Yesterday was the third and final visit within a week to the same Lincolnshire wood. Every visit the butterflies seen and active have been quite different from the previous trip. This time there were no Purple Emperors, and no Hairstreaks of any species were seen clearly, although we may have caught glimpses of them flying swiftly high up towards the canopy. There was also only one White Admiral seen this time, but at least there was a tatty female Silver-Washed Fritillary to photograph. Presumably, the reason every visit has been different is because of the strength of the sun on each particular visit. The hot weather we've been 'enduring' has also had an effect. Some species have emerged earlier than expected, and then instead of spending a few days sheltering, and waiting for the weather to improve, this year they have been able to spend many consecutive days active and chasing each other high among the tree tops. They have therefore performed all their reproductive functions and have worn themselves out before the time when the last individual is normally seen.
Female Silver-Washed Fritillary
Underside
The first two photographs cunningly conceal the worse aspects of the tatty wings of the butterfly. Unfortunately, this is not the case with the remainder of the photos. The Silver-Washed Fritillary is the second largest Fritillary in Europe, and the male is a stunning bright orange. This female is a lot paler, and she has certainly seen better days.
Tattiness revealed
ditto
ditto
Peacock
1 comment:
It's a pity that most of the species you mention have been unlawfully introduced on a NNR.
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