The Duke of Hawnby

Despite the cool, cloudy conditions, one fresh Duke of Burgundy was seen at the usual site near Hawnby late morning. Nearby, a pair of Stonechats zipped around the scree, whilst a Redstart rattled from a budding Oak. A few Common Heath moths were among the Bilberry bushes lining the track, but I couldn't spot any Green Hairstreaks. 

Back home, the rain this week has given our new bee garden a boost, with the Lungwort looking particularly healthy and attracting Hairy-footed Flower Bees.

If you are interested, I have planted the following: Lungwort, Sedum, Cat-mint, Wild Thyme, Verbena, Daphe Mezereum (the centerpiece), Cowslips, Salvia, Sea Holly (random, I know!), Lavender, Lady's mantle sp. and Lamb's-ear. I might have forgotten a few things. The small depression at the bottom right is a dust bath created by the local House Sparrows!