If it's dragons we're talking, my day on the fringe of Bowland was excellent.
Grisedale Brook.
Though this year isn't panning out as good as last year between Grisedale Bridge and Holme Wood, this visit turned up 3 Golden-ringed Dragonfly, and 2 Common Hawker which, not having settled in the several minutes I watched them, I reluctantly recorded as them 'possible' based on size, behaviour, and upland habitat. The butterflies were in better number than of late, with 6 Meadow Brown, 4 Large White, 3 Large Skipper, and a Gatekeeper.
Catshaw Pond.
The 'Lone Ranger' male Emperor Dragonfly was again patrolling the pond at Catshaw. This is the second year I have found the species at this small upland pool.
Hawthornthwaite Fell.
Another Golden-ringed Dragonfly seen here, with a Stonechat pair both alarmed at my presence at both the outward walk, and on the return. Six Meadow Pipit to note, with just 4 Sand Martin seen, and a Kestrel high overhead. Butterflies, 44 Large White and a lone Green-veined White.
Birk Bank Bog.
My visit here today verged towards exceptional, with 10 Keeled Skimmer which were seen as 4 male, 2 pairs in cop, and 2 female egg laying....Looks like the Birk Bank skimmers are here to stay!
I was a little disappointed with the result of my efforts to make a video which is a little fuzzy. But ne'r mind, it's not every day you find a female Keeled Skimmer egg laying whilst the male hovers nearby.
A bonus today came in the form of 4 Golden-ringed Dragonfly, with a Large Red Damselfly keep putting in an appearance. Butterflies, 2 Ringlet and a Red Admiral.
22 dragonflies on the day, and all rated as excellent....That'll do nicely thank you!
Picture Gallery.
It seems each paragraph starts with 'Golden-ringed Dragonfly'. Looks like you had an excellent session. I was very lucky yday to see a new Dragonfly in the UK. Photos on the blog. Take care.
ReplyDeleteStunning creature in Dorset Marc, one from the days of Tyrannosaurus Rex and probably before.
ReplyDeleteRegards....Pete.
Pete -
ReplyDeleteThis warm week seems to have brought the dragonflies etc. out but butterflies still well down in my book.
Brilliant picture and video of the Golden Ringed Dragonflies.
Nice in-flight shot of the damselfly.
Thanks for the update.
Ian Mitchell
Quite pleased with my dragonfly sightings, and my butterfly numbers are better looking than of late. Thank you for kind comments re pictures and video, and for keeping in touch with me Ian.
ReplyDeleteRegards....Pete.