The summer holidays are upon us, the warm weather bringing many families and holidaymakers from the local area and further afield to the Discovery Centre. The reserve is alive with fledglings and our Mute Swan cygnets are growing up fast. The Swifts have already left for their long journey to South Africa.
Among our current feathered visitors is a Wood Sandpiper which has been seen at the North Screen and over at Lodmoor for the past few days. Mark Wright @markwright12002 took this superb shot at Radipole Lake.
The number of Great White Egret sightings have increased this summer on both reserves. Clive Hargrave @HargraveClive snapped this one at Radipole Lake.
The warm weather has brought a variety of butterflies with Red Admiral, Peacock, Speckled Wood, Holly Blue, Gatekeeper, Comma, Small Tortoiseshell, Small White, Meadow Brown, Brimstone, Ringlet and Wall being seen. Painted Ladies are currently been seen frequently around our reserves. Every decade or so sees a Painted Lady invasion event where this butterfly is seen around the country in large numbers. The last time this influx occurred was in 2009. Dave Morphew @DavidMorphew took this photo of a Painted Lady on Buddleia on a sunny August day at Radipole Lake.
For all the latest sightings, contact Radipole Lake Discovery Centre, details below or pop in and see us. Hot and cold refreshments and snacks available.
Telephone: 01305 778313
Email: Weymouth.reserves@rspb.org.uk
Website: www.rspb.org./radipolelake