Northamptonshire Birding: Longest Day and the start of Summer!!

Yesterday was the longest day,the start of summer and some warm settled weather at last. This has made a huge difference to the natural world around us and also to the general mood of everyone. It's surprising what a little bit of sunshine can do. There are definitely more butterflies on the wing although not in large numbers but I'm sure this will change in the next few days. I bumped into 2 Marbled Whites near Lamport where the field edges have been sown with a mixture of wild flowers. Marbled Whites have also been recorded at Pitsford Reservoir, Old Sulehay Wood and Barton Seagrave. Other butterflies reported include Large Skippers, Ringlets and Meadow Browns. There has been a good mixture of Dragonflies, Damselflies and Demoiselles on the wing. A rare Norfolk Hawker ( up to 4 individuals) caused quite a stir when it was discovered at Wicksteed Park on the fishing lake. Azure, Common Blue, Blue Tailed and Red Eyed Damselflies, 4 Spot and Broad Bodied Chaser, Ruddy Darter, Black Tailed Skimmers, Common and Downy Emeralds and Emperor Dragonflies are all out and about.

However there is hardly any bird news to report. Yesterday there was an Osprey at Pitsford Reservoir and today a Little Tern at Hollowell Reservoir. Even the birds in our garden have gone quiet. We have lost our big numbers of Jackdaws. It appears that once their youngsters fledged they have moved out into the fields. I just hope that they are able to find enough food to survive. Yesterday I came across 2 young crows who looked as if they had died of starvation and I could have cut my finger on their sharp breastbone. The young Starlings seem to have returned to our garden and are as noisy as ever and comical to watch. They are literally eating anything and everything. I chopped up an old apple and before I had got back into the house they had eaten it. !!

Regards Eleanor