![Smile :)](./images/smilies/icon_smile.gif)
On 25th September, the favourable forecast cemented my plans to head out on another major expedition, in search of a species I hadn't seen since 2017. Prompted by some intriguing reports from Kent (many thanks to AllanW and others for details), I headed to an abandoned cereal field on the edge of Walmer. By the time I arrived, it had clouded over somewhat and there was a bit of a cool breeze, but there were already several like-minded folk dotted around the field, including a concentration in one particular spot.
The centre of attention was a very fresh female Queen of Spain Fritillary. Initially, only the underside was on display, but it was stunning: the trademark silver patches were set off beautifully by the overall gold and chestnut of the other markings. Eventually, increasingly warm sunshine did cause the butterfly to open up and become mobile, revealing un unblemished upperside. It was a very popular butterfly... I managed at one point to get on the otherside of it and achieved a "stained glass" shot, which I think always shows fritillaries off to good advantage. Others of the species were also appearing now, largely males that had a few signs of wear. An attempt was made by someone to introduce the new female to one of these males: they appeared not the least bit interested in each other, but made very nice shots for comparing how the two sexes differ in appearance. While looking around the site, I did come across other species of butterfly (though not many). However, my attention soon returned (along with ever-increasing amounts of sunshine) to the QoS. I found several different males, but I think I will complete this account of the day in a second part.
Dave