July has been an amazing month for the number and variety of butterflies seen in the parish. Why there is a sudden increase in the insects is unknown, but the previous wet then hot weather may after triggered the change. Adult butterflies can live for weeks or months depending on the species. Identifying butterflies from moths can be difficult as both from the same species – Lepidoptera. Butterflies generally fly during the day and moths are nocturnal. Butterflies have club-shaped ends to their antennae whereas moths have feathery or threadlike antennae. Butterflies will often close their wings on landing whereas moths spread their wings out or close them back over their bodies.
Not all butterflies show the same colour on the topside or underside of wings
There are lots of brown/orange coloured butterflies!
Also seen were a variety of white butterflies species: small, large, green veined and marbled. A variety of coloured butterflies such as red admiral, painted lady, comma, small tortoiseshell and peacock.