Butterfly Walk

July 2006 - Butterfly Walk

02/07/2006

The Cemetery is home to a variety of insects, including moths and butterflies. RSHG arranged a Butterfly Walk for 1 July 2006, when Richard Smout led a small but very enthusiastic group to see what was on the wing. Richard also pointed out the range of plants that provide food for caterpillars, and nectar for adult butterflies. These habitats which include stinging nettles and Bird's Foot Trefoil can be at risk if too much tidying up of the Cemetery is carried out. Luckily, there are some patches where the mowers and strimmers can't reach, and the trees provide the dappled shade which is preferred by some species.

There were numerous specimens of Meadow Brown butterflies, and we were lucky enough to see some courtship displays. The group spotted several other single butterflies: a Comma, a Speckled Wood, a Red Admiral, a Peacock and an unidentifed white butterfly, as well as a yellow shell moth. In addition, a damsel fly was seen, and several Hover flies; Bees were also in abundance.

A checklist was provided with photographs of some butterflies and moths that we hoped might be seen. Richard had a catching net and some viewing boxes, which came in handy for a small moth that was brought back to check with the books Richard had brought with him.

Greateful thanks go to Richard for his time and expertise.