Norway – Alpine Flowers of the Gol Plateau

Naturetrek Tour Report 29 June - 6 July 2019

Cranberry Bluethroat

Pearl-bordered Fritillary Yellow Saxifrage

Report by Jessica Turner Images courtesy of Diana Warwick

Naturetrek Mingledown Barn Wolf's Lane Chawton Alton Hampshire GU34 3HJ UK T: +44 (0)1962 733051 E: [email protected] W: www.naturetrek.co.uk

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Tour Participants: Jessica Turner (leader) with seven Naturetrek clients

Summary

The Gol Plateau of west-central Norway has a delightful flora and fauna. We explored a variety of habitats: meadows, open woodland, moor, arctic heath and bog, plus the rocky slopes of Skogshorn, a local mountain. The abundant willows showed soft greens and greys, with the dark-blue of emerging Northern Wolf’s-bane, and we enjoyed the delicate pink Twinflower, reportedly Linnaeus’s favourite flower. A wonderful mass of lichens added extra interest. Venturing further afield, we sampled ‘Norway in a Nutshell’, including Borgund stave- church, near where we saw fine specimens of Pyramidal Saxifrage clinging to rock faces, with sprays of white flowers, and the fascinating Flåm railway (where it snowed!). Cranes were regularly feeding in the field by the hotel, coming very close at dawn and acting as alarm clocks for some of the group. We were also very fortunate to have several sightings of Elk, crossing or near the road, including a young male which stood on the verge and watched us for several minutes, plus some lovely views of Bluethroats. Excellent hospitality, delicious food and great company all added up to an extremely enjoyable week.

Day 1 Saturday 29th June

Fly Heathrow to Oslo – Transfer to Kamben Three group members met Jessica at Heathrow Terminal 5 for the 7.35am British Airways flight BA762 to Oslo Gardermoen. After a smooth flight with some lovely views, we landed ahead of schedule. Having collected our bags, we met up with the remaining four group members before meeting Martin, the co-proprietor of the hotel who was also our driver. We quickly loaded our luggage into the vehicle and made our way out of the airport and onto the E16, the main Bergen road. As we went, we enjoyed the colourful patches of Large-leaved Lupin (Lupinus polyphyllus), Ox-eye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), Red Campion (Silene dioica) and the darker pink, more compact flowers of Sticky Catchfly (Silene viscosa). We also noted a couple of Common Buzzards, Hooded Crow, Magpie and Fieldfares. Our route took us north-west from the capital, passing through Jevnaker, the outskirts of Hønefoss and along the east side of the beautiful Sperillen fjord, where we saw a group of Black-throated Divers.

After a little more than an hour, we made a stop for our hotel-provided picnic at Nes i Ådal, where we enjoyed the warm sun. Here we found Ternate Cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica), Tufted Vetch (Vicia cracca) and Bladder Campion (Silene dioica), while Swallows and Swifts flew overhead, and a Painted Lady butterfly flitted around. We continued our journey on to Aurdal, where we turned south-west through Mønin and up towards the Gol Plateau, and on up to Golsfjellet and the Kamben Høyfjellshotell, our base for the week. Many of the verges were bright with Wood Crane’s-bill (Geranium sylvaticum) and we could see snow on the distant mountains. As we approached the hotel, a young Elk crossed the road in front of us, and we had good views as it crossed a meadow and stood in a glade in the forest. On our arrival at our hotel, we were welcomed by Elin, the co- proprietor.

After we had settled into our rooms, we met to explore the hotel grounds. Two Mountain Hares were in the field behind the hotel, still showing white on their legs and ear tips; we had some lovely views of them. Plants included Alpine Cinquefoil (Potentilla crantzii), Heartsease (Viola tricolor), Common Juniper (Juniperus communis), Downy Willow (Salix lapponum), Caraway (Carum carvi), not quite out, and the mountain form of Heath Dog

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Violet (Viola canina subsp. montana). There were many spikes of Northern Wolf’s-bane (Aconitum septentrionale), but unfortunately, still in bud. Along the road we added the star-like Chickweed Wintergreen (Trientalis europaea), Large Bitter-cress (Cardamine amara) and the Alpine Penny-cress Thlaspi caerulescens. Several Painted Ladies and Green-veined Whites were on the wing, the latter showing the dusky veins of the northern form; Speckled Yellow moth was seen, and Willow Warbler and Cuckoo were calling.

We met again at 6.30pm to start our lists and Jessica outlined plans for the week. We then enjoyed a delicious dinner. Afterwards, enjoying the still-bright evening light, several wandered outside where we had further good views of the Mountain Hares. Scanning the distant fields, we picked up two Common Cranes with a youngster, which we could see clearly through the telescope in the perfect light. After a long day, we then retired for some welcome rest. Later, a group of 11 Common Cranes were seen very much closer, on a bare area of ground in the field behind the hotel.

Day 2 Sunday 30th June

Hallingen - Skutuset - Brautemo Some of the group were woken this morning by the Common Cranes calling very close to their rooms, and Common Quail was also calling from the field behind the hotel.

Our first full day of the tour was spent exploring the boreal forests of the Gol Plateau. Leaving the hotel at 9am, we were driven by Martin the short distance down the track towards Hallingen, where he dropped us at the beginning of the path leading to the settlement of Skutuset. We started by looking at two of the Willows common in the area, Downy Willow (Salix lapponica) and Salix starkeana. There was plenty of the delicate Chickweed Wintergreen (Trientalis europaea) and Small Cow-wheat (Melampyrum sylvaticum). A little further on, we added Alpine Speedwell (Veronica alpina), One-flowered Wintergreen (Moneses uniflora), Oak Fern (Gymnocarpium dryopteris) and the tiny Lesser Twayblade (Neottia cordata), with a few plants in flower. In an open bog we recorded Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos), which we noted growing mainly on the raised, mossy hummocks, Bog Rosemary (Andromeda polifolia), Marsh Lousewort (Pedicularis palustris), and an Early Marsh Orchid (Dactylorhiza incarnata subsp. pulchella). Where it was slightly drier around the edge, we added Cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus) and Nodding Wintergreen (Orthillia secunda). Willow Warblers and Chaffinches were singing.

