Park Corner Heath & Ashdown Forest 12/05/21

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Fairly cloudy this morning at Park Corner Heath in East Sussex, though odd sunny intervals encouraged sufficient activity from Pearl-bordered Fritillary, a species I missed last year. About six individuals were seen in total, in appearance generally very similar to Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, though the underwing is diagnostic. However, obtaining the underwing view proved no easy matter as once settled the butterflies generally held their wings flat. A more obliging individual was eventually photographed, as shown below.

A fair number of Painted Ladies were also at the site, with individuals sometimes chased by a fritillary despite their much smaller size.

Arriving at Old Lodge in Ashdown Forest by early afternoon the weather was now pleasantly sunny for long periods. The open vistas of heather, with areas of woodland were an impressive sight, and the birdlife no less so. Singing Willow Warbler were found on several occasions, and songs of Redstart, Tree Pipit and Woodlark were also heard. A male Redstart was seen quite well, albeit a rather pale bird. 

A pair of Stonechat typically gave excellent views, and calls of Crossbill from pines, plus flyover Siskin and Lesser Redpoll added to the birdlist.

Pearl-bordered Fritillary

Pearl-bordered Fritillary 

Painted Lady

Park Corner Heath

Stonechat (male)

Willow Warbler

Willow Warbler

Common Redstart (male)

Ashdown Forest (Old Lodge)



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