Summer Stragglers

A near-frost by dawn meant that last night's garden catch here at Westcott, Bucks was of only 13 species but the two illustrated below made a pleasant change from the more usual autumnal fayre.  As it happens neither was a record-breaking sighting (in fact 9th November 2011 is my latest ever record for Willow Beauty) but they were still good to see.  The "Novemnals" topped the list with seven individuals, while the others comprised Common Marbled Carpet (1), Red-green Carpet (2), Large Yellow Underwing (4), Setaceous Hebrew Character (1), Green-brindled Crescent (1), Brick (4), Red-line Quaker (4), Beaded Chestnut (2), Lunar Underwing (1) and Sallow (2).  The previous night, which had been a good deal warmer, brought in 118 moths of 24 species and they included the migrants Udea ferrugalis and Silver Y.  October is often the best month for migrant activity but the only other such visitor here so far has been a Dark Sword-grass on the 6th.  My nicotiana flowers still await a customer... 

Bordered Beauty, Westcott 11th October

Willow Beauty, Westcott 11th October

Dave Wilton