Numbers increasing

6/5/2022

Graham H and I did week 5's transect on Thursday afternoon in fine warm weather but with with an occasional cool breeze. Once again, we saw most of our butterflies in the south-facing and more sheltered Coneyboro Hill and Fames Rough (sections 2, 3 & 4). Nothing much seems to be happening in other sections yet, possibly because for the moment they offer less warmth, wind protection and food flowers.

The Brimstones were our highest count at 25, with Dingy Skippers close behind with 23. The sun-warmed earth paths of the circuit were very popular with the Peacocks – we had six patrolling at speed up and down the length of Fames Rough. We also saw our first Green Hairstreak, Grizzled Skippers and Small Heaths of the season. It's good to note that the numbers recorded are increasing steadily as the season progresses – we hope it continues.

Count details:
25 Brimstone
23 Dingy Skipper
13 Peacock
5 Orange Tip
3 Small Heath
2 Grizzled Skipper
2 Holly Blue
1 Comma
1 Green Hairstreak
Summary:
75 Butterflies from 9 species.
Click on butterfly names for more info.

Survey by Brian Gardner and Graham H submitted to Butterfly Conservation (UKBMS).
Report and pics by Brian Gardner.
Click on pics to enlarge.