Andy and I planned an action packed day over in Kent covering four different sites for orchids and butterflies. First a quick stop just off the main road at Blue Bell Hill where we found a magnificent looking Bee Orchid, with deep rich colours, together with Common Spotted and Pyramidal Orchids.
Bee Orchid Bee Orchid
Next on to Darlands Bank where the Man Orchids were now flowering in considerable numbers, some in large colonies near the bottom of the hill. We also found a single female Small Blue.
Man Orchid Man Orchid Man Orchid Man Orchid
A quick stop at Stockbury Hill Wood was rewarded with four Lesser Butterfly Orchids and some Lady Orchids still in flower.
Lady Orchid Lady Orchid Lesser Butterfly Orchid Lesser Butterfly Orchid Lesser Butterfly Orchid Lesser Butterfly Orchid Lesser Butterfly Orchid
Despite feeling a little weary (it was getting quite warm) we left just enough time to look around East Blean Woods. After a few brief glimpses of Heath Fritillaries we finally found a bramble bush where 5-6 were nectaring and hence were able to get some photos. A Crab Spider provided a bonus.
Crab Spider Heath Fritillary Heath Fritillary Heath Fritillaries pairing Heath Fritillaries pairing
