Long Dean (10th July)

Ephraim and I both cycled down to Long Dean and photographed the massive abundance of Pyramidal Orchids and some butterfly species.  The highlights were 2 Comma's (my first for the year), several Marbled Whites, Meadow Browns, Ringlets and Six-spot Burnets.

 Pyramidal Orchids

 Cinnabar Moth caterpillar

Comma

Large Skipper

 Six-spot Burnet on Pyramidal Orchid

 Pyramidal Orchid

probable hybrid Southern-marsh/Common Spotted Orchid

Ephraim also pointed out a single Southern-marsh Orchid which he had seen a few days ago, but was now in poor shape.  There were also the occasional Common spotted Orchids but no where near as numerous as the Pyramidals.  There were very few birds, 2 juvenile Kestrels being the highlight and good evidence that they have successfully bred at the site!

two juv. Kestrels