We continued along the path, looking for blue markers, through the understorey of Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), Bog Bilberry (V. uliginosum), Cowberry (V. vitis-idaea) and occasional Crowberry (Empetrum nigrum), noting the differences and similarities between them. We also found some Blue Heath (Phyllodoce caerulea), a group of Coralroot Orchids (Corallorhiza trifida), and the seeding heads of Arctic Butterbur (Petasites frigidus). The building clouds gave some rain and a thunderstorm rumbled around, although not too near. In a more open area, we found a beautiful bank of Heartsease (Viola tricolor), with mainly purple flowers, and Caraway (Carum carvi). In another wet area, we found Starry Saxifrage (Saxifraga stellata), Large Bitter-cress (Cardamine amara) and more Common Butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris). We had our picnic on a rise, overlooking the mountains, enjoying the light, but also seeing some dramatic flashes of lightning.

The path came out onto a minor road at the small hamlet of Skutuset. Here, some of the Northern Wolf’s-bane (Aconitum septentrionale) was in flower, while a roadside wood held the white-flowered buttercup Ranunculus

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

platanifolius, Herb-Paris (Paris quadrifolia) and Whorled Solomon’s-seal (Polygonatum verticillatum). From Skutuset we turned south, with Fieldfares and a Redwing singing from the top of a tree. The path led towards the village of Brautemo, passing through more boreal forest littered with lichen-covered rocky outcrops interspersed with more wet flushes, mires and streams. Here, we found a nice patch of Blue Heath and one spike of the moorland- dwelling Heath Fragrant Orchid (Gymnadenia borealis). Amongst the amazing range of lichens, Star Reindeer Lichen (Cladonia stellaris) looked like masses of pale grey cauliflower heads; Red Elf-cup (Cladonia coccifera) bore scarlet fruiting bodies; and Bryoria fuscescens looked like tufts of Elk hair caught on twigs. The weather brightened, and in the warm sunshine, butterflies were active. We managed to identify Pearl-bordered Fritillary and Cranberry Fritillary, although they rarely sat still, and a Red Admiral was noted. Siskin was heard and then seen at the top of a tree. Near the road, we added a rather battered Green Hairstreak and Geranium Argus, the latter on Wood Crane’s-bill (Geranium sylvaticum), together with the dramatically marked micro moth, White-spotted Sable. Northern Bedstraw (Galium boreale) was near the road, and a Siberian Jay was seen briefly by some.

Martin soon arrived to collect us, and return us to the hotel, where we had some time to relax before completing our lists for a fascinating first full day and enjoying another excellent dinner. During the meal, a Cuckoo perched briefly in the tree just outside and, later, two Cranes were seen distantly but clearly through the telescope. Later still, the flock of Cranes was seen in the field as on the previous night, and also a Red Fox was seen.

Day 3 Monday 1st July

Skutuset – Syningen – Storefjell - Kamben We woke to another fine morning and, once again, three Cranes were seen nearby. After breakfast, we were taken to the small hamlet of Skutuset that we had touched the previous day. We walked back along the road to our path, seeing Northern Fleabane (Erigeron borealis) by the road. We set off in a northerly direction, along the track leading to Syningen, a small hill which is a local viewpoint at 1031 metres above sea level. As we walked, we enjoyed the now-familiar species which made up the heath and bog through which we were passing. Our path rose towards the hill, and we paused to look at some rocks, where we found the tiny, hairy Oblong Woodsia (Woodsia ilvensis) and Alpine Lady-fern (Athyrium alpestre). We then made our way to the summit, where we enjoyed the extensive views, although it was very windy. Some of the group then scrambled down the north-west side, to an area of shale scree, where we found several patches of the white-flowered Tufted Saxifrage (Saxifraga caespitosa) and Annual Stonecrop (Sedum annuum), with its red leaves and yellow flowers. Retracing our steps towards the top, we noted extensive patches of Alpine Bearberry (Arctuous alpina) and Alpine Timothy (Phleum alpinum) and made our way down the east side, noting a Pearl-bordered Fritillary and a few Snipe Flies.

The path ran through partially felled, open scrub and woodland, emerging onto a gravelled road edged by ditches where we found more Alpine Speedwell (Veronica alpina), surprisingly with pink flowers, along with abundant Starry Saxifrage (Saxifraga stellaris). A stream below the road had many clumps of Yellow Saxifrage (Saxifraga aizoides), with just a few flowers out, some very orange. We had our picnic on a log pile near a stream, along the edges of which were several plants of pink Hairy Stonecrop (Sedum villosum), while Siskins were in a nearby tree. We had a light shower here, but it did not last long. Further on, we added Rock Speedwell (Veronica fruticans) and One-flowered Fleabane (Erigeron uniflorus) by another very beautiful stream. We then took a track leading up to the hotel, agreeing on the beauty of a field bright with yellow and purple of carpets of buttercups and Wood Crane’s-bill, and how the soft colour-palate of greys and blues of the willows, lichens, and the Crane’s-bill, with

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

splashes of deep-pink Red Campion, plus the tiny rock gardens, would thrill many a garden designer.

At the hotel, we took a short break and used the telescope to admire, again, the Cranes feeding in the field. We then headed out again, this time up the track towards Storefjell. Continuing to enjoy the now-beautiful afternoon, we took a path round a small pond, with another Early Marsh Orchid, Scottish Asphodel (Tofieldia pusilla) in flower, and some fine Bog Rosemary. Walking back down a path, we saw Orange Tip and Red Admiral butterflies. Most of the group then continued down the road below the hotel, where a Yellowhammer was singing from a chimney pot, a Redwing was singing loudly from tree-tops, House Martins swooped around, and Globeflowers (Trollius europaeus) were in a ditch.

Day 4 Tuesday 2nd July

Grønlie – Krististølen – Gomobu - Vasetstølen Today we travelled out to Grønlie, the furthest of any of our local daily excursions. Leaving the hotel, we travelled north. We were delighted to see a female Elk with a young calf, maybe just one or two months old, cross the road in front of us, and we watched them disappear into the scrub. Soon after, a couple of Cranes were in a marshy area just by the road, so we had excellent views of them as well. We crossed the dam at the eastern end of the Tisleifjorden, seeing a couple of Herring Gulls, before turning north-west and following the northern shore of the fjord through Langestølen, then north-east to Nøsen and Rensenn. Another kilometre or so further on we stopped at the small, remote car park at Grønlie, with magnificent views of the snowy mountains in the distance and a nearer Kestrel. Although it was fine and very clear, there was a cold wind, so we were glad to don extra layers of clothing before we set out. We walked along a track towards the hamlet of Krististølen, then took a path over a rocky outcrop, where we found Trailing Azalea (Loiseleuria procumbens – the genus has changed back from Kalmia!), with just a few flowers open, and Alpine Clubmoss (Diphasiastrum alpinum). We dropped down onto sub-arctic heath, seeing plenty of Blue Heath (Phyllodoce caerulea). There were clumps of Northern Buckler Fern (Dryopteris expansa) and we saw Meadow Pipits and a Northern Wheatear. We passed a ‘nest’ of Small-tree Eggar caterpillars, whose main food plants are Vaccinium and Salix species. The heath was dominated by Dwarf Birch (Betula nana) and Prostrate Juniper (Juniperus communis var. saxatilis), with areas of Downy and Woolly Willows (Salix lapponum and S. lanata) and Salix starkeana, plus some taller specimens of Downy Birch (Betula pubescens) and Norway Spruce (Picea abies). Those at the back of the group saw a Bluethroat close to the path, so we all turned back a short distance to have excellent views of it perched up on low bushes. A second bird was also seen nearby.

