Life Amongst the Orchids

The Pyramidal and Common Spotted Orchids have bloomed very abundantly in the fields around Toft this year. I spent an hour or so observing which insects visited the orchids and which ones picked up the pollinia (pollen sacs) to carry to the next bloom. Only Bees and Butterflies appeared to engage with the pollinia and carry them off on their mouthparts. 

Brick Lane Miscellany

Part of our London walk route yesterday went along Brick Lane - very crowded and noisy with the Sunday Market in full swing, though I managed to find some people and pigeon enjoying quieter places. 

 

 

Trip to London: Regent's Canal and Limehouse Basin

Yesterday we took the coach from Cambridge to Mile End (an impressive service taking just over the hour) and explored various areas. Regent’s Canal was named after the Prince Regent, later to be King George IV, and first opened in 1820. We walked part of the Canal down to Limehouse Basin in cool showery conditions. There are some surprisingly wild areas with abundant bird life.

Limehouse Basin links Regent's Canal to the Thames and was, at one point, the principal entrance from the Thames to the entire national canal network. The redevelopment of the Basin started in 1983. The Docklands Light Railway is carried on a viaduct originally built for the London and Blackwall Railway above the original wharves along the north side of the basin.

 

My Yearly Task: The School Magazine

During the school year, I regularly take images at our local primary school. My last month has been very busy with events at the school and finalising the layout on the computer. The cover this year are the winners from each year group of a photo competition held at the school.

For parents and friends, the magazine should be out early July and contains more than 500 images so make sure you secure a copy - limited edition!!

Insects in the Rain

Amazing just how many insects were on the move yesterday despite the rain. Lots of Empis flies on all the flowers, plus Leaf Bug, Weevil beetle, Speckled Bush Cricket, Bumble bees and other flies.

Rain Drops on Poppies

After more than a day of rain, the garden flowers are covered with droplets.