Butterfly Conservation Upper Thames Branch

Butterfly Sightings 2017

~ 24th December 2017 ~

David Fuller sent this news: "In our lounge on the 23rd a Peacock butterfly charging about so must have come in on our artificial Christmas tree which is stored in the garage. The butterfly was moved to a much cooler and drier place."

~ 20th December 2017 ~

Dave Wilton sent this news: "The nationally scarce Brown Hairstreak (Thecla betulae) is difficult to find as an adult, so to monitor how well it is doing we look for its eggs on blackthorn in the winter months. Searching has been going well this winter and we've already confirmed the butterfly's continued presence in many of the tetrads (2 kilometre squares) from which it is known locally, as shown on the accompanying map. One new tetrad has been added near Steeple Claydon in Bucks, our most northerly egg discovery so far. Even more pleasing has been to finally replicate an egg find from 2009 on a hedgerow on the opposite corner of the map, at Garsington near Oxford. The general impression so far is that in 2017 the butterfly had a much better egg- laying season than the previous couple of years. Weather permitting, our next group search will be at RSPB Otmoor on 1st January (see the Events page)."

~ 10th December 2017 ~

Wendy Wilson sent this news: "10th December: In my Gerrard’s Cross, Bucks garden (SU998895) today I was bashing snow from an evergreen bush overhanging my coal bunker so I could get some coal without being showered with lumps of snow. Suddenly a Red Admiral jumped out and landed on wet snow. It was alive but too cold to fly. The bush was now too wet to put it back, so I put it on the windowsill in a cold room, gave it some honey mixed with water and left the window ajar. Hopefully it will roost in there happily and fly out when we get a sunny day."

Red Admiral Red Admiral Photo © Wendy Wilson Photo © Wendy Wilson ~ 23rd November 2017 ~

Heather Kazara sent this sighting: "23rd November: I saw one Red Admiral flying in a sunny spot at Summertown House, Oxford, Oxon (SP504098) at approximately 14:20 today ."

~ 19th November 2017 ~

Prem Roy sent this news: "19th November: The last Red Admirals, here in Lenborough near Buckingham, Bucks were on the 7th of November, this included this rather nice aberration [probably ab. millierei. David]. There were also a few Commas feeding on Verbena bonariensis."

Aberrant Red Admiral Photo © Prem Roy

David Hastings saw three Red Admirals on 19th November: "These three were feeding on Hebe flowers in my south-facing garden in Abingdon, Oxon from midday until 2.30pm today, even though the air temperature was only about 8°C. Incidently, based on wing damage, I had seen two of them before. "

Michael Hunt sent this sighting: "17th November: A Red Admiral in the sunny south-facing garden at home in Buckingham, Bucks at 12:30 despite the cool air."

~ 16th November 2017 ~

John Lindley sent this news: "16th November: I'm still regularly seeing Red Admirals - five together today in the mild and sunny weather, feeding on rotting apples in a garden in South Stoke, Oxon."

Catherine McEwan sent this sighting: "16th November: We had a female Brimstone in our back garden in Calcot, Reading, Berks (SU661717) this morning."

Diane Hunt sent this sighting: "16th November: I was surprised to see a Red Admiral out today in Buckingham, Bucks ."

~ 15th November 2017 ~

Bob Tunnicliffe sent this news: "14th November: I was rather surprised to see a Red Admiral in our garden in Stony Stratford, Bucks on November 7th, after a frost the previous night - but I see it's not the latest sighting!"

~ 12th November 2017 ~

Malcolm Brownsword sent this news: "10th November: For the past month I have had up to 4 Red Admirals present on a single Chrysanthemum ‘Mrs. Jessie Cooper’ in a sunny sheltered spot in my West Hagbourne, Oxon garden. The attached image of the remaining one was taken today. I would recommend this plant for attracting late butterflies. The flowers are now starting to fade after 4 weeks." Red Admiral Photo © Malcolm Brownsword

~ 7th November 2017 ~

Stephen Jones sent this sighting: "6th November: At around midday today I was surprised to see a Comma in very good condition basking in the sun in Penn Wood, Bucks (SU912956). Temperature was 8°C."

David Hastings visited Highmoor, Oxon (SU701852) on 6th November: "I found three Red Admirals sunning themselves on the same Beech tree trunk, and another Red Admiral and a Comma on a different Beech."

Red Admiral Comma Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

~ 5th November 2017 ~

Michael Hunt sent this sighting: "5th November: One Small Tortoiseshell seen at 09:30 in the sunshine at the churchyard in Buckingham, Bucks."

David Gantzel sent this sighting: "2nd November: One Red Admiral in garden in Hazlemere, Bucks today."

~ 2nd November 2017 ~

Ewan Urquhart posted this on the Oxon Birding blog: "2nd November: No fewer than 8 Red Admirals together on the trunk of an Oak tree at Lower Highmoor, Oxon, today."

~ 1st November 2017 ~

Michael Hunt sent this sighting: "1st November: Three Red Admirals seen in the sunshine in Buckingham, Bucks today."

Nicholl Williams sent this news: "30th October: Recently I have been noticing Red Admirals in several places. This image was from central Oxford. " Red Admiral Photo © Nicholl Williams

John Shelton sent this news: "30th October: I saw a Painted Lady in my garden in Marlow, Bucks today. Although in poor condition with not much of its hind wings left, it was very active moving between the surprising number of summer flowers still in full bloom. Shortly afterwards in the same location, I watched a Red Admiral fly into a spider’s web. Fortunately, with the aid of a nearby cane, I managed to free it and it flew off to the nearby magnolia tree apparently none-the- worse for the experience."

Chris Brown sent these sightings: "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 6th October: Red Admiral 3, Comma 7 On 25th October: Red Admiral 2. Millenium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 20th October: Small Copper 2 (both worn/faded), Red Admiral 1. On 24th October: Small Copper 2 (both fresh), Red Admiral 7 (feeding on Sloes). On 30th October: Small Copper 2."

~ 30th October 2017 ~

Sue Taylor sent these sightings: "30th October: Lovely warm day today despite last night's frost. Unexpectedly I found myself at Waterperry Gardens, Oxon and saw 4 Red Admirals and a Small Tortoiseshell. to my delight and surprise I also saw a Small Copper feeding (for half an hour!) on Ageratum eupatoria ‘Chocolate’, maybe I will find some of that for my garden, as it was ignoring the Michaelmas Daisies."

Dennis Dell sent this news: "29th October: Red Admiral nectaring on Erysium "Bowles mauve" in Aylesbury, Bucks: an indispensable nectar plant, flowering continuously from April till November. The other photo is of a Purple Emperor larva entering into hibernation mode."

Red Admiral Purple Emperor larva Photo © Dennis Dell Photo © Dennis Dell

John Lindley sent these sightings: "28th October: Despite a local frost this morning, there are still decent numbers of late butterflies about. This afternoon in Goring, Oxon, I saw 10 Red Admirals ans 2 Commas on a large Fatsia, nectaring on the flowers and sunbathing on the large shiny leaves."

~ 25th October 2017 ~ Paul Bowyer sent this sighting: "25th October: While talking to my neighbour today at Cherrywood Gardens, Flackwell Heath, Bucks (SU894898) I spotted a Holly Blue flying around the top of some ivy blossom. Chiltern warming?"

~ 22nd October 2017 ~

Charlie Jackson sent this sighting: "21st October: I had a very late Meadow Brown is quite good condition at Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks (SP9570116304) this morning in high winds. Latest Meadow Brown I have seen."

John Lindley sent these sightings: "21st October: On the footpaths around South Stoke, Oxon, in the bright, warm and breezy pre-Storm Brian weather. 1 Small White, 1 male Brimstone (possibly disturbed by the wind), 2 Speckled Wood, 6 Red Admiral, 2 Comma, 1 Peacock, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, and most surprisingly 2 very fresh looking male Common Blue. Great to see eight species within a couple of hours so late in the year."

~ 18th October 2017 ~

Chris Brown sent these sightings: "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 6th October: Red Admiral 3, Comma 7 On 16th October: Brimstone 1, Red Admiral 2. Millenium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 6th October: Small Copper 3, Red Admiral 3, Painted Lady 1 (flew in from the north, fed on Yarrow for several minutes, then flew off south). On 15th October: Small Copper 1."

~ 16th October 2017 ~

David Ferguson sent these sightings: "15th October: Clouded Yellow and two fairly fresh male Common Blues at Wapsey's Wood WDS, Beaconsfield, Bucks (SU961891) this morning."

~ 15th October 2017 ~

Michael and Diane Hunt sent these sightings: "12th October: Seen at Coombs, Bucks (SP735323) today were 3 Red Admirals and 2 Speckled Woods."

Jan Haseler sent this sighting: "8th October: We had what must be a 3rd generation Holly Blue in our Tilehurst, Berks garden (SU666742) today."

Michael and Diane Hunt sent these sightings: "8th October: Seen at Stowe, Bucks (SP378671) today were 4 Red Admirals and 1 Small Copper."

~ 6th October 2017 ~

Jan Dunn sent these sightings: "On the Berkshire side of Windsor Great Park (SU969693) on 3rd October, a Clouded Yellow alighted briefly on a dandelion for a photograph. On 6th October a Small Copper with four blue spots on the hindwings - ab. caeruleopunctata - took a few seconds to warm up on a dried leaf in the autumn sunshine (SU964694)." Clouded Yellow Small Copper Photo © Jan Dunn Photo © Jan Dunn

Andy Bolton sent this news: "5th October: A short walk in the vicinity of the churchyard and nearby hedgerow at Brimpton, Berkshire, (SU556646) in glorious sun this afternoon, allowed me to appreciate the following: Red Admiral 23, Comma 4, Small White 2. Sparring, squabbling Admirals on masses of ivy flowers!"

~ 3rd October 2017 ~

David Hastings visited RSPB Otmoor, Oxon on 3rd October: "In sheltered spots on the reserve I saw five Red Admirals, three Commas, three Speckled Woods and one late (and very tatty) Green-veined White."

Comma Speckled Wood Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Nick Board sent this sighting: "3rd October: Despite the cool, blustery conditions this Small Copper was enjoying the late afternoon sun in my garden in North Bucks today."

Small Copper Small Copper Photo © Nick Board Photo © Nick Board

Michael and Diane Hunt sent these sightings: "2nd October: Seen today at Padbury, Bucks (SP718304) today were 2 Red Admirals, 1 Speckled Wood, 1 Large White, 1 Small White."

~ 1st October 2017 ~

Michael and Diane Hunt sent this sighting: "30th September: Seen at Hyde Lane nr Buckingham, Bucks (SP725365) today was a Small Heath."

~ 29th September 2017 ~

Tom Dunbar sent these sightings: "28th September: On a walk this afternoon at Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon North (SU725970) the following were recorded: Brimstone 1; Common Blue 3; indeterminate female Adonis/ Chalk Hill Blue 1; Small Copper 9; Comma 2; Red Admiral 1; Meadow Brown 8. Two hours of warm sunshine with glorious flora including wide range of nectar sources. Vanessids in surprisingly low numbers. Where were the whites and Speckled Woods? Great to see those Small Coppers."

Chris Brown sent these sightings: "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 22nd September: Comma 12, Speckled Wood 2, Meadow Brown 1. Millenium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 18th September: Small Copper 9, Common Blue 1, Comma 1, Small Heath 1. On 26th September: Small White 1, Small Copper 4, Meadow Brown 1."

Common Blue Photo © Chris Brown

~ 25th September 2017 ~

David Hastings sent these sightings: "25th September: Despite the dull weather I saw a Red Admiral and a Comma feeding on Ivy flowers in my garden in Abingdon, Oxon this afternoon."

Nick Bowles sent these sightings: "On 22nd September: I saw a female Brown Hairstreak at a private site in the Aylesbury Vale, and on 24th September, at the same site, another surveyor saw a Clouded Yellow. On the 24th I was quite pleased with a Painted Lady at Aston Clinton Ragpits, Bucks (SP8810) and a very fresh Small Copper at Coombe Hill, Bucks (SP8406), among 10 species that I saw in the sun that day. Hopefully, other people are still enjoying a few late butterflies."

Nils Beaven sent this news: "24th September: I went for a walk around the neighbourhood in Twyford, Bucks in the vague hope of seeing 'aberrant' forms after the cold snap we’ve had. Didn't see any but did see some very fine specimens of freshly emerged butterflies. Between Twyford Brook and the Loddon River: 3 Small Coppers including this fairly fresh-looking male, 6 large and ultra-white Large Whites, a couple of Small Whites, Green-veined Whites and at least 8 Commas – of various colour intensity. Best of all I came across 6 freshly-emerged Red Admirals. As they were all preoccupied in either 'sunning' or feeding they were quite obliging for up-close photographs."

Small Copper Comma Red Admiral Photo © Nils Beaven Photo © Nils Beaven Photo © Nils Beaven

Michael and Diane Hunt sent these sightings: "24th September: We saw a Clouded Yellow and a Brimstone this morning at Grendon Underwood, Bucks. Also in our garden in Buckingham there were 4 Red Admirals on ivy flowers."

Dave Cleal sent these sightings: "22nd September: While at Dorney Lakes, Bucks today I saw 3 Red Admirals all heading south, a Small White, and best of all a Clouded Yellow." ~ 21st September 2017 ~

Nick Bowes sent this news: "20th September: Lured by sunshine and a reasonable weather forecast, I drove to Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks to look for late Chalk Hill Blues. Of course, as I arrived the sun disappeared and stayed hidden for the next 4 hours, even so in 45 minutes of searching I found 2 female Chalkies, 2 Meadow Brown, 2 Small Heath, 1 Green-veined White, 1 Speckled Wood and 1 Red Admiral."

Michael and Diane Hunt sent these sightings: "20th September: We saw 2 Brown Hairstreaks, 3 Speckled Wood, 2 Small Coppers, 2 Red Admirals, 1 Green-veined White and 1 Large White at RSPB Otmoor, Oxon today."

Paul Bowyer sent this sighting: "19th September: I saw a Clouded Yellow this morning (10am) on the causeway at Dorney rowing lake, Berks (SU921783)."

Michael and Diane Hunt sent these sightings: "18th September: We saw 3 Small Heath, 1 Red Admiral, 2 Small Tortoiseshell and 2 Large Whites at Pitstone Hill, Bucks (SP950142) today."

Chris Brown sent these sightings: "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 14th September: Green-veined White 1, Red Admiral 4, Comma 19, Speckled Wood 9, Meadow Brown 2. Speckled Wood numbers increasing as expected at this site for the time of year. The surprise was the number of Commas all freshly emerged. Millenium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 14th September: Small White 1, Small Copper 6, Red Admiral 2, Small Heath 1. "

Small Coppers Photo © Chris Brown

~ 17th September 2017 ~

Adam Bassett sent this sighting: "2nd September: I had a rather worn Purple Hairstreak in my garden in Marlow Bottom, Bucks on 2nd September. It was resting on the branch of a buddleia in the sunshine. "

~ 13th September 2017 ~

Dave Wilton sent this sighting: "12th September: Just a reminder that one of our priority species could still be on the wing into early October if the weather holds up. The rather worn female Brown Hairstreak shown below (apologies for the poor phone-camera image!) was found egg-laying at Finemere Wood this morning while I carried out a transect there." Brown Hairstreak Photo © Dave Wilton

~ 6th September 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Folly Park in Faringdon, Oxon (SU294949) on 6th September: "This was mainly a visit to look for Odonata, but I did see a few butterflies as well: two Small Coppers, a Red Admiral and three Commas."

Small Copper Comma Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Dave Miller sent this news: "2nd September: I spent a terrific morning in the sunshine up at Aston Rowant NNR. Most noticeable was the number of new-looking Meadow Browns, but sightings also included quite a few Adonis Blues, Brown Argus and Silver-spotted Skippers. Also seen: Chalkhill Blues, Common Blues, Small Heaths, Speckled Woods, Green-veined White, Small Whites, Large Whites, Brimstones, Small Coppers. There was a very nice example of an ab. krodeli female Adonis, and much more remarkable, a Silver-spotted Skipper bilateral gynandromorph. This latter butterfly was only discovered when browsing my photos later at home."

Adonis Blue ♀ ab. krodeli Meadow Brown ♀ Silver-spotted Skipper Photo © Dave Miller Photo © Dave Miller Photo © Dave Miller

Chris Brown sent these sightings: "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 22nd August: Brimstone 1, Green-veined White 4, Brown Argus 1, Comma 4, Silver-washed Fritillary 2, Speckled Wood 3, Meadow Brown 21. Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 29th August: Large White 1, Green- veined White 1, Comma 2, Speckled Wood 3, Meadow Brown 31. Millenium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 24th August: Brimstone 1, Large White 1, Small White 1, Small Copper 3, Common Blue 2, Meadow Brown 2, Small Heath 7. Millenium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 31st August: Large White 1, Small White 1, Green-veined White 1, Small Copper 5, Red Admiral 1, Comma 1, Small Heath 5. "

Dave Wilton sent this news: "2nd September: The 22nd and probably final species to appear in our garden at Westcott, Bucks this year did so today when this smart Small Copper was photographed on our rudbeckia flowers. It is by no means a regular in our garden so was very nice to see."

Small Copper Photo © Dave Wilton

~ 2nd September 2017 ~

Wendy Wilson sent these sightings: "29th August: I was thrilled when female Brown Hairstreaks landed right beside me at two different sites away from the usual hotspots today. One was in SP511103 in Cutteslowe Park, north Oxford and the other was some distance NE of there. The second was ovipositing on blackthorn twigs all along a hedge. It was fascinating to watch as she manoeuvred herself carefully into position to lay an egg, basking briefly on a leaf between laying each one. The eggs were pale green, small and slightly oval-shaped to start with, but after a minute and a half they were bright white and their usual size and shape."

Brown Hairstreak Brown Hairstreak egg Photo © Wendy Wilson Photo © Wendy Wilson

John Holdbrook sent these sightings: "27th August: I saw a female Brown Hairstreak basking on some Comfrey leaves beside a path (SP557046) which leads from the Stagecoach depot in Oxford to Brasenose Wood. It was at least 250 metres from the nearest Blackthorns."

~ 30th August 2017 ~

Don Stone sent this news: "27th August: In the garden today at Lee Common, Bucks, 2 Small Whites seen mating, 5 Speckled Woods chasing each other in a tight circle/ball, Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Comma and a couple of Meadow Browns."

Speckled Wood Green-veined White Small Whites Photo © Don Stone Photo © Don Stone Photo © Don Stone Dave Ferguson sent this sighting: "28th August: Female Clouded Yellow by Fulmer Lake, Bucks this morning."

~ 27th August 2017 ~

Brian Hicks sent this news: "25th August: I visited Yoesden Bank, Bucks from North Norfolk today; it was butterfly heaven. Dozens of Adonis Blue including several mating pairs. Probably more Chalk Hill Blues sadly most going over, large number of Common Blues, Meadow Browns looking very fresh, also noted Brown Argus, Small Heath and Brimstone. And I only kept to the top of the hill! What a wonderful site! Account and more images on my blog blhphotoblog.wordpress.com."

Adonis Blues Adonis Blue Photo © Brian Hicks Photo © Brian Hicks

Tony Croft sent this news: "25th August: This afternoon I went to Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon in the all too rare bright sunshine and saw two female Brown Hairstreaks, one of which having spent time crawling around in a small blackthorn bush hidden in the undergrowth then very obligingly posed out in the open enabling this photo to be taken."

