The long hot spell has culminated in a succession of humungous thunderstorms giving our brook and pond some much needed help. The high temperatures have meant that the moth trap has been heaving with a huge variety of species, dragonflies are whirring around the river banks and birds of prey have been taking advantage of the thermals. Here are some the most exciting recent sightings here at Coombes Valley:
Small Tortoiseshell - These luxuriantly coloured butterflies have recently emerged in some numbers and can be spotted all around the reserve. They are members of the Aristocrat butterflies which also includes the beautiful Peacock and Red Admiral. They can be very territorial so watch out!
(Large Tortoiseshell, image by Simon Gray)
Kingfisher! - Rachel Coyle will be the new warden intern at Coombes in September and while she was visiting she spotted a bright blue shape with a flash of orange darting down the brook from the pond! This is one of the first sightings of a kingfisher at Coombes for some time and we're ecstatic that someone was there to spot it.
Ruby Tiger - This beautiful scarlet moth has only been found in the trap twice this year. The caterpillars of this species are not fussy eaters and will feed on dandelion, heather, dock, plantain and ragwort.
(Ruby Tiger, image by Simon Gray)
Ladybirds - These adorable little beetles can be found anywhere in the undergrowth if you just have a look. They feed on aphids and are a very important part of the invertebrate food chain.
(Ladybird, image by Simon Gray)
Enchanters Nightshade - This delicate flower grows in damp and shady conditions, it can be seen down by the pond and along the brook. Its Latin name (Circaea lutetiana) is said to be derived from Circe who enchanted Ulysse's crew in Homers Odyssey!
(Enchanters Nightshade, image by Simon Gray)
Devils Bit Scabious - This little purple/blue flower is starting to emerge in many sections of the reserve. It tends to grow in damp meadows and along woodland rides and is great nectaring for all manner of invertebrates.
(Devils-Bit Scabious, image by Lizzy Ingram)
Buzzards - These awesome birds of prey have been seen a lot in recent days soaring high on thermals above the valley. Listen out for their high pitched cries as they battle mobbing crows, you might even see them turning to use their talons if the crows get to close!
(Buzzard, image by David Tolliday)
Brown Hawker - These huge dragonflies can be seen anywhere along the course of the brook. They can be distinguished from other dragonflies seen around the reserve by their massive size and bronze colouration!
What weird and wonderful creatures have you spotted around Coombes Valley? Go for a walk through clough meadow and see how many small skippers you can count! Or, if you just fancy sitting somewhere with an amazing view then rest your legs at the valley view point and you might be lucky enough to eye the Kestrel hovering well above an unsuspecting vole!