Trevor

[trevor]

Thanks Paul & Wurzel.

I was speaking with the guy who raised the SPBF that provided the stock
for the re-introduction several years ago.
I asked him if they had been ' topped up ' this year, the answer was no.
So all SPBF on the site are the natural offspring from 2019 broods.

I have to say it's looking good for the future, including the condition of the site(s).

Happy day's,
Trevor.

[Neil Hulme]

Hi Trevor

The SPBF reintroduction at the BC reserves was achieved with a 'single shot' of 69 final instar larvae and 85 adults in spring 2017; there have been no subsequent releases of either larvae or adults.

The species double-brooded that first year, and every season since, so those currently flying are the sixth generation since the release occurred.

I was joined by three others today (including Gary Norman of the captive-breeding team) to conduct a systematic survey of both reserves. There are currently a minimum of 9 SPBF flying in Rowland Wood and 21 on Park Corner Heath. It is still very early in the flight season and Rowland Wood (which starts later than PCH) should be in full flow by later this week.

The first SPBF emerged here on 6 May, much earlier than usual. A second brood (partial, but strong) should emerge mid/third week July.

Shame I missed you today.

BWs, Neil

[millerd]

That's a terrific selection of SPBF shots, Trevor. I might venture that way sometime soon, though I can't see myself being there by 7am to see them!

Cheers,

Dave

[David M]

Great sequence, Trevor. Definitely worth the early start!

[Neil Freeman]

Lovely sequence of Small Pearls Trevor

Cheers,

Neil.

[trevor]

Thanks everyone. I'm pleased that my recent posts have been enjoyed.

More Small Pearls later.
But a first for me this season, a co-operative female Holly Blue.

[trevor]

Going off topic, can anyone identify this Spider?. I can honestly say I've never seen this species before.

Thanks in anticipation.

Trevor,

[millerd]

Can't help you with the spider, Trevor, but I'm pleased you found a cooperative female Holly Blue. I think the females once they get into egg-laying mode tend to be more accessible and approachable.

Cheers,

Dave

[bugboy]

The Jumping Spider Marpissa muscosa looks like a pretty good match for your spider Trevor

[trevor]

Thanks, Paul. Are they common?, a new one for me.

[trevor]

Dave, that female Holly Blue was showing great interest in an Alder Buckthorn,
but as far as I could see no eggs were deposited.

And now for today's SPBF, including a female hiding down in shaded foliage.
Had she been mated, and not wanting further male attention?.

[trevor]

For a change I had an evening session with the Small Pearls today.
It was great to see Doug Neve, Gary Norman and Andrew Reekie, enjoying the late sightings.
I managed what I went for, roosting SPBF.

Stay well all,
Trevor.

PS I have added images from 20/5 to this post.

[Wurzel]

Brilliant Small Pearls Trevor- especially the dew encrusted one I see that you're 'doing a Dave'

Have a goodun and stay safe

Wurzel

[David M]

...a first for me this season, a co-operative female Holly Blue.

Isn't she just, Trevor? Always a delight when one of these decides to brighten your walk.

The SPBFs are pretty impressive too, especially that first open-wing female from your later post.

[trevor]

Cheers Wurzel, even better this evening!.

For a change I went over to Park Corner Heath this evening, Gary Norman,
and Andrew Reekie were already on site, and told me that activity was abnormally quiet.
Certainly there were fewer SPBF looking for somewhere to roost.
Gary and Andrew decided to explore Rowland Wood, but I stayed put, and about half an hour
after they left I discovered a mating pair of SPBF, which at first glance looked like a large
curled over Bracken tip. After many shots I called out for Gary at the top of my voice.
Fortunately I was heard and both Gary and Andrew were able to ' fill their boots '.

A wonderful experience!.
Trevor.

[millerd]

Excellent shots of the pairing, Trevor! I assume things were generally quiet because it was so warm today.

Dave

[Wurzel]

Crickey Trevor That's the last British Frit that I need to complete a section of my 'Butterflies In Cop' collection Brilliant images

Have a goodun and stay safe

Wurzel

[Goldie M]

Lovely shots of the Pearls Trevor the closed wing shots of there patterned wings really stand out, Goldie

[David M]

Time, perhaps, for you to buy a lottery ticket, Trevor? Fortune is definitely smiling on you right now.

[trevor]

Many thanks all, that SPBF pairing is something you hope to find, but not expect to.

I had a complete surprise today, and right on my doorstep!.
Close to my home there is a single track country lane which I often use to access the A22.
A short way along this lane, it is joined by another lane coming in from the left.
Being a blind junction great care is needed when passing it. This morning I walked past
this junction and noticed on the other side of the lane a very discreet style and an
East Sussex cc foot path sign. As I walked along the overgrown footpath I could not believe
the most suitable Butterfly habitat that opened up before me. This is a location I will visit
regularly from now on. The countryside I passed through was literally Olde England at it's best!.
A few years ago I had a White Admiral in my garden, today gave me a clue of where it may have come from.

Just to think I've been in my house for 23 years and did not know about this fabulous unmanaged land.

A few of this mornings finds.............
Trevor.