Dave Brown

[dave brown]

HEAT WAVE HITS EAST KENT.
Okay, I lied. Its damm cold. The temperature here over the last few days has not risen above 13 degrees. Its mid June so you have to pretend its very hot. Actually needed a coat yesterday it was so cold. Is it really less than two weeks to mid-summers day? Consequently no butterflies or dragonflies seen by us over the last two days.
Yesterday we did try a new location called High Brede Woods (East Sussex). Did not see anything unusual, but it looks like it might have potential. Just as we arrived back home we had a message to inform us that a BLACK KITE was performing well south of Faversham. Indeed it was when we arrived, although it had moved a little more distant. A good bird to see in Southern England and much appreciated by the growing crowd.
Today it was back for seconds of the Black KIte, followed by seconds of the Bonapartes Gull at Oare Marshes. Also present on the East Flood was a male Gargeney and many Swifts. There can't be many days in June when we have gone out not expecting to see any insects. We could not find any even in sheltered spots. Really disappointing when those further south and west are seeing good numbers of Pearl Bordered and Marsh Fritillary.
Dave

[dave brown]

Return Treat.
Another day when it was dull and cloudy, with a little drizzle, although about 4 degrees warmer than yesterday. No coat needed today. There was little chance of any good numbers of butterflies today so it was back for another look at the Black Kite, and to look for the Red Kite seen at the same site yesterday.
We actually saw a few butterflies in sheltered spots. 2 Holly Blues, 2 Large Whites and 1 Small White. A really poor total for a June day in here Kent. We did see the Black Kite again, showing on and off for nearly two hours north of Selling, but no sign of any Red Kite. A surprise in the form of a White Wagtail was seen on a local course, a bird better known during Spring migration. We then travelled some distance to an undisclosed site where two Honey Buzzards where seen, one wing clapping, and also 2 Common Buzzards. We ended the day back near Faversham noting the White Helleborines have still not flowered.
A really good day in the field cut short by the onset of heavier rain. We are really struggling for butterflies at present. Hopefully the weekend will be better.

I attach a couple of record photos of the Black Kite and another of the Bonapartes Gull. Sorry about the quality. The light was poor is my excuse.

[dave brown]

Osprey Delight
WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE 2013.
I think that the Osprey is one of the those birds that delights everybody who watches one. Today we watched one flying and sitting for long periods on a post and not another person in sight. It was a bit far for photos but boy, they are majestic, so it was that we just stood and watched. The location was Stodmarsh NNR on the main lake. It was very windy so butterflies were few, in fact only involving Large White. Other birds seen included 5 Marsh Harriers, 2 Bearded Tits and 4 Cettis Warblers.
FRIDAY 14 JUNE 2013.
Although still a bit windy today the sun shone. We checked Wye NNR and found our first Adonis Blue of the season. We also saw 2 Brown Argus, 3 male Brimstone, Orange Tip, 6 Common Blues and 3 Silver Y moths. Surprising little for a June day with reasonable weather. A Hobby was patrolling overhead and 3 Common Buzzards were in the distance towards Ashford. The 8 Lady Orchids had gone over and the Common Spotted Orchids were yet to flower.
SATURDAY 15 JUNE 2103.
Today we set off into East Kent with the intention of tracking down Birds Nest Orchid. We were aware of a location, but whilst trying to locate the area along some narrow lanes, one of which was closed with a diversion in place, we become lost. Seeing a big batch of Common Twayblade by the side of the road we stopped to checked the wooded area. By luck we had stumbled on a site with 7 Birds Nest Orchid and 7 Lady Orchids, many still in acceptable condition. Pleased with this we then headed to Parkgate Down only to find all the parking spaces taking up with presumably a group visiting. Next we called in at East Blean Wood to find no adult Heath Fritillary on the wing. We did find 32 caterpillars, but this location looks weeks behind where it was last year. Perhaps the warm days forecast at the end of this week will bring things on quickly. We ended the day near Selling where we failed to find any sign of the Black Kite. It had been seen 20 minutes before our arrival, but not in the next 2 hours. It does seem to have got elusive, or possibly moved on, as it was not reported on Sunday.
SUNDAY 16 JUNE 2013.
With just about every birder travelling to Suffolk to see the Pacfic Swift we found the only people around were Butterfliers or Orchid watchers. We visited Parkgate Down again, finding only one car space left. At least 100 Monkey Orchids present and in flower, also 2 Greater Butterfly Orchid and 1 Fly Orchid. Many Common Spotted Orchids were on the way to flowering, but no sign of any Musk Orchids. Butterflies were surprising hard to find. A few Common Blues and Large Whites, 1 Dingy Skipper, together with 5 Silver Y and 2 Speckled Yellow moths were all that we could. And then along came the showers and that was it.

