Eco club quadrats

The theme for this week's Eco Club was that of a “Plantlife” walk. Armed with their quadrat frames our young explorers performed a close examination of the floral and insect contents within. A vast array of flowers was seen including Tormentil, Clover, Daisy, Buttercup, Self-heal, Herb Robert and Black Medic.

Some of the insects found were Frog Hoppers, a Leaf Hopper, and an ant which was struggling to carry a dead fly. This caught everyone's attention as it was going around in circles!

Although not strictly in the quadrat, this Wasp Beetle was on the arm of one of the young children taking part. Even though it looks like a wasp its' wings form the outer carapace like that of the Ladybird.

On our way back along the woodland trails we were pleased to see several Bumble-bees feasting quite happily amongst the Raspberry canes.

A young Smooth Newt was later found outside the Visitor Centre.

As the hot, sunny weather continues, the Butterflies, Damselflies, and Bees are extremely active, not like the cattle who have happily sat under the same tree all day. This Poppy was glady making the most of its suntrap right in the middle of the path.