MEGA NEWS-12th December 2025-Eurasian Scops Owl-Still showing well in trees at west side of Dunvant Park at c 51.6203, -4.0238; park sensibly along Dunvant Road (SA2 7SJ)-Killay-Glamorgan-Lesser Crested Tern- Adult-type flew south from buoy off The Turf hotel at Exe Estuary; park at end of Station Road (EX6 8DX) and walk south along Exeter Ship Canal to Turf Lock-Turf-Devon
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Saturday, May 10, 2025

GAIT BARROWS NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE-LANCASHIRE

Today, Jen and I spent the morning at Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve in Lancashire.


We had never seen Duke of Burgundy butterflies before, so we were eager to see one. When we arrived, Natural England had designated an area for viewing the butterflies.


It didn't take long for us to see our first one.




The status of the Duke of Burgundy butterfly indicates that its 
long-term distribution and population trends are showing a serious decline. As a result, this species is a priority for conservation efforts. It is believed that the Duke of Burgundy cannot survive in areas with intensive grazing on chalk and limestone grasslands, which is likely one of the factors contributing to its decline. Additionally, this butterfly struggles in environments where its food plants are excessively shaded by surrounding shrubs and grasses. Therefore, maintaining a delicate balance in site management is essential to support the conservation of this charming little butterfly.

After enjoying the great views of the Duke of Burgundy, we headed back to the car, where Jenna spotted her first Dingy Skipper.


I then received news that a Black Tern was at Leighton Moss RSPB nearby, so we called in there and had great views of the bird.


A great day out in north Lancashire and another new Butterfly on are list.

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