Kithurst Hill, 13 September 2011
I blew out my early plan of a trip to Pagham Harbour due to the continuing strong winds and ventured once again to the sheltered seclusion of Kithurst Hill. With the exception of the wind, conditions were good. The sky was blue with frequent cumulus racing through. It was humid and the temperature was around 18°C.
My target, a Painted Lady …
Today the site was alive. Red Admiral were everywhere, many in pristine condition having undoubtedly recently emerged … the Hemp agrimony being drained of its nectar. To estimate numbers was difficult, though I don’t believe a number between 25 and 30 would be an over exaggeration, there were probably considerably more. They were by far the most abundant species. A single Small Tortoiseshell and several Comma were also seen.
Further investigation revealed my prize …
As I continued walking above the main bank of Hemp agrimony a large flying Nymphalid caught my eye. Its distinctive tawny-orange upperside marked with black confirmed my prize, a Painted Lady in perfect condition. My first this season. Having lost sight of my prize I rang Neil (Sussex Kipper) to let him know of my find and to see if he wanted to pop over. Whilst in discussion it appeared once again. Hanging up rather rapidly I followed in anticipation. Though mobile, it settled briefly in a couple of areas allowing me to take several photographs. Neil appeared shortly afterwards and within 5 minutes the clouds had opened the blue sky gone … thanks Neil! Fortunately short lived, the rain passed by on its journey eastwards and blue sky and sunshine lit up the meadow once again. Discussion turned to everything Lepidopterous once more.
Numerous Small White, several Green-veined White along with good numbers of Speckled Wood were generally distributed. A single female Meadow Brown was seen flying nearby. A Silver Y
(Autographa gamma) and a Hummingbird Hawk-moth
(Macroglossum stellatarum) were also seen and photographed.
Anyone who thinks the season is over must be staying indoors!
Species seen included:
Small White
Green-veined White
Small Tortoiseshell
Red Admiral
Painted Lady
Comma
Meadow Brown
Speckled Wood
- Painted Lady, Kithurst Hill (13 September 2011)
- Comma, Kithurst Hill (13 September 2011)
- Red Admiral, Kithurst Hill (13 September 2011)