A really enjoyable few days in the field. If only the weather would act like it should in June (flaming).

[dave brown]

Where are the butterflies?
We have really struggled to find any good numbers of butterflies this week. Even when the weather has seemed suitable. Hopefully this is just a result of the annual June lull.
TUESDAY 18 JUNE 2013.
A really nice day found us at Westbere Marshes where we usually see Scarce Chaser at this time of the year. Today was good as we found 4 near the junction where the path meets the river, and a couple of hundred metres either way. Also noted 22 Banded Demoiselle, Hairy Dragonfly, Emperor Dragonfly, many Blue Tailed and Common Blue Damselflies. The only butterflies seen were 1 Orange Tip and 6 Large Whites. Amongst the birds noted were Marsh Harrier and 2 Cettis Warblers.
THURSDAY 20 JUNE 2013.
We spent a few hours checking woods in East Kent for Orchids. We found a groups of 71 and another 2 White Helleborines, together with 4 Man Orchids. Before the heavy rain set in we saw a Common Buzzard, Garden Warbler and several Blackcaps. No butterflies.
FRIDAY 21 JUNE 2013.
The weather seemed suitable for butterflies but all we saw was a Speckled Wood and a Speckled Yellow moth before a much appreciated text from our friend at Ruckinge saved the day. He had a good haul of moths from the overnight trap including PORTLAND RIBBON WAVE. This is believed to be the first ever record for Kent. They breed in small numbers on the east side of Portland and also on Jersey, but are also a very rare migrant and listed as a Red Data Species. A real goodie for Kent. It was supported by Scalloped Oak, Dark Spectacle, Treble Brown Spot, Scorched Wing, Coxcomb Prominent, Pale Tussock, Light Emerald, Oak Hook Tip, Buff Tip, Pale Prominent, White Point, Elephant Hawkmoth, Poplar Hawkmoth, Lime Speck Pug and numerous other common moths. He also had a Speckled Wood in the garden. A really enjoyable morning of moths in good company.

[dave brown]

A much better week.
Saturday 22 June 2013.
An overcast with drizzle sort of day. We went checking a location near Faversham and found 71 White Helleborines, 4 Man Orchids and another site with 2 White Helleborines. The only butterfly seen was Large White.
SUNDAY 23 JUNE 2013.
Revisited the same general area and found another colony of 66 White Helleborines. 2 of the 4 Man Orchids had been eaten with their tops chewed off (deer?).
Today was warmer so we travelled around a bit seeing a group of 5 Turtle Doves near Sheldwich, but no sign of any Black Kite near Selling. I think its gone as that's 3 visits we have failed to see it. The seven Birds Nest Orchids in East Kent are now going over. We ended the day by calling in at the secret, (but apparently well known), site near Wye where 25 Late Spider Orchids were on show and most in good condition.
TUESDAY 25 JUNE 2013.
It was warm and sunny. Off we went to Wye NNR (Devils Kneading Bowl area) and found 35 Adonis Blue, 4 Wall Brown, 18 Small Heath, 12 Common Blue, 3 Brown Argus, 7 Dingy Skipper, our first Large Skipper of the year, 5 Brimstone (all appeared fresh)and Small White. Nearby we found 3 Black Veined Moths (National rarity), 3 Burnet Companion, Straw Dot and 6 Common Heath moths. There was a good showing of Orchids with 4 Bee Orchids, 21 Man Orchids, 40 Pyramidal, 400 Fragrant and many Common Spotted and Common Twayblade. We ended the day backing away from an Adder on the return footpath. What a majestic day in the field.
WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2013.
Back to the Late Spider Orchid site with two friends. Followed minutes later by three other people from Suffolk who had spent hours looking for them, but had seen us in the distance with our binoculars and cameras and took a chance on what we were looking at. Whilst studying the Orchids first one, then another, Black Veined Moth fly by and settled giving good views. A lot of very happy people at this location.
Next we went back to yesterdays second site seeing a further 2 Black Veined moths, enhanced by 3 Brimstone, 2 Orange Tips, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, 3 Common Blue, Adonis Blue, 5 Large White, 2 Burnet Companion and 2 Common Heath. We found further Bee Orchids bringing the tally up to 11, with the 21 man Orchids and the other common orchids. Luckily no Adder seen today (I dislike them for some reason). It was a real shame to go home.

A really good week of all round nature watching.

[dave brown]

Further to my earlier update today. I now add a few photos taken over the last few days.