Brown Hairstreak Photo © Tony Croft

Stephen Jones sent these sightings: "25th August: I visited Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon on a warm (20°C) and sunny afternoon. On Bald Hill I saw 6 Silver-spotted Skippers, 4 Brown Argus, numerous Common Blues and masses of Meadow Brown and Gatekeepers."

Tony Croft sent this report about the field meeting at Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon on 16th August: "A group of twenty three people assembled at Whitecross Green Wood to search for the Brown Hairstreak. We were pleased to welcome members from as far afield as the Wirral and Manchester. Unfortunately it was fairly cloudy but the temperature was 18°C and there were glimpses of the sun, although these were tantalisingly brief. Having had no luck along the first ride from the car park we gathered at a fairly reliable clump of ash and oaks and were soon rewarded with a good sighting of a female in one of the oaks. Jim Asher was able to provide us with very nice photos both of the butterfly and some of the group observing it. Despite our best efforts this was the only Brown Hairstreak sighting of the morning but other species seen were Purple Hairstreak, Common Blue, Brown Argus, Silver-washed Fritillary, Speckled Wood, Peacock, Green-veined White, Brimstone, Meadow Brown and Gatekeeper. "

Brown Hairstreak Field meeting participants Photo © Jim Asher Photo © Jim Asher

~ 24th August 2017 ~

Dave Wilton sent these sightings: "24th August: A quick visit to Yoesden Bank, Bucks this morning to look for second-brood Adonis Blue was rewarded with many examples, over 70 being recorded before I gave up counting and I had covered only part of the site. When it clouded over they just sat around basking, trying to gain what warmth they could through the high overcast - very nice to see! Many were starting to look a little tired and I found one that had entered a spider's larder. Other species recorded included Common Blue, Chalk Hill Blue, Brown Argus and Small Heath."

Adonis Blue Adonis Blue Photo © Dave Wilton Photo © Dave Wilton

Brian Walker sent these sightings: "20th August: I saw 4 Adonis Blues at Aston Rowant, Oxon, at the bottom of the slope (SU726969). Other butterflies seen were Speckled Wood (3), Small Tortoiseshell (3), Meadow Brown (100+), Brown Argus (10), Chalk Hill Blue (32), Silver-spotted Skipper (6), Common Blue (17), Small Heath (3), Small Copper (1), Small White (7), Brimstone (3) and Peacock (1)."

Adonis Blue Photo © Brian Walker

Karen Saxl sent this news: "23rd August: Went over to Lardon Chase, Berks last week from Didcot – had forgotten that Streatley Hill was closed so it was a bit of a detour – didn’t see many Chalkhill blues – just one – but saw a dozen Adonis Blues. Not actually seen a Small Blue adult locally but have found quite a few eggs and some larvae – though sadly no kidney vetch in evidence this year at the Upton end the route – hope that doing some scrub clearance in Autumn might encourage it back. All in all think it has been a pretty grotty year butterfly wise – my local Marbled White population was totally devastated by the weather in mid June – went from over 300 in the main colony area to just over 30 after the big storm and then the cold weather and although numbers built up a little they never really recovered. Second brood of Common Blues and Brown Argus has appeared to be relatively good around the Hagbournes but again numbers seemed to be much lower towards the Upton end."

Dennis Dell sent this news: "13th August: 28 Silver-spotted Skippers seen at Great Kimble Warren, Bucks (SP831058) - the most I have seen at this important site near the extreme northern end of the species' range."

Silver-spotted Skipper Photo © Dennis Dell

~ 20th August 2017 ~

Maureen Cross sent this report about the field meeting at Lardon Chase on 20th August: "Today saw the second-brood Adonis Blue Field Meeting at Lardon Chase, Berks. Four of us were rewarded with the best number of Adonis sightings on Lardon since 2006; in total 34, 14 of which were females. Ten other species of butterflies were also seen including: Common Blue, Chalk Hill Blue, Meadow Brown, Small Heath, Small Copper, Small White, Large White, Small Tortoiseshell, Brimstone and Brown Argus, also 3 mint moths. By mid-day large clouds were blocking the sun, putting an end to our sightings of the beautiful Adonis Blues. How many more might we have seen if the sun had remained shining?"

~ 17th August 2017 ~

Maureen Cross sent this news : "On 15th August I saw 45 Adonis Blues on a short trip to Lardon Chase, Berks today."

David Fuller sent these sightings: "17th August: My garden, Maidenhead, Berks (SU900833). Painted Lady, my first of the year - a mint specimen, also 2 Large White, 4 Small White, 3 Green- veined White, 1 Red Admiral. 1 Comma."

David Hastings visited Lardon Chase, Berks on 17th August: "Although it was mostly sunny, there was a brisk westerly breeze right across the hill. Most of the activity was around the shelter of the hawthorn bushes in the middle of the slope. I counted at least thirty Adonis Blues in an hour, of which two-thirds were males. Other species seen were Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Common Blue, Chalk Hill Blue, Small Copper, Brown Argus, Small Tortoiseshell, Meadow Brown, Small Heath and Gatekeeper." Adonis Blue ♂ Adonis Blue ♀ Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Roger Cope sent this news : "16th August: I visited Yoesden Bank, Bucks after a 4am start from Manchester. I have the occasional trip down to your area and base visits on your most excellent sightings information on the website - thank you. Met one of your members photographing the many roosting Common Blues and as the day warmed up most of these came up to bask, along with 3 cheeky Brown Argus, 3 Small Heath, about 6 Chalk Hill Blues, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Small Copper and numerous Meadow Browns. Then, about 10am ... Oh My Word! ... around 10 dazzlingly beautiful Adonis Blues woke up, sporting their usual metallic turquoise livery and looking for all the world like a hand-made pieces of jewellery. Many thanks Upper Thames branch; your website tips have given me countless hours of pleasure hunting down Lepidoptera not encountered 'up North'!"

Adonis Blue ♂ Brown Argus Photo © Roger Cope Photo © Roger Cope

Chris Brown sent these sightings : "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 11th August: Small White 1, Green-veined White 3, Common Blue 2, Red Admiral 1, Silver- washed Fritilliary 6, Speckled Wood 4, Gatekeeper 1, Meadow Brown 26, Jersey Tiger moth 1. Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU713794) on 13th August: Small Skipper 1, Large Skipper 1, Large White 2, Small Copper 8, Brown Argus 2, Common Blue 4, Holly Blue 1, Gatekeeper 15, Meadow Brown 9, Small Heath 8. "

Jersey Tiger Photo © Chris Brown

~ 15th August 2017 ~

Michael McNeill sent this news : "14th August, Moor Copse, West Berks. Cloudy and cool. A general absence of butterflies apart from a handfull of Meadow Browns. The wooded area produced two faded Silver-washed Fritillaries. 15th August, Lardon Chase, West Berks. Partly cloudy and warm. An excellent hour on Lardon Chase between the car park and the hedge at the end of the south facing down. On the outward walk 13 Adonis Blue (including females) and on the return walk 21 Adonis Blue (again including females and presumably mostly duplications). Also good numbers of Meadow Brown, 6 faded Chalk Hill Blues, 3 Small Copper, 1 Brimstone, 3 Brown Argus, 10 faded Common Blue and a number of Whites."

Jan Haseler sent this report of the field meeting at Mortimer on 12th August : "Eight members met at Mortimer on the morning of Saturday 12 August for a walk through the conifer plantations which straddle the Hampshire / Berkshire border. Despite the strong wind and lack of sunshine, a record 72 Graylings were spotted. Some were on the stony tracks, but most were on an expanse of bare gravel and sparse grass beside a restored gravel pit. When disturbed, they flew only a short distance before dropping back down to the ground, tucking their forewings behind their cryptically patterned hindwings and vanishing. Other species seen included Red Admiral, Peacock, Common Blue, various whites, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown and Speckled Wood. After lunch, one of the group returned to cover some of the sections which we had not had time to explore in the morning and added another 32 Graylings to the tally, bringing the day’s total to 104, a new record count for the site."

~ 14th August 2017 ~

Nick Bowles sent this report of the field meeting at Kimble Rifle Range, Bucks on 13th August : "A group of ten set off from the car park on Longdown Rd in the hope (rather than expectation) of seeing the Silver Spotted Skipper. We took the bridleway alongside Grangelands (BBOWT) until the grassland part of Pulpit Hill (NT). Here we quickly picked up common species and some Chalk Hill Blues and stopped briefly to examine the Musk Orchids. Then we entered the Rifle Range (BBOWT) and went fairly quickly to the area of very short turf when one of the party spotted a Clouded Yellow. On our way some others saw our first Silver Spotted Skipper and eventually we saw a minimum of eleven. This was very pleasing and even better, we added second brood Dingy Skipper and Small Blue so that our eventual tally was 21 species, clearly identified, with a Small/Essex skipper vanishing before it could be confidentially assigned to a species. Day-flying Moths included 6 spot Burnet, Shaded Broad bar, Small Purple and Gold and (Lesser??) Treble Bar Despite the poor weather in the week before this walk, there were still some relatively large amounts of chalk grassland flowers and quite good numbers of most of the butterfly species we saw."

Nick Bowles sent these sightings : "On the 11th August I went to Pitstone Quarry, Bucks and saw 8 Small Blue and 2 Clouded Yellow, among 16 species, but no Chalkies - which had been reported there. On the 12th August there were three Chalkies at College Lake, Bucks but no sign of Small Blue and in quite good weather relatively few butterflies of nine species. Later, at Aston Clinton Ragpits, Bucks there was one Silver Washed Fritillary and three Chalkies. On the 13th August I did the transect at Coombe Hill, Wendover, Bucks (NT) and saw three more Chalkies and another Silver-washed Fritillary among 11 species in declining numbers. Finally among the eight species in the garden, a single Hummingbird Hawkmoth and the second Brown Argus this year."

Dave Cleal sent this news : "13th August at Lilley Lee Farm & Springfield Quarry, Wooburn Common, Bucks. The east end of the Quarry was particularly productive, with 1 Small Blue, 4 Brown Argus, 1 Small Copper & 5 male Common Blues. Across the rest of the site there were 2 Red Admirals, 3 Commas, 1 Brimstone, 2 Speckled Woods, a dozen Meadow Browns & both Large and Small Whites."

Andy Bolton sent these sightings : "Seen on 13th August at The Holies, Berks: Chalk Hill Blue 22, Adonis Blue 10, Common Blue 24, Brown Argus 12, Small Heath 5, Clouded Yellow 1, Brimstone 7, Large White 1, Small White 1, Green-veined White 1, Red Admiral 1, Gatekeeper 3, Nemophora metallica 1, Pyrausta purpuralis 1, Treble-bar 1."

Don Stone sent this news : "13th August: A ragged looking Silver-washed Fritillary at Lee Common, Bucks was a 1st record for the garden. Also Brimstone, Red Admiral, 3 Small Whites, 3 Gatekeepers and a few Meadow Browns."

Silver-washed Fritillary Photo © Don Stone

Ched George sent this news : "13th August: Numbers of male Adonis Blue at Yoesden Bank, Bucks today. Also seen was one 2nd brood Dingy Skipper."

John Lindley sent these sightings : "On 10th August I saw 11 fresh Small Tortoiseshells together on a small Buddleja in Streatley, Berks. They all looked fresh, and I thought it noteworthy to see so many together, given that they don't seem to be having a good year. On 12th August I visited Lardon Chase, Berks, in the afternoon. It was great to see good numbers of Adonis Blue - 20+ males and 10+ females. Also 5 Common Blue, 5 Chalk Hill blue, 2 Small Copper, 30+ Meadow Brown, 1 Small Heath, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, and a probable Clouded Yellow, though it was a long way off so identity not 100%."

Adonis Blue ♂ Adonis Blue ♂ Adonis Blue ♀ Photo © John Lindley Photo © John Lindley Photo © John Lindley

Peter Kendall sent this sighting : "While at Moor Green Lakes, Berks, (SU808628) on August 12th, my wife and I saw a Grayling on the gravel footpath. First one we've seen there in over twenty years.

Michael McNeill sent these sightings : "A brief morning visit to The Holies, Streatley Hill, Berks on August 11th. Conditions sunny and cool with light breeze. 4 pristine male Adonis Blues, 1 Silver-washed Fritillary, about 40 somewhat faded Chalk Hill Blues, including females, large numbers of Meadow Brown, 1 Brimstone, 1 Red Admiral and 2 Speckled Wood."

~ 11th August 2017 ~

Andy Bolton sent these sightings on 10th August: "At Brightwell cum-Sotwell, Oxon (SU582907): Red Admiral 1, Small Tortoiseshell 1, Brimstone 1, Small White 1, Green-veined White 1. At Sinodun Hills, Oxon (SU568924): Common Blue 10, Meadow Brown 7, Small White 3, Brimstone 1, Red Admiral 1, Peacock 1. Thames path at Clifton Hampden, Oxon (SU546953): Red Admiral 2, Green-veined White 4, Small White 1, Common Blue 1, Gatekeeper 2, Meadow Brown 2."

Pat Clissold sent this sighting : "10th August: This female Brown Hairstreak was seen at Gavray Meadows, Bicester, Oxon today. See Gavray Meadows on Facebook."

Brown Hairstreak Photo © Pat Clissold

~ 8th August 2017 ~

Maureen Cross (Adonis Blue champion) sent this news : "8th August: Second brood Adonis Blues are on the wing. First was seen on 1st August on Lardon Chase, Berks by George Rogers, then on 6th August I saw 18 while doing my transect on Lardon Chase and on the same day a single male was seen on Yoesden Bank, Bucks by Ched George."

Martin Kincaid sent this news : "7th August: I popped home (Oldbrook, Milton Keynes, Bucks) in my lunch break today and as I got out of the car was delighted to see a Hummingbird Hawk-moth flying around visiting valerian in the front garden. I got a bit closer, and was amazed to see it laying eggs on some of the flowers. Beautiful, light green eggs. She would deposit a solitary egg on each plant before flying around and picking another to lay on."

Chris Brown sent these sightings : "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795) on 4th August: Green-veined White 2, Small Copper 1, Common Blue 4, Red Admiral 1, Comma 1, Silver-washed Fritillary 8 (includes 1 courting pair display), Speckled Wood 1, Gatekeeper 1, Meadow Brown 41. Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU713794) on 4th August: Small Skipper 6, Small Copper 25, Brown Argus 4, Common Blue 19, Red Admiral 2, Small Tortoiseshell 1, Gatekeeper 50, Meadow Brown 15, Small Heath 1. "

~ 6th August 2017 ~

Tim Spencer sent this sighting : "31st July: A Wood White was seen in Stoke Park Wood, Bucks (SP825490) in cloudy and blustery conditions."

Wood White Photo © Tim Spencer

Nick Board sent this news : "6th August: Seen in my garden today in North Bucks upwards of twenty Red Admirals. Are they having a bumper year across the whole region I wonder? [Yes, the RA appears to be having a good year]. I found one particular chap wandering round in circles on my lawn and really reluctant to fly. [Possibly had been feeding on fermenting fruit. David]"

Red Admirals Red Admiral Photo © Nick Board Photo © Nick Board

David Hastings visited Parsonage Moor, Cothill Fen NNR and Dry Sandford Pit, Oxon on 6th August : "Notable species seen were a Clouded Yellow at Cothill Fen (possibly the same one seen at Kingston Bagpuize today), and a male Silver-washed Fritillary (in quite good condition), three Small Coppers and a fresh Painted Lady at Dry Sandford Pit. Other species were Red Admiral, Comma, Peacock, Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood, Gatekeeper, Small Heath, Green- veined White, Large White, Brimstone, Brown Argus and Common Blue."

Silver-washed Fritillary Small Copper Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

~ 3rd August 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Otmoor, Oxon and Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon on 3rd August : "Despite the weather I saw a male Brown Hairstreak on Otmoor, also Meadow Brown, Green- veined White, Gatekeeper, Speckled Wood, Common Blue, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Ringlet (very worn) and Comma. Most of these were seen along the old roman road. At Whitecross Green Wood I saw Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Common Blue, Painted Lady, Small White, Silver-washed Fritillary (a very worn female) and Brown Argus."

Brown Hairstreak Painted Lady Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Neil Holman sent this news : "31st July: Janet and I visited Asham Meads, Oxon in bright sunshine and came across the following butterflies either on the track beside the meadow or in the meadow itself; 3 x Small Skipper, 2 x Brimstone, 5 x Large White, 4 x Small White, 1 x Green- veined white, 5 x Small Copper, 40+ Common Blue, 2 x Red Admiral, 4 x Comma, 15 x Gatekeeper, 50+ Meadow Brown, and posing in the grass a beautiful Brown Hairstreak." Small Copper Brown Hairstreak Photo © Neil Holman Photo © Neil Holman

More from John Lindley : "31st July: I visited Lardon Chase, Berks today. Despite the overcast and windy conditions, there were good numbers of butterflies. Chalk Hill Blues were common, I saw 40+, including around 10 females. Also 1 Small Copper, 2 Brown Argus, 1 Common Blue (a very "blue" and boldly marked Female - is this an aberration, or just a bright example?) [probably ab. apicata-thetis. David], 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Peacock, 50+ Meadow Brown and 2 Small Heath. No "Whites" of any description, despite seeing lots in the surrounding area."

Chalk Hill Blue ♂ Common Blue ♀ Photo © John Lindley Photo © John Lindley

John Lindley sent these sightings: "30th July: I visited Otmoor, Oxon today to look for Brown Hairstreaks. I saw two, including this very photogenic female. Also 10+ Green-veined White, 1 Brimstone (female), 1 Red Admiral, 1 Comma, 1 very battered Large Skipper, and 20+ Meadow Browns, Gatekeepers and Speckled Woods."

Brown Hairstreak Brown Hairstreak Photo © John Lindley Photo © John Lindley

Brian Hicks (BC member from North Norfolk) sent this news: "1st August: Aston Rowant, Oxon (southern section) am. 10+ Silver-spotted Skippers, 2 Chalk Hill Blues, several Brown Argus, 2 Common Blue, Small Copper, many Meadow Browns, and a worn and tired female Dark Green Fritillary which sat on my hand for several minutes. I think the wind and only short sunny spells kept numbers down here. Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon pm. Female Brown Hairstreak 100yds down main track on brambles on right for over 15mins. 3 Silver-washed Fritillaries (1 male, 2 female), 2 Common Blue plus usual woodland suspects."

~ 1st August 2017 ~

Nicholl Williams sent this news: "1st August: I went down to Spade Oak, near Little Marlow, Bucks today between the showers. I saw a single male Brimstone, 1 Peacock, 1 Red Admiral, 4 Commas, 1 Green-veined White, many Common Blues, but the interesting sighting for me was a single Clouded Yellow. This area last year had 6 at one time. I went to Yeosden Bank, Bucks last and saw the usual medley but what interested me was the number of Small Coppers (7). This was way more than I saw last year."

A Sawyer sent these sightings: "1st August: Observed on the buddleja in my garden ( Buckland, Oxon) in the space of around half an hour today were Red Admiral, Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Painted Lady, Small White, Brimstone, Meadow Brown and Small Copper."

