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The Eagle Owl is still around Charter House in the centre of Ashford Kent. We saw it today (Thursday) and yesterday (Wednesday) on the Shell garage side. Afternoons and evenings appear best. This is some impressive bird, although the chances are it is an escape from somewhere. Its certainly making a dent in the local rat and feral pigeon population.

MONDAY 23 JULY 2012.
We ran the moth trap overnight, but numbers are still well down on other years. Only 27 moths of 17 species, with Nut Tree Tussock being the pick of the bunch.
We had another look for Purple Emperor in Hamstreet Woods, but without success. Marbled Whites at this location appear to be over for the year as we only saw 3. White Admirals (4), Large Skippers (3), Small Skippers (8) added interest but remarkably no Purple Hairstreaks. Perhaps it was too hot (29 degrees).

TUESDAY 24 JULY 2012.
Time to check Wye NR for Chalkhill Blue. No sign of any blues except for one Common Blue. Marbled Whites holding up here with 54 counted. Still 6 Ringlets and Small Skipper numbers increasing with 10 seen. Next we visited Jumping Down near Barham where Marbled Whites were also in good numbers, with at least 60 counted. Meadow Browns were everywhere and must have exceeded 250. 12 Small Skippers, 5 Common Blues and 8 Gatekeepers, together with a number of Pyramidal Orchids made this a most enjoyable afternoon visit.

WEDNESDAY 25 JULY 2012.
It was about time that we visited Lullingstone Country Park for Dark Green Fritillary, so today found us visiting West Kent. Before we went into Lullingstone CP we called in at a nearby site for Green Flowered Helleborine. I believe it is Kents only site and strangely enough right by a very busy main road and not on any nature reserve. We were a little late as they had finished flowering, but numbers were good, with at least 32 plants found. At this same site we also saw 5 Yellow Birds Nest. Again these were past there best, but still a good plant to see in Kent. I am only aware of one other site.
We arrrived at the Country park very pleased with the day so far. I am afraid things then went down hill for despite searching for nearly 2 hours we saw no DarK Greens, just plenty of Meadow Browns and 15 Small Skippers. We seem to have left the visit about a week late.
We saved the best to last and called in at Dene Park near Tonbridge for Purple Emperor. It was now very hot (30 degrees) and most butterfly activity had ceased. We saw no Purple Emperors and just one each of White Admiral and Silver Washed Fritillary. 4 Brown Hawkers around the car park tried to cheer us up, but its disappointing not to see PE at what was probably Kents best site last year.
Our moth trap had produced little although Swallowtail and Fan Foot were new for the year.
SATURDAY 28TH JULY 2012.
Although not as hot as the last few days it was still warm enough for insects, so off we went to Chislet Marshes. We arrived at Little Grays Farm to find 2 other people already looking at Willow Emerald Damselflys. One was Derek Smith, co founder of the first record for Kent at nearby Chambers Wall. We had a very pleasant chat and it transpires that the Willows have been around at least a week. We saw 9 in total, with most being males. I mentioned that we saw Small Red Eyed Damselflies at this site last year so we set about searching. At first all we saw was Red Eyed Damselflies, but Derek soon picked up 3 or 4 Smalls flying in the ditch slightly north of Litle Grays Farm entrance. In total we reckon at least 10 were present. The same area produced a Comma, 12 Gatekeepers and many Large Whites and Meadow Browns.
To end a very good day we called in at nearby Chitty Lane where last year we found a Emerald Damselfly near the pumping station. Apparently they are rare in this area, so we were pleased when we found one in the same place as last year.
A great day out in the field. Will be even better if a viewable Purple Emperor is found in Kent this year.

Incidently, the Eagle Owl is still present in Ashford munching its way through the local rat population.

Dave

SUNDAY 29 JULY 2012.
Before the dull and damp weather arrived we managed a short while at Hamstreet Woods where a Marbled White performed, plus 4 Ringlets, 20 Meadow Browns, 8 Small Skippers, 11 Gatekeepers and a Red Admiral. 2 Turtle Doves near Warehorne were a nice surprise in a very quiet year for the species.

MONDAY 30 JULY 2012.
Although dry and mild a stiff wind was blowing when we arrived at Oare Marshes, so it was no surprise that we only saw 5 Gatekeepers and no dragonflies. Birding was just as hard with no real treats. One Greenshank, 2 Ruffs, 3 Little Egrets, a male Marsh Harrier, 75 Avocets and 500 plus Black Tailed Godwits were par for the course at this costal reserve.
We then moved on to Hothfield Common. A lot of good work has been undertaken at Kents only nature reserve containing areas of bog. Much has been done in the last couple of years to get rid of undergrowth and bracken. Heather is being encouraged back and it is now a much more friendly reserve, with several familes present on our visit. It has had a bit of a troubled past, but regular visits by the wardens and police seemed to have resolved matters and it has the makings of a brillant reserve, with a visitor centre currently being proposed. I wonder if they have considered reintroducing the Silver Studded Skipper? Anyway the purpose of our visit was to see the Keeled Skimmer. We only had time to do the small boggy area, but that produced 21 males and 3 females. I have been informed that there are over 100 on the main bog. A good success story for a change. Also seen 2 Four Spotted Chasers, 4 Common Darters, 15 Small Heaths, 24 Meadow Browns and a Common Blue butterfly.