[dave brown]

We have had a couple of busy days, unfortunately not nature watching. Today we had an early morning text from our good friends at Ruckinge informing us of a Small Marbled being trapped overnight. This was too good an opportunity to miss, so mid-morning we arrived at the moth house to see the stunning scarce migrant moth, Small Marbled. Considering its a Macro moth it is indeed very small. This was supported by LIme Hawk-moth, Small Elephant Hawk-moth, Elephant Hawk-moth, Scarce Merville de jour, Oak Hook Tip, Snout, Pale Oak Beauty, Small Square Spot, Rustic Shoulder Knot, Diamond Back, Shears, Sycamore, Common Carpet, Dark Arches, Clouded Border and the micro Aurata. A great morning, although the sun was still waiting to break through and deliver the forecast 20 degrees.

[dave brown]

A pleasant few days in Kent.
At last the temperature is warming up and the sun is breaking through.
SUNDAY 30TH JUNE 2013.
With the sun shining we visited East Blean Woods with high hopes of Heath Fritillary. Sure enough they are now out but numbers are still low. We found 11 in the area adjacent to the North edge of the car park. We then headed to Wye NNR checking suitable areas on the journey. A few Common Buzzards but little else other than the usual woodland birds. On arrival at the secret (but apparently well known) Late Spider Orchid site it was rather crowded, with a steady stream of appreciative visitors. WE decided it was too busy for us and headed for another quieter part of the reserve. The wildlife was much the same as Wednesday visit expect this time we found no Black Veined moths. However, we were in for a real treat when shortly after our arrival we came across a CLOUDED YELLOW. It was really mobile in the hot weather, never settling for anything other than a record shot.
MONDAY 01ST JULY 2013.
Thanks to our good friends at Ruckinge the day started with the excellent moth ROSY MARBLED. A real Kent goodie. How does he keep pulling in the rare migrants, especially when the day starts so quiet? This moth was supported by Peppered Moth, Figure of Eighty, Privet Hawk-moth, Elephant Hawk-moth, Poplar Hawk-moth and Knot Grass. Our own moth trap was fairly quiet with the Privet Hawk-moth being the best of 16 species.
Following a tip off that Burnt Tip Orchid(s) had flowered this year on Lydden we headed east. Despite good directions we failed to find the orchid(s) in nearly two hours of searching. Another person said at least 10 had flowered this year. It is late in the season for this orchid but apparently it was still in reasonable condition 10 days ago so there should have been a sign of the plant. The Fragrant Orchid display there this year is stunning. At least 2,000 plants in one field alone. We also found 4 Bee Orchids about to flower. The surprise of the day was yet another CLOUDED YELLOW, again very mobile and no photo.
Other butterflies were 4 Brown Argus, 18 Small Heaths, 25 Common Blues and a Meadow Brown. Birds included 2 Spotted Flycatchers and a Common Buzzard.
TUESDAY 02ND JULY 2013.
It was our Moth friend again. Not quite the recent quality, but still very good and much appreciated. Green Silver-lines, Cream Border Green Pea (National Scarce B), Poplar Hawk-moth, Elephant Hawk-moth, 2 Peppered moths, Lime Hawk-moth, Barred Yellow, Freyers Pug. We ended our day checking the area around Kennardington. It was quiet but we did see Four Spotted Chaser, Emperor Dragonfly, 5 Red Eyed Damselflies and a Common Buzzard.

With the promise of a heatwave things are looking promising.

[dave brown]

