The Changing Season at Radipole Lake

It's the last day of June and tomorrow we start the second half of the year.  Things are definitely changing are the reserve.  This morning i counted 35 Pyramidal Orchids near the Kingfisher Gate.  There are still a few Southern Marsh Orchids around but most have gone over.  Two Bee Orchids are on their last flowers and our Brown Bee Orchids are nearly in fruit.

Coming in to flower now and turning the reserve pink is the Marsh Woundwort which looks similar to an orchid, Red Bartsia, Purple Loosestrife, Hemp Agrimony and Greater Willowherb.I was lucky to see the Scarlet Tiger Moth fly into the reeds, I ran in after it very obliging let me do some 'gardening' around it and take this snap.

I was also lucky enough to see a Ringlet on the Bramble and saw a Painted Lady which didn't settle long enough for a snap.

Near the Pyramidal Orchids, I noticed our Apple and Pear trees are already heavily laden with fruit and yet it is only mid summer.

It all change at the Discovery Centre this week too as we say "ta ta for now" to Discovery Centre Manager, Lindsey Death who left on Wednesday to go on maternity leave.  We all send Lindsey our very best wishes.

Also leaving is this week is our summer intern, Becky Spencer, who is now off to the Greek Islands to look after the turtles before returning to university in October. We wish Becky good luck inthe future.

Finally a warm welcome to Ed Chivers, who is covering Lindsey's role during her absence.  Welcome Ed!

For all the latest sightings, contact Radipole Lake Discovery Centre, details below or pop in and see us. Hot and cold refreshments, sandwiches and snacks available.