So I turned around and headed for the Farm Lake , which was also on the route of the Walk , but hadn't been reached as yet by the walkers . The most obvious thing on arriving at the Lake , was that some of the male , larger Dragonflies were patrolling certain areas of the bank . At least 5 
male Emperors were patrolling and scrapping when the two patrollers met . I must have attempted 25/30 shots of him in flight , but this was the only one that came anywhere near passable . Several aerial battles ensued , and on two occasions , I saw both fall onto the water's surface still fighting . On both occasions , they managed to overcome the surface tension and get away to fight another day . If either , or both hadn't managed to get off the surface , which both were trying to do to the other , they would have died , not from drowning , as they float on the surface , but from starvation , as in this game it's a matter of feed or die .
male Emperors were patrolling and scrapping when the two patrollers met . I must have attempted 25/30 shots of him in flight , but this was the only one that came anywhere near passable . Several aerial battles ensued , and on two occasions , I saw both fall onto the water's surface still fighting . On both occasions , they managed to overcome the surface tension and get away to fight another day . If either , or both hadn't managed to get off the surface , which both were trying to do to the other , they would have died , not from drowning , as they float on the surface , but from starvation , as in this game it's a matter of feed or die .The Black Tailed Skimmers are still emerging in numbers . I found another in the variegated 
Rush , giving better light for the shot . As can be seen , the abdomen is fully extended , leaving just the wings to dry out , which wouldn't take long given today's temperature and warm breeze . The next time past , I saw the newly emerged take it's first flight , leaving just it's exuvia behind . All around the Lake , it's relations were emerging , some to the trees , and some 
like this one to the vegetation at the waterside . Over on the far side of the Lake , some of the early emergents , having now coloured up , have returned to the water , to find and fight for 
their territories . As I posted before , the females will stay the gold and black colours that they emerged in , but the males , like the Broad Bodied Chasers will become powder blue on the 
abdomen , and like the BBCs , have yellow spots along the sides of their abdomen . Apart from the size of the abdomen , the main difference between the two species is that the Black Tailed Skimmer does not have the dark markings at the base of each wing that the BBC does . The male BTS can be confused with the male Keeled Skimmer , but that does not have the yellow spots , and as it's name implies , has a narrow join type line along the top of it's abdomen . Also the male Scarce Chaser , but that has no yellow spots either , but does have dark patches at the wing bases . As well as the Dragonflies above , Azure , Common Blue , Large Red and Blue Tailed Damselflies were also recorded .
Rush , giving better light for the shot . As can be seen , the abdomen is fully extended , leaving just the wings to dry out , which wouldn't take long given today's temperature and warm breeze . The next time past , I saw the newly emerged take it's first flight , leaving just it's exuvia behind . All around the Lake , it's relations were emerging , some to the trees , and some like this one to the vegetation at the waterside . Over on the far side of the Lake , some of the early emergents , having now coloured up , have returned to the water , to find and fight for their territories . As I posted before , the females will stay the gold and black colours that they emerged in , but the males , like the Broad Bodied Chasers will become powder blue on the abdomen , and like the BBCs , have yellow spots along the sides of their abdomen . Apart from the size of the abdomen , the main difference between the two species is that the Black Tailed Skimmer does not have the dark markings at the base of each wing that the BBC does . The male BTS can be confused with the male Keeled Skimmer , but that does not have the yellow spots , and as it's name implies , has a narrow join type line along the top of it's abdomen . Also the male Scarce Chaser , but that has no yellow spots either , but does have dark patches at the wing bases . As well as the Dragonflies above , Azure , Common Blue , Large Red and Blue Tailed Damselflies were also recorded .Butterflies were few with just Common Blue (3) , Painted Lady (4) and a single Large White being recorded .
I attempted again to photograph the Swallows , which today seemed as if they might have been 
taking Damselflies off the surface , rather than skimming a drink . As the first shot shows , some
of the 'hits' , looked downright dangerous . Walking around , I came across this pair of Garden 
Spiders , and going with the norm , that the female is bigger , then the male seemed as if he wanted to know , but she didn't , and in the end chased him off . By now it was really warm , and 
even a passing Hornet stopped on a Lillypad for a drink .My last hour , was spent watching and photographing the latest newcomers . I hadn't noticed them , tucked up on the side
of the vegetation in one corner , until I spotted what I think is the male , making repeated dives , then taking the proceeds to the corner just mentioned . I am leaving the remainder of this
taking Damselflies off the surface , rather than skimming a drink . As the first shot shows , some of the 'hits' , looked downright dangerous . Walking around , I came across this pair of Garden Spiders , and going with the norm , that the female is bigger , then the male seemed as if he wanted to know , but she didn't , and in the end chased him off . By now it was really warm , and even a passing Hornet stopped on a Lillypad for a drink .My last hour , was spent watching and photographing the latest newcomers . I hadn't noticed them , tucked up on the side of the vegetation in one corner , until I spotted what I think is the male , making repeated dives , then taking the proceeds to the corner just mentioned . I am leaving the remainder of this post as a series of pictures , so you can quietly enjoy , as I did whilst taking them .
On arrival , and for most of the morning , I was the only person on the site , and on such a glorious morning , I felt privileged to be there . There was a stiff breeze blowing along the South facing slope , and the morning dew was still lying , and very few butterflies were seen to begin with . One of the first things I found , was my first Bee Orchid of the year , surprisingly in 
flower . I found another later , but someone/thing , had trampled on it . Also found were large 
numbers of Fragrant Orchids (pictured) , a couple of Man Orchids and a single White 
which like many of the Blue species , is brown . The identifying feature is the castellated white/black border , as opposed to the white border of the Common Blue . Soon after , I found 
the first male , not pristine , as they have been out for a while already . These are part of the first brood , usually quite small in numbers , and later in the year , late July /August , a second , larger brood will hatch . To show that they have been out for some time , this male proves the 
point . Like the 
looking up to the top of the slope , a pair of Common Buzzards came drifting across on the 
thermals , looking absolutely majestic against the cloudless blue sky . Down in the grass , an old 
friend , the Cardinal Beetle put in an appearance , and also amongst the grass , 
called because it used to be made into a solution to 'make the eyes sparkle' , was also wanting to be seen . Further down the slope I came across a pair of Adonis Blues , with the male with only one thing on his mind . He chased the female from pillar to post , and would not take no for an 
answer . Eventually , he must have worn her out and joined her on the ground . Within a short 
period of time , he had his way , and the deed was being done . Whilst photographing this pair , my attention was being constantly dragged to a Yellowhammer in a bit of scrub , constantly 
telling me that he had 'a little bit of bread , and no cheese' . 
