This and That

Wednesday, August 18th 2021

Firstly, an update on volunteering;  it is that busy time of year, when the diary is full of jobs that all need doing at once to make the most of the good weather (in theory)!  The veranda was cleaned and it must be admitted it was dusty and muddy and covered in little stones.  Once it was spotless, it was rubbed down with a damp mop and allowed to dry.  Then out with the paint!

An interesting situation - what happens next?  

Volunteering takes many forms at Foxglove and today the 'Species Team' met up early to empty the moth traps and identify the contents.

Plenty of moths were caught and reference books were needed for careful identification.

A butterfly survey was also carried out by volunteers.

Very kindly, Dr Roger and Rosy Key have agreed to run a minibeast safari on Wednesday 25th August.  If you would like to come along and find out more about many tiny creatures there are more details on the events page. 

How many insects can you get on one Wild Angelica flower?  Why are they all together?

Hoverflies feed from different flowers.  Dr Key is sure to be able to answer these questions and tell you much more about minibeasts.

There has been a hatch of butterflies over the last few days and the warm sunshine brought them out in profusion.  Peacocks and Red Admirals were on a variety of flowers, whilst the Brimstones were flitting here and there.  They rarely sit with their wings open. 

A very large moth was caught this morning and identified as a Red Underwing.  It did not co-operate when being photographed so not even a glimmer of red.  Once released from the pot it flew on its way revealing a flash of bright colour.  This moth which flies in August and September, and comes freely to both light and sugar was last recorded at the reserve in 2008. The larva feeds on willow.

Thank you to everyone who has helped with so many tasks this week.

Finally, a notice to say that the reserve will be closed briefly on the morning of Friday 27th August and will re-open at 13:30. We apologise for any inconvenience.

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