Brede High Woods
In spite of the strong winds and intermittent sunshine the brambly ride to the South of the carpark was alive with butterflies. There were dozens of Ringlets, but also at least half a dozen superb Silver-washed Fritillaries and a couple of White Admirals along with a few skippers, Speckled Woods, Meadow Browns and whites. The sun had disappeared for good by the time we reached the small field, so no new species there, but on nearby Powdermill Reservoir a family of Coots rummaged amongst a stunning pink raft of Amphibious Bistort.
The future of butterflies here looks set to improve in future summers - we noticed that small trees have been marked for cutting along several of the rides, to let in much needed light.
Bob Greenhalf by e-mail