A short visit to Radipole Reserve today.
Purple Loosestrife |
Not an easy species to see, but I can find it quite easily. If only the Dartford Warbler was so easy.
Based solely on my sightings. The Butterfly season 2024 started with some promise as I was able to shoot some Orange Tip, but they then tailed off rather quickly. Such distinguished species as the Duke of Burgundy, Lulworth Skipper and not so common Marsh Fritillary were also easy to find.
Species that I observed few of or evaded my camera altogether were Painted Lady, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Large and Small Skippers. There is still hope that I find some of these this year.
It could just be me of course?
What was dependable and in good numbers was the Speckled Wood. This species can be found from March through until October, two to three broods can occur during the year and it is also an overwinter resident species. There are a number of subspecies and not easy to spot the variance unless you have the book with you,
So I thought I would create a post to celebrate its continued appearance providing at least something in the butterfly World this year to shout about.