two Green 
was the 
perfectly still . At one point , he did drop to the ground , and seemed to fly off with what could 
have been a Slow Worm , but I couldn't be sure . Along the top path , and for the second day running , I found a single male Meadow Brown , but this one was happier to pose than 
yesterday's , even though his wings were not fully inflated . On the top edge against the scrub , 
Common Rock Rose , the food plant of the Brown Argus , is brightening things up . Readers from last Winter , might remember me posting that the Surrey Group were 
the top of the slope . The tall hedge on the left of the shot , this side of the railway line is where we finished this Spring , and will continue this Autumn .
open , pity , because it looked colourful .
probably still warming up . Other species recorded included a pristine male Brown Argus , 
Common Blue , a female Orange Tip (pictured) and Large White . As I left , heading for High Elms Country Park , you could tell it was going to be a hot one .
Skipper is really living up to it's name now , perhaps 'Ragged' might be more appropriate . 
Speckled Wood (4) , Large White (2) , Small Copper (1-pictured) and Brimstone (1) made up the numbers .Day flying moths were in good numbers , with 
and Mother 
The Bird's Nest Orchids are steady at 10 , and fully out ,
Before heading home for lunch , I made a quick stop at West Kent Golf Course to see if there was any sign of the Small Blues there . Unfortunately , as I arrived where they are usually found , the sun went behind cloud , and this species really does need the sun to be on the wing . With the sun
in , I was again joined by butterfly , this time a male Common Blue with a 
It didn't seem to bother him , and when the sun started to show , he flew off without trouble . Most of the species seen at High Elms were recorded here , with the addition of Holly Blue and Peacock . Just before leaving , I disturbed 
male Broad Bodied Chasers were holding territories around the pond , and aerial battles were continuous . In one corner , a female , taking no notice of what was happening above here , was 
diligently dipping the end of her abdomen into the water , each time , releasing a single round egg , that will sink to the bottom of the warm shallow water , to start the next generation . Whilst 
there , I managed another two year firsts , with my first Meadow Brown , feeding on Bramble flower around the edge of the pond . Not the best of shots , but it just wouldn't get into the position that I wanted it to . Then came the second , when a male Emperor Dragonfly , swooped across the water , much to the annoyance of the male Broad Bodied Chasers , who lifted off to engage him in battle . He flew backwards and 
no chance of a picture . Eventually , he rested for a few seconds , and I got this shot . It was literally seconds , before the Broad Bodied Chaser males 'saw him off'. I carried on watching and , after quite a while , he came to rest in front of me , showing nicely the dark dorsal line along the 
abdomen that is helpful in this species identification . The only other species recorded were Azure and Large Red Damselfly . Other butterflies recorded around the pond were Painted Lady (50+) , Common Blue (1) , Orange Tip (1) , Speckled Wood (2) , Small White (2) and Large White (2) . Lastly , can anyone help out with this bad shot of a small moth , found on a walk yesterday 
near 
way home . Grass Snake was the species of the day , with 10 being recorded on two sites .
Just 2 Slow Worms , a very low number , were recorded , and two Adders , one male under a tin 
and a female , laying in the open , enjoying the sunshine .
came to feed at the birdtable . There was also a family of Blue Tits , but I didn't manage a shot of any of them .
And talking juveniles , we had another visit from the juvenile Squirrel , on it's own this time .
fully extended . Now it was time to pump up those wings . At this stage , it is very vulnerable , as 
the wings are still wet , and it is unable to fly . On my next visit , it had dried it's wing in the 
sunshine , and had made it's maiden flight , into adjacent trees where it would be safer . This was 
it's exuvia , and the hole on the top of the thorax , where it forced itself out can be seen . Like Broad Bodied Chasers , Black Tailed Skimmers all emerge in gold and black colouration , regardless of sex . Females will stay gold and black , but the male abdomen will become powder blue , like the Broad Bodied Chasers . More and more were making their first flights , and I found
them in low vegetation , and the odd one or two , not managing to make the trees , and collapsing
exhausted to the ground . They are easier to photograph at this stage , as adults , they rarely stay still . The large compound eyes , meeting at the top of the head , still need to mature , if it 
individually , are attached . Butterflies were few apart from Painted Ladies . Whilst I was at the lake , I recorded 24 , all passing through without stopping , and that was only the ones I noticed . 
next hour or so , at least another 2 dozen , either flew straight through or stopped on the 
Miniature Lilac . Amazing that none stopped on flowers at the farm lake , but several stopped on the Lilac , even though it is passed it's best . At this rate , the number in the country must number in the hundreds of thousands , if not millions . Also visiting the garden at the same time 
was this Silver Y moth , attracted to one of Carols' Irises .
Damselflies were lifting off from around the lake , leaving their larval skin , the 
Of course , lots of Damselflies means lots of possible food for those who have placed their webs in the right places . Several more Black Tailed Skimmers were seen again making their maiden flights into the adjacent trees , and whilst walking around the lake , I put up a Dragonfly from out of the grass , bigger than the Black Tailed Skimmer , which could possibly be the Downy Emerald that I have been waiting for . Lots of bees were feeding on the large number of Yellow Flag Irises
all around the lake , and some couldn't even wait for the flower to open . It was still a bit early for 
butterflies , but three day flying moths were recorded . The Cinnabar moth , the strange looking 
Plume moth , and finally , a visitor from the Continent , the Silver Y moth , so called for the 
marking on it's upper wing , my first sighting this year . 