Wetter areas were dominated by Common Cotton-grass (Eriophorum angustifolium) with some Hare’s-tail and Scheuzcher’s Cotton-grasses (E. vaginatum and E. scheuchzeri) and Sphagnum mosses. The path passed a large lake, with Marsh Lousewort (Pedicularis palustris) in very boggy areas, while the lemon-coloured Lapland Lousewort (P. lapponicum) was in slightly drier habitats. We also came across a beautiful patch of the delightful Yellow Wood Violet (Viola biflora), while a Redwing was singing nearby. We had our picnic by a stream, enjoying the wild beauty of the area. Beech Fern (Phegopteris connectilis) was growing in the shade of a boulder.

Our path across the heath area ended at Gomobu, where we walked through the settlement, looking at the construction of the houses with their living roofs and their traditional garden fences, before joining another path down to the lake at Vasetstølen. On a streamside rock we found a patch of Drooping Saxifrage (Saxifraga cernua),

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

nicely in flower, with Nodding Wintergreen (Orthilia secunda) on the bank. Further down, there was a clump of Roseroot (Sedum roseum). At the lakeside we found several plants of the large lousewort Moor-King (Pedicularis sceptrum-carolinum), but they were all only in bud. We warmed up with hot drinks as we waited for Martin, who collected us in the bus and drove us back by another moorland route with magnificent views. A Mountain Hare was by the dam, along with House Martins and Swallows. We had another excellent dinner, enjoying bright rainbows over the field, Fieldfares just outside the window, and Swifts feeding low.

Day 5 Wednesday 3rd July

‘Norway in a Nutshell’: Gudvangen – Flåm – Myrdal – Gol Today we went on the 'Norway in a nutshell' excursion. After breakfast at 7.30am, we left at 8.30am for Martin to drive us to Gudvangen as this year we were doing the trip ‘in reverse’. We drove up Hemesdal in bright but mainly cloudy conditions, with a cold wind, stopping briefly to look at the shape of a mountain that resembles the face of a female troll. A Mountain Hare was seen from the bus by some, and there were a number of Fieldfares and Hooded Crows in newly mown hay fields. As the road climbed higher, we could see fresh snow had fallen overnight, so the landscape was dusted in white. We dropped down into the Laerdal valley, stopping to visit the magnificent, old stave-church at Borgund. Built in about 1180, it is one of the most complete remaining examples of these medieval buildings, and we were able to appreciate the features and construction of the church. The walls surrounding the church had some fine clumps of Biting Stonecrop (Sedum acre) and there were large patches of Heartsease (Viola tricolor). Siskin was singing from the top of a tree, and later, Blackcap was heard by the car park. Continuing down the old road, which runs alongside the fast-flowing river, we saw several Grey Wagtails. We stopped a little further down, to see the dramatic Pyramidal Saxifrage (Saxifraga cotyledon), with its cascade of flowers from the basal rosette; the plant favours slightly damp rock ledges or crevices. Here we also saw Lesser Burnet-saxifrage (Pimpinella saxifraga) and the tall Treacle Mustard (Erysimum cheiranthoides).

The weather had turned showery, so we ate out picnic under cover at Gudvangen, while we waited for our cruise. This year, it was a new boat, electric, so virtually silent, with the different levels outside all connected by long ramps, and large panorama windows. We set off up the UNESCO-designated Nærøyfjorden, a branch of Sognfjord, enjoying the stunning beauty of the area, with tiny picturesque villages and dramatic waterfalls. Many of the rock faces bore large patches of Pyramidal Saxifrage, obviously at its best. Common Gulls were flying around, attending the boats, while we also saw a pair of Oystercatchers with a chick, and a couple of Black Guillemots. Several groups of goats were grazing on the sheer fjord edges. We turned into Aurlandsfjorden and, after two hours, we reached Flåm, where we disembarked and transferred to the famous Flåm Railway. Completed in 1940, this unique railway took twenty years to build, and climbs 864 metres in 20 kilometres to Myrdal. The journey up the Flåm valley took us through some magnificent scenery, not least of which was the scheduled stop to view the thundering power of the mighty Kjossfossen: the Kjoss Waterfall. At lower levels, there were spikes of Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), and Roseroot (Sedum roseum) was near the waterfall.

The showers had turned to persistent sleet and snow with a biting wind, so we all crowded into the waiting-room at Myrdal to await the Bergen – Oslo train. From the warmth of the train we were able to continue to enjoy the dramatic scenery of this part of western Norway. As we approached Finse, the highest station on the Oslo to Bergen route at 1222 metres and with no public road access, there were some distant, rather misty views of the Hardanger Glacier, and patches of remaining snow. As we travelled east, the sun came out, and we enjoyed the

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

evening light, some seeing a Red Deer hind by the forest. We arrived in Gol at about 7.50pm, where we were met by Martin who drove us back to the hotel for dinner. Although a long day, we all agreed that it had been most enjoyable.

Day 6 Thursday 4th July

Skogshorn Our target today was climbing at least the lower and middle slopes of Skogshorn, which stands out at 1728 metres above sea level, and is both interesting botanically and has lovely views. We woke to a rather cloudy sky, with a little drizzle, but that soon passed to a beautifully sunny and clear day, but with low temperatures and a cold wind. Martin drove us around the edge of Golsfjellet, along the southern shore of Tisleifjorden lake, then south-west, before joining a north-easterly road which took us by Storevatn kake and under the sheer face of Skoghorn, to the car park, which was the starting point for our walk. The path climbs gently but steadily northwards from the road, before turning west, where it begins to get steeper. It then bears south-west and up the steepest section to the summit. A large restoration project is underway to improve the path and reduce erosion, with massive stone blocks laid (apparently by Nepalese sherpas!) as steps in places.

