Thursday, 26 May 2011

Bentley Wood and Martin Down - 19 May 2011

A butterflying day at fine woodland site in Wilts and a quick visit to Martin Down on a warm sunny day.

Bentley Wood was it usual grand self with numerous Small Pearl-boarded Fritillaries on the wing, with a few remaining Pearl-boarded Fritillaries, some a little worn, along with a few Grizzled Skippers and a single fresh looking Duke of Burgandy. A few other common butterflies but species for the day were a little limited, and unfortunately despite the warm weather no early Marsh Fritillaries.

Small Pearl-boarded Fritillaries

Pearl-boarded Fritillary

 Duke of Burgandy

Martin Down again was Marsh Fritillary less despite someone indicating that they had seen half a dozen the previous day and then some suggesting they were no longer at the site anymore? In any event a good selection of species were seen, Dingy and Grizzled Skippers, Adonis, Small and Common Blues, Brown Argus, Green Hairstreak, Small Heath and quite a few Brimstone. Plus two Turtles Doves flow over. This was the first visit to the site as opposed to go past heading further west. A big area to get to grips with on a first visit. It is never easy working a big area not knowing the most productive area, leads to a lot of walking exploring.

Small Blue

Green Hairstreak
 
Grizzled Skipper

Adonis Blue

Brown Argus