Dave

WEDNESDAY 1ST AUGUST 2012
Following a sighting (and photograph) of 2 Scarce Emerald Damselflies at Oare Marsh, probably the species most eastern location, and evidence that they be expanding out of the Thames corridor, today we visited Oare to see if we could see and report any more. We searched the dykes from the road to the West Hide but only recorded 11 Emerald Dameselfies in less than ideal conditions. We did see 2 Small Heaths and many Meadow Browns, together with 4 Greenshanks, 2 Bearded Tits and a Turtle Dove.
On arriving home the sun appeared and almost immediately a Banded Demoiselle appeared in our garden. A first for the garden and not bad considering the nearest river or stream is half a mile away. It just shows what can turn up if you keep looking. It stayed for a couple of hours and appeared to be feeding on flying white fly.
THURSDAY 02 AUGUST 2012.
Following reports of large numbers of Chalkhill Blues, in particular hundreds of thousands by Sussex Kipper, it was time to check our local hot spot of Wye NR. In the area we choose we could only find 24 so not the numbers seen in Sussex. We will check another area of this large reserve later in the week. We did see a good mix however and the day was really interesting. 6 Marbled Whites, 20 Meadow Browns, a fresh Brimstone, Red Admiral, Common Blue, Brown Argus, 2 Ringlets and 5 Gatekeepers.
We ended the day at Hothfield Common. The weather was a bit cooler than last time but we still managed 9 Keeled Skimmers, this time on the main bog. A Southern Hawker and 14 Migrant Hawkers fed in the sheltered spots between the trees. The Heath Spotted Orchids had long finished, the Meadow Browns totalled 25, and back at car park a Essex Skipper showed well.
SATURDAY 04 AUGUST 2012.
Following a phone call received to ask us for directions for Willow Emerald, we took the opportunity to actually go to the site and show 2 friends the spot.
This time 15 Willow Emerald Damselflies were located, together with 8 Small Red Eyed Damselflies. The Willow Emeralds do not usually get on the dyke but rather hang about on the bushes and hedges on the west side of the road. The dyke is on the east side. 5 Migrant Hawkers and big numbers of Meadow Brown and Gatekeepers were also present. We spent a very pleasant hour or so in good company before meeting up again at an undisclosed site for Honey Buzzard, where a fine male showed twice.
Another good day in the field in Kent. Just a pity we don't appear to have the mass numbers of Chalkhill Blues (yet). Photos to follow.
dave

SUNDAY 5TH AUGUST 2012
Some of you may have noticed that I have not mentioned Dungeness too much recently. The fact is the area has been very quiet, both on the bird and insect front. When we have gone there has been nothing to report. However, today was an exception and a text message from the observatory team was very welcome. We were already half way there as we called in to see Oncocera Semirubella (moth) trapped by a friend the previous night. Of added interest was Marbled Green, Dusky Sallow, Lackey and Popular Grey. Next stop was Dungeness Seawatching hide where we had just missed the Adult SABINES GULL after it drifted off west. We don't give up easy at Dungeness and along we several other birders we searched the patch and beach when finally the gull flew back into view and showed long enough for about 25 people to catch up with it. Next stop was the observatory fridge, no not for food, but rather the delights of last nights moth catch. Only Kent Black Arches, Garden Tiger and another Marbled Green on display, but still very enjoyable. Walking around the observatory area we enjoyed views of 31 Common Blues, 1 Marbled White and 1 Small Copper, with many Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers.
TUESDAY 07TH AUGUST 2012
Today was Oare Marshes although it proved hard work with very few Butterflies or Dragonflies on the wing. The only bird of note was a Juvenile Wood Sandpiper. A few miles away we visited a Broad Leaved Helleborine site where about 100 plants were in flower with an equal number with their tops beaten off by the local deer.
THURSDAY 09TH AUGUST 2012.
We had run the moth trap overnight and although 14 species were caught it was still quiet for this time of the year. The Spectacle and Dunbar were good local moths, but the real surprise was only 2 Large Yelow Underwings when we normally get dozens.
Next we visited the Hamstreet wood complex and spent soem time looking for any Purple Emperors. I have not heard of any sightings this year at this location and today was no exception. A late White Admiral, 2 Silver Washed Fritillary, 54 Peacocks, 31 Brimstone, 6 Speckled Woods, 6 Purple Hairstreak, 8 Small Skippers, 4 Marbled Whites, 100 Meadow Browns, 50 Gatekeepersa and 2 Red Admirals are all good, but do not generate the excitment of the Emperor. Its probably too late now so we will resume the search next year. Hamstreet has always been an Purple Emperor outpost, and indeed there are rumours from time to time of releases, although there in no evidence of this. White Admiral and Silver Washed is present so why not Purple Emperor.
An evening phone call sent us back to Hamstreet to view a Mocha (moth) trapped by our friend, where Nutmeg and a probable Maple Pug were also on show. It was then a dash home just in time to see Bolt overtake a jet plane on his way to winning gold in the 200 metres. What a race, and one where the last person in eigth place recorded a time that would have won in Bejing (2008).
Dave