Initially the path runs along a stream, with plenty of taller Downy Birch (Betula pubescens) and some Spruce (Picea abies) as well as Downy Willow (Salix lapponum) and Woolly Willow (Salix lanata), the latter with rounder leaves. As the path rose, the taller trees gave way to Dwarf Birch (Betula nana) and we found a fertile hybrid, with intermediate leaf characteristics between Dwarf and Downy Birch. A wet area held emerging Heath Spotted Orchids (Dactylorhiza maculata), Marsh Violet (Viola palustris), good patches of Bog Rosemary (Andromeda polifolia) and Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos), along with mainly Hare’s-tail Cotton-grass (Eriophorum vaginata) and some Scheuchzer’s Cotton-grass (E. scheuchzeri). A drier area at the edge held some fine spikes of Lapland Lousewort (Pedicularis lapponica). A Fritillary butterfly would not reveal its underwings, but we glimpsed a pair of Bluethroats, a female Ring Ouzel and Willow Warbler. A bit further on, we had lovely views of a pair of Ring Ouzels gathering food on a patch of bare ground, plus a Northern Wheatear, while a Willow Warbler with a good-sized caterpillar in its beak, perched on the top of a willow. We were struck by its very grey coloration, a feature of some northern Willow Warblers in spring. Along the path, there were beautiful patches of Blue Heath (Phyllodoce caerulea). Meadow Pipits were flitting around, a Raven flew overhead, and we found the droppings of Willow Ptarmigan on the path.

This habitat gave way to an upper area of rough gravel paths and boulder-strewn hillsides, with some large snow patches. We were more exposed to the force of the wind here and were pleased to find a sheltered hollow for our picnic, where the sun felt quite warm, and we could admire the magnificent scenery. A small red helicopter landed below us, briefly. As the path climbed, the vegetation became more prostrate and ground-hugging, with Dwarf Willow (Salix herbacea), Crowberry (Empetrum nigrum), and Alpine Bearberry (Arctous alpina), already in fruit. We started to find large patches of Training Azalea (Loiseleuria procumbens), mainly still in bud although we did manage to find a few of the pretty, star-like, pink flowers. Surprisingly, as we went further up, more of the Azalea was in flower, and there were large pink patches on the hillside. We also found a couple of small patches of the diminutive Cassiope (Harrimanella hypnoides) with its white, bell-like flowers, again in better flower higher. However, the biting wind was starting to make walking difficult, and several of the group started to descend to

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

more sheltered slopes. A little further up, the remainder found a beautiful patch of Glacier Crowfoot (Ranunculus glacialis) in the lee of a large boulder, which we admired before we too, started the descent.

We met up with the others in the sunny and warm shelter of the stream edge, and had time for a little local exploration of the car park and adjacent area while we waited for Martin, adding Sand Spurrey (Spergularia rubra), Procumbent Pearlwort (Sagina procumbens), a spike of Common Wintergreen (Pyrola minor) and a male Idas Blue butterfly, as well as more fritillaries which may have been Small Pearl-bordered. We met up with Martin, and he drove us back along the Hemsedal road, along the river Hemsil, before climbing back up to Kamben. We were quite weary, both from our exertions and the force of the wind but agreed it had been another lovely day.

Day 7 Friday 5th July

Solseter to Gol Today dawned fine and sunny, with a much lighter wind. Jenny reported seeing an Elk in the field near the hotel at about 6.30am, as well as a Red Deer hind, 11 Cranes and a Willow Warbler, all from her room. The Quail was also calling. After another delicious breakfast and with picnics made, Martin drove us to the little settlement of Solseter, half-way between our hotel and Gol. As we arrived, a young bull Elk, just over a year old, with his first antlers just forming, was standing by the road. He stood and watched us for several minutes, not overly concerned by the minibus parked in the lay-by opposite him. Some of the time, his head was behind a small Birch tree, but eventually he trotted off into the forest. What a start to the day!

We took the path, which crosses the road in several places, down to the town of Gol. The early part of the route was through more semi-open, wet forest. Here we found our first Twinflower (Linnaea borealis), and both Small and Common Cow-wheat (Melampyrum sylvaticum and M. pratense), so we could compare them. Blue Tit, Great Tit, Blackbird and Robin were among the birds, and Pearl-bordered Fritillaries and Green Hairstreak were on the path. A little further on, the Melancholy Thistle Cirsium helenioides was in flower, and there were some good stands of Common Spotted Orchids (Dactylorhiza fuchsii), while Great Spotted Woodpecker was calling. We emerged into an open area where tree-felling had taken place, leaving a few standing Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris). Here we noted the delicate heads of Wavy Hair-grass (Deschampsia flexuosa) and Rock Catchfly (Silene rupestris). A Green Woodpecker was heard and seen distantly, Blackcap was singing, and a Whinchat was calling nearby. As we moved lower, we could see two Whinchats, presumably feeding young. The habitat changed to a series of meadows and track verges with species such as Caraway (Carum carvi), Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), Meadow Vetchling (Lathyrus pratensis) and more fine stands of Northern Wolf’s-bane (Aconitum septentrionale). Butterflies were active in the sun, including Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Common and Mazarine Blues, Pearl-bordered Fritillaries, Small Heath and Wood White, plus Common Heath and Latticed Heath moths. A Bumblebee Robber-fly was basking on a rock. We had our picnic by the track, among a number of stumps and boulders.

The path continued on a forestry track, below Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Norway Spruce (Picea abies). Here, we found Aspen (Populus tremula), Beech Fern (Phegopteris connectilis), Fir Clubmoss (Huperzia selago), more Lesser Twayblade (Neottia cordata), and plenty of delicate Twinflower (Linnaea borealis). By the path were also Lesser Butterfly Orchid (Platanthera bifolia) and a spike of Green Wintergreen (Pyrola chlorantha). A Red Squirrel emerged from under some tree roots and gave good views as it ran across the grey lichen-covered forest floor, and a very

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

dark, northern form of Large Wall Brown was sunning itself. Orpine (Sedum telephium subsp. maximum) was growing on a large rock. We were able to watch an Azure Hawker dragonfly catch a moth, making short work of devouring it, as the plucked wings drifted downwards. The last section of the path narrowed and here, on mossy boulders, were several spikes of Creeping Lady’s-tresses (Goodyera repens), none quite open yet, and a pair of Long-tailed Tits were seen. The path emerged on the outskirts of Gol, where we were able to look at the rocks covered by Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), before walking into the town and enjoying refreshments while we waited to be met by the hotel bus.

