Kip

[Kip]

Very little opportunity to see butterflies this year but couldn't miss going to see if there were Black Hairstreaks out near Oundle this year. On a mostly cloudy day I was pleasantly surprised to find multiple individuals, more than I have ever seen there before... casually counted 21 just on my way out of the site. Evidently a good year for them too.

[Pauline]

Enjoyed looking at your BH shots Kip especially the first one. I am a bit of a fan of dark backgrounds if it complements the butterfly which this does. Lovely

[Wurzel]

Cracking Blackstreak shots Kip - you've really captured the velvety look - still got to see this species

Have a goodun

Wurzel

[David M]

Is this species becoming ever more common or is it just that more people are paying attention to it?

Certainly, this last couple of years have seen them reported in far greater numbers than ever before to my knowledge.

[Kip]

Thank you!
I know this habitat is managed, and very successfully it seems. That probably is a factor with what is a "niche" species in the UK. They probably also enjoyed last summer's weather, but I guess not so much this summer!!
They are worth seeking out Wurzel, the site I visit is about as guaranteed as you can get during the last 2 weeks of June. It has to be to avoid disappointment as I have to generally travel a long way.

Unread postby essexbuzzard » Fri May 31, 2019 9:22 pm

Glapthorn is probably the most reliable site, with excellent numbers last year. You’re a tad early, but as Dave says, keep an eye on Beds and Northants BC sightings page, as Glapthorn is a well watched site, and a bit of warm weather this weekend could get things started.