Greenwings: Montes Universales, Spain, 30 July - 5 August 2022

[David M]

Nymphalidae - Fritillaries

74. Silver Washed Fritillary
75. Cardinal
76. Dark Green Fritillary
77. High Brown Fritillary
78. Queen of Spain Fritillary
79. Marbled Fritillary
80. Knapweed Fritillary
81. Spotted Fritillary

[David M]

This trip has always generated between 90 and 100 species, so at first glance 81 appears a little disappointing. Apart from Southern Hermit though, all the main targets were easily seen, with Zapater's Ringlet being around in record numbers.

The absentees were largely, I believe, affected by the early season brought about by the record breaking heatwave this summer and had consequently finished their flight periods rather quicker than usual. I hope this will prove to be an exception, although the way things are going with the climate I suspect this may not be the case.

It is always a pleasure to stay in Albarracin though. This historic town really is a rare delight:

There are also other wild flora and fauna to be seen, including these mountain goats:

It remains my favourite destination due to its sheer unique range of butterfly species, as well as remarkably cheap prices (a large beer is still only €3), and good quality (and usually empty) roads.

[selbypaul]

Thanks as ever for the report David. Like you say, you still saw nearly all the target species, despite the very early season.

Brings back lots of memories from my own visit back in 2019. Feels like yesterday, but now over 3 years ago.

[petesmith]

It remains my favourite destination due to its sheer unique range of butterfly species, as well as remarkably cheap prices (a large beer is still only €3), and good quality (and usually empty) roads.

I can understand why it's your favourite David, it's quite mind-blowing on the butterfly front! And as you say, Albarracin is a very special place to stay. I hope to go back one day...

[David M]

Brings back lots of memories from my own visit back in 2019. Feels like yesterday, but now over 3 years ago.

Feels that way to me, Paul. Not sure where all the years are going right now. I suppose I need to get busy these next few before I'm too old!

[David M]

I can understand why it's your favourite David, it's quite mind-blowing on the butterfly front! And as you say, Albarracin is a very special place to stay. I hope to go back one day...

Ticks almost all the boxes, Pete, as you know. I'd also have included perfect weather in my list of reasons but this year proved that this isn't necessarily guaranteed!

[John Vergo]

David you are still a young man, so a lot of years to travel

[David M]

It's all relative, John. I may have 10, 20 or even 30 years left. Matters not which it is. You need to make the absolute most of things whilst you still can.

I intend to do just that.

[selbypaul]

It's all relative, John. I may have 10, 20 or even 30 years left. Matters not which it is. You need to make the absolute most of things whilst you still can.

I intend to do just that.

I couldn't agree more with that sentiment David. The constraints of 2020 and 2021 prove exactly that.

[Matsukaze]

In the process of booking for the 2023 trip. I've been meaning to go to the area for years, but timings have never worked out and/or other places have been easier to get to.

[David M]

It's all relative, John. I may have 10, 20 or even 30 years left. Matters not which it is. You need to make the absolute most of things whilst you still can.

I intend to do just that.

I couldn't agree more with that sentiment David. The constraints of 2020 and 2021 prove exactly that.

2022 hasn't exactly been a utopia, Paul, so goodness knows what 2023 has in store for us!

A calm, run of the mill year would be very welcome!

[David M]

In the process of booking for the 2023 trip. I've been meaning to go to the area for years, but timings have never worked out and/or other places have been easier to get to.

Will be good to catch up with you again, Chris. This region at that time of year is spectacular.

[petesmith]

In the process of booking for the 2023 trip. I've been meaning to go to the area for years, but timings have never worked out and/or other places have been easier to get to.

You are in for a treat Chris!