We returned to the hotel for our final, again excellent, dinner and evening together.

Day 8 Saturday 6th July

Kamben to Oslo – Fly London Heathrow Our last morning dawned grey. We had an early start as an arriving group needed the minibus, so we left shortly before 8am, saying our goodbyes and thanks to Elin at the hotel. Martin’s sister-in-law, Hannah, drove us to the airport. Our route took us south-eastwards, and we saw a Fox by the roadside, and several duck, including Teal, on lakes. Rather than wait a long time in the airport, most of us opted for a short visit to Lillestrøm. We said goodbye to Birte, who was flying to Copenhagen, and left our luggage at the airport before taking the train for the 12-minute journey. After a break for a coffee, we walked along the river Nitelva, where birds included Herring and Common Gulls, Common Tern, Mallard, Greylag Geese and a Mute Swan with three cygnets. The riverside vegetation included Yellow Flag (Iris pseudacorus), Yellow Loosestrife (Lysimachia vulgaris) and Creeping Jenny (L. nummularia). A Red-tailed Cuckoo Bee, looking like a Red-tailed Bumblebee (which it parasitises) but with dark-coloured wings, was seen, as well.

We returned to the airport in time to check in for our British Airways flight, BA 767, to London Heathrow, saying goodbye to Martin who was flying to Manchester the following day.

Receive our e-newsletter

Join the Naturetrek e-mailing list and be the first to hear about new tours, additional departures and new dates, tour reports and special offers. Visit www.naturetrek.co.uk to sign up.

Social Media

We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and be the first to hear about the launch of new tours, offers and exciting sightings and photos from our recently returned holidays.

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Species Lists

Plants

Nomenclature contained within this list follows the taxonomic amendments based on DNA analysis made by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and the Missouri Botanic Garden, and following The Plant List, an internationally accepted list of vascular plant families, published and maintained by these two institutions.

Scientific name Common name Day Location

PTERIDOPHYTES FERNS & ALLIES Lycophytes Clubmosses & Quillworts Lycopodiaceae Clubmoss Family Diphasiastrum alpinum Alpine Clubmoss 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Huperzia selago Fir Clubmoss 3 Syningen Lycopodium annotinum Interrupted Clubmoss 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Lycopodium lagopus One-sided Clubmoss 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen

Calamophytes Horsetails Equisetaceae Horsetail Family Equisetum arvense Common Horsetail 3 Skutuset - Kamben Equisetum fluviatile Water Horsetail 3 Skutuset - Kamben Equisetum palustre Marsh Horsetail 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Equisetum pratense Shady Horsetail 1 Kamben Equisetum sylvaticum Wood Horsetail 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Eusporangiate Ferns Adder's-tongues & Moonworts Ophioglossaceae Adder's-tongue family Botrychium lunaria Moonwort 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Leptosporangiate Ferns True Ferns Athyriaceae Lady-fern Family Athyrium alpestre (distentifolium) Alpine Lady-fern 3 Syningen Athyrium filix-femina Lady-fern 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Cystopteridaceae Bladder-fern Family Cystopteris fragilis Brittle Bladder-fern 5 Near Borgund Gymnocarpium dryopteris Oak Fern 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Dennstaedtiaceae Bracken Family Pteridium aquilinum Bracken 7 Solseter - Gol

Dryopteridaceae Buckler-fern Family Dryopteris carthusiana Narrow Buckler-fern 3 Skutuset - Kamben Dryopteris expansa Northern Buckler-fern 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Dryopteris filix-mas Male-fern 5 Near Borgund

Polypodiaceae Polypody Family Polypodium vulgare agg. Common Polypody 5 Near Borgund

Pteridaceae Ribbon Fern Family Cryptogramma crispa Parsley Fern 5 Flåm - Myrdal

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Scientific name Common name Day Location

Thelypteridaceae Marsh Fern Family Phegopteris connectilis Beech Fern 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen

Woodsiaceae Woodsia Family Woodsia ilvensis Oblong Woodsia 3 Syningen

GYMNOSPERMS CONIFERS Cupressaceae Juniper Family Juniperus communis Juniper 1 Kamben Juniperus communis var. saxatilis Dwarf Juniper 3 Syningen

Pinaceae Pine Family Larix decidua European Larch 5 Norway in a Nutshell Picea abies subsp. abies Norway Spruce 1 Roadsides Pinus sylvestris Scots Pine 1 Roadsides

ANGIOSPERMS FLOWERING PLANTS Pre-Dicots Primitive Dicotyledons Nymphaeaceae Water-lily Family Nuphar lutea Yellow Water-lily 5 Myrdal - Gol

Eu-Dicots True Dicotyledons Apiaceae Carrot Family Aegopodium podragaria Ground-elder 8 Lillestrom Angelica archangelica Garden Angelica 7 Solseter - Gol Angelica sylvestris Wild Angelica 7 Solseter - Gol Anthriscus sylvestris Cow Parsley 1 Kamben Carum carvi Caraway 1 Kamben Chaerophyllum temulum 1 Kamben Heracleum sphondylium ssp. sibiricum Siberian Hogweed 7 Solseter - Gol Pimpinella saxifraga Lesser Burnet-saxifrage 5 Near Borgund

Betulaceae Birch Family Alnus glutinosa Alder 7 Solseter - Gol Betula nana Dwarf Birch 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Betula pendula Silver Birch 5 Near Borgund Betula pubescens Downy Birch 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Betula pubescens x B. nana Hybrid Birch 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Betula pubescens x B. pendula Hybrid Birch 7 Solseter - Gol Corylus avellana Hazel 7 Solseter - Gol

Boraginaceae Forget-me-not Family Myosotis arvensis Field Forget-me-not 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Myosotis ramosissima Early Forget-me-not 7 Solseter - Gol

Brassicaceae Cabbage Family Barbarea vulgaris Common Winter-cress 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Capsella bursa-pastoris Shepherd’s-purse 7 Solseter - Gol Cardamine amara Large Bitter-cress 3 Skutuset - Kamben Erysimum cheiranthoides Treacle Mustard 5 Near Borgund Thlaspi caerulescens An Alpine Penny-cress 1 Kamben

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Scientific name Common name Day Location

Campanulaceae Bellflower Family Campanula rotundifolia Harebell 5 Near Borgund Campanula trachelium Nettle-leaved Bellflower 8 Lillestrom

Caprifoliaceae Honeysuckle Family Knautia arvensis Field Scabious 5 Near Borgund Linnaea borealis Twin-flower 7 Solseter - Gol Lonicera caerulea Blue-berried Honeysuckle 7 Solseter - Gol Valeriana sambucifolia Elder-leaved Valerian 5 Norway in a Nutshell

