Bird song may be dwindling but there is still a vast array of fantastic wildlife to be seen (and heard!) around the reserves at this time of year. As summer progresses dragonflies and butterflies become more numerous with July heralding the emergence of exciting species such as the Silver-washed Fritillary and Emerald Damselfly at Nagshead, and the striking White Admiral which can be seen gliding along the rides at Highnam Woods.
Emerald Damselfly Lestes sponsa, RSPB Nagshead (photo: Lewis Thomson)
There are of course still birds to be seen, Blackcaps, Garden Warblers and Chiffchaffs can be heard singing and Spotted Flycatchers are now feeding young. Roaming flocks of Crossbills have been seen at Nagshead recently, listen out for their metallic 'plink plink' calls around the pines and heath on the long trail. The weird and wonderful churring song of the Nightjar can still be heard from the larger clearings around Nagshead on warm calm evenings along with supporting performances by roding Woodcock, Tawny Owls, Glow Worms and several bat species.
European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus (photo: Lewis Thomson)
We will be giving a guided butterfly walk on Saturday 16th July 11:30am-1:30pm at Highnam Woods which is home to a wonderful variety of species. Please do get in touch to book your place by either ringing us at the office on 01594 562852 or emailing us at highnam.woods@rspb.org.uk.