Malcolm Brownsword send this report of the field trip to Oven Bottom on 30th July: "Eight members of the Upper Thames branch braved the weather forecast to attend our walk from the grain dryer at Aston Upthorpe Downs to the open access land (SSSI) at Oven Bottom at the western end of Grim’s Ditch, SU539832. Fortunately we only witnessed about 20 minutes of heavy rain, just before reaching Oven Bottom, and our decision to persevere was justified as it was sunny soon afterwards. We were rewarded with seeing 13 species of butterfly, many in good numbers. The first ‘hot spot’ was at the start of the right hand track running uphill just past the foot of Juniper Hill on our left. The principal species here were Meadow Brown, Common Blue and Gatekeeper, with a few Brown Argus and Chalk Hill Blues as well as a single Small Copper. Soon after we turned right at the dew pond onto Grim’s Ditch the rain started, so we sheltered under the pine trees close to our destination. As soon as the sun appeared we were pleased to see large numbers of butterflies. The totals I recorded for the day were as follows: 60+ Chalkhill Blues, 80+ Meadow Browns, 5 Large Whites, 15+ Gatekeepers, 5 Small Coppers, 40+ Common Blues, 2 Small Heath, 2 Red Admirals, 30+ Brown Argus, 1 Marbled White, 3 Green-veined Whites, 1 Comma and 1 Small Tortoiseshell (imago) plus 2 groups of its caterpillars. Amongst the day-flying moths seen were 6 Silver Y, a Large Yellow Underwing, a Dusky Sallow and a Straw Dot. Also of interest at Oven Bottom was a female Roesel’s Bush-cricket, many saddleback harvestmen (Mitopus morio), 2 Buzzards and several red kites. Amongst the flora at Oven Bottom we found two plants of the uncommon candytuft Iberis amara in flower."

~ 30th July 2017 ~

Sue Taylor sent this news: "29th July: Morning visit to College Lake, Bucks today produced 4 Chalkhill Blue and a Clouded Yellow, plus a few Small Blues. Lots of fresh Common Blue and Brown Argus. Rumour on site of White-letter Hairstreak but not seen by me."

Dave Cleal sent these sightings: "28th July: While mowing the sandspit at Little Marlow Gravel Pit, Bucks today the following sightings were made: 3 Clouded Yellows, 1 Painted Lady, 5 Common Blues, 2 Red Admirals, 4 Gatekeepers, 3 Large White."

Michael Hunt sent these sightings: "28th July: Seen on Buddleja in my garden in Buckingham, Bucks today were 4 Red Admirals, 1 Comma and 1 Large White."

~ 27th July 2017 ~

Toby Holmes sent this news: "27th July: A short walk at Ardley Quarry, Oxon, today yielded 1 Small Copper, 5 Brown Argus, 12 Common Blue, 2 Brimstone, 1 Large White, 1 Small White, 2 Green-veined White, 1 Red Admiral, 1 Small Tortoiseshell and 2 Small Skipper. Also many bees and hoverflies, and also moths including Mother-of-Pearl, Mint moth, Six-spot burnet and Shaded broad-bar."

Prem Roy sent these sightings: "These are my butterfly sightings from Lenborough, one mile south of Buckingham, Bucks. Small Tortoiseshell: Hundreds of caterpillars from second to final instar on the nettles, hopefully the second generation of adults will be good, maybe very good, the first adults were out at the weekend. Peacock: About 10 fresh adults on Verbena and Buddleja. Red Admiral: An excellent season, at least 20 adults flying with many caterpillars. The next generation again looks very promising. Painted Lady: one or two newly emerged adults, the migrants appeared as early as June, but quickly moved. Large, Small and Green-veined Whites all common, the broccoli is getting eaten! Ringlets have had an average year and the last few are still out. Gatekeeper: Below average and may even be at the end of their season, which seems very early. Holly blue: One Common Blue : one Marbled white: one Silver washed Fritillary : one male last week, the first ever here, fed on Buddleja and then moved on, it exists as a small colony in Round Wood about 3 miles away, I am sure it cannot establish here in Lenborough as although there are violets there is no real woodland. Essex Skipper. One two weeks ago. All in all quite a good season do far."

Neil Manthorpe sent this news: "25th July: Late afternoon visit to the Keep Hill Woods, High Wycombe, Bucks which find themselves next to the new Pinetrees housing development at Daws Hill - 9 Silver-washed Fritillaries flying around a bramble bush at the edge of the open picnic area."

Janine Dunn sent this sighting: "25th July: A Clouded Yellow settled briefly before flying off at speed across the meadow in Windsor Great Park West, Berks."

Clouded Yellow Photo © Janine Dunn

Margaret Bolton sent this sighting: "25th July: I saw a Small Copper today at Moorend Common, Bucks (SU802907), and think it must be the form caeruleopunctata."

Small Copper Photo © Margaret Bolton

~ 25th July 2017 ~

Graham and Bridget Elcombe sent this news: "25th July: On the path above the River Chess, west of Latimer, Bucks the Common Blue was living up to its name for once! After counting eight nectaring on one small clump of Marjoram, and then nine on another nearby , we began to see them everywhere. We gave up counting, but estimate that we must have seen about a hundred, in just a quarter of a mile or so." Don Stone sent this news: "23rd July: A Small Copper feeding on Marjoram was a 1st record for the garden today (Lee Common, Bucks), also many Meadow Browns, 4 Gatekeepers, 1 Comma, and a Red Admiral which will often come and land on my shirt when I walk through it's corner of the garden."

Meadow Brown Gatekeeper Small Copper Photo © Don Stone Photo © Don Stone Photo © Don Stone

Sarah Kettlewell sent this sighting: "23rd July: A female Purple Emperor, feeding on buddleia at Old School House, Over Norton, Oxon (SP316284)."

Purple Emperor Purple Emperor Photo © Sarah Kettlewell Photo © Sarah Kettlewell

~ 23rd July 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon on July 23rd: "Although the weather wasn't very good (cloudy and breezy) until about 2pm, I found five Silver-spotted Skippers, a dozen Chalk Hill Blues and five Dark Green Fritillaries on the south side of the reserve. The north side in the afternoon was much more productive, with 60+ Meadow Browns, 50+ Chalk Hill Blues, 40+ Common Blues, 5 Small Coppers and two Silver-spotted Skippers seen. Other species recorded were Large Skipper (very late!), Small Skipper, Brown Argus, Large White, Small White, Green- veined White, Brimstone, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Silver-washed Fritillary, Marbled White, Small Heath and Gatekeeper."

Silver-spotted Skipper Chalk Hill Blue Small Copper Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Stephen Jones sent this news: "23rd July: I spent an hour (10:00 - 11:00) wandering slowly around the main part of the BBOWT Grangelands, Bucks reserve. Weather started bright sunny/cloudy but by the end of the second half-hour the cloud built up to 100% cover, temperature was 13-14°C and it was quite breezy. I saw 29 Chalk Hill Blues, mostly around the top end of the reserve just under Pulpit Hill/Woods; also 1 Comma, 3 Gatekeepers, 9 Common Blues, 9 Meadow Browns, 1 Silver-spotter Skipper, 3 Ringlets, 2 Brown Argus and 1 Green-veined White."

Silver-spotted Skipper Photo © Stephen Jones

~ 20th July 2017 ~

Paul McCullen sent this sighting: "20th July: I spotted a female Purple Emperor in my garden in Compton, Berks this evening, under one of our oak trees."

Grayling Photo © Mark Jones

Mark Jones sent this news: "18th July: Great to see a good number of Grayling today on Greenham Common, Berks, particularly in the area cited previously (SU491648). Also on that day at Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon, 4 Small Copper, 2 Silver-spotted Skipper. Really thrilled that a couple of Grayling allowed a macro photo."

Grayling Grayling Photo © Mark Jones Photo © Mark Jones

John Holdbrook sent these sightings: "On 17th July I walked round Astons Eyot, Oxon, a small nature reserve in Oxford between the Iffley road and the river Thames (SP525050). The most numerous butterflies were Meadow Browns, Gatekeepers and Commas. I also saw several Small Skippers, Common Blues, Ringlets, Small Whites and Peacocks and single sightings of Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Brimstone, Large Skipper and Small Tortoiseshell. On July 18th I visited the Bald Hill side of Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon . Here there were large numbers of male Chalkhill Blues and I saw a few females, a lot of Meadow Browns and Gatekeepers and 20 or so Brimstones mostly nectaring on Wild Marjoram. I saw several Six-spot Burnet moths and Large Whites, 2 Brown Argus, 2 Marbled Whites, a Peacock and a Small Copper. There were a few Common Blues in the reserve, but most were on the Ridgeway path especially around the mud of a puddle which was drying up. Also by the Ridgeway I had a good view of a Painted Lady nectaring on Knapweed." Alan Adkins sent these sightings: "17th July: A survey of the Chiltern Open Air Museum, nr Chalfont St Giles, Bucks for butterflies resulted in 19 species. This proved to be a very good SWF site. Large White, Small White, Ringlet, Marbled White (1), Green-veined white (1), Purple Hairstreak (1), Brimstone (1), Essex and Small Skipper , Painted Lady (1) , Small Copper (3) , Specked Wood (4), Common Blue (4), Comma (4), Peacock (5), Red Admiral (6), Gatekeeper (20), Meadow Brown (45), Silver-washed Fritillary (28)."

Brimstone Silver-washed Fritillaries Silver-washed Fritillary Photo © Alan Adkins Photo © Alan Adkins Photo © Alan Adkins

~ 18th July 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Greenham Common and Fence Wood, Berks on 18th July: "In 1½ hours at Greenham Common I found eight Grayling, in the area south-west of the old control tower (at about SU493648). Gatekeeper and Common Blue were quite numerous. Other species seen were Holly Blue, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Small Copper, Large White, Brimstone and Red Admiral. At Fence Wood (SU511707) I counted at least fifteen Brimstones feeding on Betony flowers. There were still a few Silver-washed Fritillaries and Ringlets about, also Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Large White, Red Admiral, Comma, Speckled Wood, Green-veined White, Small White and Marbled White."

Grayling Brimstone Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Chris Bottrell sent this sighting: "18th July: A Brown Hairstreak was found at midday today in Merton Wood, Oxon (SP585178). It was drinking from thistles, and although fresh already appears to have lost one antenna!"

Brown Hairstreak Photo © Chris Bottrell

David Fuller sent this news: "17th July: Andrew Padmore and myself choose this evening to count the Purple Hairstreak at Maidenhead Thicket, Berks at 6pm but the sun was covered by cloud and was therefore very hazy. We only saw 3 Purple Hairstreak and a single White-letter Hairstreak plus single Small Skipper, Ringlet, and Red Admiral, and 3 Comma."

Chris Brown sent these sightings: "12th July: Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795): Large Skipper 2, Large White 2, Green-veined White 2, Holly Blue 1, Red Admiral 2, Peacock 1, Comma 11, Silver-washed Fritilliary 26 (includes 1 courting pair display), Gatekeeper 7, Meadow Brown 5, Ringlet 19. 16th July: Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU713794): Small Skipper 41, Essex Skipper 1, Large Skipper 1, Large White 1, Green-veined White 1, Small Copper 54, Brown Argus 3, Common Blue 17, Red Admiral 1, Comma 3, Marbled White 2, Gatekeeper 142, Meadow Brown 43, Ringlet 3, Forester Moth 2. 13th July: Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU713794): Small Skipper 60, Essex Skipper 2, Small White 3, Small Copper 32, Brown Argus 1, Common Blue 2, Red Admiral 1, Marbled White 2, Gatekeeper 149, Meadow Brown 39, Ringlet 1, Forester Moth 2. 10th July: Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU713794): Small Skipper 153, Essex Skipper 2, Large White 2, Small Copper 16, Brown Argus 1, Common Blue 1, Comma 1, Marbled White 12, Gatekeeper 67, Meadow Brown 24, Ringlet 2, Forester Moth 2. 7th July: Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU713794): Small Skipper 144, Essex Skipper 2, Large White 1, Small White 1, Small Copper 15, Brown Argus 1, Marbled White 25, Gatekeeper 31, Meadow Brown 14, Ringlet 2, Forester Moth 5. 4th July: Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU713794): Small Skipper 117, Essex Skipper 4, Large Skipper 1, Large White 2, Small White 1, Small Copper 10, Small Tortoiseshell 2, Marbled White 67, Gatekeeper 11, Meadow Brown 39, Ringlet 22, Forester Moth 8."

Michael McNeill sent this news: "17th July: A further visit to Moor Copse, West Berks BBOWT reserve on a very warm sunny day. Unfortunately the wild flower meadows had been mown the previous day and the oceans of purple Knapweed, apart from small areas around the perimeters, had gone. Hopefully they know what they are doing. Consequently, the butterfly numbers were considerably down compared to my recent visit in late June. In spite of this there were reasonable numbers of both Large and Small Skippers, Gatekeeper and Meadow Brown but only small numbers of Marbled White, Comma, Ringlet, Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Common Blue (1) and Small Copper (6). I also saw one Painted Lady nectaring on Knapweed. In the wooded areas I found 9 Silver-washed Fritillary."

Dennis Dell sent this report of the field meetings in Bernwood Forest on 15th and 16th July: "Regardless of what the weather would be like, I was not optimistic, because the Purple Emperor was very early this year: the peak was during the 3rd week in June, so by mid July very few would be still flying. On Saturday the weather was awful in the morning: drizzle and 15 degrees. Five brave souls turned up. We walked along the main track for about one hour, saw a Ringlet or two and then gave up. Sunday was a lot better: no sun to start with, but 22 degrees and little wind. Fourteen participants turned up, only one of whom had never seen iris. It is often the case that iris appears fleetingly in view for a few seconds in the tree tops and then disappears; this is frustrating because you cannot be 100% sure that you have seen iris. This happened in Yorks Wood and Hell Coppice. Then at the northern end of Waterperry Wood, the sun came out at 12.30 and we all saw a big female alight on blackthorn immediately after we passed through the entrance gate. She treated us to a wonderful display of gliding low around the trees in the vicinity. So, only one definite sighting and two probables in 3 hours confirms that the season is nearly finished. The first was seen on June 17th, which makes one month for the flight season: it usually lasts for 5 to 6 weeks. Other species: Red Admiral, Silver Washed Fritillary (numerous), Purple Hairstreak, Large White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small white, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Brimstone, Essex Skipper, Speckled Wood, Comma, White Admiral."

~ 16th July 2017 ~ Barry Stickland sent this sighting: "16th July: This morning a Purple Hairstreak briefly left the Oak Tree and rested on the Laurel Hedge at our garden in Finchampstead, Berks (SU769631)."

Purple Hairstreak Photo © Barry Stickland

Terry and Judy Wood sent this news: "14th July: We were very pleased and surprised to discover a nectaring White-letter Hairstreak in the garden in Little Chalfont, Bucks (SU995981) today. We guess the WLH must have come up from the Chess Valley as the wind was blowing from that direction. Is a colony known in the Latimer area? Also of note was a Silver-washed Fritillary visiting the garden on the 4th, 5th and 6th July."

White-letter Hairstreak White-letter Hairstreak Photo © Terry Wood Photo © Terry Wood

Margaret Bolton sent this sighting: "13th July: My first sighting of Brown Argus at Moorend Common, nr. Lane End, Bucks this year (SU802904)."

Brown Argus Photo © Margaret Bolton

~ 15th July 2017 ~

Michael McNeill sent this news: "14th July: Lardon Chase, West Berks. Warm but overcast with a northerly breeze. 144 Chalk Hill Blue butterflies (with a small number of females) seen in a 45 minute walk across the lower slopes of Lardon Chase. A quick visit through the top gate to the north facing Lough Down, where it was cooler in a stiffer breeze produced only three Chalk Hill Blues. Other species included small numbers of Common Blue, Marbled White and Meadow Brown."

Barry Stickland sent this sighting: "14th July: A Silver-Washed Fritillary returned to the Buddleia Bush in our garden at Finchampstead, Berks." Silver-washed Fritillary Photo © Barry Stickland

Mark Griffiths sent this sighting: "14th July: Among the usual fare in my Garsington, Oxon garden (SP5802602384) I saw a female Silver-washed Fritillary sitting on the patio table - no photo unfortunately. I wonder where it wandered in from?"

~ 13th July 2017 ~

Philip & Frances Skinner sent this sighting: "9th July: We had a surprise visit from a female Silver-washed Fritillary in our suburban Harwell, Oxon garden. There is no woodland anywhere near us."

Silver-washed Fritillary Photo © Philip Skinner

Dave Cleal sent this news: "10th July: In Cliveden Woods, Berks today I saw a lone Silver- washed Fritillary. I don't recall seeing this species in this location before. This morning (12th July) a walk along the causeway at Dorney Lakes, Berks produced 4 pristine male Common Blues and one female, 1 Essex Skipper, 1 Red Admiral & 1 Large White."

Common Blue Common Blue Photo © Dave Cleal Photo © Dave Cleal

Peter Edwards sent these sightings: "6th July: A brisk stroll around Lily Hill Park, Bracknell, Berks (SU888692) between 4-5pm today - Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Large White, Small White, Comma, Large Skipper and Speckled Wood. Numbers seemed disappointingly small for a large park; most numerous were Speckled Woods in the NE corner of the park. 8th July: An Essex Skipper visited one of the hanging baskets in our garden in Bracknell, Berks (SU851666)."

~ 11th July 2017 ~ Barry Stickland sent these sightings: "10th July: In the afternoon a Silver-washed Fritillary visited the Buddleia bush in our garden at Finchampstead, Berks. Not long after it left a Humming- Bird Hawk-Moth arrived and spent several minutes feeding from flower to flower."

Andrew Lumbard sent this news: "9th July: I walked through the bottom of Greatsea & Romer woods, just south of the Claydons, Bucks. The most prominent, in fact the only species in there was the Silver-washed Fritillary, some 20+ including a valezina. Further along the bridleway my access to the footpath at Sheephouse Wood, to the railway was blocked, so I continued on, and cut through Sheephouse Wood itself along the open rides. I’d say every species available was on the wing on the rides. A mating valezia, Small Tortoishell, m & f Brimstone, Small & Large Skipper, Marbled White, Small & Large White, Peacock, Red Admiral, Ringlet, Meadow Brown and Gatekeeper."

Richard Hicks sent these sightings: "9th July: At around 4.00pm I had c.20 sightings of Purple Emperors on Moorend Common, Lane End, Bucks over a combined period of about 1 hour. Difficult to say the numbers of individual butterflies as they were all high in the trees but on both occasions I saw 2 in the air sparring and once seeing off a hawker dragonfly. Lots of activity and all focused around a number of large oaks. I also saw a number of Purple Hairstreaks in the same trees as the Purple Emperors along with 3 or 4 Silver-washed Fritillaries on each visit. Many Ringlets, Meadow Browns and Marbled Whites, Commas f. hutchinsoni also spotted."

Peter Daltry sent this sighting: "10th July: A pristine female Purple Emperor spent a short time investigating a sallow in my garden in Prestwood, Bucks (SU869991) today. A new species for the garden."

Mick Jones sent this news: "9th July: Our work party at Dancersend, Bucks today was was enlivened by sightings of two Purple Emperors - a female by the car park at the western corner of Bittams Wood and a male flying around the southern edge of Anthill. Purple Hairstreak and White- letter Hairstreak have also been seen over the last few days as well as many Silver-washed Fritillaries."