FRIDAY 09 AUGUST 2012
Today we visited WYE NR where we hoped for a good display of butterflies. We were not disappointed with 90 Chalkhill Blues, 15 Common Blues, 75 Meadow Browns, 18 Gatekeepers, 1 Marbled White, 6 Brimstones, 2 Peacocks, 3 Small Coppers and a Wall. Also seen, 3 Common Buzzards, Peregrine, Hobby, Sparrowhawk, 2 Spotted Flycatchers, 12 Migrant Hawkers and 2 Brown Hawkers. Nearby 9 Beautiful Demoiselle were on the river Stour at Godmersham. A very good day.
SUNDAY 12 AUGUST 2012.
It was time to give Cliffe RSPB another visit for damselflies, in particular Southern Emerald. It was not to be in disappointing weather of a slight mist and strong winds. We did see 2 Scarce Emerald damselflies, many Ruddy Darters, 3 Small Heaths and many Gatekeepers but no Southern Emeralds. We did not see any Migrant Hawkers either, and unknown to us at the time a few Southern Migrant Hawkers had been seen in the area on the Friday and one on Saturday. Birds included 14 Greenshanks and 5 Little Egrets.
TUESDAY 14 AUGUST 2012.
Now aware that a few Southern Migrant Hawkers had been seen over the last few days we visited Cliif RSPB again, this time in much better weather. We did not see any Southern Migrants in a 3 hour visit, indeed we only saw 5 Hawkers all day and I am confident these were ordinary Migrant. Numbers of Scarce Emeralds were up with at least 30 present near the second ramp. Also 2 Emperor Dragonflies, many Common and Ruddy Darters,1 Black Tailed Skimmer. Butterfly numbers were better with 14 Small Heaths, 3 Small Tortoiseshell, 8 Small Skippers with many Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers. We only saw 2 other people all day who were looking for dragonflies and they also had drawn a blank with regards Southern Migrant. They are there somewhere, its just a case of where.
THURSDAY 16 AUGUST 2012.
A bit dull and windy so we checked out Grove Ferry. A Great White Egret had been seen the day before but today there was no sign. Butterflies included Peacocks and Small Tortoiseshells in reasonable numbers. Next was Chislet Marshes where 7 Willow Emerald Damselflies were on the wing, together with 9Small Red Damselflies, many Common Darters and a few Common Blues and Brown Hawkers. Peacocks continue in good numbers but Meadow Brown and Gatekeeper numbers were much lower. 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Marsh Harriers and a Hobby were the avian highlights. Another really good day.
Dave

