Over the past few days in Alton we have had torrential rain, two hailstorms, one involving thunder and lightening and some cool breezes. So how did the butterflies fare?
18th May, Noar Hill, 13 degrees
My first Small Blue of the year.
19th May, Magdalen Hill, 14 degrees
I came here today because it was advertised they were re-introducing the Duke’s here, but search as I might, there were none that I could see. I accidentally met one of the rangers who told me they hadn’t done it yet and it could be as much as two years hence. Oh, well.
But you know, sometimes in this game you just get lucky don’t you? Marshies are quite rare in this neck of the woods (so to speak). I only saw one last year (at St Cat’s Hill). Today I saw my first of the year and my first ever one at this location, and a very nice specimen it was too.
But despite the very cloudy day, there was some sunshine and it brought out quite a few species, although not in massive numbers.
1 O Tip, 3 Brims, 1 Peacock, 1 S or GV White. 1 H Blue, 1 G Streak and 10 S Heaths.
Then there was this battered Common Blue, at least I think that’s what it is.
And my first Small Copper of the year and it was doing a Stalk Walk!
2 Dingies. Now I need some advice on this one. I just took the pic and left so I don’t know for sure but when I got home and looked more closely, it seemed to be curling it’s abdomen under it. Could it be egg-laying? Any thoughts anyone?
There were 9 BArgs.
And 1, yes only 1 Grizzlie.
Nevertheless, a fair clutch of species today so I am well chuffed.