Duke of Burgundy, North Yorkshire

What a fabulous day we had on Saturday. Have never seen Duke of Burgundy butterflies before, so with the sun shining and some easy to follow directions from Richard, we headed to North Yorkshire. We passed through some stunning little towns and villages, how the other half live !  With scenery to die for, sunshine and 10 Duke of Burgundy butterflies,  we were well happy. A couple of pairs of Redstart were an added bonus. 

Blackcap

Singleton Hide, Blacktoft Sands.

Marsh Harriers, Blacktoft Sands

With heavy showers all day and no sign of them passing, we headed to the Singleton hide at Blacktoft for a few hours. Marsh Harriers were plenty being surrounded by them all evening. Plenty of food passes. Then out of the blue one dropped down onto the island infront of us and devoured a whole clutch of black-headed gull eggs. The gulls dive-bombed the harrier, making contact, but it stayed put until every one was eaten. A couple of crows were on the sideline, hoping for a free tea but they went hungry.  

This week so far

A tea-time stroll for tree pipit gave us this stunning roe deer. She strolled up the path and just kept coming towards us, not seeing us at all. Eventually finding her gap in the fence and slowly walking through into the forest, totally oblivious to us. She was lovely. 

She made up for the total lack of tree pipits at a sight where we have never failed to hear and see them. 

Goldcrest 

Another visit for spotted flycatchers to a local sight, but afraid no sign of them this year.

Linnet 

Green Tiger Beetle

Carp Fishing at Crete Lakes, France

Our Tom has just returned from his first overseas fishing trip in France at the famous Crete Lakes Carp Fishery. He had a fantastic week with plenty of 30's on the bank and two 40's. His best carp being a 44lb. Well done our Tom !