Sunday 9 June 2013

Six-spot Burnet.

Last Thursday after chasing down some Demoiselles (please click the link to view) alongside the River Mole I drove up onto the North Downs and took a leisurely stroll across the grass downland. While the sun was shining there was a very strong breeze and therefore an apparent lack of flying butterflies so I decided to park my backside on the slope overlooking the open view of the southern counties. It wasn't long before something caught my attention.
 

Within a foot or two where a number of Six-spot Burnet (Zygaena filipendulae) perched in various poses. This is a medium sized day flying moth that is on the wing from June to August and is commonly found on grassland, woodland rides and coastal sand dunes.

Very close by one pair were starting the cycle of producing the next generation. The larvae feed mainly on bird's-foot trefoil.
 
 These colourful creatures kept me and the lens entertained for quite some time.

The only butterflies seen were Small Heath, Common Blue, Holly Blue, Peacock and Brimstone.  FAB.

10 comments:

  1. That last image is totally cool Frank. The Burnet which I've never seen here in the States is so colorful but with that red flower it's even more so. Fantastic. Carol

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    1. Thank Carol. It was fun to spend a little peaceful time with the Burnet.

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  2. Beautiful shots! They're really quite beautiful.

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  3. Hello Frank!. What a beautiful moths .. Nice pictures .. Congratulations ..

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  4. They are lovely!! Great captures!

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  5. Pretty colors and markings on this moth. Lovely captures of these winged beauties, Frank!

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  6. Nice butterfly photos! I was just starting to feel a little bit of a summer birding lull. You ave me a reminder that it might be fun to look for butterflies which is something that is still new to me so it should be fun to try to identify some new ones.

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    Replies
    1. Larry. When the bird photo opportunities fall away I often turn to butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies. It has certainly opened my eyes to many interesting species. Good luck.

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  7. Mona, Anna, Kerri, Julie G and Andrew.

    Many thanks for your visits and comments.

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I hope you enjoyed your visit and I always appreciate your comments and feedback.

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