28th July 2011
Next to the carpark for the RSPB reserve near Beckley, Oxon, there is bridleway known as the Roman Road. Yesterday, in hot sunshine, both sides of the ride held clouds of butterflies, rising up from the undergrowth with each step. Most were Gatekeepers, with several multi-spotted varaiants.
- Roman Road, Otmoor, Oxon - 28th July 2011
Also,several Brimstones and just a few vanessids, including Red Admirals and Peacock.
- Roman Road, Otmoor, Oxon - 28th July 2011
Where this ride meets the open moor, there is what must surely rank as the most unfriendly gate in the country! If the cows with calves are insufficiently agressive then there is always the bull to chase you on to an unexploded bomb. Meanwhile, you will be used for target practice from the adjacent firing range!. You may just manage to spot the blue bridleway arrow among the other signs!
- Roman Road, Otmoor, Oxon - 28th July 2011
I was pleased when one of the brown butterflies turned out to be a Brown Hairstreak, although not in the best of condition.
- Roman Road, Otmoor, Oxon - 28th July 2011
Mike