were spawning . This pair of Carp were really good sized fish , my estimate would be 4-6 kilos each . Not much happening on the Damsel/Dragonfly front , but these ponds are always late , as they are spring fed , and therefore colder than a pond not so fed . One old friend was around , 
looks like he didn't manage to find a mate this year , and was paddling around with the bachelor Mallards .Before leaving , I went just down the road at 
A large area of the bog is now covered in Bog Cotton . The Bog Asphodel is in bud , and should be in flower in a week or so . My last stop was at Salt Box Hill , below 
Brown Argus were also recorded . A 
seen . In the smaller , unfenced section , White 
everywhere . It was nice to hear Willow Warbler , Common 
is still attracting Painted Ladies . I think we have seen them on it every day for well over a week now .
on the emergence of Damsel/Dragonflies . Blue-tailed and Large Red Damselflies were very 
active , but the majority of the action was the Common Blue Damselfly , doing what they put 
here for , reproducing . I also saw several newly emerged Black Tailed Skimmers , but didn't manage to get a decent shot . I did manage to chase down a passing Painted Lady , that came to 
rest in the grass . 3 Common Blues were recorded including the first female found here this
year , nectaring on Ragged Robin . On the water , one of the Little Grebe presented an 
opportunity to show just how 'little' it is , when it paddled past two juvenile Coots , preening on a mat of reeds .
testosterone , as three of them were fueding over territories around the small pond , every now and again , taking five , before starting again . I could see that no females had arrived at the pond yet , because thier powder blue abdomens were pristine . When this species mates , it is done in the air , and the female holds on with her legs around the male's abdomen . After a few matings , a darker line appears where the female's legs brush off some of the blue colouring . Azure and Large Red Damselflies were recorded as well . On a patch of Brambles , in a sheltered 
corner , I did find a female , but feeding up ready for mating is her priority at this time . 
Butterflies recorded included this tiny Small Copper , and several male Common Blues , 
scrapping over territorial rights , and refuelling , when they got a chance . Orange Tip , Large White , Green Veined White , Brown Argus and Small White were also recorded . 
couple of plants found of interest included Woodruff , a member of the Bedstraw family , with a 
flower very much like Squinancywort . The Wild Strawberries are beginning to ripen , and I found 
a perfect specimen of Dog Rose . Up at the top of the bank , I sadly found a dead Slow Worm , that had puncture wounds on it , probably a Fox . Speaking of which , I found one dozing in the long grass , but he was off in a shot , not like the Goats that were right at the far end of the Reserve , and followed me all the way back to the middle gate . Heading down to have one more look at the chalk scrapes for the Small Blues , I spotted a Roe Deer in the far corner , or should I say , we both saw each other . I tried to close the gap and he headed of cover . I close a bit 
further , then sat and waited . After a while , he re-appeared on the fenceline at the bottom of 
the bank . Nervously , he made his way towards the kissing gate , just below where I was sitting
in the long grass . When he got there he even had a look to see if he could get out there . He carried on to my left , and when I was well out of his sightline , I made my way down the bank , to another bush , nearer the fence line . As I got to the bush , I heard a shout from the top of the bank , a man with a child , then another shout 'No' , and with that a Rotweiler came out of the bushes , headed straight for the Roe Deer . The dog had no chance of catching it , it turned tail , 
and flew along the fenceline , right past me . This is the only shot I managed as it fled , with afterburners full on . The chap then saw me , with the camera , raised his hand , and called 'sorry mate' , some consolation . I shall never know if the Deer would have come back my way , but if he had , well the shots don't bear thinking about . No Small Blues were found , and I started back to the car . On the Bridleway , at some distance I saw a shape , with binoculars , I could see it 
was another Fox , and something else was moving as well . Near top middle of the shot was the other thing , a Magpie , giving the Fox some jip . I carried on towards them , and saw the Magpie
fly off , but the Fox Remained . I closed the distance between us again , but by now , the Fox had 
seen me coming , and stood up facing me . I took another shot , the play back showed on the screen , and when the camera went live again , there was nothing in the viewfinder , he had disappeared into the vegetation . By now , the cloud cover was ever thickening , butterflies were looking for places to shelter , and I set off for home , well happy with my few hours in the sunshine .
around the lake , Salad Burnet is now in full flower , Cut-leaved Cranesbill is out too ,
Leaving the lake , I headed for High Elms Country Park , to do my butterfly transect . Still a bit breezy , but at least the sun was out when I arrived . The common species were the first recorded , followed by a very pristine Brimstone , that would probably be one of the first 
hatched this year . These butterflies will , with luck , live all year , hibernate over the Winter and mate next Spring , one of the longest living species . Another species that hibernates as adults 
was recorded next , the Comma . Hard to say with this one , could be the last of the last brood or first of the new . No doubt about the next species , the first female Common Blue recorded on 
site this year . One of the most recorded insects on the Conservation Field was the day flying 
moth , Burnet Companion . It was a good job I found this plant before midday , as it's common name 'Jack-go-to-bed-at-Noon' suggests , it is only fully open on sunny mornings . It can look
like many other Hawksbeard/Hawkbit species , but the green sepal-like bracts are usually longer than the yellow florets . Up on Burnt Gorse , the 2 Fly Orchids are now 3 , and seem to be 
doing better with the recent rain . The Dingy and Grizzled Skippers seem to be coming to an 
end , as only 2 of the former were recorded here , and those 2 were very faded . These will be replaced by Large , Small and Essex Skippers in due course . Far from faded was a pristine female Large White , which seems to take the upper hand in the breeding stakes , 
by cruising around , looking for males , no territories here . Her size and double spots being the identifying features . Two Green Hairstreaks were recorded here , one a very damaged , from 
aerial combat probably , and the other , this female , still in good condition , and still egg laying , on her preferred Bird's Foot Trefoil . On the way to the Orchid Bank , I stopped at the Bird's 
Nest Orchids , of which there are now 10 , about the average , and some are almost fully open . Nothing to write home about colour-wise , but , always nice to see . Further up towards the Orchid Bank , most of the 100+ White Helleborines are now in flower , but , being in woodland habitat , do not show up well . On the Orchid Bank , the Greater Butterfly Orchid has started to
flower , and is in fact smaller than the Lesser Butterfly Orchid that I saw for the first time last Monday . Looking back on the winds of the recent days , one thing it did do , was to get rid of a lot of the St.Mark's Flies , only for them to replaced by the Garden Chaffers posted yesterday , 
and the Snipe Fly-Rhagio mystaceus , which was found in great numbers , especially in stands of Nettles .