A strange week really. As the week progressed the weather turned warmer but we were still seeing few butterflies. Luckily that all changed on Saturday when we paid a visit to Sandwich bay.
THURSDAY 04 JULY 2013.
Strangely Hamstreet Woods remained quiet, butterfly wise. With just Meadow Browns, Speckled Wood and Brimstone. Our friends at Ruckinge saved the day yet again with some good moths in the form of Ghost, Light Arches, Orange Moth, Sharp Angle Peacock, Peach Blossom, Coronet, Heart & Club, Engailed and White Point. The female Ghost moth was superb and a new moth for us. Back at home our moth trap contained 17 species but Buff Arches was the only one of note.
SATURDAY 6 JULY 2013.
We headed to Sandwich Bay knowing that the Lizard Orchid was at its best. A walk around the area found 200 plus Southern Marsh Orchids, 2 Leopard Marsh Orchids, 2 Marsh Helleborines, 50 plus Lizard Orchids and 20 plus Sand Catchfly. Best of all though was the sighting of our first Marbled Whites of the year. Eleven in total, supported by 14 Large Skippers, 18 Small Heaths, 9 Common Blues, 3 Small Skippers and 5 Small Tortoiseshells. The sun was now very hot and the butterflies very mobile. It was becoming uncomfortable so we headed inland to find it even warmer. The garden of our friends at Ruckinge was certainly hot as it contained Small Fan Foot, Marbled White Spot, Clouded Brindle, Fan Foot, Foxglove Pug and Light Brocade.
SUNDAY 07 JULY 2013.
Today we decided to head for the Eastbourne area and look for the late form of Burnt Tip Orchid. Unfortunately for us everyone else decided to be out on the road. We came to a standstill near Rye. Gridlock as everyone seemed to be heading for Camber Sands. It took 30 minutes to move 100 yards. Time to abandon our plans and go back the way we came. Mr and Mrs Ruckinge had yet more good moths so all was not lost. Lobster moth was something special. This moth really does look like a lobster. The fine support cast of Miller, Scarce Silverlines, Obscure Wainscott, Scorched Carpet and Common Emerald was some reward for our lost trip.
Next was Hamstreet Woods where we were hoping for Ringlet or White Admiral. Not to be, just 4 Small Skippers, 5 Brimstone, 11 Speckled Woods and 25 Meadow Browns. We left feeling a little disappointed, especially for the date. Next was Hothfield Common. Kent's only bog reserve, and a real gem in an otherwise ocean of wheat and oilseed rape, not to mention housing estates. Its drying out very quick so the 4 male and 2 female Keeled Skimmers we saw were struggling to find somewhere to lay. The males were kept busy defending their territory against the much bigger Broad Bodied Chaser which made a interesting watch. Nearby we found 8 Heath Spotted Orchids and 3 Small Skippers with 15 Meadow Browns. It was now getting warm, around 26 degrees, so home and a cup of tea beckoned.
Hopefully we will find time to check Wye NNR this week as the Ringlet is now emerging. I have not heard of any White Letter Hairstreak or Dark Green Fritillary in Kent yet but it can't be long.

[CJB]

Good morning Dave,

I always enjoy reading your reports and am mighty impressed by your knowledge of moths; is there a particular book you would recommend? The rate you are going you could compile one of your own!

Yesterday was a new low for traffic; my family and I were stuck in and around Guildford trying to get to the Witterings......................5 hours!!

I look forward to reading your next report.

Flutter on!

CJB

[MikeOxon]

moths; is there a particular book you would recommend?

My apologies for using your diary, Dave, but CJB does not seem to allow PMs. If you agree with my choices, they might save you an additional reply

I consider the best Moths books to be the two illustrated by Richard Lewington - they show life poses rather than set specimens:

(i) Field Guide to the Moths of Great Britain and Ireland - Paul Waring and Martin Townsend
(ii) Field Guide to the Micro Moths of great Britain and Ireland - Phil Stirling and Mark Parsons

Both are published by British Wildlife Publishing and I would urge you to buy directly from them, as they are worth supporting.

For a photographic guide, I can recommend British Moths and Butterflies - Chris Manley, published by A&C Black

Mike

[dave brown]

No problem Mike.
With regards the books I agree with all your selections. In particular I like your last mentioned, British Moths and Butterflies: A photographic guide by Chris Manley.

I have a confession to make. I am absolutely hopeless at Micro moths so I use another reference. Its not a book, but a good friend from Ruckinge. In the rare event of him not knowing he uses a Moth expert based near Dungeness. The point being is that in the mothing world I think that its important to not only own good books but also to have a good network of friends who can help with identification. That's probably true for all aspects of our hobby, but with so many moths on the list its good to have the support of others.

CJB. Nice to know that it was not just Camber who had all the cars. Although it felt like it at the time it seems that the traffic jams were spread around the area.
Can't really understand why Guildford had so much traffic. Last time I went there it never had a beach

[MikeOxon]

in the mothing world I think that its important to not only own good books but also to have a good network of friends who can help with identification.

An excellent point that applies to so many avenues of life

Mike

[dave brown]

A venture into East Sussex.
TUESDAY 09 July 2013.
After contacting a birder near Seaford, who very kindly supplied some local information, we headed for a location near Seaford to see the late form of Burnt Tip Orchid. His instructions were very good and we found the spot with no trouble at all. There was a total of 25 all still in flower and in pretty good condition. Confusingly some had a numbered label on, one of which was number 32. I know my maths is not so good as it once was but we could not find the other 7. A dainty, but beautiful Orchid and much enjoyed by the family. The same area was awash with Pyramidal Orchids and Meadow Browns. Treat of the day was a fast moving Clouded Yellow that only remained on view for about 4 minutes. Also present 5 Marbled Whites and 4 Speckled Woods.
With more directions we arrived at Ashdown Forest and found the Early Marsh Orchid (8 No) in their fenced off area. Within this area was also Bog Asphode, whilst a small pool held 4 Keeled Skimmers. Next was the small colony of Silver Studded Blues near the Smugglers car park. After an hour or so all we could find was 4 number. Still, a good treat for us as we do not get this species in Kent. Another hour or two in the general area and forest Lodge produced 2 Golden Ringed Dragonflies, Large and Small Red Damselfly, Broad Bodied Chaser, Four Spotted Chaser, 2 Woodlark, Fallow Deer, many Meadow Browns and a Large Skipper.