FRIDAY 17 AUGUST 2012
A walk around Hamstreet woods was quite productive with 3 Silver Washed Fritillary, 31 Peacocks, 25 Brimstones, 3 Purple Hairstreaks, 4 Speckled Woods, 3 Small Tortoiseshells, Red Admiral and many Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers, supported by a Brown Hawker, 21 Migrant Hawkers ans many Common Darters. Summer is really here.
SATURDAY 18 AUGUST 2012
With the promise of fine weather we again checked out CLIFFE RSPB for any signs of the rare Southern Migrant Hawker. We joined two others who had been on site several hours, but a sighting was not to be. Despite the occasional sighting this species has yet to expand into public parts of the reserve and marsh. We only saw several Scarce Emerald Damselflys, 2 Black Tailed Skimmers, Emeperor Dragonfly, 15 Migrant Hawkers with many Common and Ruddy Darters. Butterfly numbers at this reserve are reducing, although there are still many Peacocks, Red Admirals, Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers.
SUNDAY 19 AUGUST 2012.
We joined the weekend crowds at Oare Marsh to see 2 Wood Sandpipers, a Juvenile Little Stint and 2 Gargeney amongst the usual fare. This reserve gets very busy on a Sunday with many birders, dog walkers, fishermen and some sailors with boats to launch on the ramp. With only room for about 20 vehicles, along a single track road and few passing places, I need to tell myself to avoid this reserve on a Sunday.
MONDAY 20 AUGUST 2012.
After a bit of shopping we felt the need to visit Dungeness. It was about time a few things should show up on migration, however no one has told mother nature and it was generally very quiet. We did spend some time looking for Saturdays sighting of a Lesser Emperor Dragonfly, also the Great White Egreat present for the last few days. No luck on either front so it was with some relief that a text message informing us of a trapped TREE LICHEN BEAUTY (moth) was received. A quick trip to Hamstreet saw us looking at this fairly unusal moth for Kent. It was very faded, but still very welcome, as it has been a few years since our last sighting. Also present Cloaked Minor, Rosy Rustic, Olive, Pretty Chalk Carpet, Pebble Prominent and Straw Underwing. A pleasant hour spent in very good company.
TUESDAY 21ST AUGUST 2012
Today we called in at Stodmarsh to see if the Great White Egret was present. It was, sitting around near the Cormorant tree. Disppointingly butterflies and dragonfly numbers were low with only a few Brown Hawkers, Migrant Hawkers, Meadon Browns, Gatekeepers and Red Admirals present.
WEDNESDAY 22 AUGUST 2012.
Following a phone call the previous evening informing us of a Southern Migrant Hawker seen at a public place on Cliffe RSPB, we again spent over 3 hours on site. Yet again we failed to locate it although the support act kept our interest going until time to leave. Species seen were Scarce Emerald Damselfly, 11 Migrant Hawker, 21 Red Admirals, 2 Small Tortoiseshells, Peacock, Small Heath, many Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers, Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Spotted Redshanks and 2 Hobbys. This is a nice little reserve in a partly industrial setting, with much shipping pasing on the nearby Thames. I just hope that the proposed Boris Island does not spoil its potential.
THURSDAY 23 AUGUST 2012.
With another fine day predicted with decided to was time to catch up with Silver Spotted Skipper at Lydden. We eventually saw 17 scattered around the first field, with 30 plus Chalkhill Blues, at least 40 Adonis Blues, 20 Common Blues, 2 Brown Argus, Wall, Peacock, 8 Large Whites and many, many Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers. We found 35 Autumn Ladies Tresses with lots of Autumn Gentian. What a great nature reserve. We did not do the other fields as its much the same, although numbers would have run into 3 figures for the blues. Instead we called in at a wood near Chilham to check for any late woodland species. No White Admirals, but it was nice to find a faded Silver Washed Fritillary, our first at this site. 8 Brimstones were still enjoying themselves, but no sign of any skippers.

Another really good week in reasonable weather. Now for the hard work of downloading the photos and seeing if any are good enough to post.
Dave

I have added a few photos from the last few days.

FRIDAY 24TH AUGUST 2012.
Following a report of a Clouded Yellow at WYE NR yesterday we spent a few hours at this location, but failed in our attempt to relocate it. Many Chalkhill Blues, Adonis Blues, Common Blues, Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers still on the wing, plus 2 Wall Browns, 2 Brimstones, 15 Red Admirals and a Small Tortoiseshell. We also found a few Autumn Gentians which was a pleasant surprise. I am sure that there are many here, but its the first time we have noticed them. Our eyes are usually focussed on butterflies and birds.
Dave

SUNDAY 26 AUGUST 2012.
A text message sent us heading towards the Bank Holiday crowds at Camber Sands, luckily for us our target was short of the masses. A Juvenile Montagus Harrier had arrived at Lydd Ranges and was performing regularly, but distantly in the area normally closed to the public because of Army firing. This Bank Holiday the ranges were silent and open for the public to walk along the few public rights of way. The bird was hawking and catching dragonflies, something I have not seen a Harrier do before. It kept this up for the couple of hours that we were there. It was clearly very good at it for it collected several at a time before settling down on the bank to eat its catch. This part of Kent/ East Sussex faces the sea so it was no surprise when we spotted 2 Painted Ladys working their way along the bank and then inland.
MONDAY 27 AUGUST 2012.
We spent the morning on Walland Marsh looking for, and checking, all butterflies and dragonflies, in the hope of something unusual on migration. It was not to be and only Red Admirals, Large Whites, Small Whites and Migrant Hawkers were noted. Not known to us but nearby Dungeness was having one of its best sea watch days for years. By mid-day 11 Long Tailed Skuas, a Sabines Gull, 14 Baleriac Shearwaters and many Great and Artic Skuas had passed. Supported by 280 Black Terns, and we missed it. We did see 2 Little Stints on ARC pit, 2 Ravens and a Hobby along Dengemarsh Road, and a Black Tern on Betts pit.
TUESDAY 28 AUGUST 2012.
We realised it was very late in the year, but we had one last try for Purple Emperors in Hamstreet Woods following a report of 2 on the 23 August 2012. The weather was not perfect but we only saw 5 Brimstones, 2 Red Admirals and a late Meadow Brown in 1.5 hours. Perhaps better luck next year.
THURSDAY 30 AUGUST 2012.
Another text message, followed by a 1.5 hour wait, eventually saw us watching a Cattle Egret in front of Dennis Hide at Dungeness RSPB reserve. We later saw the bird again on Dengemarsh. Also noted was 4 Little Egrets, 20 Knot, Common Tern, Marsh Harrier, Sparrowhawk, 50 Sand Martins and 2 Common Sandpipers.
The only butterflies noted were Small Tortoiseshell and Large White, together with 2 Emperor Dragonflies.