Lizard sitting on the corrugated iron confirmed my doubts , as this would be a tasty meal for any Adder in the vicinity . Shortly after , the sun went in as I started turning other 
slowly crept towards it . To my amazement , I was looking at one of the rarest , and definitely the smallest butterfly in Britain , the Small Blue . Then another flash of silver , and a second 
landed not far away . I managed a few more shots , then the sun came out again , and they both became very active , and I lost sight of them both . Feeling well chuffed , I carried on with the 
reptile survey , not finding much . Another Common Lizard on a wood pile , this one having lost it's tail at some time . A few Common Blues were recorded and then the first of two Small 
Heaths . Dingy Skippers found , were starting to live up to their name , as some were definitely 
very close to their sell by date . Here , one was breakfasting with a Common Blue . At the next set of 
were dropping out of the sky into the grass . I'm reasonably sure they are Garden 
because the Fragrant Orchids are already flowering . This field was a picture with them last year , and hopefully , it will be the same this year . It also contains the majority of the Horseshoe 
Vetch , the food plant of the 
today . Other plants included Kidney Vetch , the 
used the dry seed heads as rattles for their babies. An immature Adder was found under one felt
was a Stag Beetle of some sort , but the antennae do not fit in with that species . I'm still looking ,
but would be obliged for any help . Sizewise , it was at least 3cm. long excluding antennae . Since posting , I realise it is a very large specimen of the Violet Ground Beetle-Carabus violaceus , never seen one that big before .
. The bottom path is covered in 
As I made my way back , a large raptor loomed up from behind some trees , hopefully no trouble with this one , a Common Buzzard , hunting probably for one of the many rabbits on the site .
large bird , high up , but I'm not sure if the poor shot would enable identification . A Sparrowhawk was also seen just before leaving . Heading back to the car along the bottom track , I came across another two Small Blues , and whilst photographing one of them , it took a fancy to 
my walking boot . Then it decided to give me a closer inspection , and landed on my camera . Oh 
to have a second to get that shot . Then it landed on my finger , which began a very 
fingers , whilst I photographed him doing it . By the time he had had enough , my disc of 148 shots was full . This has once before to me , with another rare butterfly , the Heath 
begin with , as many were occupied by Blue or Great Tits , with families ranging from not long 
hatched , to almost ready to 
Some boxes contained the nests of other species , like this one occupied by a Wren , with eggs 
still to hatch . We were nearly half way through the boxes before the first Dormouse was found .
the back . It was another male , and he too was in a torpid state . A few boxes on , we found a family of Marsh Tits , and they were on the verge of 
Slow Worm , nothing was found under them , but two Grass Snakes , one a good sized female laying out on a brash pile , were recorded .
2 under a 
be photographed , and a Grass Snake that was quite happy to pose for the camera . May of the 
now , just a shame that we don't have the Heath 
immediately , a female Adder was found under one of the tins . Another female and a male were also recorded here , as were 4 more Grass Snakes . Around one of the lakes , a Grey Heron stood
like a sentry on duty , watching us pass by . I must say the birdsong was terrific today , with a good mix of Warblers and Thrushes , and a good sprinkling of 
found , shows the wonderful whiskers that the Dormouse possesses , needed for moving around in the trees at night . And finally 
close to a Lady (front left and a Fly Orchid (small , just left and forward of the white Lesser 
Butterfly Orchid) . I got a glass out , and had a look at the throat of the flower , and sure enough , 
the two 
second with 28 , and lots of headless plants , probably the rabbits . Just 3 Fly Orchids were found , one well gone over , and loads of Common 
I have seen it once before up on Mt.
singing . Just two butterflies were seen , a male and female 
ground , was this fungi , going by the name of Dryad's Saddle or Scaly 
Little Egret dashing about , looking for lunch .
One of many Lapwing facing into the strong wind .
Most ditches were ablaze with Common Water Crowfoot .
On the track , a Meadow Pipit posed for a shot .
One of three Red Legged Partridges seen .
wings were closed , had me dashing back in again for the camera . Just like yesterday , it wasn't a leaf , but another Painted Lady . Not surprising that it landed here as this Lilac fills the surrounding area with scent , and scent means nectar , and it immediately started feeding , the proboscis deep in the flower in the picture above . The gusty wind made it fly off several times , 
but each time it was drawn back by the scent of the Lilac . These butterflies are migrants , and these early specimens are probably from North Africa . The sad thing is that each year these butterflies arrive here , mate , and it is thought that the whole British population , which extends all the way up to Orkney and Shetland , dies out each Winter , because they cannot stand the wet and the cold . So each year , we depend on more migrants in the following Spring .
sheltered . The first little pocket in the bramble had a pair , queueing up to be photographed , and as can be seen , the one on the left is in the process of getting his adult male colouration . All immature Broad Bodied Chasers emerge a golden/yellow colour , and as they mature , the 
abdomens of females turn a browny/gold , and the abdomen of males , a powder blue . This is 
why it can be really tricky at this time of year to identify sex , or even species in some cases . In a short period of time , the male abdomen will be all powder blue , and any problems go away .
