leaving after waiting 2 hours without seeing any. I did manage to see my first White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillaries and Ringlets of the year though. I then decided to try my luck at nearby Abbotts Wood. The track was being used by cyclists so any that may be on the ground would soon move off. I decided to turn back to the car, and then suddenly I put up a male Purple Emperor. It did not go far, but was very restless in the heat. It did behave a little strangely as it kept flying into cover on either side of the path, then moving on, skimming the path. Then it started it's groundings but was only down for 30 seconds at once in any one spot. It grounded 4 or 5 times before doubling back towards where I first saw it, then glided up effortlessly moving into the wood. I first saw it down at 12.30. I never saw any more despite checking the usual favoured areas.

Regards
Mike

[Wurzel]

Good going Mike That often seems to be the way - just as you turn to leave the butterflies appear

Have a goodun

Wurzel

[False Apollo]

Certainly seems that way. Had I not been in the right place at the right time, I could have made the trip for nothing. However I do love the wood so I would have been well compensated by what I did see. It's a beautiful area to visit.

Regards
Mike

[trevor]

Well done Mike, the three Summer spectaculars in one visit, no need to go out again ! .

Trevor.

[David M]

First Emperor image of the season on here (to my knowledge).

Well done, Mike.

[False Apollo]

Visited Shipton Bellinger today for Brown Hairstreaks. After a long walk around the circuit amongst the blackthorns I was lucky to come across a female and a male down on creeping thistle around mid-day. I think this is the first time I have photographed both sexes nectaring in the same shot. Earlier I had met Pauline who had see some over some trees, and I was struggling to seen any up until mid-day. Also saw 5 Wall Browns, Silver Washed and Dark Green Fritillaries.

Regards
Mike Gibbons

[Pauline]

Lovely shots too Mike. As you say, unusual to get 2 (of any sex) in one shot - but then I wouldn't expect any less from you . Really pleased for you

[David M]

Nice work, Mike. Whenever I notice your PD has been updated I always expect something good.