Darland Banks 04/08/21

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The banks look superb with a multitude of flowering plants, especially the east end (nearest the car park). Weather was mostly sunny, gradually clouding over.

Blue butterflies were much in evidence, though habits of male Chalkhills are sometimes not so pleasant, as shown below! 

I spent some time observing Brown Argus especially the key id features on the underwing. The figure of eight is one such feature, this being formed from two spots near the leading edge of the hindwing (see below), and which is absent on Common Blue.

Good numbers of both Peacock and Brimstone today, plus a few pristine Painted Lady.

A fine Jersey Tiger moth was a bonus, plus an approachable Fox along the bottom of the slope.





Common Blue (male)

Common Blue (female)

Common Blue (female) showing extra spot near body (on forewing), which is absent in Brown Argus

Brown Argus

Brown Argus, showing figure of eight formed from two spots on leading edge of hindwing.

Painted Lady

Chalkhill Blue (male)

Chalkhill Blue (female)

Chalkhill Blue (males)

Small Copper

Brimstone (female)

Speckled Wood

Jersey Tiger

Fox


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