Jean-Paul Brouard sent these sightings: "9th July: I went for a morning walk at Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon (SU725970) in search of a possible early emergence of Silver-spotted Skippers. I had some success with one male, possibly two. I also recorded Small Skipper (10+), Essex Skipper (30+), Large Skipper (1), Large White (few), Small White (5+), Brimstone (3), Small Heath (10), Meadow Brown (common), Gatekeeper (5), Marbled White (20+), Red Admiral (2), Painted Lady (1), Comma (2), Small Tortoiseshell (3), Small Copper (6), Brown Argus (4), Common Blue (3), Chalk Hill Blue (40+ males)."

Silver-spotted Skipper Small Copper Chalk Hill Blue Photo © Jean-Paul Brouard Photo © Jean-Paul Brouard Photo © Jean-Paul Brouard

~ 9th July 2017 ~

Richard Wheeler sent this news: "8th/9th July: Dozens of butterflies about during our annual family camping trip to White Horse Hill, Uffington, Oxon (SU302869 etc.) over the weekend. Weather hot and sunny (c.25°C), and 18 species seen: Painted Lady, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Chalk Hill Blue, Comma, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small Skipper, Large White, Small White, Green-veined White, Brown Argus, Peacock and a dashing fly-past of what I’m fairly certain was a Dark-greened Fritillary (I’ve seen them here before). Marbled White strikingly abundant (many fresh) and plenty of fresh Gatekeeper. Chalk Hill Blue hadn’t quite got going (perhaps c.10 across the two days)."

Brown Argus Marbled White Photo © Richard Wheeler Photo © Richard Wheeler

Andrew Cornick sent this sightings: "9th July: 12 - 15 Grayling seen at Greenham Common, Berks between 0900 - 1100. 22°C, light wind.The biggest concentration was around SU491648. Also good number of Gatekeepers out."

Grayling Photo © Andrew Cornick

David Hastings visited Aston Upthorpe Downs, Oxon on 8th July : "There were dozens of Meadow Browns, Gatekeepers, Ringlets and Marbled Whites feeding on flowers. My target species was the Chalk Hill Blue, of which I only saw two. Other lycaenids seen were four Common Blues and three Small Coppers. I saw my first summer-brood Peacocks and Brimstones. Comma, Small Tortoiseshell and Small Heath counts were in double figures. Altogether I saw nineteen species in two-and-a-half hours."

Chalk Hill Blue Small Copper Brimstone Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Lesley Sims sent this sighting: "7th July: I saw a female Purple Emperor in our garden in Mill Street, Kidlington, Oxon (SP497141) today."

Paul Bowyer sent this report of the trip to Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks on 6th July: "7 UTB members met at the Ivinghoe Beacon car park at OS reference SP963160, our target species was the Dark Green Fritillary. It was hot and thankfully breezy. We found them but they were very active and the best way to see them was to stand still and wait for them to move closer to us. 4 were found on Steps Hill and another 4 were recorded in seperate locations on our way back round to the car park. There were plenty of other butterflies seen :- Silver Washed Fritillary, Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Marbled White, Small Heath, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small White and Brimstone. Thanks to Paul Huckle for his energy and Sheila for the cherries."

David Fuller sent this news: "8th July: I was asked to stand in and lead the Maidenhead Thicket, Berks (SU855806) trip this morning for Wild Maidenhead. Species seen were Red Admiral 2, Peacock 1, Large Skipper 3, Small Skipper 1, Essex Skipper 2, Small White 12, Large White 1, Brimstone 1 female, Green-veined White 2, Brown Argus 1, Common Blue 1, Gatekeeper 1, Meadow Brown 21, Ringlet 25, Comma 4, Speckled Wood 2, Marbled White 2 (one eaten by Emperor Dragonfly), Small Copper 1, Purple Hairstreak 3, White-letter Hairstreak 4, Silver-washed Fritillary 11 males, 10 females and 22 unknown gender (43 total). Total number of species seen was 21."

Nicholl Williams sent this news: "7th July: I had some spare time for a change and went down to one of my favourite places, near Lane End, Bucks. As I walked down the rides in the woods towards the downland area, I saw many hundreds of Meadow Browns, several Speckled Woods, Marbled Whites, Ringlets, 1 Brimstone, 24 Silver-washed Fritillaries."

Silver-washed Fritillary Silver-washed Fritillaries Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams

Pete Thompson sent this news: "7th July: Today I was exploring a blank tetrad (SU6282) in my 10K square. Along with 10 other 'new' species for this atlas period (Small, Large & Essex Skippers, Green-veined and Small White, Small Tortoiseshell, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Gatekeeper and Marbled White, I was amazed to find a White-letter Hairstreak in the undergrowth, close to a large old hedge between arable fields, with no elm anywhere to be seen. Looking at the old atlases, this is the first sighting anywhere near here, with only a couple of records in the whole 10k square, and not for some years. This was near Woodcote, Oxon at SU 63323 83926."

Michael McNeill sent these sightings: "7th July: A visit to Moor Copse, West Berks produced excellent sightings of summer butterflies, although I calculate that numbers were down by 25% of those seen on my last visit on 28th June. Particularly satisfying were sightings of around 19 Silver- washed Fritillary, minus perhaps two or three for duplications. Sightings were over three particular areas within the woodland areas of the Copse. In any event, a good number, exceeding the maximum of 6 that I have seen on any one occasion in previous years."

Dave Cleal sent this news: "6th July: I visited Holtspur Bottom, Bucks in the afternoon, best sightings were 1 Small Heath by the entrance gate, which I managed to get a dodgy in flight photo of. A nice Red Admiral & 5 Gatekeepers all along the top path. At Hodgemoor Wood patience finally rewarded me with a White Admiral, also two Fritillaries noted but not to species level."

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Maidenhead Thicket, Berks (SU855806): 5th July: 35 Silver-washed Fritillary, 2 White Admiral, 3 White-letter Hairstreak, 9 Comma, 5 Red Admiral, several Small, Essex and Large Skippers. 6th July: 21 Marbled White. 7th July: 33 Silver-washed Fritillary, 2 White Admiral."

~ 6th July 2017 ~

Peter Cuss sent this news: "6th July: I found four White-letter Hairstreak today each on a different elm along the Thames towpath at Sonning, Berks, starting at the lock (SU752754) and walking along the path towards Reading. This was a good sight for WLH in the 70's and I would see them regularly. Dutch elm disease destroyed many of the elms here and in the 1980's the woodland along the towpath edge was cut right back and the WLH's disappeared. Some of the elm has now grown back to a good size and I have been checking them on a regular basis over the last few years without luck, but delighted to see WLHs back again now."

Andy Hoskins sent this news: "6th July: I visited Finemere Wood, Bucks today between 10:30 and 13:00. It was 28°C, light showers then full sun. Again there were many Meadow Browns and Ringlets and many more Marbled Whites than 2 days ago along all the paths, 2 Small Tortoiseshell, 4 Commas, 1 Brimstone, 10s of both Large and Small Skippers, 20+ Silver Washed Fritillary along the main ride, 9 Gatekeepers, and 2 White Admirals at the top of the ride and a male Purple Emperor flitting around the oaks and sitting in a Poplar on the ride opposite the tall pines. I also saw 7 Purple Hairstreaks and a couple of Small/GV Whites, and there were a few Hawker Dragonflies about."

Silver-washed Fritillary Large Skipper Photo © Andy Hoskins Photo © Andy Hoskins

Michael McNeill sent this news: "Butterfly sightings in my garden in Upper Basildon, Berks (SU590767), for the week ending 4th July: A hot sunny day in my garden produced good numbers of summer butterflies, Meadow Brown, Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, plus small numbers of Large and Small White, Skippers (both Large and Small), Brimstone, Red Admiral, Peacock, Marbled White (1), Ringlet. Also, 1 male Silver-washed Fritillary, 1 White Admiral, a daily Hummingbird- Hawkmoth and 1 Dark Green Fritillary in late June."

Silver-washed Fritillary White Admiral Hummingbird-Hawkmoth Photo © Michael McNeill Photo © Michael McNeill Photo © Michael McNeill

Andrew Cornick sent these sightings: "6th July: Seven Barrows, Lambourn, Berks, 8am - 9.30am. Warm, bright morning at Seven Barrows. 100's of Marbled Whites, 2 Small Heaths, a few Small Skippers and Meadow Browns. But disappointingly no Chalk Hill Blues." Small Heath Photo © Andrew Cornick

Dave Cleal sent this news: "5th July: A walk around Woolman’s Wood, Hedsor, Bucks (SU913865) today produced 1 Holly Blue , 3 Commas 1 Red Admiral & 4 Silver-washed Fritillarys, with Meadow Browns & Ringlets in profusion. Within the grounds of our house just north of Burnham, Bucks within the last week have been 2 Red Admirals, Holly Blue, 2 Commas, 2 Small Tortoiseshell, Speckled Wood & 8 or 9 Purple Hairstreaks around the top of some substantial Oaks along the property boundary."

Peter Cuss sent these sightings: "5th July: Spent the morning at Maidenhead Thicket, Berks. Saw two White-letter Hairstreak. One at SU852810 and one at SU850 808. Also good numbers of Silver-washed Fritillary, three Purple Hairstreak and two White Admiral. In the afternoon visited the meadow above Bottom Farm, Oxon (SU670779), as well as the usual suspects in the meadow I saw my first Chalk Hill Blues of the season, 5 males. "

Wendy Wilson sent this report of the walk round Iver, Bucks (TQ038816): "1st July: Seventeen people turned up hoping to see White-letter Hairstreaks. Sadly the sun never appeared and neither did our target species. This was disappointing as they are often seen here. However, we saw plenty of butterflies – numerous Meadow Brown, Ringlet and Small Skipper, several Marbled White, Gatekeeper, Essex Skipper and Speckled Wood, also one or two Comma, Green- veined White and Red Admiral."

Mark Griffiths sent these sightings: "5th July: Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon. My main target was Dark Green Fritillary - plenty of sightings but how many individuals? I saw 3 together but got the feeling there weren't that many more - 5 or 6 max. Other highlight was two male Chalk Hill Blues and a Small Copper. There were a few Gatekeepers, lots of Meadow Browns, Ringlets, Marbled Whites and Small/Essex Skipper. Small Tortoiseshells were out in force, also about 6 Commas and Red Admirals with one Peacock. About 10 Large Whites and 4 Brimstones."

Chalk Hill Blue Photo © Mark Griffiths

~ 5th July 2017 ~

Andy Hoskins sent this news: "4th July: I visited Finemere Wood, Bucks today between 11:00 and 12:00. It was 20°C, cloudy with some sun. I was greeted by a Painted Lady just inside the gate by the road, and then saw very many Meadow Browns and Ringlets, around 30 Marbled Whites, 7 Small Tortoiseshell, 10s of both Large and Small Skippers, 3 Silver Washed Fritillary near the tall pines at the top of the main ride, and 5 Gatekeepers. " Painted Lady Gatekeeper Photo © Andy Hoskins Photo © Andy Hoskins

Graham Elcombe sent these sightings: "4th July: Homefield Wood, Bucks. At least twenty Silver-washed Fritillaries, in just a few hundred yards along the main track; and almost as many Commas, all looking very fresh."

Jean-Paul Brouard sent this news: "3rd July: I went for an evening walk at the Holies near Streatley, Berks (SU585801). I recorded Large Skipper (1), Small Skipper (4), Large White (4), Green-veined White (1), Speckled Wood (1), Ringlets (6), Meadow Brown (+100), Gatekeeper (3), Marbled White (+50), Silver-washed Fritillary (4), Red Admiral (1), Comma (4), Chalk Hill Blue (+15 males). One Chalk Hill Blue was predated by an Assassin Fly."

Chalk Hill Blue Silver-washed Fritillary Small Skipper ab. intermedia Photo © Jean-Paul Brouard Photo © Jean-Paul Brouard Photo © Jean-Paul Brouard

James Ford sent this sighting: "4th July: In my back garden, adjacent to Buttlers Hangings, West Wycombe, I was delighted to see a White-letter Hairstreak on my Daisies. First record for me at this location."

White-letter Hairstreak Photo © James Ford

John Amatt sent this news: "4th July: I arrived at Hodgemoor Wood, near Beaconsfield, Bucks (SU965939) via the Beaconsfield end of Bottrells Lane, where there is some open ground to the right of the road, just after the first gate. In the first oak there were Purple Hairstreaks, and in the grass round-about, good numbers of Ringlet, Meadow Brown, and Marbled White, and I saw my fist Gatekeepers of the year. Skippers included Essex Skipper, Small Skipper and Large Skipper, and there were four or five Silver-washed Fritillary in this area and in the open space opposite the car park. Finally, a couple of White Admirals were also seen, and a few Five-Spot Burnets. There were probably Speckled Wood and a Green-veined White, but I’m afraid to say, I didn’t pay them much attention." Peter Cuss sent this report of the field meeting at Great Chalk Wood, Oxon: "4th July: Fourteen of us enjoyed the field trip today to Great Chalk Wood (SU622803). Warm but fairly cloudy. The White-letter Hairstreaks we were hoping to see proved elusive. We did manage to see Small Tortoiseshell, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Marbled White, Gatekeeper, Small and Essex Skipper, Painted Lady, Large, Small and Green-veined White, Brimstone, Red Admiral, Silver washed Fritillary, Peacock, Comma, Speckled Wood, Small Copper as well as Six-spot Burnet, Silver Y and larvae of Cinnabar and Mullein moths."

Richard Wheeler and Abby Fettes sent this news : "4th July: We visited North Leigh Common, Oxon (SP400136) for 20 minutes at lunchtime today. Weather warm with cloud (c.22°C). Plenty of butterflies about including Meadow Brown (numerous), Ringlet (several), Marbled White (2), Essex Skipper (3), Small Skipper (1), Common Blue (1), Comma (2), Small Tortoiseshell (1) and Silver- washed Fritillary (3)."

Tony Croft sent this sighting : "3rd July: In all the time I have been working at and visiting Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon, I’ve never seen White-letter Hairstreaks there until this year. It just goes to show that the tiniest clump of elms can support a small colony."

White-letter Hairstreak Photo © Tony Croft

Simon Fenner sent this news : "1st/2nd July: I spent some time in Bernwood Forest, Bucks on these two days, and enjoyed sightings of White Admiral (2), Purple Emperor (5), Silver-washed Fritillary etc.(25+). There was a magical moment on Sat morning as I looked up at the oaks in the carpark – as the sun broke through, there must have been 50 Purple Hairstreaks suddenly in the air wheeling and tumbling. What also struck me were the number of Purple Hairstreaks that came to ground – about a dozen across the 2 days, including these 2 specimens on the main ride near the car park (SP612113)."

Purple Hairstreak Purple Hairstreak Photo © Simon Fenner Photo © Simon Fenner

Chris Brown sent these sightings : "Crowsley Wood, Sonning Common, Oxon (SU735795): 23rd June: Large Skipper 6, Red Admiral 7, Small Tortoiseshell 1, Comma 12, Silver-washed Fritilliary 7, Speckled Wood 2, Meadow Brown 42, Ringlet 61. 3rd July: Large Skipper 2, Green-veined White 1, Holly Blue 2, Red Admiral 1, Small Tortoiseshell 1, Peacock 1, Comma 17, Silver-washed Fritilliary 33 (includes 1 mating pair and 3 courting displays), Speckled Wood 1, Marbled White 1, Gatekeeper 1, Meadow Brown 21, Ringlet 37, White Admiral 3. Millennium Green, Sonning Common, Oxfordshire (SU713794): 26th June: Small Skipper 75, Essex Skipper 2, Small Tortoiseshell 1, Marbled White 173, Meadow Brown 50, Ringlet 21, Forester Moth 9. 1st July: Small Skipper 51, Essex Skipper 2, Small Copper 2, Comma 1, Marbled White 98, Gatekeeper 8, Meadow Brown 42, Ringlet 6, Forester Moth 16. "

Andrew Cornick sent this news : "2nd July: Late afternoon (15:00-18:00) walk around Bernwood Forest, Bucks turned out to be a real treat! 5 white admirals, 23 Silver-washed Fritillaries, including 2 pairs, and 18 Purple Hairstreaks. As well as several flying in the tree tops a number were coming down. 2 were settling around the muddy pond and upto 5 on the grass by the car park from 5pm."

Purple Hairstreak Photo © Andrew Cornick

~ 3rd July 2017 ~

Richard Tyler sent this sighting : "2nd July: I saw a Silver-washed Fritillary of form valezina in Oakley Wood, Bucks today. It is a shame she had a piece missing out of one hind wing."

Silver-washed Fritillary Photo © Richard Tyler

The following was received from Peter Cuss: "2nd July: I was at Homefield Woods, Bucks, today and can report 2 White-letter Hairstreak, one at SU812870, the other at SU813868. Also good numbers of Silver-washed Fritillary (including a Valezina), Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, a few Small and Large Skippers, Comma and a single Red Admiral. In the afternoon I dropped in at some elms I wanted to check for White-letter Hairstreak and had success with three at roadside elms at turning to Broad Platt, Oxon (SU731836) and one on an exceptionally large elm on the bridleway off Rocky Lane, Oxon (SU716838)."

Michael and Diane Hunt sent these sightings : "2nd July: Seen at the Coombs reserve nr Padbury, Bucks (SP734324) were good numbers of Meadow Browns and Ringlets, also 4 Gatekeepers, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 10 Marbled Whites, 5 Small Skippers, 3 Large Skippers, 2 Speckled Woods, 8 Commas, 1 Silver-washed Fritillary, 2 Large Whites, 1 Small White."

Ian Brazier sent this news :: "1st July: During a visit to Little Linford Wood, Bucks (SP831454) today I had numerous sightings of Purple Emperors, a place I had not seen them before."

Don Stone sent these sightings : "1st July: 5 Ringlets, 1 Comma & 1 Meadow Brown in our garden in Lee Common, Bucks today."

~ 1st July 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Waterperry Wood, Oxon on 1st July : "Rather limited sunshine this morning but I saw at least ten Purple Hairstreaks, four Purple Emperors and five Silver-washed Fritillaries here, all along the track near the north edge of the wood. Ringlets were very numerous here. Then at Bernwood Forest, Bucks I saw at least twenty Silver-washed Fritillaries, one Purple Emperor (near the car park) and three White Admirals. Finally at Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon the sun came out and I saw over twenty Silver-washed Fritillaries, six Purple Hairstreaks, seven Commas and my first Gatekeeper of the year."

Purple Hairstreak Silver-washed Fritillary Gatekeeper Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

~27th June 2017 ~

John Holdbrook sent this news : "26th June: I walked round Brasenose Wood, Oxon (SP560055) and the adjoining field by the Eastern By-pass. In the field were large numbers of Marbled Whites. Meadow Browns and Ringlets in their hundreds were also in clearings in the wood. I also saw 3 Commas, a Small Tortoiseshell and a number of Skippers, one which settled was a Small Skipper. In the wood I saw up to 20 Silver-washed Fritillaries, some of which were nectaring on a Bramble in a clearing. This also attracted a White Admiral, which settled for a few minutes right in front of me."

White Admiral Photo © John Holdbrook

Dave Cleal sent these sightings : "26th June: I visited Springfield Landfill today, just north of Odds Farm Park and south of Beaconsfield on Wooburn Common. Meadow Browns in profusion, several Ringlets, c. 30 Small Tortiseshell (definitely making a comeback here). All Skippers identified were Small and I noted about 15. 10 Marbled Whites, 1 Red Admiral. Star of the show was a Hummingbird-hawkmoth nectaring halfway along the old track, which promptly disappeared at the sight of my camera."

