With only 1 prev record (‘24) at Watermead, I watched the same small Oak beside the R.Thame for 1/2hr & was rewarded with a single PURPLE HAIRSTREAK… + only the 3rd rec. of BROWN ARGUS here on the bank. @chilternsnature.bsky.social @upperthames.bsky.social #butterflies #nature #wildlifephotography

Hot weather has brought some interesting day-flying moths to Watermead - a HUMMINGBIRD HAWKMOTH stopped to nectar briefly on Red Valerian at my flat y’day, & on Weds the 1st record of 6-SPOT BURNET MOTH here, unfortunately stuck on the lake & shortly eaten by a Mallard! @savebutterflies.bsky.social

Aberrant MEADOW BROWN near Chlolesbury today with pale cream hindwings, more striking in flight as upper side appeared normal brown on the forewings & almost white on the hindwings… @chilternsnature.bsky.social @bc-hertsmiddx.bsky.social @ukbutterflies.bsky.social #butterflies #nature #wildlife

Few bits from this morn’s survey at Watermead… CUCKOO calling again, REED WARBLER singing (scarce here, esp. in June), Increase in MARBLED WHITES, BROAD-BODIED CHASER devouring a Hoverfly - great to see side-by-side with BLACK-TAILED SKIMMER. @upperthames.bsky.social #dragonflies #wildlife #nature

A few nice bits at Watermead this eve: Best by far - male CUCKOO calling at small lake, 21.10, PAINTED LADY stopped for a couple of secs for a shot before shooting off, Pair of BAR-HEADED GEESE, & lots of NOCTULE BATS hunting… #bucksbirdalert @upperthames.bsky.social @batconservation.bsky.social