Orange-tip Butterfly

Several butterflies are on the wing now and this female Orange-tip was photographed on Saturday by Len Shepherd from the Yoredale Natural History Society whilst on a guided walk.

A Small Copper was photographed on the reserve today and at least two others were seen.  Three Water Voles were spotted swimming together in the scrapes which is quite unusual.

Due to the recent windy conditions time was running out for the ringers to complete CES day 2.  So today was the day - and with the wind speed much more favourable than was forecast the session was completed successfully with a much reduced team.  Many of the nest boxes on the reserve were also visited and more than 100 chicks were ringed by Tom and his helpers. The first recently fledged birds of the season were caught including Song Thrushes and Robins.