We have not run our moth trap for a week or so but this morning we were pleasantly surprised to find a CONVOLVULUS Hawkmoth on a post in our garden. It was very faded, worn and in poor condition following the overnight rain. Its condition means a photo fit for publication is not possible, but still a good record, and a first for our garden.

Dave

Despite being early Autumn and the right time for migration it has been quite hard work of late. Either the weather has been wrong for moths, or when it is right moth numbers have been low in our garden. Apart from our Convolvulus moth the first sign of migration was the sudden increase in Silver Y numbers on Monday. We went up overnight from 4 or 5 to a minimum of 14. This increase is also reflected in the numbers we have seen in the field.
SATURDAY 01 SEPTEMBER 2012.
We paid another visit to Dungeness, this time seeing the Great White Egret that had been present a week or so along Dengemarsh Road. Sand Martins were on the move with at least 75 in the area. Otherwise the only thing of note was the rapid increase in Red Admirals with 15 being seen.
SUNDAY 02 SEPTEMBER 2012.
The moth trap produced 12 species, with Flounced Rustic being the most numerous with 9. Next was a visit to St Margarets. This is a location that we normally do a few times in the autumn. It has a dedicated loyal band of regulars who walk around the area most days of the year so not much goes through without them knowing. It usually turns up at least one good bird every autumn so heres hoping. The Autumn Ladies Tresses were out on the green around the monument. The mower had got some but there was still 30 plus on show. We also saw 14 Common Blues, 8 Red Admirals, 2 Meadow Browns, 10 Silver Y's, 2 Redstarts, 2 Wheatears, 2 Crossbills (calling) and 12 Willow Warblers. Even better was the weather with temperatures normally seen in July.
MONDAY 03 SEPTEMBER 1012.
With the sun still shining we called in at WYE NR. Still no sign of any Clouded Yellows but 25 plus Chalkhill Blues still flying, also 6 Adonis Blue, 12 Common Blue, 2 Brown Argus, 12 Small Heath, 5 Brimstone, 30 Meadow Brown, 2 Speckled Wood, 2 Red Admirals, 11 Silver Y's and numerous Large and Small Whites. A Common Buzzard flew over and a Little Owl called.

Weather wise the rest of the week looks promising, hopefully there will be lots to enjoy.
Dave

TUESDAY 04 SEPT 2012.
With continuing good weather we thought Dungeness may be worth a visit for Butterflies and Dragonflies. It was actually very quiet although a trapped Restharrow (moth) was of interest and a Feathered Gothic was rather late emerging this year. A walk around the ARC pit produced a Little Stint, 2 Avocets, 3 Common Blue butterflies and 15 Migrant Hawkers.
WEDNESDAY 05 SEPT 2012.
A early morning phone call alerted us to the fact that a probable Corys Shearwater had been seen off the Isle of Sheppey. Despite two visits during the day we failed to connect with this species or indeed any other shearwaters or skuas. 2 Common Blues and a Meadow Brown fluttered around us while we sea watched then it was home to check the moth trap. Despite 16 Silver Y's in the garden none were in the moth trap, even though we saw them flying around it the previous evening. We caught our 2nd ever Whitepoint and two Snout's were new for the year. The most attractive moth was a Angle Shades.
THURSDAY 06 SEPT 2012.
Back to Dungeness as a Southern Oak Bush Cricket had been trapped. This is a very rare, although increasing, Cricket in Britain. The first one was reported in 2001, with London seeming to be the core location. How one ever got to Dungeness is a mystery as they are flightless. Joining it in th trap was a Eyed Hawkmoth. Butterfly wise things were a little better than the last visit with a Small Copper, 10 Small Heaths, 2 Meadow Browns and 6 Common Blues. 2 Black Redstarts were along the entrance road near the old lighthouse and a Common Sandpiper was on the ARC pit.
SATURDAY 08 SEPT 2012.
Today was our first ever visit to Steyning Rifle Range. What a good little spot, and even better was the fact that we meet Sussex Kipper. What a really nice gentleman, friendly, informative and a Brown Hairstreak fanatic. Which meant that we were in with a chance of seeing our first ever Brown Hairstreak. Indeed it was Neil who located the first at the far end of the field, and despite his calling we only managed to arrive in time for a flight view. However, about 20 minutes later we located a different female in the same bush. This individual seemed fairly fresh and showed for about 10 minutes before flying back to the edge. On the way back Neil and others had found three more, of which we managed to see one. Three in one day not bad for a new species for us. Pleased with our day we did toy with the idea of visiting Portland for the Monach butterfly, but it was already 13.30 hours and the Saturday traffic was heavy so we decided to call it a day and head home. Other things noted at Steyning were Comma, 6 Red Admirals, Small Heath, 8 Common Blues, 5 Speckled Woods, 8 Meadow Browns, Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Common Buzzards and a passing Little Egret. A really good day in great company at a well managed location for Brown Hairstreak. Surely the best spot to see them in Britain at the present time.
Dave