A really good day in East Sussex, enhanced by excellent directions from ME.

On the way home we saw a wing tagged Red Kite about a mile north of Tonbridge adjacent to the Tonbridge to Hadlow main road. It was drifting slowing North West.

Thursday 11th July 2013.
Its always difficult to follow one good day with another. We gave it our best shot by heading towards Trosley Country Park. It is reported as a good spot for Dark Green Fritillary. Obviously we had the wrong spot for we saw none. We did see at least 15 Ringlets, 5 Large Skippers and 8 Speckled Woods. The place was alive with Meadow Browns and Pyramidal Orchids, but not our target species.
Next stop was Lullingstone Country Park. Here we did find at least 5 different Dark Green Fritillaries, towards the Golf Course side of the meadows. Also many hundreds of Meadow Browns supported by Ringlets, Small Skippers and Large Skipper. We would have liked to have searched longer and adjacent areas, but we had been held up by lengthy road works and was well behind time. Plus we had to go back through them.

Friday 12 July 2013.
Our moth trap has been quiet of late although today we had Peppered Moth and Varied Coronet. But our friend at Ruckinge keeps pulling them out of the bag. Today he had Lackey, Leopard Moth and Garden Tiger. Next stop was the Hamstreet Woods complex. We saw our first White Admirals of the year (3 No), plus lots of Ringlets, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper and Meadow Browns. 3 Common Buzzards circled overhead.

The weather is getting warmer and this weekend looks like more road chaos as everybody heads to the coast. Also Kent has the big Agriculture Show on at Detllng and another big event at Leeds Castle. Hopefully we can avoid most of it and enjoy the butterflies.

[dave brown]

Kent has another good day
What is it that makes nature watching so absorbing. We have seen Norfolk Hawkers in Norfolk, just as you would expect, and just casually walked round noting their presence. However, get two reported in your home county, only about 20 miles from home, the adrenalin flows and the heart starts beating a faster pace. Well that's what happened on Monday. Two had been seen and photographed by a fellow UKB member on Sunday evening. News broke later that evening and the next morning a crowd of Kent hopefuls (well eight of us actually) were on site early to witness this rare event. Only 3 previous records in the last hundred years and none available to the masses. After a wait of an hour or so suddenly there they were, and better, we saw them copulate. With one person witnessing egg laying. Kent's first proven instance of breeding in our county. What better way to spend a day, (other than smelling Neils moleskin trousers and watching him pluck Purple Emperors out of the sky).
To keep things in date order,
SATURDAY 13 JULY 2013
A day spent checking the Hamstreet Woods complex for any Purple Emperors (2 were reported last year). Did not find any but we did see our first Silver Washed Fritillaries, 3 No in Bourne Wood. Also 2 White Admirals, 1 Purple Hairstreak, 2 Brimstones, many Meadow Browns, Ringlets, Large and Small Skippers. 4 Common Buzzards circled overhead.
Next was the MIlitary Canal at Warehorne to check for White Hairstreak. Again drew a blank, but did see 2 Marbled Whites, 3 Small Tortoiseshells and 11 Emerald Damselflies.
SUNDAY 14 JULY 2013.
We checked a wood near Chilham for White Admirals but again none were seen. Butterflies seen were 3 Marbled Whites, Brimstone, Small Tortoiseshell, 4 Large Skippers, many Small Skippers, Ringlets and Meadow Browns.
MONDAY 15 JULY 2013.
As mentioned above we spent all morning and into the early afternoon in the Westbere area seeing 2 NORFOLK HAWKERS, a male Scarce Chaser, 2 Brown Hawkers, Hairy Hawkers, 4 Four Spotted Chasers, Black Tailed Skimmer and 40 plus Banded Demosellies. A good count of 7 Red Admirals and 4 Small Tortoiseshells. What a really good day.