Caryophyllaceae Pink Family Cerastium cerastoides Starwort Mouse-ear 3 Skutuset - Kamben Cerastium fontanum Common Mouse-ear 7 Solseter - Gol Sagina procumbens Procumbent Pearlwort 6 Skogshorn Scleranthus annuus Annual Knawel 7 Solseter - Gol Silene dioica Red Campion 1 Kamben Silene latifolia White Campion 7 Solseter - Gol Silene rupestris Rock Catchfly 5 Near Borgund Silene viscosa Sticky Catchfly 1 Roadsides Silene vulgaris Bladder Campion 1 Nes Spergularia rubra Sand Spurrey 6 Skogshorn Stellaria alsine Bog Stitchwort 3 Skutuset - Kamben Stellaria graminea Lesser Stitchwort 7 Solseter - Gol Stellaria media Chickweed 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Celastraceae Spindle Family Parnassia palustris Grass-of-Parnassus 3 Skutuset - Kamben

Compositae (Asteraceae) Daisy Family Achillea millefolium Yarrow 1 Kamben Antennaria dioica Mountain Everlasting 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort 7 Solseter - Gol Cirsium arvense Creeping Thistle 8 Lillestrom Cirsium helenoides A Melancholy Thistle 3 Skutuset - Kamben Cirsium palustre Marsh Thistle 3 Skutuset - Kamben Erigeron borealis Northern Fleabane 3 Skutuset - Kamben Erigeron uniflorus One-flowered Fleabane 3 Skutuset - Kamben Gnaphalium norvegicum Highland Cudweed 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Gnaphalium supinum Dwarf Cudweed 3 Skutuset - Kamben Gnaphalium sylvaticum Heath Cudweed 7 Solseter - Gol Hieracium alpinum agg. Alpine Hawkweed 3 Skutuset - Kamben Leucanthemum vulgare Ox-eye Daisy 1 Kamben Matricaria discoidea Pineapple Weed 5 Near Borgund Petasites frigidus Arctic Butterbur 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Pilosella lactucella - 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Senecio vulgaris Groundsel 7 Solseter - Gol Solidago virgaurea Goldenrod 1 Kamben Tanacetum vulgare Tansy 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Taraxacum agg. Dandelion 1 Kamben Tripleurospermum inodorum Scentless Mayweed 7 Solseter - Gol Tussilago farfara Colt’s-foot 3 Skutuset - Kamben

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Scientific name Common name Day Location

Crassulaceae Stonecrop Family Sedum acre Biting Stonecrop 5 Borgund Sedum annuum Annual Stonecrop 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Sedum roseum Roseroot 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Sedum telephium subsp. maximum Orpine 7 Solseter - Gol Sedum villosum Hairy Stonecrop 3 Skutuset - Kamben

Ericaceae Heath family Andromeda polifolia Bog Rosemary 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Arctostaphyllos uva--ursi Bearberry 7 Solseter - Gol Arctous alpina Alpine Bearberry 3 Skutuset - Kamben Calluna vulgaris Heather 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Empetrum nigrum Crowberry 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Harrimanella (Cassiope) hypnoides Matted Cassiope 6 Skogshorn Loiseleuria (Kalmia) procumbens Trailing Azalea 6 Skogshorn Moneses uniflora One-flowered Wintergreen 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Orthilia secunda Nodding Wintergreen 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Phyllodoce caerulea Blue or Mountain Heath 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Pyrola chlorantha Pale-green Wintergreen 7 Solseter - Gol Pyrola media Intermediate Wintergreen 3 Skutuset - Kamben (in bud) Pyrola minor Common Wintergreen 6 Skogshorn Pyrola rotundifolia agg. Round-leaved Wintergreen 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Vaccinium myrtillus Bilberry 1 Kamben Vaccinium oxycoccos Cranberry 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Vaccinium uliginosum Bog Whortleberry 1 Kamben Vaccinium vitis-idaea Cowberry 1 Kamben

Geraniaceae Geranium Family Geranium robertianum Herb Robert 5 Near Borgund Geranium sylvaticum Wood Crane’s-bill 1 Kamben

Grossulariaceae Gooseberry Family Ribes rubrum Red Currant 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Hypericaeae St. John’s-wort Family Hypericum maculatum Imperforate St. John's-wort 5 Near Borgund

Lamiaceae Dead-nettle Family Ajuga pyramidalis Pyramidal Bugle 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Galeopsis tetrahit Common Hemp-nettle 7 Solseter - Gol

Leguminosae (Fabaceae) Pea Family Anthyllis vulneraria agg. Kidney-vetch 5 Near Borgund Lathyrus pratensis Meadow Vetchling 7 Solseter - Gol Lotus corniculatus Bird’s-foot Trefoil 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Lupinus polyphyllus Large-leaved Lupin 1 Roadsides Trifolium pratense Red Clover 3 Skutuset - Kamben Trifolium repens White Clover 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Vicia cracca Tufted Vetch 1 Kamben Vicia sepium Bush Vetch 7 Solseter - Gol

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Scientific name Common name Day Location

Lentibulariaceae Bladderwort Family Pinguicula vulgaris Common Butterwort 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Menyanthaceae Bogbean Family Menyanthes trifoliata Bogbean 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Onagraceae Willowherb Family Epilobium alsinifolium Chickweed Willowherb 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Epilobium anagallidifolium Alpine Willowherb 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Epilobium (Chamerion) angustifolium Rosebay Willowherb 7 Solseter - Gol

Orobanchaceae Broomrape Family Bartsia alpina Alpine Bartsia 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Euphrasia stricta an Eyebright 7 Solseter - Gol Melampyrum pratense Common Cow-wheat 7 Solseter - Gol Melampyrum sylvaticum Small Cow-wheat 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Pedicularis lapponica Lapland Lousewort 6 Skogshorn Pedicularis palustris Marsh Lousewort 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Pedicularis sceptum-carolinum Moor King 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen (lvs) Rhinanthus minor agg. Yellow Rattle 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen

Oxalidaceae Wood-sorrel Family Oxalis acetosella Wood-sorrel 2 Hallingen - Brautemo (lvs)

Papaveraceae Poppy Family Papaver nudicaule Iceland Poppy 7 Solseter - Gol (naturalised)

