Trumpington Meadows April 6th

First Butterfly Transect of 2026 completed - not a lot about - recorded a few Brimstone, Orange Tips and Peacocks. As my route finishes a distance from the car park, I looked at the various other insects on the wing as I returned to the car. The Rhombic Leatherbug is an attractive 'variation' on our common Dock Bug, the diamond-shaped abdomen is easily overlooked. Several Hairy Shieldbugs waking up from hibernation. Not many bees around considering the temperature 14-15 degrees.

Toft Bees and Other Insects

 A selection of insects from Toft Churchyard taken on a warm sunny 4th April 2026 (IDs on final image)

Pasque Flowers at Royston

Always a delight to photograph, the Pasque flowers at Therfield Heath are looking good at the moment with plenty of flowers out and still a good few more to come. I tried various apertures and angles of view - here a few different examples. Couldn't resist the view through Fox Covert  to the vibrant yellow rape field.

Royston Heath Bees etc 2nd April

Yesterday's weather turned out warmer and sunnier than expected and the chalkland Bees etc responded with lots of activity among the Pasque Flowers. Delighted with a fair number of Red-tailed Mason bees flying  around, on the Pasque Flowers and investigating snail shells where they lay their eggs and pack with pollen for the larvae to feed on. Several other Bee Species and Flies, Suggested IDs on sheet but may need correcting!!