Michael McNeill sent this news : "26th June: A visit to Moor Copse near Englefield, West Berks on a warm sunny day with little wind witnessed large numbers of summer butterflies. Meadow Brown, Ringlet and Marbled White (100+ of each), Small Skipper 25+, Large Skipper 10, Small Tortoiseshell 10, Comma 20+, Speckled Wood 1, Large White 3, Red Admiral 2 and Silver-washed Fritillary 6. Also, Six-spot Burnet 1 and Scarlet Tiger Moth 3. Probably the largest number of butterflies seen at this location by me in 5 years."

Marbled White Silver-washed Fritillary Small Tortoiseshell Photo © Michael McNeill Photo © Michael McNeill Photo © Michael McNeill

Nick Board sent these sightings : "26th June: Purple Emperors are out and about in North Bucks, and these two Commas were enjoying breakfast."

Purple Emperor Comma Photo © Nick Board Photo © Nick Board

~25th June 2017 ~

Andy Coates sent this news : "Waterperry Wood, Oxon, 25th June: Surrounded by hundreds of Ringlet, 10s of Meadow Browns and Large Skippers, the odd Small White and Marbled White, several Comma plus 6 Purple Emperor, plenty of Purple Hairstreak high in the oaks, 5 Silver Washed Fritillary and very happy to visit a roadside Elm on the way home that I had found in the spring and have 3 seedlings from, to find a small White Letter Hairstreak colony. Lovely morning!

Purple Emperor Purple Hairstreak White-letter Hairstreak Photo © Andy Coates Photo © Andy Coates Photo © Andy Coates

Dennis Dell sent this news : "Finemere Wood, Bucks, June 23rd: Six Purple Emperors were seen along the long west to east grassy ride which starts from the main track just past the new car park by the entrance to the wood. They were engaged mainly in flying around, and perching on, the tops of Oak trees. Three more were seen at the established territory in the open area just south of the turning circle. As usual, the Corsican Pines were the main attraction, although they also spent time flying around the neighbouring Oaks and Sallows."

David Hastings visited Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon on 24th June : "Although it was breezy with limited amount of sunshine, there was still a lot of butterfly activity. On the north side there were many Marbled Whites, and Meadow Browns, also Large and Small Skippers, Ringlets, Small Tortoiseshells, Commas, Red Admirals and a Painted Lady. I was unable to find any Dark Green Fritillaries on Beacon Hill, but when I started looking on Bald Hill I found some almost immediately, even though it was much more exposed to the wind. I also saw a Silver-washed Fritillary in the trees at the bottom of the hill."

Dark Green Fritillary Marbled White Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

~23rd June 2017 ~

Robin Dryden sent these sightings : "On June 21st I visited the traditional site of Broadmoor Bottom, Berks (BBOWT reserve) and found a solitary male Silver-studded Blue in the area of young heather on the slope. The only other butterflies were large numbers of Meadow Brown. More excitingly, today (June 23rd) I visited Crowthorne Wood, Berks and found another male Silver-studded Blue in heather beside the path at SU854649. I have not seen one here before and am not aware of sightings from here previously. Hopefully they are spreading from Wildmoor Heath. Other species recorded were singles of Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell, a few Meadow Brown and large numbers of Ringlet and Large Skipper."

Nils Beaven sent these sightings : "I went with my brother Lars to Homefield Wood, Bucks on the afternoon of June 21st to see if I could find a Dark-Green Fritillary. Both the woodland rides and in the meadow were buzzing with insects of all kinds – including a few Silver-Washed Fritillaries. In the meadow area there were dozens of Marbled Whites and a few very active Large Skippers and Small Heaths which were all very preoccupied nectaring desperately – and occasionally a pristine Dark Green Fritillary or two would turn up."

Silver-washed Fritillary Dark Green Fritillary Photo © Nils Beaven Photo © Nils Beaven

Adam Bassett sent this news : "I saw my 1st Silver-washed Fritillary of the year in my garden in Marlow Bottom, Bucks on June 14th, with several sightings since. There has been a small population here for some years. More exciting was a White Admiral on June 20th that flew through the garden. The first I have ever seen here and the 25th species for the garden list. I'm not sure where the nearest known population of these are to me. On June 20th I also paid a brief visit to Homefield Wood, Bucks, though didn't venture beyond the main entrance to the ride and the orchid meadow. There were Silver-washed Fritillaries flying up and down the ride, probably 2 or 3 and quite a few Marbled Whites in the meadow. However, just past the main group of firs by the car park, I had a frustrating view of either a White Admiral or a Purple Emperor. I saw it drop into the tops of a small patch of broad leaved trees, but could only see a tiny portion of its hind wing at rest (chestnut brown and white). It then flew out of sight and I didn't see it again. I did a quick search of the archive from the last few years but could find no record of White Admiral from this site and just one record of Purple Emperor."

Elizabeth Debenham sent these sightings : "This afternoon, 22nd June, around 6pm I was in the garden at Chenies Manor Bucks (TQ016984) when a (probable) Silver-washed Fritillary landed on dark purple petunias and zoomed away as fast as it arrived. There were also a few Small Tortoiseshells on the wild flower border along the main drive from the Amersham road."

Elizabeth Debenham sent these sightings : "This afternoon, 22nd June, around 6pm I was in the garden at Chenies Manor Bucks (TQ016984) when a Silver-washed Fritillary landed on dark purple petunias and zoomed away as fast as it arrived. There were also a few Small Tortoiseshells on the wild flower border along the main drive from the Amersham road."

Derek Haynes sent this news : "I have visited Black Park Country Park, Bucks (near Slough) twice this week, and can report several White Admiral and Silver-washed Fritillary sightings (mostly in or close to Strawberry Wood, towards the northern edge of the Park), plus many of the 'usual suspects'. Also in Strawberry Wood, 2 Purple Emperors yesterday (21st June ), one at TQ0142084840 (high up around the top of an oak) and the other at TQ0123784464 (came swooping down to investigate me, then quickly disappeared)."

This was sent by Richard Hicks : "Just thought you'd be interested in two probable Purple Emperor sightings on 20th and 21st June by my partner Ania in our garden at Moor End Common, Bucks. Both sightings were on the patio in our garden and consisted of a large black and white butterfly which flew down and investigated her, yesterday almost touching her leg. It was larger than peacocks and red admirals and flew very powerfully. Yesterday's sighting was at about 11.00 and although I was home I missed it. When I showed her a picture she was sure that it was a Purple Emperor. The shrimp paste bait is now down so hoping for some photos."

~21st June 2017 ~

Sue Handscombe and Geoff Ryder sent this sighting : "21st June at 2pm. Hottest day of the year. Found White Admirals in Hodgemoor Woods, Chalfont St Giles, Bucks."

Mark Griffiths sent this news : "I went to Bernwood Forest, Bucks this morning (21st June). The highlight was two male Purple Emperors within about 9 inches of each other on the track close to the car park. One took flight so I only have a picture of one - and that has a chunk missing from it. There were one or two White Admiral in the car park. We saw approx 15 Silver-washed Fritillary (all male), 4 Red Admirals, 5 Commas, 5 Marbled Whites, 1 Large White and 1 Small Tortoiseshell. Additionally lots of skipper (presumably Large, none settled even for a moment), Ringlets and Meadow Browns."

Purple Emperor Silver-washed Fritillary Photo © Mark Griffiths Photo © Mark Griffiths Geoff Brown sent these sightings : "21st June: On a visit to Wildmoor Heath, Berks today I saw 4 Silver-studded Blues, all fresh and willing to be photographed despite the 33C temperature and bright sunshine. Quite hard to find, they were off the track to the north of the reserve in sparse heather. Also a Comma and a Speckled Wood on the main path from the car park."

Silver-studded Blue Photo © Geoff Brown

Tim Watts sent this news : "On 21st June I saw 4 White-letter Hairstreak at Charndon, Bucks over roadside Elms and 5 over Elms next to Calvert BBOWT car park, all duelling and spiralling high. At Finemere Wood, Bucks a Purple Emperor put in a few appearances, in flight, at rest on path/ pathside leaves, and high up in Oak,also many Silver-washed Fritillaries, 2-3 White Admiral and 1 Purple Hairstreak."

Pete Thompson sent this sighting : "I've not been paying much attention to First Sightings this year, however while exploring the empty regions of my 10 Km Square I saw my first Essex Skipper of the year on 18th June, near Ipsden, Oxon (SU6503987006)."

Peter Cuss sent this news : "On the hunt for White-letter Hairstreak today, 20th June and can report the following. Started by checking one of the 'new' elms found back in April, a roadside elm close to the footpath to Nuney Green, Oxon, at SU672784 and found it very active. 8 recorded here (at least). Then on to the Whittles Farm site which is a fairly short distance away and saw 4 here. Then on to Bottom Farm, Oxon, (SU670777). Recorded 3 here. I think this may well be a newly colonised site, I have checked it many times over the last few years and found nothing. In the meadow at Bottom Farm, 2 Dark Green Fritillary, Meadow Brown, Small Heath, Ringlet, Marbled White, Small Skipper, Small Tortoiseshell and Comma. Then on to Chazey Wood, Oxon, (SU686762). One WLH here. This is also a new site - not to be confused with Chazey Heath! Finally, one in Jacksons Lane, Oxon (SU693763)."

Steve Croxford sent these sightings : "On Tuesday 20th June I visited Little Wood, Oxon and Piddington Wood, Oxon looking for Purple Emperor. At Little Wood (SP62471579) I found 4 males Oak edging. On my way back to the car shortly before leaving Piddington Wood (SP62991623) I saw a paired couple of Emperors being chased out of the canopy by a Sparrow. I chased off the Sparrow and carefully moved the Emperors off the path and into the undergrowth. Fortunately they stayed coupled the whole time and she even licked the salts off my finger while being moved."

Purple Emperors Purple Emperors Photo © Steve Croxford Photo © Steve Croxford Karen Saxl sent this news : "Didn't manage to get out this evening (19th June) along the SUSTRANS route between Didcot and Upton until 21.00 but it was worth it - plenty of butterflies still had the energy to fly as I walked past - though that tailed off from about 21.15 - that was mainly Marbled Whites but there were a few Meadow Browns, couple of Ringlets, a couple of Large Skippers and even a Small blue that took flight a couple of times as I went past. Would have to go through records for last year but the numbers of Large Skippers seems to be quite good ...though early morning seems to be the best time to see them. Also saw my first Gatekeeper yesterday morning - none this evening but it is a bit late for them. Total this evening in a stretch of about 400m was over 120 - 57 of which were Marbled Whites. Many more around early in the day."

~19th June 2017 ~

Stephen Jones sent these sightings : "I walked around the Bernwood Meadows, Bucks and the Butterfly Walk today (19th June), 12.00-15.00 hrs. It was very sunny and hot (29°C). Whereas last week I saw 2 Black Hairstreaks at the entrance to the meadows from the butterfly walk (path), today I saw none. But during the walk I did see 6 White Admirals, 10 Silver-washed Ffritillaries, numerous Small/Large skippers and lots of Meadow Browns and Ringlets. Around the meadows I saw only 2 Common Blues and 1 Small Blue, but Meadow Browns were in abundance and there were large numbers of Ringlets and Marbled Whites."

This was received from Judith Barnard (web officer for Beds & Northants branch) : "At Rushbeds Wood, Bucks this morning (18th June) I spotted a Purple Hairstreak flying into a tree on the edge of the Lapland Meadows. In the blackthorn there we spotted what we thought was probably a Black Hairstreak, but no photo of this. The meadows were full of Marbled Whites, Meadow Browns, Skippers and Ringlets (too many to count!), but we did see 2 Silver-Washed Fritillaries and 1 White Admiral in Rushbeds Woods. Also got a Blood-vein moth."

Purple Hairstreak Photo © Judith Barnard

Peter Cuss sent these sightings : "Searching for White-letter Hairstreak at Basildon Park, Berks on 18th June. Found 3 on elm at SU605773 and 2 on elm at SU604772. While walking around the park I also recorded Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Marbled White, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Small Tortoiseshell, Comma and Brimstone."

Richard Wheeler sent this news : "I visited Finemere Wood, Bucks (SP717219) first thing this morning, 18th June, between 8am and 10am. Weather hot and sunny c.25°C. Plenty of butterflies about, including: 14 Large Skipper, 23 Meadow Brown, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 11 Ringlet, 21 Marbled White, 3 Speckled Wood, 4 White Admiral, 6 Silver-washed Fritillary, 2 Small Heath and a fleeting glimpse in flight of what I took to be a Purple Emperor (around pines in clearing at top of main ride). Also seen: 3 Hornets and a Broad-bodied Chaser." White Admiral Small Tortoiseshell Photo © Richard Wheeler Photo © Richard Wheeler

~17th June 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Standlake Common, Oxon on 17th June: "I was looking for White-letter Hairstreaks in the elms near the Langley Hide, and found four of them at about SP390017. Also seen were many Meadow Browns, two Ringlet, one Large Skipper, two Speckled Woods, one Small Tortoiseshell, one Brimstone, four Commas (at least one of form hutchinsoni), and two Red Admirals."

White-letter Hairstreak Comma Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

Wendy Campbell sent the following : "We saw our first Purple Emperors of the season today, 17th June, at 11.00am. There were four clashing and chasing in the usual ash tree territory at the top of Little Wood, Oxon. In Piddington Wood, Oxon we found a total of seven White-letter Hairstreaks and a White Admiral. Then we moved on to Waterperry Wood, Oxon and saw two Purple Emperors, one in an oak tree territory and the second flying low along the main ride, both at the northern end of the wood."

Michael McNeill sent this news : "An extraordinary sight on a cycle ride round Yattendon, West Berks (SU552730), sadly without camera today (17th June). A good glimpse of a Swallowtail in flight. Pale yellow to cream with distinctive black markings and features. Must be a release (unless anybody can prove otherwise. David)"

David Gantzel sent these sightings : "17th June at Widmer Fields, Bucks (between Hazlemere and Widmer End). Meadow Browns, Large Skippers and one Small Tortoiseshell."

David Gantzel sent these sightings : "17th June at Widmer Fields, Bucks (between Hazlemere and Widmer End). Meadow Browns, Large Skippers and one Small Tortoiseshell."

Peter Cuss sent these sightings : "Derek Brown and I took a walk in Old Copse and Greyfield Woods, near Beenham, Berks on 17th June. We were searching for Elm/White letter Hairstreak. Didn't find any but did see our first White Admiral of the year in Greyfield Wood at SU579690"

Steve Lockey sent these sightings : "A walk around Garsington, Oxon on the afternoon of 16th June produced 60 (approx) Meadow Brown, 3 Marbled White, 3 Large Skipper, 3 Common Blue, 1 Comma, 1 Small Copper, 1 Brimstone."

Martin Kincaid sent this news : "Whilst working at the Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve in Old Wolverton, Milton Keynes, Bucks today (16th June) I was struck by the abundance of Small Tortoiseshells. Many were resting on nettles and had presumably emerged en masse this morning. I decided to do a count as I walked around and ended up with a fantastic total of 109. Many of these were feeding on the flowers of spear thistle and creeping thistle which flourish on this site. Also seen were 2 Comma, 3 Painted Lady, 1 Red Admiral and numerous Meadow Browns, Ringlets and Large Skippers."

David Fuller reported : "Jubilee River, Taplow, Bucks (SU914804) on 16th June. Three Small Skipper, first of the year for me."

Wendy Wilson sent this news : "A fresh White Admiral basking on a bramble greeted me at 9.15 this morning (16th June) - my first of the year - in Black Park, near Iver Heath, Bucks (TQ012845). Around there I also spotted 1 Red Admiral, 5 Speckled Wood, 4 Large Skipper, 2 Meadow Brown as well as 2 Ringlets – another first for me.”

Ringlet White Admiral Photo © Wendy Wilson Photo © Wendy Wilson

~15th June 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Dry Sandford Pit, Oxon on 14th June: "I saw many Meadow Browns, three Marbled Whites, one Ringlet, also Common Blue, Small Heath, Speckled Wood, Brimstone and Large Skipper. Whitecross Green Wood on the 15th produced at least eight Black Hairstreaks (most fairly worn), three White Admirals, one Silver-washed Fritillary, many Meadow Browns, also Large Skipper, Ringlet, Marbled White, Speckled Wood, Green-veined White, Comma, Brimstone and Small Tortoiseshell."

Ringlet White Admiral Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

David Fuller saw : "My garden in Maidenhead, Bucks (SU900833) : Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell. At Jubilee River, Taplow, Bucks (SU914804): My first Marbled White and Ringlet of the year, plus 3 Meadow Brown all new for me at this site. it is turning into a good site as I found two Bee Orchids as well. Plus Small Tortoiseshell, Small White and Speckled Wood. "

Peter Cuss reports : "2 White-letter Hairstreak seen on Roadside elms in Dark Lane near Bradfield, Berks (SU604733) on 14/06/17. Today, 15/06/17 saw 2 White-letter Hairstreak, at Milestone Woods, Caversham Park, Berks, (SU733763) as well as 10 Small Tortoiseshell nectaring on bramble, 2 Red Admiral, 4 Meadow Brown and a Ringlet. " Dennis Dell tells us : "I saw my first Ringlet in grassland near my home in Aylesbury."

Stephen Jones reported : "On a walk this morning, I saw two Ringlets, 06.45 hrs in Coleshill, Bucks (SU952959). I also counted 12 Meadow Browns but there were many more all over the field. "

~14th June 2017 ~

A final update from Ian Stevenson of BBOWT : "A quick update to let you know that Silver- studded Blues are now on the wing at BBOWT's Wildmoor Heath site near Bracknell in Berkshire. The first few freshly emerged males were encountered on a timed count today 14/6/17. "

George Warner observed : "On the warm sunny afternoon of 14 June, near Gore Hill, Berks (SU496839), I saw a good variety of butterflies within a fairly small area of scrub: Brimstone 3, Large Skipper 1, Common Blue 1, Small Tortoiseshell 1, Meadow Brown 8, Ringlet 1, Marbled White 1 (being chased by a Brimstone), and Small Heath 8."

Tom Dunbar reports : "11 Black Hairstreaks from Hewins Wood and Finemere Extension areas, Bucks, on 14th June. Added to these were Marbled Whites, Ringlets, Meadow Browns, Large Skippers, Common Blues, Small Heaths and a surprising Silver-washed Fritillary."

Richard Wheeler managed to spot the following : "I spent an hour at Bernwood Forest, Bucks (SP611116 etc.) at lunchtime today (14/06/17). Weather sunny and hot (c.25°C) with some cloud. Butterflies seen included: 2 Ringlet, 12 Speckled Wood, 4 Large Skipper, 4 Black Hairstreak, 2 Common Blue, 1 Comma, 7 Meadow Brown and 1 fresh White Admiral."

Nick Board Hollis had a productive lunch break : "During my lunchtime break at the Harris Garden, University of Reading (SU 737714) I saw Meadow Browns, Common Blues (2 males) and a single Marbled White. Also a Hummingbird Hawk-moth."

~13th June 2017 ~

Nick Board informs us : "Tues 13th June at a private wood in the north of Bucks, 10 Wood Whites. Where they can be found, numbers appear to be quite strong at the moment, so please report any sightings to Nick at [email protected]"

Bob Tunicliffe reports : "A brief visit to Leckhampstead Wood, Bucks at c11.50am today (adjacent to Wicken Wood, on the Bucks side of the border) produced 2 Wood Whites at approx SP726402."

