"Visitors often ask, somewhat apologetically, whether they will be able to see much if they cannot go far from the Visitor Centre. I have the same problem, as I do not go far during my lunch break; so that I know the answer is a very definite yes, you will probably see plenty.
The pond outside the Visitor Centre is a good spot for watching underwater species, such as newt eft, or young newt. It is also usually a relaxing place for lunch.
In the last couple of weeks I have been lucky enough to see a variety of dragonflies & butterflies, most of which have been featured on our website already.
The Small Skipper in the photo above is characterised by the colour of the tip of the underneath of the antennae, which is orange rather than the black of an Essex Skipper.
The Painted Lady butterfly is perhaps a little tatty, making me wonder how it got its battle scars. They migrate thousands of miles from sub-Saharan Africa to the Arctic, but done in stages over several generations. This is in marked contrast to our resident butterflies including the Small Skipper.
However my favourite sighting was of an adolescent Southern Hawker dragonfly, within 5 minutes of the Visitor Centre. Unusually it waited patiently whilst I observed its markings.
We have recently expanded the range of binoculars we have available in the shop. At this time of year some customers are interested in using binoculars to observe butterflies & other insects, and we are happy to advise on this."
Thanks to Margot for the post and her photos.
Other sightings include this rather splendid caterpillar, found by Margaret. It took a little effort to identify but belongs to the parsnip moth - the adult is a rather unprepossessing creature by contrast.
Terry Hollands found these lovely speckled bush crickets near to West Mead hide.
Green sandpipers are regularly seen on the North Brooks. Gary managed to take this photo on his smart phone!
And finally, Gareth found this beautiful adder down in Black wood.