Comma Butterfly

For anyone wondering why a Comma is so named, well here’s why - there’s a comma on the underwing! Should have some good images later when we open the moth trap up - have already had a sneak and can see two fabulous hawkmoths one of which is a new garden tick - the Privet and also in there a Pine Hawkmoth - pics to follow. Wayne has gone up to the Yorkshire Moors today in search of Golden Ringed Dragonflies so should also have pics of them - I’m in the garden with my chronic Sciatica anyone found a cure yet!

In the garden this summer

Considering the miserable summer weather we have had it has been a great year for butterflies.  Our Buddleia has been coated in Painted Ladies, Small White, Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Meadow Browns, Gate Keepers, Peacocks, Commas and  one very welcome Grayling.  The caterpillar below is a Elephant Hawk Moth which I nearly stood on outside my back door!

 Bird wise the season has been quiet in the garden however we did have a Peregrine shoot across yesterday just above our roof and caused havoc amongst our resident Jackdaws.  We also have at the moment one very ill looking male Bullfinch which visits daily to feed on the honey suckle berries - although his feathers look very worn he appears to have a disease rather than summer moulting as he also seems to have very sticky eyes - I fear the end is near for him.