Orchid season is upon us at Radipole Lake. We are pleased to report that our Brown Bee Orchid (Ophyrs apifera var atrofuscus) first found in 2008 is now in its 11th year. Two plants have bloomed so far.
Photo Credit: Edmund Mackrill
It's been a good year for the typical Bee Orchid with over 20 plants counted around the reserve. Southern Marsh Orchids are not as abundant this year as in the past but over 20 flowers were counted. Currently it is the turn of Pyramidal Orchids, their peak time is July, over 30 plants are coming into bloom. A Common Spotted Orchid was found over on Lodmoor.
Bee Orchids
Pyramidal Orchid
Bird highlights this month: a Glossy Ibis was seen at the North Screen on 10th and 11th June. Over 400 Swifts were counted on 12th June, Great White Egret and the Ring Necked Duck have frequently been seen this month around Radipole Lake. The Marsh Harriers are still about and were observed passing food parcels. The Bearded Tits have successfully bred, juveniles have been seen and heard in the reedbeds. Over on Lodmoor, Little Gull, Mediterranean Gulls, Great White Egret, Sandwich Terns, and a Roseate Tern. Common Terns have nested and now have chicks.
Glossy Ibis and Great White Egret
Photo Credits: Edmond Mackrill
Other Wildlife: Butterflies on the wing this month include - Large Skipper, Holly Blue, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Red Admiral, Green Veined White, Brown Argus, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown and an abundance of Scarlet Tiger Moths.
Other News: On 13th June we waved goodbye to Dan Bartlett after over 11 years in the Discovery Centre. Thanks Dan for everything you have done over the years, your knowledge and experience will be very much missed! We wish Dan good luck in his new role at Lulworth Heritage Centre. We also wish Emily Dragon well as she moves to her new role over at Arne. Gill Vrdlovcova as she joins us in her new role as Visitor Experience Manager. A big warm welcome to Gill!
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