On a bright, sometimes sunny warm day 37 members and friends were led by Alistair Lawrence (RNHS butterfly recorder) on a walk around this location. In view of the large number present, attends were split into smaller groups with Alistair being assisted by Paul Bennett, Chris Butterfield, Martin Grimes and Dave Needham. From the car park the walk proceeded up the valley and into the north glade with 13 species of butterfly being recorded overall. Importantly Marble White, Dark Green Fritillary and Silver-washed Fritillary were seen by everyone present, along with newly emerging Gatekeepers.
On returning to the car park just after 1 pm some members departed but a small group, after a picnic lunch, were led by Alistair through the BBQ area onto the track skirting Donkey Paddock and into the Dell before returning at 3 pm. Other butterfly species seen were Comma, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Green Veined White, Small White, Small Tortoiseshell, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown and Ringlet.
Alistair Lawrence