Azure (pictured) and the odd teneral Blue Tailed . Another example of difficulty identifying teneral , or freshly emerged Damselflies , was this one ,
only found one Common Blue , tucked away in the grass , and a single Green Veined White flew by at a rate of knots on the wind . The wind also disturbed another day flying moth , the 
Cinnabar Moth , one of the more colourful species , being charcoal and red . It soon tucked itself away again in the waterside vegetation . This species lays it's egg on Ragwort , and the yellow and black ringed caterpillars will be seen later in the year . The clouds were building again , and the sight of 20/25 Swifts , and several Swallows hawking high over the lake , often the sign of impending rain . I made my way home , and within minutes , the heavens opened again , and it is still raining now . Why can't someone train hirondine to do the weather forecast ?
first Painted Lady of the year , and in not too bad a condition either , considering the reports that
have been coming in recently . As we made our way across the field , we found Common Vetch , 
and also another member of the pea/legume family , the smaller Hairy Tare . These two made up most of the flowering across the field , but every now and again , a tiny splash of yellow , Hop 
Trefoil , just coming into flower , broke up the monotony . In the shelter on the far side of the 
field , a female Orange Tip was hanging on to a blade of grass , and close by , a Green Veined 
White was 
having to walk back without ant pictures . Some obviously had gone over , but most still were showing well . A close up shot of one of the top flowers fully open , shows well the upward 
pointing spur at the back , a good identifying point , along with the spotted leaves . The Bluebells were well past their sell by date , but the 
coming into flower . I left my mate to photograph the Orchids , and I had a look around the woodland , and came across a quite large day flying , I think , moth . It definitely didn't want to be photographed , as it led me a merry dance for several minutes , then it seemed to run out of 
puff , and settled wings closed some way off . I got closer , and eventually got a side shot . I got round behind it , and slowly but surely , it started to unfold it's wings , revealing a dark stripe 
across the wing . After what seemed like a lifetime , and with me thinking it's going to fly off again any second , it opened it's wings and remained still on a leaf . I know I have seen this 
moth , or a picture before , but having spent some time searching this afternoon , I cannot put a name to it . I have a feeling that 'lace' is involved in it's name , but I wouldn't put money on it . Will someone please put me out of my misery .
very few were found . Most numerous , three , were the Large Damselflies , all males , sitting in vegetation around the pond . Also found were a couple of Azure Damselflies , but no sooner had I found them , then the sun disappeared , and so did they . I had a look at the emergent vegetation to see if there was evidence of any other species emerging , but the only exuvia , the cast off skin of the larval stage when the adult emerges , that I found , was 
that of the Large Red Damselfly . The adult would have emerged from the thorax region , just behind the head . Around the pond , I recorded a pair of Orange Tips , and I thought they were going to couple , but , once again the female flew off , leaving the male on his lonesome . The 
Figwort is just coming into flower , for what it is , but close up , it is quite unusual , and does seem to attract good numbers of visitors . The other day at the farm lake , I noticed that all the tadpoles have disappeared from the shallows . They seem to do this each year , I think as they change into froglets/toadlets , as in a short time , the banks will be teeming with them . But here , the tadpoles are still around the edges , and some are a really good size . From the pond , I made my way to the small meadow , tucked away on the edge of the woods . Here , a bit more
sheltered from the wind , I found a male Common Blue , and almost immediately , a Small 
Copper , this one being a specimen of the form that has a row of small blue spots across the 
hindwing . Also found for the third outing in a row , was the Red & Black Froghopper , strange , as I never noticed this insect before . Whilst watching today's specimen , I spotted what I hoped to find in the scrub at the edge of the meadow . It was a freshly emerged , female , Broad Bodied 
Chaser . The females especially , seem to use this area to feed up on insects , before returning to 
the pond to mate , when they are ready . Soon , the powder blue males will be seen , guarding their territories around the pond , hoping to attract the females to their patch . 
torpid , and was happy to sit on my finger for a close up . In fact , he was even up for a full 
frontal . Further along the bridleway , I found several large spiders , I think of the hunting type . Every time I tried to get within camera range , they dived out of sight into the vegetation . 
Eventually , I managed to get a few shots . If anyone has an idea on the species , I would be keen to know . The front to back distance across the legs , was about 3/4 cm . I couldn't get an on top shot for obvious reasons .
look of her , she probably wishes she left it another week or so before emerging , desperately trying to get some warmth . After a while , she went into the closed wing routine as well .
which I think is a Treble Bar .
and I think it is a juvenile Brambling . I stand to be corrected , but I can't make it into anything else . I just wish it had stayed for one shot head on , but it didn't .
reeds and passing them to the female to do the job . The four youngsters are just being left to their own devices . The female Mallard is still watching nervously over the six remaining 
ducklings , strangely , I've never seen a Drake with her . The lady from the house has been feeding them , and they are less scared of humans now , in fact , two of the ducklings came up 
the bank and posed for me , almost at my feet . Since my last visit , two pairs of Tufted Ducks ( sorry Warren ) have taken up residence , and from what I witnessed this morning , one female
could well be nest building in the very near future . Everything else seems to be as was , having seen the Swallows skimming drinks , apparently they are refurbishing their nest in the stables . Not a single Damsel/Dragonfly or Butterfly was recorded during my visit , but not surprising given the conditions .
many of the leaves on these tree seem to have been attacked by some form of Gall , leaving blister type spots all over . Also very noticable , was the crop of Beech Mast , that will provide 
food for many animals and birds later on in the year . I did find a couple of insect flying , being tiny day flying moths of the Pyraustra family . They are very small and very difficult to follow when they fly off as you approach , which they do on a regular basis . There are several of the 
family found on chalk grassland , and this one is P.aurata . Also found on Burnt Gorse , was a pair of Soldier Beetles-Cantharis rustica , commonly kwown as 'Bonking Beetles' , as it seems that it is
the only thing they do . Like most of the insect world , the female of this species is much larger than the male , getting a free ride on her back . Lots of Green Lacewings were around , but I 
that I have ever seen , it would have fitted in the palm of my hand . It dashed into the undergrowth , and tried to hide itself . I took a quick shot and left it alone . On the way to the Orchid Bank , I checked on the Bird's Nest Orchids , and they have increased to eight . White Helleborines have increased to 101 , and I didn't cover all areas counted last visit . With the two Fly Orchids on Burnt Gorse , a total of 22 are now showing , and the splinted one is still alive too . Man Orchids are now numbering 6 , but still the single Greater Butterfly Orchid , still to come into flower . Whilst recording the Orchids , I came across one of the more common Ladybirds , 
the 7 spotted . Unusual , as the spot directly behind the head is one half on each wing cover . Birdwise , the usual suspects were seen/heard , but nothing out of the ordinary .