[dave brown]

We join in the feast of Purples.
Tuesday 16 July 2013
Following the success of yesterday (Kent's first breeding Norfolk Hawkers) we thought that we would spread the net and see if there was any sign of them at nearby Stodmarsh. What a disappointment. Stodmarsh was really quiet and despite the really good weather we failed to find much at all. We did see a Green Veined White, 10 Commas, 8 Small Tortoiseshell, 10 Red Admirals, 7 Speckled Woods and many Large Whites. But dragonfly wise it was just Blue Tailed Damselflies and Brown Hawker. Bird wise it was 7 Marsh Harriers, Common Buzzard, Hobby, Cettis Warblers, 2 Water Rails and many Reed Warblers.
I think one of the issues is the growth of the reed beds, preventing viewing of some good areas. The other may be the presence of algae in the water caused by the spell of hot weather. It is possible that the dragonflies have sensed this and moved away.
A Banded Demoiselle visited the garden late afternoon.
Wednesday 17 July 2013
A day of mixed fortunes. Following a tip off that a Olive Crescent moth (very rare in Britain) was present at the Kerton Road Cafe near Lydd on Sea (no such cafe really, just a local name for a very friendly moth trapper who welcomes certain of her regular visitors with cups of tea), we visited early in the morning to find it no longer available. She was also exhausted from emptying the trap that morning. Her total was well in excess of 2000 moths that night, with many still on the garage wall. She had 21 Sussex Emeralds on the table as we arrived, but her final total that day was 32. There was Dark Tussocks and Pigmy footman everywhere. What a catch. It had to be seen to be believed.
Next was the Observatory where the friendly warden pointed out a Small Marbled moth. This particular one was faded but still a most appreciated sighting. The catch contained Sussex Emerald, Buff Arches, Garden Tiger and Clay. Whilst a search of the local area found 5 Marbled Whites, 4 Small Coppers and many Meadow Browns. Bird wise it was quiet as expected for this time of the year.
Finally we ended up at Ruckinge seeing Small Emerald, Blue Bordered Carpet, Round Winged Muslin, Short Cloaked moth, Small Yellow Wave, Elephant Hawkmoth and Garden Tiger. With a butterfly stop in Hamstreet woods seeing 4 White Admirals but no Purple Emperors. Do they really exist here?
Thursday 18 July 2013.
After hearing of all the reports of Purple Emperors and some excellent photos, including Sussex Kipper laying on the ground surrounded by them, we thought that it was time to see one ourselves. Dene Park near Tonbridge was our destination. What a good move. Within minutes of arriving we had seen our first. By the time we left at 13.00 hours we had seen a minimum of 5, with other people seeing up to 8. It was very hot and they mostly stayed high in the trees. We did see one come to ground for a minute or two only to be flushed by a gentleman dog walker. He was polite, saying good morning, but would not wait whilst I took photos. Thus I have only one ground photo to show. Minutes later we found another high up, but it stayed longed enough for one more distant photo. This place appears to be Kent best Purple Emperor spot, but is very popular with dog walkers (dozens of them spread over our 3 and half hour visit). Most butterfly activity had stopped by late morning. Also seen was 8 White Admirals, 2 Silver Washed Fritillary and 1 Purple Hairstreak.
Although not up to the standards of Botany Bay it was a really enjoyable kent day.

[dave brown]

The mystery overweight seal
SATURDAY 20 JULY 2013
The day started off with a text from friends at Dungeness. A seal was present on the patch that was causing some head scratching. It was most likely a Common Seal, but it was overweight and its head looked small. It had a very distinctive pale face, with whiskers that curled in at the tips. The possibility of Bearded Seal had been considered and it was on the agenda until someone with more experience in Bearded Seals ruled it out. Which is what happened later that day. It was nice to see it and learn from the episode as it was not a straight forward id. Whilst near the patch we also saw 2 adult Med Gulls, with a few Gannets at sea. A walk around the area produced 5 Marbled Whites and many Meadow Browns. At the obs was a Peach Blossom and Coronet moth.
There was a lot of birders around the observatory as it was Barbecue time for members and staff from the nineteen fifties and sixties. Whilst I am old I was not into birding in that era so I quietly took my leave, (but not before eyeing up all the lovely food on offer). Someone had clearly taken a lot of time and trouble to lay on a good spread.
Next was Ruckinge and a good selection of moths on offer including Beautiful Golden Y, Scalloped Oak, Large Emerald, Dusky Brocade, the stunning True Lovers Knot, Swallowtail and Small Rivulet.
SUNDAY 21 JULY 2013.
It was time to spread the search at Westbere for more Norfolk Hawkers. We dully arrived to see two other well known Kent birders on site already looking, and with the news that none had been seen so far today. We left them at the site of the last sighting and headed towards Fordwich. Whilst we found no more Norfolk Hawkers the walk proved valuable as we spotted many dragonflies. 4 very worn Scarce Chasers, over 200 Banded Demoiselle, 21 Brown Hawkers, 4 Black Tailed Skimmers, 2 Southern Hawkers, Four Spotted Chaser and many Common Blue Damselflies. Butterflies were 11 Comma, 2 Red Admirals, Small Tortoiseshell, Speckled Wood, 5 Small Skippers and many Ringlets, Meadow Browns and Large Whites. We had almost arrived back at the start when we received a message to say that both of the Norfolk Hawkers had been seen and one was still showing. So for the second time in a week we was watching Norfolk Hawker in Kent. Brillant.
On the way home we called in at Wye NNR. An explosion of Marbled Whites had occurred. We counted 140 in just one field. These, together with Red Admiral, Comma, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Ringlet, Meadow Brown and Large White ensured that we had a enjoyable day out.
MONDAY 22 JULY 2013.
Never one to give up it was back into the Hamstreet Woods complex to look for Purple Emperor. Again we drew a blank, but enjoyed views of 4 Silver Washed Fritillary, 2 White Admirals, Purple Hairstreak, 2 Marbled Whites with many Ringlets and Meadow Browns. A Brown Hawker buzzed the rides looking for insects and a Common Buzzard flew over looking for bigger goodies.
We then walked part of the Military Canal with our friends from Rucking and saw 3 Common Emerald Damselfly, Common Darter and many Common Blue and Blue Tailed Damselflies. Another good day in the field.

