Wednesday 20 July 2011

Wednesday 20th. July 2011

The Dormouse and Reptile survey up on the Greensand Ridge was once again conducted in overcast conditions , with the vegetation still wet from overnight rain , meaning once again , a soaking from the waist down . It was also done in record time hing both sites before lunch , made possible by the Warden and myself being able to open boxes as we are both licenced handlers . Nothing was overlooked , but the Warden is on leave from tomorrow , so had a list of last minute jobs that we had to do in the afternoon . The pictures are poor because of the conditions and using my old camera , but the highlights of the survey were ,
4 Dormice found , 2 on each site , one female and three males . Three were active , but this male was in a torpid state , probably because of the cool conditions , but at least it meant it was possible to get a few shots in the hand . This large Grass Snake was also sleepy , waiting a good time before moving off .A total of 15 Slow Worms on the two sites , topped by this specimen that was at least 30cms. in length .Another large specimen was this female Adder , laying out on a corrugated tin refugia that measures approx 60 cms. square .When the Adder moved off , another large Grass Snake was found under the tin with a smaller one , bringing the total species count to 9 on all sites .
Last job of the day was to deliver the Land Rover to a garage to have a new winch fitted whilst the Warden is off . I followed him to give a lift back . The garage was very close to a site that Steve/Kingsdowner sent me details of , as the roadside verge contained a plant that I haven't found for 10/15 years . A shame to miss the opportunity , so whilst the Warden sat in the car , I had a look around , just as it started to rain . Anyway , I soon found what I was looking for , the wonderfully named Sneezewort/Achillea ptarmica , a relation of Yarrow and a member of the Daisy family . Also found was Betony/Betonica officinalis , a member of the Labiate family . I could have spent a couple of hours looking around , but the rain was getting harder and the Warden was waiting in the car .
And finally , a moth that landed on me today that I hope is a Rosy Footman .

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

You hoped right, Greenie. Wouldn`t mind seeing one up here.

Phil said...

Well done with the Dormice and the reptiles Greenie. I'm suitably envious and looking forward to August!
Many thanks for your help with my damsels in distress. I should have had the courage of my convictions as I suspected there were Scarce among them.

Alan Pavey said...

Hi Greenie, that was a pretty impressive looking Adder!

Warren Baker said...

Hi Greenie,
Just came from my torpid state to read your blog, i'll get back to torpidity now - bloody weather :-)

Ken. said...

Hi Greenie.
I never get fed up with seeing Dormice Photo's, their such a cute creature.