had been finished . To my mind , grazing means from the bottom , but the goats put on the site , have a different opinion . As weel as fencing , conrtactors have cleared large areas of scrub , 
which now is regenerating . But do the goats graze the re-generating scrub , no , they are demolishing the Buckthorn bushes , and most probably the Brimstone eggs and caterpillars .
recently , the Grizzled are showing signs of wear as well . I made my way to where scrapes have been made down to the chalk beneath , and where the Kidney Vetch , the food plant of the Small
Blue , is growing . Amazingly , just one plant on the site was in full flower , the others being in 
bud still . I did find a Blue in the area , but it was the Common Blue , not the small relation that I was looking for . When the sun came out , it spread it's wings , but , when the clouds came over , 
it closed up and waited for the sun again . Lots of Brimstones were found racing around , and constantly stopping to refuel , their favourite tipple seemed to be Common Vetch .
showing the 'comma' on it's underwing , and the fact that , although an insect with six legs , only uses four for walking , the front two being non-functioning .
showing his 'spotless' topwing . The female has two spots , and the Small White male has one and the female two , but obviously much smaller than the female Large White . Small Heath and Speckled Wood were also recorded , but no Small Blues , perhaps next time .
dashed off , but I just sat down and waited , and sure enough , it came back to have a look . I tried to get closer to get a better shot , but it disappeared again , this time for good .
Eventually , exhausted , they would settle on the lower branches of an Oak , to get their breath back . Whilst photographing the one above , a flash of orange had me chasing down a freshly 
emerged Small Copper , which came to rest on the path enabling a picture . On the heathland area , a lichen , commonly known as Devil's Matches- 
showing perfectly how it gets it's common name . A quick look on the 
eggs , and I managed to find four caterpillars , much smaller than the one at White Hill the other day , but they will catch up in size very quickly . Although I only found the four caterpillars , many of the other leaves had been munched , showing that we should enjoy more adult butterflies in due course . Other butterflies recorded were , Peacock (1) and Speckled Wood (3) .
it's name , after many aerial battles looking decidedly ragged around the edges , were recorded . Grizzled Skipper was also recorded on the Conservation Field and good views of the day flying moth 
one was feeding on Bird's Foot Trefoil , upside down , the 
shows how the flash of orange occurs , as the 
Brown Argus , looking as if he had just come out of a box . Identified as a male by the blue hue on the abdomen , the female not showing this . Once again , I was on 11 species on the transect , but I had not recorded Peacock or Comma today . Another flash of red , blown on by the wind , had me chasing again to see what it was . It took off and landed three more times before I managed 
to get a shot . It was sitting on a leaf of Rose Bay 
shot , estimated it at about 0.5cm. , and decided to leave ID till I got home . I Googled '
spike , because when I looked at it today , there were stripes on the flower covers , which meant that it was a large specimen of a Man Orchid . Elsewhere on the Bank , I found other specimens 
that had already opened , showing how this Orchid gets it's name , the flower covers forming the Man's hat . Red faced , I set about my penance , to find a Butterfly Orchid . It took a good while , 
but eventually I found one , not yet in flower , but it won't be long . Several more Fly Orchids 
were found , and large numbers of Common 
Apparently this used to be a plant sold in garden centres , but it's berries , bark and sap contain toxic compounds , dangerous to pets and children . Grizzled and Dingy Skipper and Peacock , which took the species total to 12 , were recorded , along with the day flying moths , 
didn't have the heart to wake these two up , asleep on the rail of the dipping platform .
As are the first Yellow Flag Irises .
Blue Tailed Damselfly , not fully mature .
not to be , and had to settle one one of the speckled breasted youngsters on the lawn by the feeders . 
Spotted Orchid , and a flowering specimen , my first of the year was found . At the bottom of the site , where a small stream threaded it's way through , many biting insects were found . Also 
found were a pair of Crane-flies-Tipula majus , which will hopefully satisfy certain readers . The female , which I think is the one on the left , had an abdomen that was about 2/3cm. long , quite a good sized insect . Might as well get them out of the way at the same time , two Leaf Beetles-
Donacia vulgaris , were found in a compromising position as well . Plants played their part in an 
interesting morning as well , none more so than Yellow Pimpernel and Germander Speedwell . The Speedwell is the blue one Warren . On one of the grazed paddocks on the far side of the 
valley , we were surprised to come across Lousewort-Pedicularis sylvatica , not rare , but not common either , and in good numbers . On all grassy areas , Bugle was found , and in some areas the Lousewort and 
Bugle stood side by side , just asking for a photograph . In one small area , a pink specimens of 
Bugle were found . I have found white specimens before at Trosley Country Park , but this was another first for me . As we got to the boundary of the site , we across a dark mound , low to the ground , in the distance . As we approached , the mound moved , and it became apparent that it was animals . At a distance , both Roe and Fallow Deer were put up as possibilities , and the 
concensus settled on Fallow , and when the five animals finally moved off , the identification was confirmed . On the plant front , another unusual one found was Thyme-leaved Speedwell , a 
plant with a tiny flower . On the open grassland , I expected to find a few butterflies , but with the cloud cover and cool temperature , they were few and far between . We did record several 
Small Heaths , a year first for me . Also recorded , three Grizzled Skippers , one rather unusually 
marked , I thought at first it was a moth , until I saw it's clubbed antennae , and two Dingy Skippers . In the wetter and woodland areas , Speckled Wood and Orange Tip were also recorded . One day flying moth was also recorded , that being the aptly named Mother Shipton , 
alleged to show the profile of a witch on the forewing . In the small stream that runs in the bottom of the valley , a new insect to me , Water Cricket-Velia caprai , was found . Not a good 
shot , but it just would not keep still . Another first for me was Water Figwort-Scrophularia 
auriculata . I see the ordinary Figwort regularly , but not this one , the main differences being the lack of the purply hue and the rounded leaves , rather than pointed . As we headed to the stile to take us out of the site , we came across a spectacular Ash tree , covered with the algae
Trentepohlia , and a lichen of some dimension as well .
reminder of it's presence was found on a tree near the style . It was the remains of a rabbit , that had been hung from a branch , to facilitate easy dining , probably by a Common Buzzard , but reminded me of the practice of the Butcher Bird , the Shrike .