Hiya Dave, you've clearly been spending lots of time in the field lately, lucky fella

Regards your Southern Oak Bush-cricket at Dungeness, I'd offer one obvious explanation as to how it got there - as a passenger in somebody's car. I've had both the Oak Bush-crickets inside the cab of my truck from time to time. Just a guess, but plausible?

Cheers,

Gibster.

Dave

Haven't posted on your diary yet, but a regular read for me - a really good interesting diary, keep it up!!

Phil

Gibster,
I am sure that you are right about the car or lorry theory with regards the Southern Oak Bush Cricket. With reference to your comment about us spending a lot of time in the field lately. All I can say is, not as much as you. You have just had 3 months in the field, admittedly with sorer feet and probably wetter cloths. Did it ever stop raining? I hope that you and Sami are both recovering well after your little stroll

I have just read Sussex Kipper's update. We just knew he would crack and go for the Monach. You could just see it in his eyes when he spoke about the butterfly on Saturday. I half expected him to go straight from Steyning on Saturday.

My apologies to Susie for not introducing myself on Saturday. I did recognise you, and we did speak briefly, but I caught up in the excitment of seeing my 3rd Brown Hairstreak in the space of an hour or so and then it was time to leave. A real nice group of people there, all looking and trying to help each other.

I attach a few photos to update my entry yesterday.

On his entry for the 13th September Gibster wrote

Oh Yeah Baby...MONARCH ON MY LIST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I just love that expression to describe the thrill of seeing what must, in my view, be the butterfly of the year. Not only is it rare, but it is a little stunner and available to all who wish to see it. I cannot remember another Mainland record that has stayed so long on one bush and viewable whenever the weather is suitable. First Sussex Kipper cracked, than Gibster and finally the Brown's. Despite a round trip of nearly 8 hours this was one beauty worth seeing. Now in it's tenth day and showing signs of wear it was still worth all the effort.

SUNDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2012.
A visit to Dungeness produced a Black Necked Grebe on the ARC pit anda passage of at least 50 Swallows. Next a look down Galloways found a small fall of Chats with 7 Whinchats, 10 Wheatears and 4 Stonechats. Whilst wondering what to check next a text message sent us to the RSPB reserve where a Juvenile Pectoral Sandpiper was showing in front of Firth Hide. A nice little wader from America and hopefully the start of many more. A feature of the day was the slow but steady passage of Red Admirals, presumably migrants on their way inland. At least 20 seen around the area.

THURSDAY 13 SEPTEMBER 2012.
A sunny and warm day found us checking WYE NR around the Devils Kneading Bowl area. Whilst a lot of the butterflies were in poor condition, indeed some seemed on their last legs, others were not too bad, and their numbers were rather surprising for such a late date. In total Brown Argus 5, Common Blue 18, Red Admiral 4, Chalkhill Blue 3, Adonis Blue 6, Meadow Brown 20, Samll Copper, Small White 5, Large White 12. Also 5 Migrant Hawkers, Common Darter, Common Buzzard and Hobby. A really good day in the Autumn sunshine.

SATURDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2012.
What can we say? A cracking day spent at Weymouth and Portland. We started off at Lodmoor seeing views of the Short Billed Dowitcher trying to hide in the Juncas on West Scrape. After an hour, and without better views, we decided to head for Portland and the Monarch Butterfly at Easton, leaving at least 50 others desperate for a better view. The Monarch was showing immediately on our arrival, and at a distance of only 5 metres. What could be better? A beautiful sunny day, a stunning butterfly and only 15 people present. It performed throughout our 30 minute stay, although at times it flew to the back of the bush, at others it would be right in front. Even the locals were taking an interest with some using their mobiles to capture the moment. Not surprisingly after ten days it is showing some wear but it still has the wow factor. We did check around Portland Bill breifly for any late Lulworth Skippers but none were seen. Butterflywise the only other species seen was Red Admirals and Large Whites. 10 Yellow Wagtails flew over and there was a constant passage of Swallows, otherwise things were fairly quiet. We then returned to Lodmoor early afternoon to find the Short Billed Dowitcher showing right in the open and only 5 other people present. A mega rarity (admittedly present for 10 days or so) and only 8 of us in total present on a Saturday afternoon. Despite the crowds in Weymouth and Portland (there appeared to be many things on) we had a fantastic day out.

