Local Rambles - 11th to 17th August 2023

With the birding fairly quiet at the moment and mixed weather, I have taken the opportunity to visit some local sites such as Amwell, Balls Wood and Rye Meads. So here are some non bird wildlife images. Starting off with an Emperor Dragonfly. 

And the slightly smaller Southern Hawker.

Willow Emerald Damselflies are now a common sight in the area.

Common Darter are easy to photograph when resting but I think this is about my first decent flight shot.

And to complete the Dragonfly section an obliging Migrant Hawker at Amwell.

Reed Beetle species showing off their incredible colours.

And a Leafcutter Bee (Megachile sp) at Rye Meads.

It seems to have a poor year for Butterflies so far, but not for Jersey Tiger Moths!

And a tiny Moth - The Mint Moth.

Some of the commoner species seen include Red Admiral, Holly Blue and Brimstone.

And to finish with - Reptiles! First up, Grass Snakes at Rye Meads.

Also at Rye Meads, this beautiful Slow Worm.

It just goes to show the wonderful array of wildlife on our doorstep.