Paul Bowyer sent this report : "My first Small Skippers of the year at SU898925, the dog walking fields in Flackwell Heath, Bucks. A sudden increase in butterfly numbers at this site. Meadow Brown 90+, Marbled White 11, Small Skipper 11, Common Blue 2, Green-veined White 1, Burnet Companion 2."

Tony Croft spotted the following at Whitecross Green Wood : "Meadow Browns, Large Skippers, Black Hairstreaks and Marbled Whites and a pristine Silver-washed Fritillary."

~10th June 2017 ~

John Benford had the following sighting: "Silver-washed Fritillary at Kingswood, Bucks earlier today (Sat 10th June)."

Wendy Wilson notes freshly emerged Small Tortoiseshells: “New brood Small Tortoiseshells are out in force now. Yesterday, 10th June, I saw twelve fresh ones in Latimer, Bucks – eight of them within a minute of getting out of my car. Most of them were nectaring on valerian in the pretty cottage gardens there, at TQ003988. In and around the village I also saw 2 Speckled Wood, 31 Meadow Brown, 1 Brimstone, 1 Large Skipper and 1 Common Blue. On 9th June, 8 pristine Small Tortoiseshells were emerging from the nettle patch in Swan Meadow, Iver, Bucks at TQ038813. Also there were Speckled Wood, Brown Argus, Red Admiral, Large Skipper and several final instar Peacock larvae in spite of the cool blustery day.”

Peter Ogden had a great day, recording the following: "Today I walked from West Wycombe Hill (SU826951) to Buttlers Hangings (SU818960) and back. During the walk I found Meadow Browns, Speckled Woods, Large Skipper (4), Painted Lady (1), Common Blue (1) Red Admiral (1). On a very windy Buttlers Hanging Small Heath (1), Brimstone (3), Red Admiral (1), Meadow Browns, Peacock (1), Dark Green Fritillary (1) and Marbled White (1)."

Peter Cuss spots his first White-Letter Hairstreak of the season: "My first White-letter Hairstreak sighting of the season, 2 seen on, 10/06/17 at Chazey Heath, Oxon (SU695770)."

Adrian Cadman reports: "After a cool grey blustery start to the day, the sun appeared! I walked along to check out the elms opposite the cemetery at Bradwell, Bucks and immediately saw 2 spiralling White-Letter Hairstreaks. My earliest sighting."

~7th June 2017 ~

Karen Saxi had a good day in the Didcot/Upton area of Oxfordshire spotting the following: "Just back from a foray along the sustrans route between Didcot and Upton - rather windy so not much about but did spot a few species including my first Marbled Whites - at least 3 and I think it was 5 - usually the first sighting is a single outlier and its at least a week before I see a second so not sure what that foretells for the year. Others were a Red Admiral, some Small Blues and a couple of Common Blues."

Michael Hunt sent the following from Stowe National Trust garden, Bucks: "2 Large Skippers, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Common Blue, and at least 10 Chimney Sweeper Moths. Then a Painted Lady in my garden"

Ched George also spotted a Painted Lady in his garden in Bucks, so they are definitely now here and worth looking out for.

~4th June 2017 ~

David Ferguson spotted the following: "A walk yesterday morning (4th) in Whitecross Green Wood on the Bucks/Oxon border began in sunshine which eventually disappeared. The first 20 minutes was remarkable with 1 or 2 Black Hairstreaks flying over every blackthorn patch - 9 in all between the car park and the cross paths. Then there were none until the pond area where there were 3. Other butterflies seen were Painted Lady (1), Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Large White (1) and Common Blue (3). A Hairy Dragonfly which I managed to photograph was a surprise as I didn't know they occurred in the wood."

Martin Kincaid sent these sightings: "I visited Wicken Wood on the Bucks/Northants border to look for Wood White (2-3.30pm). The weather was sunny and humid but it was a very slow start. However, after about an hour and a half I eventually reached a total of 32 Wood Whites. Many of these were seen on the Northants side of the boundary but I am confident at least 8 were in Bucks! I also saw a Grizzled Skipper (in Bucks), which I think is my first at this location, and one of only a few I have seen this year. Other butterflies seen were Common Blue (3), Green-veined White (2), Large White (1) and Red Admiral (4). Earlier that afternoon I saw my first Hummingbird Hawk-moth of the year. This flew down The High Street, Stony Stratford just as the Stony Live music festival got underway."

~ 3rd June 2017 ~

Neil Holman sent these sightings: "My wife and I visited Hewins Wood, Calvert, Bucks this morning (3rd June) and at SP704216 in bright sunshine we only saw three butterflies and they were all Black Hairstreaks. A couple were very photogenic as per the attached photos."

Black Hairstreak Black Hairstreak Photo © Neil Holman Photo © Neil Holman

Peter Cuss sent this news: "Went in search of Black Hairstreaks at Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon today, 3rd June. Saw at least nine at three different locations within the wood. They didn't want to pose for the camera, though. Did find a Garden Tiger larva while I was there which was nice, long time since I have seen one of these."

Andy Coates sent these sightings: "Waterperry Wood, Oxon this afternoon (3rd June). At least 4 (maybe 6) Black Hairstreaks near the north entrance as detailed by Mick and Wendy."

Black Hairstreak Black Hairstreak Photo © Andy Coates Photo © Andy Coates

~ 2nd June 2017 ~

Tom Stevenson sent these sightings: "Seen at Ewelme Watercress Beds LNR, Oxon on 2nd June were a Painted Lady and a new species for the site, a Small Blue."

Small Blue Small Blue Photo © Tom Stevenson Photo © Tom Stevenson Mick & Wendy Campbell reported the following: "Late afternoon on 1st June, we visited Waterperry Wood, Oxon (SP605095) and saw 2 Black Hairstreaks (our first of the season) flying above the small oak tree in the usual blackthorn stand near the north gate. Perfect weather, hot and sunny intervals between periods of cloud cover. Also seen were 2 Speckled Wood and 2 Brimstone. On 2nd June we spent a couple of hours looking for Black Hairstreaks, this time visiting the Drover's Lane at Lapland Farm (near Rushbeds Wood), Bucks (SP666157). Although the weather was mostly overcast there were short periods where the sun nearly broke through, keeping the temperature and humidity high. We saw 2 Black Hairstreaks almost immediately and decided to continue watching the same stand of blackthorn for more activity, managing to count a total of 12 individuals altogether. Most of these flew across the track and up into the top of a large oak tree and did not return to the blackthorn stand we were watching. Other species seen were: Speckled Wood (4), Common Blue (3), Small Heath (2) and Orange-tip (1)."

John Warren sent this news: "While doing a modified butterfly transect for Bracknell Forest Borough Council on 1st June to monitor woodland butterflies in a LNR woodland which it owns I saw the following: Temple Copse, Bracknell, Berkshire (SU852702) : 1 Gatekeeper, 2 Speckled Wood. White Grove Copse, Bracknell, Berkshire (SU878702) : 1 Speckled Wood. Tinker's Copse, Bracknell, Berkshire (SU856704) : 2 Speckled Wood."

Neil Holman sent these sightings: "A lunchtime walk on 1st June in very pleasant sunny conditions through Hewins Wood to the open area alongside the mightily impressive Greatmoor Incinerator just outside Calvert Green, North Bucks proved very rewarding with the following sightings: 2 x Large Skipper, 1 x Grizzled Skipper, 4 x Brimstone, 2 x Orange-tip, 1 x Small Copper, 5 x Brown Argus, 15 x Common Blue, 1 x Painted Lady, 1 x Small Tortoiseshell, 16 x Speckled Wood and 5 x Small Heath."

Large Skipper Painted Lady Photo © Neil Holman Photo © Neil Holman

~ 1st June 2017 ~

Karen Saxl sent this news: "Update from Didcot-Upton Sustrans Route, Oxon on 1st June. Saw my first Large Skipper this evening – along with some Common Blues and Small Blues – bit windier today so not as many Small Blues out as last night – even though I was an hour later last night – getting on for 20.00. Burnet moths are out as are the Burnet Companions … and still coming across woolly bears."

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Today (1st June) at Homefield Wood, Bucks (SU815869) good sun and high temperature but few butterflies, however male Large Skipper settled for 10 minutes. Also seen were a male Brimstone, Holly Blue, Green-veined White, Small Heath and Speckled Wood, and Burnet Companion and Cinnabar moths."

Derek Brown sent these sightings: "Seen this morning (1st June) at Larden Chase, Berks: 3 Adonis Blue (all male); 12+ Common Blue; 1 Speckled Wood; 2 Small Blue; 3 Meadow Brown; 2 Small Heath. At Aston Upthorpe Downs, Oxon: 1 Small Copper; 3 Small Heath; 1 Speckled Wood; 1 Painted Lady; 3 Brimstone; and 1 Large Skipper."

Nicholl Williams sent this news: "I went down to my usual place around Spade Oak, Marlow, Bucks on 31st May and saw many butterflies mating. Common Blues, Brimstones and Orange-tips were all mating and plentiful. I also saw a single Peacock and single Small Tortoiseshell. Out of interest I saw a Stag Beetle. I don't know if this is an indicator of environment, which may benefit butterflies. I saw a single Brown Argus 2 days previously."

Brimstones Common Blue Orange-tips Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams

John Whitworth sent this news: "On a visit to Dry Sandford Pit, Oxon on 31st May, in late afternoon sun, I saw to my surprise what can only have been a Clouded Yellow, flying very fast northwards over bushes and out onto the western edge of the airfield (SU469994). I also saw a pristine Small Copper plus several Brimstones, Green-veined Whites, Speckled Woods, Common Blues and single Meadow Brown, Large White and Orange-tip."

Peter Cuss sent these sightings: "Went for a walk at Caversham Lakes, Oxon (SU740757) on 31st May. Saw my first Large Skipper of the season, as well as Common Blue 5, Large White 1, Speckled Wood 1, Brimstone 1 and Peacock 1."

Tom Stevenson sent this sighting: "1st Large Skipper of the year at the Ewelme Watercress Beds LNR, Oxon this afternoon (31st May)."

Dave Ferguson sent this news: "A walk this morning (31st May) near Wilton Park, Beaconsfield, Bucks (SU957905) produced only two butterflies: a male Large Skipper and a very fresh Speckled Wood. There was also a Small Tortoiseshell caterpillar on a nettle."

Large Skipper Large Skipper Photo © Dave Ferguson Photo © Tom Stevenson

Paul Bowyer and Karen Roberts sent these sightings: "30th May in dog walking fields in Flackwell Heath, Bucks (SU893892). Our first Large Skipper of the year in addition to a female Common Blue, 5 Meadow Browns and a male Orange-tip."

~ 30th May 2017 ~

Rob Thomas sent this news: "On 28th May looking at the Garlic Mustard in my garden at Combe, near Woodstock, Oxon I was delighted to spot three Orange-tip caterpillars. What interested me especially is that one appeared almost fully grown, one was 2 cms long and the third was only 1 cm long. So maybe they were from eggs laid by three different adults."

Orange-tip caterpillar Photo © Rob Thomas

Mick Jones sent these sightings: "I saw my first Meadow Brown on 28th May at BBOWT Dancersend, Bucks - sadly a little distance from my butterfly transect, which was very quiet. However, Common Blue and Brown Argus numbers are building up."

Michael Hunt sent these sightings: "Seen at Calvert Jubilee, Bucks while doing nest box checking on 28th May: 1 Large White, 6 Common Blue, 2 Speckled Wood, 1 Red Admiral, 2 Green Hairstreak."

Stephen Jones sent this news: "I did the NT Bradenham, Bucks Butterfly Walk today (28th May), 12.00-14.00 hrs: Weather was nice, 20°C, sunny/cloudy and with a light occasional breeze. The walk went around part of the periphery and through Park Wood. For the complete walk I saw 1 Red Admiral, 1 Brimstone, 1 Brown Argus, 1 Dingy Skipper, 1 Meadow Brown, 2 Green Hairstreak, 11 Common Blues and 23 Speckled Woods. There seemed to be Speckled Woods in every sunny glade and so I probably under-counted them."

~ 28th May 2017 ~

Peter Cuss sent these sightings: "Had a walk at Lardon Chase, Berks today (28th May). Species seen were Meadow Brown, Small Heath, Small Copper, Speckled Wood, Brimstone, Peacock, Common Blue, Adonis Blue, Orange-tip and Dingy Skipper."

Tom Stevenson sent these sightings: "First Meadow Brown of the year and about 10 Small Heaths seen at Battle Farm, Preston Crowmarsh, Oxon this morning (28th May)."

Maureen Cross sent this report of the field trip to Lardon Chase, Berks, on 27th May: "I was woken by a loud clap of thunder and a heavy shower of rain falling over Lardon Chase. By 10.30 the rain had stopped but the cloud persisted for the rest of the morning. Despite this, 15 members assembled on Lardon Chase in the hope of seeing the Adonis Blue, and we did. The first was seen within about 10 minutes of setting out. Although cloud persisted and a strong SSW wind blew still another 4 Adonis including 1 female were seen and photographed during the morning along with 19 Common Blues, 4 Small Blues, 2 Small Coppers and 1 Small Heath. Moths seen were 1 Mother Shipton and many grass moths. One cheeky Common Blue (see picture) decided it was too chilly to fly and spent over an hour and a quarter roosting on Wendy Wilson’s sleeve, thus travelling across the hill and back!"

Common Blue Photo © Wendy Wilson

Dick Ashford (member of Herts & Cornwall branches of BC) sent these sightings: "Seen at Wicken Wood, Bucks between 3.30 and 5pm on 26th May were a pair of Wood Whites at SP729410 and a singleton at SP729410."

Wood White Wood White Photo © Dick Ashford Photo © Dick Ashford

Andy Hoskins sent this news: "I visited Wicken Wood, Bucks on 26th May between 12.40 and 13.30. I saw 4 Speckled Wood, 1 Orange-tip, 2 Large White and 3 Wood White. These were all on about 400 metres of the gravel path running from the car park on the south-east side. A bit poor for a gloriously hot (26°C), still and sunny lunchtime. The photo shows a male Wood White that I followed for about 200 metres until it finally settled in the ditch next to the car park."

Wood White Photo © Andy Hoskins

~ 25th May 2017 ~

Richard Wheeler sent these sightings: "I visited Yoesden Bank, Bucks (SU789980) for an hour first thing this morning (25th May). The weather was fine and sunny, c.20°C. Plenty of butterflies about, including: 5 Dingy Skipper, 3 Small Heath, 12 Common Blue (1F), 17 Adonis Blue (1F), 3 Brimstone, 7 Small Blue, 1 Large White, 1 Green Hairstreak. Plenty of moths about too, including Burnet Companion."

Common Blue Small Heath Photo © Richard Wheeler Photo © Richard Wheeler

Brian Jessop sent this news: "On 24th May I recorded 3 Small Blues at SP904119 which is on the Wendover Canal, Bucks between the A41 bypass bridge and the Drayton Beauchamp bridge. Time was 3.00 to 3.20pm. On 25th May I went back at 10.25 till 10.55am and saw 11 Small Blues (probably more). The weather was ideal, sunny and no wind. They are definitely breeding there. Have seen them there for the last three to four years, although in smaller numbers. Other species seen were Dingy Skipper, Brimstone, Orange-tip, Common Blue and Small White."

David Gantzel sent these sightings: "Seen on 25th May at Hazlemere, Bucks : Holly Blue. Seen at Hughenden Valley, Bucks : male Orange-tip. Seen at Prestwood Nature Reserve, Bucks : six male Brimstone, two Holly Blue, one Speckled Wood, one Green-veined White."

Robert Norris sent this news: "A brief look in Stoke Park Wood, Bucks (SP825490) this lunchtime (24th May) turned up 2 Wood Whites, 5 Orange-tips, a Large White, a Red Admiral and a probable Painted Lady."

Stephen Jones sent these sightings: "24th May, 15.45-16.45 hrs, Bradenham Estate, Bucks: 1 Orange-tip, 1 Peacock. Weather was hot and sunny (23°C) so I had been expecting to see more !"

Nicholl Williams sent this news: "I went back to Spade Oak, Marlow, Bucks today (23rd May) after work. There is a large area which was cleared 18 months ago, and is now growing back. I think that it would be good for someone serious to look at it. I called there at 17.30 and saw my first Small Copper of the year, 1 Brimstone, masses of Common Blues and Orange-tips. 2 Peacocks and some dragonflies."

Small Copper Common Blue Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams

~ 23rd May 2017 ~

John Holdbrook sent these sightings: "On 22nd May I went to the northern part of the Aston Rowant Nature Reserve, Oxon. Along the bottom of the hill I saw numerous Common Blues, up to 10 Brimstones and Brown Argus, 3 Adonis Blues, 3 Dingy Skippers, 2 Small Coppers and a Small Heath. Also 2 moths: a Burnet Companion and a Common Carpet."

Cliff Buckton sent this news: "I saw a Painted Lady in our Denham, Bucks garden (TQ027870) today (22nd May)."

Painted Lady Photo © Cliff Buckton

David Gower sent these sightings: "Between Aldbury Nowers and Income Hole, Bucks on 21st May I came across 8 x Common Blue, 5 x Dingy Skipper, 3 x male Brimstone. Down into Incombe Hole were 1 x Duke of Burgundy, 1 x Large White, 3 x male Brimstone, 2 x Grizzled Skipper, 5 x Common Blue, 1 x Small Heath. Around Ivinghoe Beacon were 4 x Duke of Burgundy (all seen between 3.30 to 4.30pm), 3 x Peacock, 17 x Brimstone (10 Male), 8 x Dingy Skipper, 1 x Small Tortoiseshell, 1 x Grizzled Skipper, 5 x Brown Argus, 3 x Green Hairstreak, 2 x Common Blue, 1 x Red Admiral, 6 x Small Heath, 1 x male Orange-tip, 1 x Painted Lady. Lastly at Steps Hill 1 x male Orange-tip, 1 x Red Admiral, 1 x female Brimstone, 1 x Green Hairstreak."

~ 21st May 2017 ~

Gerry & Penny Kendall sent this report of the field trip to Aston Upthorpe Downs, Oxon, on 21st May: "A dozen people took part in the traditional search for Spring butterflies on a day with reasonable temperatures and good sunny spells. We saw our main target species, Dingy Skipper, Grizzled Skipper, Green Hairstreak and Small Blue, and nine other species. Many thanks to all who participated."

Maureen Cross sent these sightings : "I saw 14 Adonis Blues at the Holies, Streatley, Berks on 21st May, three of which were females. Other butterflies seen were Common Blue, Small Copper, Brimstone, Small Heath, Dingy Skipper, Speckled Wood, Small White and Red Admiral. Moths seen were Burnet Companion and Mother Shipton."