Hi Dave seems like a long time ago that we were standing by the canal gazing up at that Elm for White Letter Hairstreaks! Just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading your diary and Congratulations on seeing the Monarch! Great Stuff!

Well, the Monarch and Short Billed Dowitcher was always going to be a hard act to follow, especially as these sightings were on a warm sunny day. It seems that both the wildlife and the weather has been poor ever since (rain lashing down at the moment). Summer, if you can call it that, has certainly given way to a wet Autumn.
TUESDAY 18 SEPT 2012.
Between showers we visited Stodmarsh where actually 4 Red Admirals, a Speckled Wood and many Large Whites were still on the wing, together with 4 Migrant Hawkers, 3 Common Darters and 2 Emperor Dragonflies. Birdwise we saw 3 Bearded Tits, 2 Hobbys and a Water Rail amongst the more common ones. This reserve, and nearby Grove Ferry, needs a bit of loving care. The reed beds are becoming overgrown in places, sometimes restricting the view from pubic viewing areas. It has to be said its not the fault of the local warden, who now covers more than one reserve, but rather one aspect of the cut back in funding and manpower resources. This is probably a national problem that we may need to get used to, as funding will get even tighter in the years to come.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY 22/23 SEPTEMBER 2012.
We spent both days in the Dungeness area in the hope of some goodies, but it was not to be. Saturday was warm enough to encourage a few butterflies such as Common Blue, Red Admiral, Small Copper and Large White, but Sunday was a wash out. Bird wise there was good number of Swallows and Sand Martins moving, with large numbers of Chiffchaffs grounded. Saturday also saw a few Blackcaps in the bushes around the ARC pit. Wader wise it was quiet although the Pectoral Sandpiper is still around. Moth trapping had been quiet with Frosted Orange and Sallow being pick of a poor bunch. An interesting feature on Sunday was watching 174 Swallows head out into the channel in heavy rain and a storm force south westerly. Those factors would appear to be a disaster for them, we just hope that they come back to land safely somewhere nearby.

Finally, to end this brief update I will mention our ongoing local discussion over a wader which was present at Dungeness for several days, which we all thought was just an odd Adult LIttle Stint, that may yet prove to be Kents first Semi-Palmated Sandpier for many years. This bird was always very distant and no one got a enough field description to get it past the BBRC Rarities committee. Luckily someone got some long distance photos, which when blow up and cropped show several features indicative of Semi-P. Whether these photos are good enough to convince the panel is another matter. This may just be the one that got away, but it does show what can turn up anywhere and anytime. Its what makes our hobby of wildlife watching so enjoyable and fulfilling.

Hopefully we can get the rain out of the way and still see a few late butterflies in addition to lots of other goodies.
Dave

TUESDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2012
Today was a St Margarets day. We did see a Painted Lady and 4 Red Admirals but little else apart from 25 Chiffchaffs and a few Swallows passing through.

THURSDAY 27 SEPTEMBER 2012.
It was quite sunny so we visited Dungeness to see what had been brought in on migration. There was hundreds of Swallows and Sand Martins passing through but surprising the area was quite hard work. We noted 2 Black Terns and a Black Necked Grebe on the ARC pit. A Pied Flycatcher was near the point and the bushes contained many Chiffchaffs. We could not find the Redstart or Firecrest seen earlier, but we did see 3 Small Heaths, 4 Small Whites, 2 Red Admirals, 40 Large Whites and a Small Tortoiseshell. Other insects included 15 Migrant Hawkers, 5 Common Darters and the areas second record of Southern Oak Bush Cricket.
SATURDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2012.
With good temperatures forecast for today we decided to visit Stodmarsh and look for any Willow Emerald Damselflies. This Damselfly has yet to be recorded at Stodmarsh but it can only be a matter of time. They breed about a couple of miles away, and the conditions look perfect for them. Despite the good weather we saw none. Next year perhaps? Birdlife was quite good with the long staying 2 Great White Egrets present, a late Hobby, Kingfisher, 3 Bearded Tits, 2 Cettis Warblers and a flock of 10 Siskins. Butterflies were down to 2 species with just Red Admiral and Large White. Migrant Hawker numbers were high with at least 20 on the wing. We saw many Swallows, Sand Martins and House Martins feeding up and passing through.
Just as we were settling down to a late snack a welcome phone call from the friendly Dungeness team informed us that a Barred Warbler had just been trapped.
Depending on the traffic we were at least an hour away, but this is a good Kent bird so we headed south. We arrived at Dungeness just as it reappeared in the Moat following its release and a period of rest. These are always difficult birds to see in the open and today was no exception with the bird remaining in brambles whilst it fed on blackberries. 2 Small Tortoiseshells and a Red Admiral passed as we watched the bird. The only decent moth at the Obs was the Gem and nearby in the gull roost at the fishing boats was the adult Yellow Legged Herring Gull.
A really enjoyable sunny day at a couple of good locations.