Plantaginaceae Plantain Family Digitalis purpurea Foxglove 5 Norway in a Nutshell Linaria vulgaris Common Toadflax 5 Near Borgund Plantago major Greater Plantain 7 Solseter - Gol Veronica alpina Alpine Speedwell 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Veronica chamaedrys Germander Speedwell 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Veronica fruticans Rock Speedwell 3 Skutuset - Kamben Veronica officinalis Heath Speedwell 6 Skogshorn Veronica serpyllifolia Thyme-leaved Speedwell 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Polygonaceae Knotweed Family Persicaria vivipara Alpine Bistort 1 Kamben Rumex acetosa Sorrel 1 Kamben Rumex acetosella Sheep's Sorrel 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Rumex longifolius Northern Dock 3 Skutuset - Kamben Rumex thyrsiflorus Compact Dock 7 Solseter - Gol

Primulaceae Primrose Family Lysimachia nummularia Creeping Jenny 8 Lillestrom Lysimachia vulgaris Yellow Loosestrife 8 Lillestrom Trientalis europaea Chickweed Wintergreen 1 Kamben

Ranunculaceae Buttercup Family Aconitum septentrionale Northern Wolf's-bane 1 Kamben Ranunculus acris Meadow Buttercup 1 Kamben

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Scientific name Common name Day Location

Ranunculus glacialis Glacier Crowfoot 6 Skogshorn Ranunculus platanifolius A tall white-flowered Buttercup 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Ranunculus repens Creeping Buttercup 3 Skutuset - Kamben Thalictrum alpinum Alpine Meadow Rue 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Trollius europaeus Globeflower 3 Skutuset - Kamben

Rosaceae Rose Family Alchemilla alpina Alpine Lady’s-mantle 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Alchemilla monticola a Lady's-mantle 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Amelanchier ovalis Juneberry 7 Solseter - Gol (Naturalised) Comarum palustre Marsh Cinquefoil 2 Hallingen - Brautemo (leaves) Filipendula ulmaria Meadowsweet 2 Hallingen - Brautemo (leaves) Fragaria vesca Wild Strawberry 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Geum rivale Water Avens 1 Kamben Potentilla anserina Silverweed 7 Solseter - Gol Potentilla crantzii Alpine Cinquefoil 1 Kamben Potentilla norvegica Ternate-leaved Cinquefoil 1 Kamben Rosa sp. 5 Norway in a Nutshell Rubus chamaemorus Cloudberry 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Rubus idaeus Raspberry 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Rubus saxatilis Stone Bramble 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Sibbaldia procumbens Sibbaldia 3 Skutuset - Kamben

Rubiaceae Bedstraw Family Galium mollugo Hedge Bedstraw 1 Kamben Galium boreale Northern Bedstraw 7 Solseter - Gol Galium saxatile Heath Bedstraw 7 Solseter - Gol Galium verum Lady's Bedstraw 7 Solseter - Gol

Salicaceae Willow & Poplar Family Populus tremula Aspen 7 Solseter - Gol Salix caprea Goat Willow 1 Kamben Salix herbacea Dwarf Willow 3 Skutuset - Kamben Salix lanata Woolly Willow 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Salix lapponum Downy Willow 1 Kamben Salix starkeana A Mountain Willow 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Saxifragaceae Saxifrage Family Saxifraga aizoides Yellow Mountain Saxifrage 3 Skutuset - Kamben Saxifraga cernua Drooping Saxiifrage 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Saxifraga cespitosa Tufted Saxifrage 3 Skutuset - Kamben Saxifraga cotyledon Pyramidal Saxifrage 5 Near Borgund Saxifraga stellaris Starry Saxifrage 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Scrophulariaceae Figwort Family Verbascum nigrum Dark Mullein 5 Norway in a Nutshell

Urticacae Nettle Family Urtica dioica subsp. galeopsifolia Stingless Nettle 3 Skutuset - Kamben Urtica dioica subsp. urtica Common Nettle 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Scientific name Common name Day Location

Violaceae Violet Family Viola biflora Yellow Wood Violet 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Viola canina Heath Dog Violet 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Viola canina subsp. montana Mountain Heath Dog Violet 1 Kamben Viola epipsila Dwarf Marsh Violet 6 Skogshorn Viola palustris Marsh Violet 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Viola tricolor agg. Heartsease 1 Kamben

Monocots Monocotyledons Asparagaceae Asparagus Family Maianthemum bifolium May Lily 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Polygonatum verticillatum Whorled Solomon’s-seal 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Cyperaceae Sedge Family Carex atrata Black Alpine Sedge 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Carex bigelowii Stiff Sedge 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Carex canescens White Sedge 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Carex demissa Common Yellow Sedge 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Cerex elata Tufted Sedge 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Eriophorum angustifolium Common Cotton-grass 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Eriophorum scheuchzeri Scheuchzer’s Cotton-grass 3 Skutuset - Kamben Eriophorum vaginatum Hare's-tail Cotton-grass 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Trichophorum alpinum Alpine Deergrass 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Trichophorum cespitosum Deergrass 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Iridaceae Iris Family Iris pseudacorus Yellow Flag 8 Lillestrom

Juncaceae Rush Family Juncus trifidus Three-leaved Rush 3 Skutuset - Kamben Luzula multiflora agg. Heath Woodrush 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Luzula multiflora subsp. congesta Congested Heath Woodrush 6 Skogshorn Luzula spicata Spiked Woodrush 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Juncaginaceae Arrowgrass Family Triglochin palustris Marsh Arrowgrass 3 Skutuset - Kamben

Melanthiaceae Herb-Paris Family Paris quadrifolia Herb-Paris 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Orchidaceae Orchid Family Corallorhiza trifida Coralroot Orchid 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Dactylorhiza fuchsii Common Spotted Orchid 7 Solseter - Gol Dactylorhiza incarnata subsp. pulchella Early Marsh Orchid 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Dactylorhiza maculata Heath Spotted Orchid 6 Skogshorn Goodyeara repens Creeping Ladies Tresses 7 Solseter - Gol Gymnadenia borealis Fragrant Orchid 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Neottia cordata Lesser Twayblade 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Platanthera bifolia Lesser Butterfly Orchid 7 Solseter - Gol

Poaceae Grass Family Alopecurus pratensis Meadow Foxtail 1 Kamben

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

Scientific name Common name Day Location

Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal Grass 6 Skogshorn Brachypodium sylvaticum False Brome 6 Skogshorn Deschampsia cespitosa Tufted Hair-grass 7 Solseter - Gol Deschampsia flexuosa Wavy Hair-grass 7 Solseter - Gol Festuca rubra agg Red Fescue 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Lolium perenne Perennial Rye-grass 7 Solseter - Gol Melica nutans Mountain Melick 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Nardus stricta Mat-grass 4 Grønlie - Vasetstølen Phleum alpinum Alpine Cat’s-tail 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Potamogetonaceae Pondweed Family Potamogeton nutans Broad-leaved Pondweed 5 Norway in a Nutshell