Photos to follow.

[dave brown]

TUESDAY 23 JULY 2013
Today we tried the Military Canal at West Hythe with our target being White Letter Hairstreak. It was cloudy but still very hot, and therefore surprising that very few butterflies were on the wing. Ten years ago this location was almost guaranteed for White Letter Harirstreak but lately I am not so sure, and today we certainly drew a blank. We did see 1 White Admiral, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 5 Gatekeepers, many Meadow Browns, Brown Hawker, Black Tailed Skimmer and Red Eyed Damselfly, but that was it in 2 hours of searching.
WEDNESDAY 24 JULY 2013.
After a gap of a couple of weeks it was back to Dungeness. Not much has changed although the first signs of the autumn migration are underway. Scotney held 2 Egyptian Geese, 2 Marsh Harriers, 12 Sand Martins, Curlew and at least 50 Lapwings. Nearby the RSPB held at least 3 Marsh Harriers, Little Egret, good numbers of Swallows and Sand Martins with many moulting Tufted Ducks and Pochard. The Reed and Sedge warblers are still busy feeding young. We also noted 2 Small Tortoiseshells, a Red Admiral and many Common Blue Damselflies. On returning through Hamstreet we noted 3 Common Buzzards thermaling.
THURSDAY 25 JULY 2013.
Hot and sunny, back to butterflies. Thanks to fellow UKB member Marc Heath we headed to Bishopstone for another try for WLH. This time we connected with 3 sightings. None were low enough for photos but at least we know they are still in Kent. MH himself had 15 WLH the previous evening so perhaps this colony is thriving. Also seen 2 Marbled Whites, Holly Blue, 6 Comma, Red Admiral with many Gatekeepers and Meadow Brown.
On the way home we called in at Marshside where we found a early Willow Emerald Damselfly.

[dave brown]

FRIDAY 26 JULY 2013
We started the day at Ruckinge viewing a good selection of exciting moths. These included Nutmeg, Oak Eggar, Maple Prominent, Shark, Bordered Sallow, Beautiful Hook Tip, Small Scallop, Four Spotted Footman, Pigmy Footman, Pebble Prominent and Shaded Broad Bar. The selection at this location never fails to impress. Especially when compared to our own garden (see tomorrow).
Whilst there we received a message stating there was some wader passage at Dungeness. We arrived a little while later to view 2 Wood Sandpipers, 2 Common Sandpipers and 3 Little Ringed Plovers on the islands from Hanson Hide. Good numbers of Common Blue Damselflies along the footpath but very few butterflies. A few Small Skippers and Meadow Browns only noted.
Nearby the point held Marbled White, Small Skipper, Small Copper, Gatekeeper, Small Heath and Meadow Brown.
SATURDAY 27 JULY 2013.
Our own moth trap was very quiet with only 11 species producing 32 moths.
SUNDAY 28 JULY 2013.
We visited two sites in the WYE NNR/Brook area. Marbled White numbers are impressive this year with 45 at the first site and 70 at the second. Much to our surprise we only found 4 Chalkhill Blues, but Small/ Essex Skippers, Commas and Meadow Browns were all in good numbers. Six-spot Burnet moths were everywhere and easily out numbered the butterflies. Just as we were leaving the first site a magnificent Red KIte flew over and away towards Brook village. It was untagged but we suspect a wanderer from the Chilterns population.

