Chequered Skipper!

24 May - a visit to Allt Mhuic reserve near Spean Bridge, in sunny but windy weather. After a search, 3 Chequered Skippers seen feeding and flying very actively low over the moor. I managed a few quick photos. My first sighting of this very localised species in the UK, being only found in the West Highlands west of Fort William.

Marsh Fritillaries at Seven Barrows

22 May - a visit to Seven Barrows reserve in bright weather with sunny intervals. When the sun was out, butterflies were much more active - at least 11 fresh Marsh Fritillaries (upper), also a Green Hairstreak (lower) and 3 Dingy Skippers, and one Small Heath.

Butterfly season 2008 starts

10 May - the first dedicated butterfly trip of the year and not particularly successful! A couple of Grizzled Skippers seen briefly at Aston Upthorpe but no Green Hairstreaks found. Orange Tip, Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock also seen. Also a Red Kite over and a couple from the A34/M4 as well.