Breezy Barnwell

 I took an after work trip over to Barnwell CP checking to see if any of our newly arrived Norfolk Hawkers had reached there yet. If any were hanging around they didn't venture out in the breezy conditions and dragons in general were scarce. Single Brown and Southern Hawkers were joined by Black-tailed Skimmer, a few darters were glimpsed too but I couldn't see what species they were.  Damsels fared a little better and I saw my first Small Red-eyeds of the year on North Lake. Other species noted were Banded Demoiselle, Azure, Common Blue, Blue-tailed and Red-eyed Damselflies.

Small Red-eyed Damselfly and Black-tailed Skimmer

Butterflies didn't appear to like the breeze either though there did seem to be a good emergence of new brood Commas on the wing. Joining them during the sunnier spells were Red Admirals, Meadow Browns and a Large Skipper. A male Cuckoo was the best bird while there were plenty of Mandarins about though it's yucky ducky time again and the drakes are in eclipse. Kingfishers were seen and heard a few times though none decided to pose for any pictures. Not a great day then but the couple of pints of Pedigree that I swigged in the Rose and Crown once I'd reached town retrieved things a bit!

Comma, Red Admiral and Mandarin Duck