Here comes the sun...

Small Tortoiseshells. There has been a good second brood emergence this summer.

A rare sighting of the sun was enough to have me heading out after work to check on the Marbled Whites at Willowbrook Industrial estate off Cockerell Road, Corby. It seems as if the recent poor weather has had little negative effect on their numbers as many were still on the wing. As well as the Marbleds two new species were noted for the local year list with Gatekeeper and Essex Skipper being seen. Although I only saw one of the former there were plenty Essex Skips buzzing around. A large patch of wild Marjoram opposite the FIAT garage is attracting lots of feeding butterflies at the mo and is well worth a peek.

Marbled White.

Browns dominated the proceedings with six species being noted, the others being Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown and Small Heath. Several Small Torts were present and also a single Red Admiral. A few Small Skippers were also noted and one Large White.

A Small Heath with its wings partially open at rest, not a common sight.

Among other wildlife found was a Cinnabar Moth and a Bellflower of some sort while Meadow Pipits are still singing.

Cinnabar Moth

My first Gatekeeper of the year.

A word of caution for anyone that may want to visit, lots of long distance lorry drivers overnight here and they make use of the unofficial al fresco lavatory facilities. Keep a close eye on where you put your feet if you want to avoid unpleasant squelchy moments.

Essex Skipper