I’ve got an absolutely cracking set of species from Chambers Farm Wood for today’s post, including my first new butterfly of the month.
First identified tick of the day were these Vestal Cuckoo Bees, Bombus vestalis:
Bombus vestalis
They abounded in the whole wood, but the real reason I came to Chambers was the Marsh Fritillaries, and, although they were worn (we are coming towards the end of the flight season), they did not disappoint.
Marsh Fritillary
These were my most wanted resident British butterfly up until today, and they are now my favourite. This population almost definitely results from an unofficial introduction, although I’m fairly sure that the butterfly was known from the area in the past, so I don’t see a problem with it.
Another massive highlight was the display that the (certainly introduced) Black Hairstreaks put on. These weren’t a lifer but my only previous views were distant and brief so this was a nice change!
Black Hairstreak
I also saw 2 Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moths, but the pictures aren’t worth sharing, I’m still getting used to my sister’s camera which I’m borrowing.
The Ruddy Darter 