Nicholl Williams sent this news : "I have taken several walks over the last few days near the Spade Oak Nature Reserve, Marlow, Bucks, which has been cleared last and now is growing back. Previously I have seen several Brimstones, which were not seen today. Today (20th May) I saw my first Painted Lady of the season between showers, lots of Common Blues (which seem to have replaced the Holly Blues), many Orange-tips and Green-veined Whites." Common Blue Orange-tip Painted Lady Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams

Dennis Dell sent this report of the field trip to Pitstone Hill and Aldbury Nowers, Bucks, on 20th May: "Seven of us, three of whom were Herts section members, met in inclement weather this morning. We set off at 11.15 in windy and cloudy conditions, and saw no butterflies for about half an hour. The sun then appeared, accompanied by the butterflies. A particular stretch along the wire fence above the quarry yielded 20 Green Hairstreaks. This is a hotspot for this species, where Dave Wilton and I saw 40 about 8 years ago. All sightings as follows: Green Hairstreak (22), Dingy Skipper (7), Small Heath (8), Grizzled Skipper (1), Brown Argus (3), Red Admiral (1), Common Blue (1), Small Blue (1). The latter two species were seen at Aldbury Nowers. The sun disappeared at 1 pm, the rain came down and we were soaked, but went home happy."

~ 14th May 2017 ~

Robin Carr sent this report of the field trip to Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks on 14th May: "9 people saw the following butterflies: Duke of Burgundy 14, Brown Argus 3, Large White 1, Grizzled Skipper 3, Holly Blue 2, Green Hairstreak 3, Small Heath 1, Dingy Skipper 9, Brimstone 10, Orange-tip 3, Green-veined White 1, Red Admiral 1."

Nick Board sent this news : "As the sun put in an appearance on 13th May, I visited a known Wood White site south of Wicken Wood, Bucks. There were many Orange-tips on the wing, particularly females, and I had to search for a long time before I saw a Wood White in flight. With the sun disappearing under cloud cover I was then only able to make one further sighting of an individual roosting. I think it will need a further week of warm weather before we get to see greater numbers in North Bucks."

Orange-tip Wood White Photo © Nick Board Photo © Nick Board

This was received from Peter Cuss : "Had a walk in the field above Bottom Farm near Mapledurham, Oxon (SU670779), on 13th May. Saw Dingy Skipper (20) and Common Blue (15). " Common Blues Photo © Peter Cuss

Stephen Jones sent these sightings : "13th May, 15.45-16.45 hrs, Bradenham, Bucks : 2 Green Hairstreak, 2 Orange-tip, 1 Peacock, 1 Red Admiral, 1 Brimstone and 2 Holly Blue. Weather was sunny, 16°C and a bit blustery."

Andy Hoskins sent these sightings : "Today (13th May) I stopped by Pitstone Quarry, Bucks between 1.45 and 3.15pm, walking the path just inside from the church and along the raised edge of the quarry. The car indicated a temperature of 18°C, but there was a cool breeze and only intermittent spells of sunshine. I saw 7 Dingy Skipper, 1 female Orange-tip, 1 Holly Blue, 1 Green Hairstreak and 1 Small Blue."

Green Hairstreak Holly Blue Small Blue Photo © Andy Hoskins Photo © Andy Hoskins Photo © Andy Hoskins

~ 12th May 2017 ~

John Holdbrook sent these sightings : "On 10th May I went to Bradenham, Bucks. In one and a half hours I saw several Brimstones, a male Orange-tip, a number of Whites (some of which may have been female Orange-tips) and a Holly Blue. Considering the lovely sunny weather I was surprised that I didn’t see more butterflies."

Wendy & Mick Campbell reported the following : "On 10th May we visited the Devil's Punchbowl near Wantage, Oxon (SU3484). The weather was warm and sunny in the sheltered areas but there was quite a cold wind. However we were pleased to record singletons of Red Admiral, Peacock and Brimstone, Small Tortoiseshell (7), Small Heath (9), Dingy Skipper (11), Common Blue (6), Brown Argus (6), Green Hairstreak (15, very active!), Small White (4), Green- veined White (5, including a mating pair) and Orange-tip (2). Then at a small site in West Berkshire we managed to find Duke of Burgundy (5), Small Blue (2), Brimstone (2), Peacock (1) and Small Tortoiseshell (2). On 11th May we decided to check for Wood Whites in Wicken Wood on the Bucks/Northants border (SP7241) and found 3 flying in a sunny ride. One settled just long enough to confirm it was a male. Also seen were Comma (1), Small White (1), Green-veined White (1) and Speckled Wood (3)."

Tony Croft sent this news : "I’ve been monitoring a pair of Orange-tip eggs on one of the Honesty plants in my garden in Thame, Oxon (SP7006) for the last few days, and today (May 11th) came across this larva on a developing seed case." Orange-tip larva Photo © Tony Croft

David Gantzel sent these sightings : "May 10th: male Orange-tip seen at Hazlemere, Bucks, and male Brimstones at Wargrave, Berks and Twyford, Bucks."

Karen Saxl sent this news : "Tales from the Sustrans Route that was the railway line from Didcot to Upton, Oxon. Most of the last week it has been a bit too cold to actually see any butterflies so had switched to searching for eggs – had some success with Orange-tips and in the last few days I’ve been searching through kidney vetch but haven’t actually found any Small Blue eggs – though I knew it was a bit early anyway. Think people that use the line have become accustomed to the strange woman who spends ages on her knees or half way up embankments staring at plants as people have now stopped asking me what I’m doing … and started asking me if I have seen any butterflies. However, today (10th May) was a bit warmer – there still weren’t many butterflies around but I went out hoping to see my first Small Blue (as well as well as some Holly Blues) and was rewarded with success – one small adult perched in the grass on the ramps between the Hagbournes. On the egg side I did manage to find a number of newly laid Orange-tip eggs on the few outcrops of garlic mustard I’ve managed to locate … and also found some larvae. There were also a number of Peacock around. I did see a Red Admiral a few weeks ago when I was out taking out a few saplings along the edges of the route."

Andy Hoskins sent these sightings : "Between 12.15 and 13.00 on 10th May (sunny and still, 18°C) I visited Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks, walking just 80 yards or so along the path at the bottom of the hill that runs left from the cattle grid, parallel to the B489. I saw 6 Duke of Burgundy, (including what I think may be an ab. Leucodes), plus 6 male and 1 female Orange-tip, 3 Dingy Skipper, 1 Red Admiral, 3 Holly Blue, 8 Brimstone and 4 Green Hairstreak."

Duke Of Burgundy Duke Of Burgundy Dingy Skipper Photo © Andy Hoskins Photo © Andy Hoskins Photo © Andy Hoskins

Richard Wheeler sent this news : "I spent an hour-and-a-half at Ardley Quarry, Oxon (SP536271) at lunchtime on 10/05/17. Weather was warm and sunny (c.15°C), and butterflies seen included: 9 Brimstone (incl. 1F), 1 pristine Common Blue, 3 Orange-tip, 6 Green Hairstreak, 1 Holly Blue, 3 Peacock, 9 Grizzled Skipper (the most I’ve seen here, distributed all along lineside track from gate at NW end to open area at SE end), and 1 Green-veined White." Green Hairstreak Grizzled Skipper Photo © Richard Wheeler Photo © Richard Wheeler

~ 9th May 2017 ~

Dennis Dell sent these sightings : "Steps Hill, below Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks, 7th May. Conditions: sunny, 17°C, breezy in exposed places; 2 pm until 3.45 pm. On April 23rd, Clive Burrows saw 8 Duke of Burgundy here; two weeks later, I saw only 11. It would seem that the season is taking a long time to get going, probably due to the cool weather recently. They occupied nearly all of the usual hotspots: SP959170 (3), SP959166 (2), SP958162 (4), SP958165 (2, nectaring on Hawthorn). Nearly all were males, looking quite fresh, so I don't think the peak has been reached yet. Other species: Brimstone (15), Orange-tip (7), Dingy Skipper (7), Green Hairstreak (3), Peacock (2)."

Paul Bowyer sent this report of the field trip to Homefield Wood, Bucks (SU814866) on 7th May: "Eight UTB members attended our first field trip of the season. The weather was chilly but promised much better as the clouds started dispersing and patches of blue sky appeared. The first few butterflies we saw were still warming up and provided good opportunities for photography. Amongst these were Green Hairstreak, Speckled Wood, Orange-tip and Green-veined White. As we walked the woodland rides Brimstone, Peacock, Holly Blue, Comma and Large White were added to our species count. By the time we reached the flower meadow the sun was out and it was warm. Dingy Skippers were found as well as a Small Copper, a male Common Blue and the day flying moth Pyrausta aurata."

~ 7th May 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Lardon Chase, Berks (SU586809) on the morning of 7th May and saw his first Dingy Skipper and Small Blue of the year. He also visited Aston Upthorpe Downs, Oxon (SU550844) from 1pm until 3.30pm, which produced twelve species: Dingy Skipper (6), Grizzled Skipper (4), Holly Blue (3), Green Hairstreak (5), Small Copper (2), Brimstone (at least 20), Orange-tip (8), Large White (1), Red Admiral (1), Comma (1), Peacock (5), and Small Tortoiseshell (2). "After the terrible year that Small Coppers had in 2016, it was good to see a couple today."

Dingy Skipper Small Blue Small Copper Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

John Scafe sent these sightings : "I visited Pitstone quarry, Bucks today (7th May) and saw a single Small Blue (photo attached). Also seen were 4 Brimstone, 2 Orange-tips, 5 Holly Blue, 2 Large White, 4 Green Hairstreaks and approx 10 Dingy Skippers." Small Blue Photo © John Scafe

Peter Cuss sent this news : "My first White-letter Hairstreak larva of the year! Seen on 5th May at Whittles Farm, Oxon (SU672784). Note the tell tale feeding hole in the seed that gave it away."

White-letter Hairstreak larva Photo © Peter Cuss

Nicholl Williams sent this news : "Today (5th May) I finished work early and decided to go down to Spade Oak near Marlow, Bucks. There was a little area hidden from the wind and I stayed and took some images of butterflies. I saw a single Comma, several Peacocks, approx 6 Orange-tips and a single Holly Blue."

Brimstone Holly Blue Orange-tip Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams

Dave Turnbull sent these sightings : "A trip to Pitstone quarry, Bucks on 5th May while the sun was still out produced Green Hairstreaks, Brimstones, Dingy Skippers, Holly Blue and a handful of Small Blues."

~ 4th May 2017 ~

Dave Wilton sent this news : "An hour-long visit to the disused railway cutting west of Westcott, Bucks on 2nd May produced the following ten species before the sky clouded over: Dingy Skipper (11), Grizzled Skipper (7, including a mated pair), Brimstone (2), Large White (1), Green-veined White (3), Orange-tip (3), Green Hairstreak (2), Small Copper (2), Small Tortoiseshell (1) & Peacock (2). Unfortunately the site is deteriorating quite rapidly now thanks to invading hawthorn scrub." David Hastings visited Dry Sandford Pit, Oxon (SU467997) on the morning of 2nd May and saw nine species: Orange-tip (5), Large White (1), Brimstone (6), Green-veined White (5), Holly Blue (3), Peacock (2), Comma (1), Speckled Wood (1) and Small Heath (2). "The Comma was very fresh, so I think it wasn't a hibernator but the result of eggs laid in February or March".

Comma Small Heath Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

~ 1st May 2017 ~

Wendy Wilson sent this news : "At Tetsworth cricket field, Oxon (SP686020) on 25th April, I spotted an unusual sight – eleven Orange-tip eggs on one small flower-head. It was the only Garlic Mustard plant there so the female must have been desperate. As the larvae tend to be cannibalistic, it will be mayhem when they all hatch! Apologies for the rather poor photo, but it does show all eleven eggs."

Orange-tip eggs Photo © Wendy Wilson

Dominic Mackensie sent these sightings : "A short cycle ride to Frost Folley, Warfield, Berks on 30th April was rewarded with my first Brown Argus of the year as well as a stunning male Orange-tip."

Brown Argus Orange-tip Photo © Dominic Mackensie Photo © Dominic Mackensie

Rikki Harrington sent this news : "On a most unpromising day (overcast, windy, 15 deg C) I found my first Duke of Burgundy of the year today (30th April). It was not on my survey patch, but in the spot I usually find as reliable as any at Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks, down the chalky track that leads off Beacon Road between the left-hand and right-hand bends as you go uphill away from the B489. Grid Ref approx. SP959163. I also had my first Grizzled Skipper (Pitstone Hill, Bucks north side) and three Green Hairstreaks (ditto, but not my first)."

~ 26th April 2017 ~

Clive Burrows sent these sightings : "Eight Duke of Burgundy (including 2 females) and two Grizzled Skippers seen at Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks on 23rd April."

Duke Of Burgundy Duke Of Burgundy Photo © Clive Burrows Photo © Clive Burrows

Colin Williams sent this news : "On 23rd April in intermittent sunshine whilst walking a new transect route on private land near BBOWT's Homefield Nature Reserve, Bucks I recorded a pristine Small Heath. It was the only butterfly I recorded on the transect! The transect at Homefield produced the usual suspects including good numbers of Orange-tip and a single Holly Blue."

~ 23rd April 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Bagley Wood, Oxon (SP509022) on 22nd April and saw six male Orange-tips, four Green-veined Whites, one Holly Blue, two Peacocks and seven Speckled Woods (6 male, 1 female).

John Lindley sent this news : "Good numbers of butterflies this morning (22nd April) along the Thames between South Stoke and Little Stoke, Oxon. All five of the "regular" Pierids were seen - 20+ Orange-tip (mostly male), 10+ Brimstone (2 female), 4 Green-veined White, 1 Small White (female) and 1 Large White (male). Also 10+ Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Peacock, 1 Comma and 1 Speckled Wood. On a more general note, I'm seeing large numbers of Bee-flies this Spring - more than I can remember for a long time."

Richard Wheeler sent this news : "Spent a lovely hour-and-a-half with my family in Finemere Wood, Bucks (SP719215) in warmish sunshine (c.15°C) on 22nd April yielded: 7 Orange-tip, 6 Small Tortoiseshell, 4 Brimstone, 4 Green-veined White, 6 Peacock, 3 Speckled Wood, 1 exquisite Holly Blue and 1 Comma – together with a startled Jay, a big Hare we initially mistook for a Muntjac, and woodland densely and gloriously carpeted with bluebells."

John Warren sent these sightings : "Seen at Park United Reformed Church, Reading, Berks (SU738728) on 22nd April were a male Orange-tip and a female Holly Blue."

David Gantzel sent these sightings : "Seen at Windsor Great Park, Berks on 19th April were a male Orange-tip and a probable female."

Nick Bowles sent these sightings : "Seen at Aston Clinton Ragpits, Bucks on 19th April were Dingy Skipper, Orange-tip, Peacock and Comma. On 22nd April Small Copper at Coombe Hill, Bucks again along with my first Large Whites and Small Whites of the year and Speckled Wood - plus the usual stuff and a Dingy Skipper at Aston Clinton Ragpits, with Brimstones (a very much colder site - so far less activity there)."

~ 19th April 2017 ~

Tom Dunbar sent these sightings : "Terrific day at Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks (19th April) (SP960167) in contrast with my visit in cool conditions yesterday. 11 species including 1 Duke of Burgundy (Gully); 1 Grizzled Skipper (Inchcombe Hole); 1 Dingy Skipper (Inchcombe Hole); 4 Green-veined White; 11 Orange-tip; 10 Holly Blue; 14 Brimstone; 1 Comma; 2 Green Hairstreak; 11 Peacock; 2 Speckled Wood. Temperature spot checks all in full sun with digital laser thermometer: dead grass 28°C; anthill 38.4°C; primrose leaf 28.1°C; dried cattle dung 40°; air temp 13°C (estimated)."

Duke Of Burgundy Dingy Skipper Grizzled Skipper Photo © Tom Dunbar Photo © Tom Dunbar Photo © Tom Dunbar

Nicholl Williams sent this news : "I went to Ivinghoe Beacon, Bucks today (19th April). I walked down to the bottom of the hollow and saw 4 Green Hairstreaks flying together above the Hawthorn bushes. Also there were several Holly Blues, Orange-tips, Peacocks, Commas and a single Small Tortoiseshell and Brimstone."

Green Hairstreak Orange-tip Holly Blue Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams Photo © Nicholl Williams

Colin Williams sent these sightings : "The butterfly transect at BBOWT’s Hartslock NR, Oxon on 19th April, in relatively calm and warm sunshine, produced 1 Dingy Skipper, 5 Green Hairstreak, 4 Orange-tip, 4 Brimstone, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Peacock and 1 Comma. We also saw singles of Mother Shipton and Burnet Companion."

~ 18th April 2017 ~

Nick Bowles sent this news : "I walked my Coombe Hill, Bucks (SP847065) transect today (18th April) - despite the chill wind - in case the rest of the week is even less suitable and, to my surprise, saw Orange-tip, Green-veined White, Peacock and 2 Small Coppers. Both the Coppers were flushed from the relative warmth of the bare earth along the transect path. Despite a search of suitable nearby habitat, no early skippers could be found. It was only 11.8°C in the shade."

~ 15th April 2017 ~

David Hastings visited RSPB Otmoor, Oxon (SP569126) on 13th April and saw at least six Green-veined Whites, at least six male and one female Orange-tips and at least four Speckled Woods. "It was a pretty cloudy day so I hadn't expected to see any butterflies, but when the sun came out, butterflies appeared immediately along the old roman road". He also visited Aston Upthorpe Downs, Oxon (SU546838) on 15th April and saw one Grizzled Skipper, three Green- veined Whites, four male Orange-tips and three Small Tortoiseshell. "This is my earliest ever Grizzled Skipper sighting."

Green-veined White Orange-tip ♀ Grizzled Skipper Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

David Fuller sent these sightings : "Seen on 12th April at Hosehill Pit, Reading, Berks (SU646698) were my first Green-veined White of the year (a male), 10 Orange-tip, Brimstone, Speckled Wood and 3 Holly Blue."

~ 11th April 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Aston Rowant NNR (north) (SU727968) on 9th April and saw eight Green Hairstreaks, 8 male and 6 female Brimstones, three Peacock, two male Orange-tips and two Holly Blues.

Green Hairstreak Brimstone Orange-tip Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

~ 9th April 2017 ~

Margaret Bolton sent this sighting : "Two Green Hairstreaks seen on 9th April at Sands Bank LNR, Bucks (SU834934). They fluttered around the reserve gate above Adams Park grassy overflow car park, and one settled on a Wayfaring Tree. ID is certain, although I didn’t get a photo this time."

Neil Holman sent this news : "A mid-morning trip to Incombe Hole, Pitstone, Bucks on 9th April proved very fruitful with the following sightings; 6 Green Hairstreak, 2 Grizzled Skipper, 1 Red Admiral, 5 Brimstone, 3 Orange-tip, 2 Comma and 4 Peacock. A later trip to Pitstone Chuch produced 3 Holly Blue and 2 Brimstone."

Green Hairstreak Grizzled Skipper Holly Blue Photo © Neil Holman Photo © Neil Holman Photo © Neil Holman

Michael & Diane Hunt sent these sightings : "Seen at Buckingham, Bucks on 9th April were 4 Holly Blues, 3 Speckled Woods, 3 Brimstone, 1 Large White, 1 Peacock, 1 Small Tortoiseshell and 4 Orange-tips."

John Lindley sent these sightings : "At Moor Copse, Berks on April 9th - 30+ Orange-tip, mostly male, and all too active to photograph. Also 10+ Brimstone (including 2 females), 10+ Green- veined White, 1 very tatty Comma, and 1 female Holly Blue. I was surprised not to see any Speckled Woods. Later in my garden in South Stoke, Oxon 1 male Holly Blue, 1 Small White, and 1 Peacock."