Tofieldiaceae Scottish Asphodel Family Tofieldia pusilla Scottish Asphodel 3 Skutuset - Kamben

LICHENS: Bryoria fuscescens 'Dark threads' 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Cladonia coccifera Red Elf-cup 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Cladonia rangiferina Reindeer Lichen 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Cladonia stellaris Star Reindeer Lichen 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Parmelia omphalodes 'Dead Leaves' 3 Skutuset - Kamben Parmeliopsis ambigua 'Pale, thallose' 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Rhizocarpon geographicum The Map Lichen 2 Hallingen - Brautemo Solorina crocea Grey-green, orange edges 3 Skutuset - Kamben

ALGAE Trentepohlia sp. 'Orange paint' 2 Hallingen - Brautemo

Birds (✓=recorded but not counted; H = heard only; S = signs of) June - July Common name Scientific name 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 Western Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus S 2 Willow Ptarmigan Lagopus lagopus S S 3 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix H H H H 4 Greylag Goose Anser anser ✓ 5 Mute Swan Cygnus olor ✓ 6 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos ✓ 7 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca ✓ 8 Common Swift Apus apus ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 9 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus H ✓ H ✓ 10 Rock Dove / Feral Pigeon Columba livia Feral ✓ ✓ 11 Common Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 12 Common Crane Grus grus ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 13 Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus ✓ 14 Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus ✓ 15 European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria ✓ 16 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos ✓ ✓ 17 Mew (Common) Gull Larus canus ✓ ✓ 18 European Herring Gull Larus argentatus ✓ ✓ 19 Common Tern Sterna hirundo ✓

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

June - July Common name Scientific name 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 20 Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle ✓ 21 Black-throated Loon (Diver) Gavia artica ✓ 22 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea ✓ 23 Common Buzzard Buteo buteo ✓ 24 Tawny Owl Strix aluco H 25 Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major H 26 European Green Woodpecker Picus viridis H ✓ 27 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 28 Siberian Jay Perisoreus infaustus ✓ 29 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius ✓ 30 Eurasian Magpie Pica pica ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 31 Western Jackdaw Corvus monedula ✓ 32 Hooded Crow Corvus cornix ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 33 Northern Raven Corvus corax ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 34 Marsh Tit Pocile palustris ✓ 35 Willow Tit Pocile montanus H H 36 Eurasian Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus H H ✓ 37 Great Tit Parus major H 38 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 39 Common House Martin Delichon urbicum ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 40 Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus ✓ 41 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus H H ✓ ✓ H ✓ ✓ 42 Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla H H 43 Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris ✓ ✓ 44 Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus ✓ 45 Common Blackbird Turdus merula ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 46 Fieldfare Turdus pilaris ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 47 Redwing Turdus iliacus ✓ ✓ ✓ 48 Song Thrush Turdus philomelos H H H ✓ ✓ 49 Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus H 50 European Robin Erithacus rubecula H ✓ H 51 Bluethroat Luscinia svecica 2 2 52 Whinchat Saxicola rubetra ✓ 53 Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe ✓ ✓ 54 White-throated Dipper Cinclus cinclus ✓ 55 House Sparrow Passer domesticus ✓ ✓ ✓ 56 Dunnock Prunella modularis H H 57 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea ✓ 58 White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 59 Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis ✓ ✓ 60 Common Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 61 Eurasian Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula H 62 Common Linnet Linaria cannabina H 63 Eurasian Siskin Spinus spinus ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 64 Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella ✓ H

Mammals 1 Red Fox Vulpes vulpes 1 1 2 Red Deer Cervus elaphus 1 1 3 Elk Alces alces 1 S S 2 1

Norway – Alpine flowers of the Gol Plateau Tour Report

June - July Common name Scientific name 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 4 Mountain Hare Lepus timidus 2 1 1 5 Red Squirrel Sciurus vulgaris 1

Amphibians and Reptiles (T = tadpoles) 1 Common Frog Rana temporaria T

Butterflies 1 Small White Pieris rapae ✓ 2 Green-veined White Pieris napi ✓ ✓ ✓ 3 Orange Tip Anthocharis cardamines ✓ ✓ 4 Wood White Leptidea sinapis ✓ ✓ 5 Green Hairstreak Callophrys rubi ✓ ✓ 6 Idas Blue Plebejus idas ✓ 7 Geranium Argus Eumedonia eumedon ✓ ✓ 8 Mazarine Blue Cyaniris semiargus ✓ 9 Common Blue Polyommatus icarus ✓ 10 Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta ✓ ✓ ✓ 11 Painted Lady Vanessa cardui ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 12 Small Tortoiseshell Aglais urticae ✓ 13 Cranberry Fritillary Boloria aquilonaris ✓ 14 Bog Fritillary Boloria eunomia ? 15 Pearl-bordered Fritillary Boloria euphrosyne ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 16 Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary Boloria selene ? ✓ 17 Small Heath Coenonympha pamphilus ✓ ✓ 18 Dewy Ringlet Erebia pandrose ✓ 19 Large Wall Brown Lasiommata maera f. borealis ✓ 20 Dingy Skipper Erynnis tages ✓ 21 Large Skipper Ochlodes sylvanus ✓

Micro Moths

White-spotted Sable, Anania funebris

Macros

Small-tree Eggar, Eriogaster arbusculae Latticed Heath, Chiasmia clathrata Common Heath, Ematurga atomaria Speckled Yellow, Pseudopanthera macularia Grass Rivulet, Perizoma albulata Beautiful Arches (green caterpillar), Mniotype satura

Other Invertebrates

Azure Hawker, Aeshna caerulea Dragonfly sp., Mosquito sp., Culicidae sp. Snipe Fly, Rhagio scolopaceus Bumblebee Robber-fly, Laphria flava Wood Ant, Formica rufa Norwegian Wasp, Vespa norvegica Wasp sp., Vespa sp. Red-tailed Bumblebee, Bombus lapidarius cf Northern White-tailed Bumblebee, Bombus cf magnus Buff-tailed Bumblebee, Bombus terrestris Red-tailed Cuckoo Bee, Bombus rupestris Violet Ground-beetle, Carabus violaceus Bee Beetle (Bee Chafer), Trichius fasciatus