Along the way I've had plenty of luck, mainly good but some bad too, that's to be expected, but the most heartening thing for me is how open 99% (there's always one.. ;-)) of people have been with info, directions & encouragement. I won't embarrass you here by naming you all but I am very grateful for the help, especially as I work for myself and have a young family so my "off time" is precious & somewhat limited! Nice one, folks!
So today I drove to Aish Tor in Devon a 3 1/2 run from home in Sussex specifically for High Brown Fritillary with also a good chance of Dark Green Fritillary (having checked the pics it looks like I didn't get a DGF, good job I don't need that one!!!!) Mine was the only car in the car park on arrival and I only saw a couple of dog walkers all morning which I found surprising; I expected coachloads of enthusiasts! Walking down the main track and then along the path by the trees I soon started to pick up a few Fritillaries but they were in no mood to stop especially as there was a strong wind giving them some momentum. I'd been advised to stake out areas of bramble and wait for the butterflies to settle and after about half an hour or so I was, after a few nervous "Is it, Isn't it moments," picturing my first High Brown Fritillary.
High Brown Fritillary, note the row of oceli on the underwing and the indented third spot on the upper wing:
A male HBF showing the sex brands, much larger than in DGF:
Dartmoor, HBF habitat:
Right I'm off birding, maybe....
