Purple Reigns

 A morning of sunny spells that saw me take the X4 as far as Weldon before walking on to Harry's Park Wood. My aim was to try and catch up with some of the mid summer butterflies that make this time of the year so entertaining. Although it still seems pretty early in the year I'd already heard of Purple Emperors from other sites in the county and I especially wanted to add the old purple poop licker to my year list.

Red and White Admirals

Things started fairly slowly and it was down to Ringlets, Meadow Browns and Large Skippers to keep me entertained. Gradually as the day began to warm more species appeared on the wing and several Red Admirals were seen along the main ride. Breaking the red monopoly my first White Admiral of the year also spent some time on the path. Next up was a male Purple Emperor, I got excellent views before I moved on. What followed was pretty amazing as I saw a further eight more males on the path including one that was enjoying the popular imperial breakfast of horse @%$*! I've never seen so many emperors in Harry's before suggesting that this could be an excellent year for them.

Comma and Small Tortoiseshell

Other species noted on my wander included Small Skipper while the new brood of Commas seem to be out in force with at least half a dozen being noted. A knackered looking Speckled Wood added to my brown quota, both Marbled White and Small Heath were also seen closer to Weldon. There were not many interesting birds to report with a Lesser Whitethroat along Bears Lane being the highlight. Also seen along the lane was a Small Tortoiseshell, it's always nice to see this once common species. The only other sightings of note were of several Banded Demoiselles before some chores waiting for me at home and a father's day meal compelled me to leave.

Purple Emperors