Marbled Whites take centre stage

When GH and BG set up this week’s transect, the forecast hinted at a dip in temperatures after a stretch of sizzling summer heat. In the end, we were treated to a pleasant mix of warm sunshine, drifting clouds, and a refreshing westerly breeze – ideal conditions for butterflies and volunteers alike.
And what a day it was for Marbled Whites and Meadow Browns! The numbers were so high, our counters were clicking faster than castanets – rivalling the Super Butterfly Summer of 2019. Adding to the throng, freshly emerged Ringlets made their presence known in impressive numbers, their dusky wings fluttering across the grassland.
Our carefully planted Kidney Vetch was putting on a spectacular show in Barn Field and Hither Field, with our blooming patches full of potential. But alas, despite the floral welcome mats, no Small Blues accepted the invitation this time.

Count details:
 307 Marbled White
 135 Meadow Brown
   50 Ringlet
  30 Small/Essex Skipper
    8 Large White
    6 Comma
    6 Dark Green Fritillary
    3 Large Skipper
    3 Small Heath
    2 Common Blue
    1 Red Admiral
    1 Small Copper
    1 Speckled Wood
Count total:
553 butterflies from 13 species.
For more info on these species visit
​ butterfly-conservation.org

Flying this week

Ringlet (Aphantopus hyperantus) – a dusky beauty with secrets in its circles.

• Those eye-catching rings on its wings aren't just decoration – they may help confuse predators or deflect attacks away from vital body parts.
• The Ringlet is a fan of gloomy weather – it often flies on overcast days when most butterflies stay hidden, earning it the nickname ‘cloud lover.’
• This species is a success story: its range has expanded dramatically in recent decades, making it one of the few UK butterflies doing well in a changing climate.

Ringlet, Fames Rough - Brian Gardner

Large Skipper, Fames Rough - Brian Gardner

Comma, Hill Wood Field - Brian Gardner

Survey by Brian G and Graham Harris submitted to Butterfly Conservation (UKBMS). ​Report by GK & AI.