Ainsdale Dunes - 26th July

The plan was this was going to be the trip when the Helleborines were in full flower and it did not disappoint. Both Dune Helleborine and Green-flowered Helleborine were in excellent condition, especially on the edge of the Scots Pine forest where it joins the sand dunes. Marsh Helleborines were still in flow in the area nearer the beach. Also found some Round-leaved Wintergreens and Grass of Parnassus. In terms of butterflies there were Dark Green Fritillaries, Gatekeepers, Grayling, Peacocks and Common Blues. The bonus was a Red Squirrel which famously occurs here.

Dune Helleborine

Dune Helleborine

Dune Helleborine

Green-flowered Helleborine

Green-flowered Helleborine

Green-flowered Helleborine

Marsh Helleborine

Round-leaved Wintergreen

Grass of Parnassus

Grayling

Speckled Wood

Peacock

female Dark Green Fritillary

Red Squirrel