Brimstone Photo © John Lindley

Louis Powell sent this news : "At the Hartslock reserve, Oxon (SU616795) on April 9th I saw a Holly Blue and two Green Hairstreaks."

David Fuller sent these sightings : "Seen on 9th April at Summerleaze fields, Berks (SU890824) were 2 Small Tortoiseshells, 1 Comma, 3 Brimstone, 3 Holly Blue, 5 Speckled Wood and 8 male Orange-tip. In my garden in Maidenhead, Berks both female Holly Blue and female Orange-tip, the first females of these species in my garden this year. In the late afternoon I saw 4 male Orange- tips flying together en masse, I think the arrival of a female in the garden had something to do with it! Never seen four like this before."

Tony Croft sent this news : "I visited Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon on the morning of April 9th hoping for an early sighting of a Green Hairstreak and was rewarded with sightings of two in the hawthorn and bramble scrub on the lower slopes to the north-east of the motorway (SU727968)." Green Hairstreak Photo © Tony Croft

Steve Johnson sent these sightings : "On 8th April I saw the following in Abingdon, Oxon (in the Southern Town Park and the area beyond Abingdon Tennis Club): Holly Blue (3), Peacock (5), Brimstone (1m), Speckled Wood (1), Orange-tip (3m, 2f)."

John Lindley sent this news : "Whilst walking the dogs on the footpaths around South Stoke, Oxon on 8th April I saw 10+ Peacocks, 3 Small Tortoiseshells, 1 Comma, 10+ Brimstones (2 females, the rest males) and 1 male Green-veined White. Then later in my garden in South Stoke, 1 male and 1 female Orange-tip."

Charlie Jackson sent this news : "In Incombe Hole, Bucks on 8th April I saw a single Grizzled Skipper, 4 Peacocks and an Orange-tip, plus several Brimstones. At Pitstone Churchyard, Bucks there were 2 Holly Blues and a Speckled Wood."

David Fuller sent these sightings : "Seen on 8th April at Marsh Meadow, Bucks (SU893869) were Red Admiral, Peacock, 4 Orange-tip and 3 Brimstone."

Brian Clews sent these sightings for 7th April (via David Fuller): "At Fifield, Berks (SU900770): 2 male Brimstone. At Furze Platt, Berks (SU870825): 1m Orange-tip. At Strande Lane, Cookham, Berks (SU885842): 1 Peacock, 2m Orange-tip. At Strand Water, Cookham, Berks (SU892845): 4m Orange-tip, 2 Red Admiral, 1 Peacock, 2 Small Tortoiseshell. At Widbrook Common, Berks (SU895840): 1 Holly Blue, 1m Orange-tip."

David Pugh sent these sightings (via David Fuller): "On 7th April at woods near Cox Green, Berks (SU870783) : 7 Orange-tip, 4 Small White and a Peacock."

~ 8th April 2017 ~

Paul Busby sent these sightings: "On 6th April I had a quick half hour visit to Aston Rowant (N), Oxon and saw 2 Peacocks and a female Brimstone."

Janet Parker sent this news: "Yesterday (14th March) we had at least four, if not five, Small Tortoiseshells on heather in our garden in Wantage, Oxon."

~ 5th April 2017 ~

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Seen on 5th April in my garden in Maidenhead, Berks : Orange-tip, Comma, Peacock and Brimstone. At Marsh Meadow, Cookham, Berks (SU893869) : 2 Small Tortoiseshell and Speckled Wood."

Michael Pitt-Payne sent this news: "I saw my first Holly Blue of the season at St John's Churchyard, Stone, Bucks (SP783122) on Saturday 1st April at 4pm."

Paul Busby sent this news: "I visited Ardley Quarry, Oxon on 3rd April and saw 2 male Brimstones, a Small Tortoiseshell, 2 Peacocks and 3 Commas. Also a Holly Blue in Waddeson, Bucks (SP746168)."

Brian Clews sent these sightings (via David Fuller): 30th March - my garden at Broomhill, Bucks (SU832847) : 1 male Brimstone , 1 Peacock, 1 Small Tortoiseshell. 30th March - Tidmarsh, Bucks (SU635750) : 1 male Brimstone. 30th March - Upper Basildon, Berks (SU595762) : 1 male Brimstone , 1 Large White. 1st April - Hedsor Garden Centre, Bucks (SU900865) : 2 male Brimstone , 1 Red Admiral, 1 male Orange-tip. 3rd April - Thriftwood Farm, Maidenhead, Berks (SU870785) : 3 Red Admirals, 1 male Brimstone , 5 Small Tortoiseshell, 2 Speckled Wood, 1 Peacock."

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Seen on 3rd April in my garden in Maidenhead, Berks (SU900833) : my first Small White of the year. At Jubilee River, Berks (SU914804): Speckled Wood, a first for me at this site."

Paul Busby sent these sightings: "On 2nd April I saw 2 Commas and 1 Small Tortoiseshell at Alderglade, Uxbridge, Bucks (TQ055855)."

~ 2nd April 2017 ~

Rikki Harrington sent this news: "I know I’m not the first, but I saw my first Orange-tip (male) at 4.30pm on 1st April in my garden in Ivinghoe Aston, Bucks. This is the earliest I’ve seen Orange- tip since 2012 (29th March). Latest was 13th May (1988). Recording since 1988."

David Hastings saw and photographed a Small White at his allotment in Abingdon, Oxon (SU488987) on April 1st. "Not a bad picture considering it was taken with a mobile phone camera."

Orange-tip Small White Photo © Rikki Harrington Photo © David Hastings

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Seen on 31st March in Maidenhead, Berks : In my garden (SU900833): male Orange-tip, Comma. At Sheephouse Road (SU898834): Peacock. At Cox Green (SU865793): Brimstone in my friend's garden. At Ockwells Lane, Cox Green (SU876790): Small Tortoiseshell. Seen on 2nd April in Maidenhead, Berks : In my garden (SU900833): male Holly Blue, Peacock and male Orange-tip. Summerleaze fields (SU892824): Speckled Wood, my first of the year."

John Holdbrook sent these sightings: "On March 28th I saw a Speckled Wood between Heyford Hill and Littlemore Roundabout, Oxford (SP535030), and on March 30th, a Brimstone, 3 Commas and an Orange-tip in the same area. Also on 30th I saw a Peacock and 3 Small Tortoiseshells in Iffley Meadows, Oxford."

~ 30th March 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Oxford University Parks, Oxon (SP513073) on 30th March and saw one male Brimstone, three Small Tortoiseshells, two Commas, a Speckled Wood and a male Orange- tip." Speckled Wood Photo © David Hastings

David Fuller sent this sighting: "On 30th March saw my first Orange-tip of the year on the towpath at Maidenhead, Berks (SU906834)."

Michael Hunt sent this sighting: "On 30th March my wife Diane saw her first Orange-tip of the year at Padbury, Bucks."

Jan Dunn sent this news: "On 30th March a male Green-veined White settled on Dandelion beside the footpath along the edge of Virginia Water Lake on the Berkshire side of the county boundary (SU966693)."

Martin Kincaid sent these sightings: "Sat outside the Visitor Centre and café at Howe Park Wood SSSI, Milton Keynes, Bucks this afternoon (30th March), I saw a pristine male Orange-tip go by, my first of the season. There were also lots of Brimstones and Peacocks, and a single Comma active at the edge of the wood”."

Jan Haseler sent this news: "I had a fresh-looking Red Admiral in my Tilehurst, Reading, Berks moth trap last night (29/30 March). Evidence of migration?"

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Seen on 28th March at Braywick Park, Maidenhead, Berks (SU896797): Small Tortoiseshell and male Holly Blue (both firsts of the year for me), also one male Brimstone."

Graham Elcombe sent this news: "28th March: At least eight Small Tortoiseshells, and three Peacocks on the Chiltern Way path, west of Latimer, Bucks."

Ian Gamble sent these sightings: "28th March at College Lake, Bucks (SP925155): During the afternoon sunshine one Green-veined White, two Comma, three Peacock, two Small Tortoiseshell and two Brimstone."

This news was received from Derek Haynes: "Seen today (28th March) up at the allotments at Bell Farm (Eton Wick, Berks) (SU950789): my first Large White and Small White of the season (as well as a Peacock). Also of interest at the same location (and somewhat unexpectedly): a rather faded-looking Painted Lady on 26th March."

David Gantzel sent these sightings: "Brimstone and Small Tortoiseshell at Hazlemere, Bucks on March 27."

~ 28th March 2017 ~

John Lerpiniere sent this sighting: "A male Orange-tip was seen at Fobney, Reading, Berks (SU703709) on 26th March."

Michael Hunt sent this news: "Seen at Stowe landscape gardens, Bucks on 26th March were 1 Large White (my first for 2017) and one Brimstone." Peter Edwards sent this sighting: "A Speckled Wood was basking on the hedges surrounding the Morrisons car park, Whitley, Reading, Berks on 27th March at 4.05pm."

Mike Flemming sent these sightings: "A visit to Dry Sandford Pit, Cothill, Oxon on 26th March found a single rather small male Orange-tip patrolling the length of the quarry face. Other species seen included Peacock, Comma, and Brimstone. I have written an account of my visit at www.ukbutterflies.co.uk".

Richard Soulsby sent this news: "Very pleased to see a Holly Blue in my garden in Benson, Oxon (SU620915) today. My first non-hibernator of the year, although I see I’ve just missed it being a ‘first sighting’ for the UTB area."

Michael McNeill sent these sightings: "Pleased to report my first sighting of the year of a male Orange-tip on 27th March in my garden in Upper Basildon, West Berkshire. Additionally, this month 4 Brimstone, 1 Peacock, 1 Red Admiral, 3 Comma and 2 Small Tortoiseshells."

Pete Thompson sent this news: "Very surprised last week (23rd March) to see an adult Specked Wood in my garden in Wyfold, South Oxon (SU689817); initially fluttering around in the (unheated) greenhouse; I took it outside, and allowed it to warm up the sunshine, and then despite the cold easterly wind, it flew off unaided." [NB this doesn't count as a first sighting because the butterfly was found in the greenhouse]

~ 26th March 2017 ~

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Seen in my garden in Maidenhead, Berks (SU900833) on 26th March were male and female Brimstones, Comma, Red Admiral and Peacock. At Summerleaze fields, Maidenhead, Berks (SU888831) I saw two Commas and two Brimstones."

Steve Johnson sent this news: "On March 26th at 4.30pm I saw a Holly Blue fluttering around a yew tree in the garden of the Rose Revived pub, Newbridge, Oxon."

Michael Hunt sent these sightings: "March 25th: one Comma and one Brimstone in Winslow, Bucks at 11am."

David Gantzel sent these sightings: "March 25th: Comma in garden in Hazlemere, Bucks, and male Brimstone in Cookham churchyard, Berks."

David Fuller sent these sightings: "Seen in my garden in Maidenhead, Berks (SU900833) on 25th March: Male Brimstone. On the River Thames towpath (SU906834): 3 male Brimstones, one Comma and one Red Admiral (Very tatty. My first of the year). At Nettlebed, Oxon (SU703867): two male Brimstone together. At Crowmarsh Gifford, Oxon (SU618893): two male Brimstone together. At Oakley Wood, Bucks (SU635885) while driving: two male Brimstones within 100 yards of each other."

David Hastings visited Otmoor, Oxon (SP569126) on 25th March and saw three male Brimstones, two Small Tortoiseshells and a Red Admiral. He also saw a Peacock in remarkably good condition nectaring on grape hyacinth flowers in his garden in Abingdon, Oxon (SU587907)." Peacock Small Tortoiseshell Photo © David Hastings Photo © David Hastings

~ 16th March 2017 ~

Nick Hollis sent these sightings: "Seen at the University of Reading, Berks Harris Garden (SU737714) on 15th March were 4 Brimstones, 2 Peacocks and 1 Comma. They were on the flower beds and flying into the adjacent Wilderness area."

David Fuller sent this news: "Three Brimstones in my garden in Maidenhead, Berks (SU900833) today (15th March): 2 males and a female (my first female of the year)."

~ 14th March 2017 ~

Ian Gamble sent this news: "On 13th March at College Lake, Bucks (SP925155) at about 15:30 I found a Painted Lady sunning itself on the main pathway at the furthest most point from the visitors centre. It remained there for several minutes and I managed to get a picture on my iphone. This is the earliest date I have recorded this species in Britain."

David Hastings visited the University Parks, Oxford, Oxon (SP513073) at lunchtime on 13th March and saw at least six male Brimstones, four Commas, two Small Tortoiseshells and a Peacock."

John Holdbrook sent this news: "On March 13th, on the track by the Oxford Ring Road between Littlemore roundabout and just after Heyford Hill, Oxon (about SP532029), I saw 4 Brimstones (allowing for double sightings), 5 Commas and a white (possibly a Small White). This has been a good area for butterflies in the past. I also saw a Brimstone in Iffley, Oxford."

Wendy & Mick Campbell sent the following: "Yesterday, 13th March in the warm and sunny weather we recorded 27 butterflies of 5 species: a Small Tortoiseshell in our garden in Chearsley, Bucks, then in Bernwood and Waterperry Woods, Bucks: Peacock (4), Red Admiral (1 nectaring on Sallow flowers), Brimstone (6) and Comma (15). Also a small Grass Snake and a Common Lizard sunbathing on the bank of a ditch in Bernwood."

Painted Lady Small Tortoiseshell Photo © Ian Gamble Photo © David Hastings

~ 12th March 2017 ~

Richard Hicks sent this sighting: "I saw a Red Admiral flying down Marlow High St, Bucks at around lunchtime on Sunday 5th March." Roger Newman sent this news: "My first Brimstone (male) of the year seen yesterday (9th March) at noon along a south facing hedgerow near Milton-under-Wychwood, Oxon (SP263169)."

David Fuller sent these sightings: "I saw a Comma and a male Brimstone in my garden in Maidenhead, Berks (SU900833) on 9th March. On the same day at Odney Island, Cookham, Berks (SU901855) I saw a male Brimstone, a Comma and a Peacock".

Brian Clews sent these sightings on 9th March: "At Cookham Moor car park, Berks (SU895855): a male Brimstone (taken by a Magpie), and two female Brimstones. At Marsh Meadow pond, Berks (SU892867) : one Peacock, one Comma. At Cookham, Berks (SU880855) : two male Brimstones. At Whyteladyes Lane, Cookham, Berks (SU880845) : four male Brimstones, one Small Tortoiseshell"

~ 9th March 2017 ~

David Hastings visited Dry Sandford Pit, Oxon (SU467995) at lunchtime on 9th March and saw at least three Commas, a male Brimstone and a Peacock."

Peacock Photo © David Hastings

Other sightings reported on 9th March:

Lucy Kanachowski saw a Brimstone fluttering around her garden in Aylesbury, Bucks this morning. She also saw a pair of Commas in the afternoon.

Phil Foxon reported Brimstones on the wing at Twyford, Bucks.

David Gantzel saw two male Brimstones at Hazlemere, Bucks.

Adrian Buckel saw one Brimstone, one Small Tortoiseshell and one Red Admiral in his garden at in Over Norton, Oxon (SP316284).

Louis Powell saw one Small Tortoiseshell in his garden in Caversham, Berks .

~ 8th March 2017 ~

Louis Powell sent this sighting: "I saw a Brimstone fly across the back garden in Caversham, Berks around lunchtime on 20th February.

~ 5th March 2017 ~

David Hastings saw a Comma in his garden in Abingdon, Oxon at mid-day on 4th March."

~ 1st March 2017 ~

Chris Sayers sent this news: "A Small White came into my house in North Maidenhead, Berks on 24th February. It died later that evening so is a positive identification." [NB this doesn't count as a first sighting because the butterfly was only seen in Chris's house]

~ 26th February 2017 ~

Glenis Boxall sent this sighting: "A Small Tortoiseshell was by our front door at Farnham Royal, near Slough, Bucks, this morning (24th February). It flew off into the sunshine. My first sighting this year. "

~ 21st February 2017 ~

The mild and sunny weather on 20th February produced these sightings:

Michael Pitt-Payne saw a Brimstone fly across his garden at 11am in Stone, Bucks.

Diane Hunt saw a Small Tortoiseshell in Buckingham, Bucks.

Dave Wilton saw three male Brimstones in his garden in Westcott, Bucks, Bucks before 11am: "They were patrolling an ivy hedge within which they had presumably been hibernating".

Peter Edwards saw a Red Admiral in Savernake Forest, Bracknell, Berks: "It was flying low in amongst dead bracken and brambles along one of the forest rides".

Nicholl Williams saw a Brimstone and a Peacock in Amersham Old Town, Bucks: "Good to see the first butterflies of the season".

Don Stone saw Brimstones in Lee Common, Bucks and Latimer, Bucks.

~ 20th February 2017 ~

John Whitworth sent this sighting: "I saw my first Brimstone of the year in a friend's garden in Wolvercote, Oxford at 10:40am on 17th February."

~ 16th February 2017 ~

David Hastings saw his first butterflies of the year today: "Two Commas were out and about in the sunshine in the Oxford University Parks, Oxford at lunchtime on 16th February."

Comma Photo © David Hastings

~ 14th February 2017 ~

Derek Wilkins sent this sighting: "Saw my first butterfly of the year on Monday 13th February at 12.25pm - a Red Admiral in perfect condition on the north side of Alexandra Gardens in Windsor, Berks. It stayed near where I was sitting for about 15 minutes, enjoying basking in the sunshine (as I was too!) with occasional short flights. Managed to get close a couple of times, not too surprised to see it as there was some shelter from the chilly breeze. Eventually after about 15 minutes it disappeared. "

Dave Turnbull sent this news: "I saw my first butterfly of the year today 13th Feb, a pristine- looking Red Admiral at Hockeridge woods near Ashley Green, Bucks. Conditions were sunny, windy and about 6C."

~ 11th February 2017 ~

Terry and Judy Wood sent this sighting: "We had our first butterfly of the year on Tuesday, 7th February - a Small Tortoiseshell on a sunny but very cool day in Little Chalfont, Bucks. It headed off over the woods towards the Chess Valley."

~ 3rd February 2017 ~

Peter Daltry sent this news: "Not quite the "full thing" yet but here is a photo of one of two Orange-tip pupae found in my Prestwood, Bucks garden on 1st February. One is attached to an oak sapling; the other on a gooseberry bush. Interestingly both are orientated exactly facing north, and are about 1 metre apart."

Orange-tip pupa Photo © Peter Daltry

Mary Payne sent this sighting: "A large, dark butterfly whizzed past me at the Weston Turville reservoir, Bucks on Tuesday Jan 24th (a very sunny day). I’m pretty sure it was a Peacock."

~ 22nd January 2017 ~

Steve Woolliams sent this sighting: "Pristine Red Admiral seen by Mary Woolliams and Douglas Finch at Larkrise Primary School, Oxford, Oxon at 3pm on 20th January. It was basking on a sunny wall."

~ 19th January 2017 ~

Peter Edwards sent this report: "This Red Admiral was sighted in Crowthorne Woods, Crowthorne, Berks, just after 1pm on Tuesday 17th January."

Red Admiral Photo © Peter Edwards ~ 18th January 2017 ~

Martin Kincaid sent this sighting: "I saw my first butterfly of the year – a pristine Peacock – flying around the reed edge at Walton Lake, Milton Keynes, Bucks at 12.15 today (18th January). It was a beautiful sunny day but very cold so hopefully it soon found shelter again."