Saturday wildlife

A buddleia left unpruned since last year, and consequently larger and earlier flowering than those that I cut back hard in early spring, was smothered in butterflies today, including up to six Silver-washed Fritillaries, a similar number of Peacocks, several Red Admirals and a pristine Painted Lady. The warm, sunny morning saw three species of dragonflies patrolling the stream and ponds: Southern Hawker, Golden-ringed and Common Darter. The valley was filled with the high-pitched calls of a family party of Sparrowhawks, while the bird feeders were visited by a continuous procession of juvenile tits, including a couple of Marsh Tits – no doubt keeping a wary eye out overhead!