side of the Channel , was Wild Mignonette , often found on lime . This was followed by one that will not flower for a good few weeks yet , was the Medival version of 'Oust' or 'Glade' . It is 
Ploughman's Spikenard , a member of the Daisy family . In Medival times , this plant was hung over the roof beams of the houses , in an effort to rid the area of smells . I was about to give up 
on Burnt Gorse , when I found two Fly Orchids , I don't think I have recorded them on this area before . They were both within 2mtrs. of each other , but I couldn't see any more . The last thing 
I found was the first Common Spotted Orchid to come into flower bud . On the way to the Orchid Bank , I stopped for a while at the glade where the Silver Washed Fritillary butterflies were laying their eggs on tree trunks last year . I searched for a while to see if I could find a caterpillar , that would have hatched from one if those eggs in the late Summer , then overwintered as such , before emerging this Spring to feed on the Violets around the trees , before pupating and emerging as an adult in July . I found some munched Violet leaves , but did not find any caterpillars . I dropped down the slope , to check again on the Bird's Nest Orchids . About a week ago , there was no sign , but today , I found seven specimens of what must be the 
least colourful Orchid of all . Some were just breaking through the leaf litter , in the shade of the canopy being formed by the Hazels that abound in this part of the wood . Others had already put 
on up to 10/12cm. of growth . We usually get a few more than this , so there could well be more to come . Eventually they will reach anything up to 25cm. in height . I headed back up the slope towards the Orchid Bank , and started finding White Helleborines . Like before , some were just 
breaking through , but some were in flower bud , and a couple I found in sheltered spots were already in flower . By the time I got onto the Orchid Bank , I had counted 53 , but I am sure there are a lot more than that out there . My trampled Fly Orchid , with splints , is still 
surviving , just , but I also found another 11 specimens in the same area . One of these , which was not showing on my last visit , already has two flowers .
particularly 
famous people . As you can see , it relates to a Music Hall Comedian . Most of us are too young to remember him , but I'm sure Warren does . My mate arrived just as I was photographing a Pied 
Wagtail , that was chasing here and there on the Recreation Ground , filling it's bill with insects .
ones Warren found on his patch . The Orchids were everywhere and we had to be very careful where we stepped . Once we had had our fill , we headed off to a small reserve in the same valley called Strawberry Bank . Here we had the birdsong and butterflies , as we found three species that my mate hadn't seen before , being Green Hairstreak , this one showing how variable the 
row of spots , here just one , can be , Grizzled and Dingy Skipper , all of which posed for photos . From there , we headed back to the car park , before heading for Downe Scout Camp where he was doing a bird survey . It was a bit late to start , but we gradually started recoding good numbers . Once again , I can't seem to keep away from them at the moment , we had a pair of Roe Deer in the field just outside the wood we were surveying . One was definately a Buck , but they took off at speed and I couldn't see what the other one was . I had to leave him before the survey was finished , as I had to meet a Kent Reptile and Amphibian Group member up on Fackenden Downs/White Hill . We walked White Hill first , a site managed by Butterfly Conservation , specifically for the Chalkhill Blue butterfly . They won't be on the wing till July , but we did record several Brimstones , and on one Buckthorn bush , we found the 
caterpillar , munching it's way through the fresh leaves , identified by the light stripe along each side . I thought I was going to satisfy Warren's need for pictures of 'frenzied sexual activity' , 
when I found these two Dingy Skippers in close proximity . They made small movements over a period of several minutes , then , much to my annoyance , one flew one way , and the other flew the other . On Fackenden Down , the temperature was about 20C , and very little was seen reptile wise , just the odd Slow Worm , surprisingly , under the refugia . We finished the walk , but I stayed on to have one more look in the sheltered field by the entrance . With Common Whitethroat and Yellowhammer singing , Brimstone and Orange Tip fluttering about it was magic . Then a flash of light blue shot past me , wrong 'jizz' for Holly Blue I thought , so I chased 
it down . When it settled , I was able to photograph my first Common Blue of the year , so fresh , it think it had only just emerged .
youngster exploring all it found . The youngster is the one on top , always clinging to the parent whenever out in the open . No Warren , it isn't another 'frenzy of sexual activity' shot . 
Common . There were good numbers of Brimstone on the wing and a single Peacock , resting on a stump . It looks like it will be another good year for Holly berries , as the female trees are full 
of flower , now they just need to be pollinated . The only other wildlife found was when I was almost back to the car and preparing to cross the road to the car park , I heard movement in the vegetation to my left , then saw a large form crashing through it , towards the road . I got to the road and crossed over and walked the other verge to the area opposite where I heard the noise stop . I got a fleeting shot of a male and female Roe Deer , but by the time I got the camera on 
them , the female had moved , leaving the male giving me the evil eye . He had a good set of antlers , not showing well in this distant shot . Have done really well for Roe Deer recently . When you think this spot is only 2/3 miles out of Bromley and 12/13 from Central London , it's not bad .
working on his 'Origin of Species' . LB.Bromley manage the bog , and have removed overhanging trees , in an attempt to return it to it's original state . It must be about the only lowland bog within the Greater London area , and supports some rare mosses , Bog Asphodel and used to support Sundews , which Darwin studied here . By opening it up and with less leaf litter , the hope is that Sundew seeds in the seed bank , will recolonize the area . The only plant that was in 
flower on the bog was Tormentil-Potentilla fruticosa , which only grows in acidic soil .
standing sentry on a log at the far end . When he saw me , he gave a series of whistles , and I wondered if he was guarding his female , that could be nesting in the Ivy clad Oak with a limb 
that conveniently srtetched out over the water , to give a diving board for the young when they hatch out . That's him on the log , back left of the pond , and the limb top right .
with an old friend from the Autumn , the Ringed Teal is showing again . The lowest pond had most interest , with a pair of Tufted Ducks , I don't think I've recorded them here before ,
until early July , at the earliest , that's if they survive the Rabbits and the Deer .
but not for some years now . The Meadow infront of us was full of Green Winged Orchids . It was like paradise , the flowers the birdsong and gentle heat from the hazy sunshine , making it all 
perfect . This must be one of the best sites for this Orchid in Kent , if not even further afield . The colour varies from deep Purple ,
through Pink ,
even to White .