What a strange mix of weather in the last week. Several days of heavy rain, but also a few days of warm sunshine. Not sure that it has done much to benefit the insect life as the numbers and variety on offer dwindle quickly. Still, its nice to get out and look.

TUESDAY 02 OCT 2012.
Today saw us at Dungeness where many Swallows and Sand Martins were feeding up before the long flight south. 2 Hobbys on ARC pit were hawking the dragonflies and mainly catching Migrant Hawkers. The martins were keeping a safe distance as they end up on the menu when circumstances dictate. The bushes were full of Chiffchaffs but little else. We saw at least 40 Migrant Hawkers, (although numbers were reducing quickly), and 10 Common Darters. Despite the warm conditions only 1 Red Admiral and 4 Large Whites.

THURSDAY 04 OCT 2012.
We had not visited Pett Level for a while so today saw us looking at the Pools and surrounding area. Again, there were many Swallows and Sand Martins, with a few House Martins, passing through. Other birds included 2 late Yellow Wagtails, 6 Wheatears, 2 Black Tailed and 1 Bar Tailed Godwit, Greenshank, Marsh Harrier and Common Buzzard. Butterflies were few but Large Whites and Red Admiral kept us interested. We then toured the outskirts of Dungeness seeing a Marsh Harrier and 200 Golden Plovers on Scotney and a late Whinchat along Dengemarsh.
Some of the habitat conditions on Walland Marsh look very similar to Chislet Marsh where the Willow Emerald Damselfly has become established, so we spent the rest of the afternoon checking likely spots for this beautiful damselfly. We spent sometime along a suitable lane seeing 75 Common Darters, 15 Migrant Hawkers, 40 Red Admirals, many Large Whites and a few Small Whites, but no Willow Emeralds. It can only be a matter of time for this species to be seen here.

SATURDAY 06 OCT 2012.
Today we visited the North Kent Coast, in particular Reculver Marsh and the seaside town of Margate. Despite a hint of Northerly wind nothing much was happening until about mid-day when suddenly migrants start landing in trees, or flying overhead. At Margate we noted 25 Jays, 3 Common Buzzards, 2 Sparrowhawks, 25 Chiffchaffs, 10 Goldcrests, 19 Fieldfares, 75 Redwings, 12 Song Thrushes and 4 Redpolls. A Comma, 3 Vapourer Moths and 3 Common Darters represented the insects. We stopped at nearby Acol for a snack and was pleased to see another Common Buzzard, 11 more Jays and a further 25 Redwings.
On our way there we had received a text to inform us of a good Kent moth at a friends house. So tea time found us at Hamstreet looking at a male Four Spotted Footman. Although they breed in Devon and Cornwall they are a very rare migrant in Kent. They do migrate from the Continent, but equally this one could have come from Cornwall on the South Westerly winds we have had lately. A brillant end to another good day in Kent.

Dave

I can't compete with the Butterfly photos Sussex Kipper is posting on his blog at present. Some are rare, others are stunning and some are just wish you were there. However, despite our cancelled holiday because of the weather, we have still enjoyed ourselves this year. There is still a chance of something good even this late so we will keep looking.
SUNDAY 07 OCT 2012.
We started the day with a decent moth in our garden. A Herald, not rare but most enjoyable. Next on the menu was Dungeness, but it proved hard work with only Red Admiral and 5 Migrant Hawkers on the insect front, birdwise 36 Chiffchaffs, 7 Brent Geese, 6 Greylag Geese at Sea (wild?), 3 Jays flying out to sea, 3 Stonechats and a Spparowhawk. We again checked Walland Marsh for any good insects, but only noted 3 Migrant Hawkers, Comma, 2 Red Admirals and 10 Large Whites. A big difference from a couple of days ago.
TUESDAY 09 OCT 2012.
Sorry, Dungeness again, but this time a few more migrant birds with 6 Firecrests, 3 Stonechats, a late Lesser Whitethroat, Marsh Harrier and Little Egret being the most notable.
WEDNESDAY 10 OCT 2012.
For a change we decided to visit St Margarets around the Bockhill Farm area. There was clearly some migration going on for we saw 2 Firecrests, 6 Blackcaps, 12 Goldcrests, 10 Chiffchaffs, 80 Goldfinches, 14 Siskins, 2 Redwings, Sparrowhawk, Redpoll, 10 Swallows and 15 House Martins. Butterflies were Small Copper, Comma, Red Admiral and Large White. It was most plesant in the sheltered spots and we spent nearly 3 hours in the field.
THURSDAY 11 OCT 2012.
Heavy rain was forcast for today so we stayed home but did see 77 House Martins migrating. In addition 3 Goldcrests and 2 Coal Tits visited the garden before the rain set in for the rest of the day.
Dave