Summer in Hardwick Wood

Most of  the mud of the winter has dried up in Hardwick Wood with many of the paths now filled with grasses taller than me and everywhere vibrant green with mosses and foliage. I went to check on the butterfly population - certainly there are Silver-washed Fritillaries but not in abundance and they are looking fairly worn. Plenty of Whites, Red Admirals and Ringlets but didn't locate any Hairstreaks -  I am sure they will be there high in the Oaks. I took a macro lens - not the best for recording flying woodland butterflies so big enlargements but hopefully gives of feel of this very beautiful and wild place.

Life in an Ancient Wood

I eventually found time to walk up to my local woodland at Hardwick - a bit more strenuous than previous seasons as the field verges have not been cut which is very good for the wildlife but makes heavier going for walking. I was rewarded with sunny lit glades full of butterflies enjoying this year's abundant bramble flowers!! Not a lot of Silver-washed Fritillaries about but getting late in the season. Also Ringlet, Comma, Green-veined White, Peacock, Red Admiral, Meadow Brown, Red Admiral, Small Skipper (also seen Large and Small Whites). Dragonflies flies - Southern Hawker and Common Darter, and Band-Eyed Brown Horsefly.