I was told by a colleague (who is not into butterflies) that on a visit to Kingley Vale the place was absolutely full of butterflies and it was an incredible experience. This was about three weeks ago in the area of chalk grassland so I imagine they were mainly blues.
Has anyone on here been to Kingley Vale? Can you recommend it too?
Kingley Vale, nr Chichester, West Sussex
- Neil Hulme
- Posts: 3599
- Joined: Fri Feb 08, 2008 8:27 pm
Re: Kingley Vale, nr Chichester, West Sussex
Hi Susie,
It's well worth a visit. Some awesome yew trees, Bronze Age barrows at the top, plus spectacular views towards the coast. I only ever visit at this time of year - when I think it's at its best. There will be plenty of pre-hibernators on the blackberries between the yew trees and the base of the slope and I often go here specifically to photograph Comma. Up top there will be plenty of fresh Small Coppers and probably some Common Blues. Keep your eyes peeled - Queen of Spain Frits have turned up here at this time of year!
Neil
It's well worth a visit. Some awesome yew trees, Bronze Age barrows at the top, plus spectacular views towards the coast. I only ever visit at this time of year - when I think it's at its best. There will be plenty of pre-hibernators on the blackberries between the yew trees and the base of the slope and I often go here specifically to photograph Comma. Up top there will be plenty of fresh Small Coppers and probably some Common Blues. Keep your eyes peeled - Queen of Spain Frits have turned up here at this time of year!
Neil
Re: Kingley Vale, nr Chichester, West Sussex
Thanks, Kipper.
I shall definitely put it on my "too do" list then.
![Very Happy :D](./images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif)
I shall definitely put it on my "too do" list then.
Re: Kingley Vale, nr Chichester, West Sussex
Went there today. Not a single butterfly on the whole site to be seen.
This was because it was raining/drizzling the whole time though. There were still plenty of flowers around and on a nice day (like yesterday or probably tomorrow - my luck to pick the wrong day!) I imagine there are plenty to be seen.
I shall be back!
![Laughing :lol:](./images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
This was because it was raining/drizzling the whole time though. There were still plenty of flowers around and on a nice day (like yesterday or probably tomorrow - my luck to pick the wrong day!) I imagine there are plenty to be seen.
I shall be back!
- Neil Hulme
- Posts: 3599
- Joined: Fri Feb 08, 2008 8:27 pm
Re: Kingley Vale, nr Chichester, West Sussex
Hi Susie,
Should have listened to the weather forecast - it's always accurate when it predicts cloud and local drizzle (or worse). They only lie when they say it's going to be nice
When you go back you might also see some very fresh Brown Argus. They are just starting to 'third brood' in some parts of Sussex!
Neil
Should have listened to the weather forecast - it's always accurate when it predicts cloud and local drizzle (or worse). They only lie when they say it's going to be nice
![Evil or Very Mad :evil:](./images/smilies/icon_evil.gif)
Neil
Re: Kingley Vale, nr Chichester, West Sussex
I'm going to try and get back there next week as the forecast is looking pretty good.