spores . As can be seen from the photographs , they are only about 5/7cm. high , and can be easily overlooked in the swarth of grass where they grow . The only other colour in the meadow 
was provided by Meadow Bottercup , which was starting to come into flower , but lots of Vetches , Yellow Rattle , Dyer's Greenweed and Knapweeds are pushing through , so I think another visit later in the year will be on the cards .
a male in full breeding colours , and the other , a female that would probably rate as one of the largest Adders that I have ever seen . I saw her originally curled up on a tree stump in a brash pile , but on my way back to the car , I had another look , and she had moved away from the
brash pile , to take advantage of the late afternoon sun . I would estimate her length at 65cm + , and wouldn't be surprised if she made 75cm. She would have made the male , pictured first , look small , not only in length , but also in girth . Along with the two Adders , six Grass Snakes were 
found either under , or very close to 
don't think it is complete yet , and there were no eggs in the perfectly formed five sided cells . Last year , I found one of these on the underside of the lid of a Dormouse box , and that one had grubs in the cells . In the close vicinity , I found two Hornets , but didn't manage a shot of either . The only other reptile found was a Slow Worm , but it was nice to find one in a 
natural situation , rather than under 
of quicksilver . Identified as a male by being single coloured , the females being two toned . Also found unexpectedly in the woodland , were my first Large Red Damselflies of the year , hawking for insects and settling on Bramble leaves , and both male and female as well . The male having 
dark markings just on two of the last three segments , and the female , this one of form 
of blue . One sad thing I did come across , was this poor thing , suffering from myxomatosis , I'm sure it couldn't see properly , and just buried it's head in the grass till I went past . Probably a short life
expectancy for the youngster . Butterflies recorded on site were , Brimstone , Speckled Wood ,Large and Green Veined White and Orange Tip . Birdwise , all the usual suspects turned up , and the singing was done by Blackcap and Chiffchaff , with two Willow Warblers duelling for who could sing loudest .
and tail were buried deep in the leaf litter under a 
shot off in front of me and landed on a Buttercup , my first record of Green Hairstreak on this part of the Common . In the softer morning sun , the colour was not bleached out , as it can be later in the day in stronger sunshine . As I took several shots of it , a Blackcap was in full flow on the edge of the glade . Down on the heathland area , it was good at last to see evidence of the 
Brimstone eggs having hatched , with holes in the adjacent Buckthorn leaves . So the Long Tailed Tits and Chiffchaffs didn't get them all , and as the caterpillars tend to feed at night , hopefully they will make it . 
day flying moths flew up in front of me on the Conservation Field , this one being a Burnet Companion , so called because it is usually found in the same habitat as Burnet moths . Also on this field , I recorded Grizzled Skipper , and as this is about half a mile from Burnt Gorse , where
I recorded them recently , there must be another colony of this tiny butterfly around here , albeit small . Crossing the road , I headed up towards Burnt Gorse , and on the way , came across a male and female Orange Tip , and he only had one thing on his mind . He tried and tried again to mate with her , but she was not having it , lifting the end of her abdomen every time he came near her . Eventually , much to my annoyance , he gave up . and she settled to feed on Herb 
by the orangy Scorpion type tail , which the female does not have . By the time I reached Burnt Gorse , it was really warm , but the Green Hairstreak males were still duelling . One did settle for a short time to allow a shot , perched on a Wayfarer leaf , their preffered perch .
recorded today was a very freshly emerged Small Copper . On my way to the Orchid Bank , a second moth was found . This one I believe is a Green Carpet . Had it not taken flight in front of 
me and seen it land , I would never have spotted it in the vegetation . On the Orchid Bank , I recorded another 2 Green Hairstreaks and 2 more Dingy Skippers amongst other species . Before leaving , I went to see if any more flowers had come out on the two Fly Orchids . I had trouble finding the plants , as some 'Richard Cranium' had stepped on them , by the looks of it , to look at a couple of Twayblades that were growing behind . I have put a couple of splints to try 
and keep the two plants upright , and all I can do now is to hope for the best that no one else does the same thing . The second plant has produced it's first flower , but whether they will 
survive , we'll have to wait and see . This is what the trampler seemed to be looking at behind 
the Fly Orchid . 
walked , the Bluebells in the soft morning sun looked really good .
damasonium , another member of the Orchid family , although they haven't burst flower bud yet . Surprising really , as there is no sign of them yet at High Elms Country Park . Under five old bits of tin found around the site , I did record 4 Slow Worms . One of the reasons for going there , was to check up on the Kidney Vetch , the foodplant of the Small Blue butterfly , after Steve/Kingsdowner had posted pictures of the plant in flower this week . No such thing there , not even leaves showing yet , amazing how early things are down his end of the county . Although Small Blues have been seen already , I normally reckon on the Biggin Hill Air Show in ealry June as the time to go looking , if the small colony has managed to hang on , on this site . I stopped and watched a Bee land and disappear down it's tunnel underground , and waited for it to reappear . It took a little while , but eventually , in stages , it came back up and flew off . 
It must have taken 3/4 minutes from first showing to the moment of take off .
brood , but still has eight . The Little Grebes have increased to three , with this one being 
banished to the far side of the lake from the other two . The nest that was being built seems to have been abandoned now , for some reason or another .
Once again , a pair of Swallows came to skim a drink off the surface , I'm not sure if they have started nest building yet , up in the stables . The tadpoles are still in large numbers in the 
shallows , and seem to be growing by the day . Butterflies recorded on the site were , Large , Small and Green Veined White , Speckled Wood , Brimstone , Orange Tip , Comma and Peacock . 
The Commas are looking tired now , not surprising as they have been around as adults since about September last year . The ones we have been seeing will have bred and a new generation will appear about July . They in turn will breed , and a third generation will appear in about September , and they will overwinter , and we will see them next Spring . 
The Peacocks will hang on a bit longer than the Commas , but then they will disappear , having lived for about ten months , to be replaced by another generation in August , to overwinter as adults in sheds , hollow trees and roof spaces .