[dave brown]

The bogey man strikes again.
Everyone has a butterfly/ bird/ dragonfly that seems to elude them over a period of time. For us at the present it is the newly arrived to the British Isles, Southern Migrant Hawker. Despite a number of attempts over the last three years we have still to catch up with this attractive species. Several of our attempts have been a case of just missing by an hour or so, or standing in the wrong place at the right time. This last week has been no exception, with yesterday saw us leaving Cliffe half an hour before one was seen, despite us having been there over 3 hours. The good thing about looking for the Hawker at Cliffe is that the area also attracts lots of butterflies so there is always plenty to see.
Anyway, keeping in date order,
WEDNESDAY 31 JULY 2013.
With the chance of some good birds and butterflies we headed to Dungeness. Scotney gravel pits produced our biggest ever flock of Egyptian Geese in Britain, 8 in number by the pull in. Some movement of Sand Martins was going on with at least 150 birds hawking over the water. A Marsh Harrier was hunting over the waters edge but the flock of 25 Lapwings did not seem to concerned and landed almost immediately it had passed. Next was Dengemarsh where the Sand Martin movement continued with 200 plus birds. Also present 3 Little Egrets, Marsh Harrier, 6 Common Terns and just one Red Admiral.
A sea watch and walk around the observatory produced 30 Common Terns, Grey Seal, Wheatear, 12 Turnstones, lots of Meadow Brown and Gatekeepers. 3 Little Egrets were on the ARC pit as we passed.
We ended the day at Ruckinge viewing a few moths, many 15 Ruby Tigers, many Dark Arches, Common Footman, with a few Common Wainscot and 1 Ear.
THURSDAY 01 AUGUST 2013.
Its getting close to that time of the year when Southern Migrant Hawkers appear in the Thames Estuary. So today it was Cliffe, but despite a 2.5 hour visit we failed to connect. We did see 25 Scarce Emerald Damselflies, supported by very many Common and Ruddy Darters, with Blue Tailed Damselflies numerous. Also Four Spotted Chaser, 2 Black Tailed Skimmers, 2 Migrant Hawkers. Butterflies were everywhere, although many past their best. Marbled White, Red Admiral 2, Comma 4, Small and Essex Skipper many, Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers everywhere. Birdlife included 10 Little Egrets and 6 Greenshank.
The best of our own moth trap was Small Dotted Buff amongst the 23 species present.
FRIDAY 02 AUGUST 2013.
A visit to the Ruckinge moth trap was highly productive with Black Arches, Brown-veined Wainscot, Peppered moth, Antler moth, Svenssons Copper Underwing, Dusky Sallow, Double Lobed and Fen Wainscot being the highlights. A tour of the Appledore area produced Peregrine, male Marsh Harrier and 75 Lapwings.
SATURDAY 03 AUGUST 2013.
We arrived at Oare Marshes to find the place heaving with visitors. Not nature watchers or walkers but people with small boats and yachts. Not sure what was going on but it was time to leave early. Not before we had seen 4 Curlew Sandpipers, 11 Little Egrets and 3 Little Ringed Plovers. We did see a few Essex Skippers, many Small Skippers with hundreds of Meadow Browns and gatekeepers. Our own moth trap was again poor with Elephant Hawk moth, Scalloped Oak and Grey Dagger being the best.
SUNDAY 03 AUGUST 2013.
Following up a sighting of Southern Migrant Hawker at Cliffe yesterday we spent over 3 hours searching the ditches near the second viewing mound. We saw none but we are aware that one was seen 30 minutes after we left Not all bad news because we did see 10 Scarce Emerald Damselflies, 2 Migrant Hawkers with many Small Skippers, a few Essex Skippers and the usual hundreds of Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers. Only a few Peacocks, Commas and Red Admirals seen as the wind got stronger and insects started hiding. The highlight had to be the biggest flock we have ever seen in Britain of Greenshanks. We saw a minimum of 61, with possibly a further 1 or 2 around the corner calling. An amazing sight and a good end to an enjoyable day.

You will note that I have not listed Large White or Small White in the above entries. We are seeing them everywhere we go at present, in their hundreds. Even our garden has a dozen Large on most days. They certainly seem to be doing well this year.

I am aware that fellow UKB member Marc Heath saw and photographed a Swallowtail in Kent yesterday. Kent is on a roll at the moment, if only we could join in with the Southern Migrant Hawker (and Swallow tail of course).