Wildlife

James Lowen

And then it was onto Norwich then into the Norfolk Broads. We managed short, pleasant walks at two Fen reserves, even if we failed on Swallowtail at both. At Strumpshaw Fen, we enjoyed a Norfolk Hawker that patrolled the railway line near the doctor's garden. The same site produced a male Variable Damselfly which took me by surprise: I was unaware that it was present here. Also seen were my first Brown Hawker, Ringlet and Meadow Brown of the year, plus a couple of Marsh Harriers. Then to Upton Fen, a firm favourite of a reserve. We didn't have time to do any entomology, but could nevertheless hardly ignore the ample Black-tailed Skimmers, Ringlets and Small Tortoiseshells. Our quarry here was botanical. Plenty of Southern Marsh Orchids collectively exhibited a variety of colour and lip markings. A few score Marsh Helleborines were still short of their best. A Round-leaved Wintergreen was in typical marshy habitat; very different from the hundreds that I enjoyed at the bizarre location of Chafford Gorges last week. Top of the pops were two Fen Orchid. I could not find the plants that I saw in 2012, but located a duo about 10m away. This orchid occurs in just two areas in Britain, and is a real treat to see. But even this rarity cannot compete with my first-ever Death's-head...

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17 June 2014 Lector turns lepidopterist?

For decades before I started moth-ing, I yearned to see Death's-head Hawkmoth, a huge and dramatic insect whose notoriety culminated in a supporting role (as chilling calling card) in the serial-killer thriller, The Silence of the Lambs. I resolved that if I heard about a twitchable example within acceptable distance, I would go for it. She may have taken her time, but today Lady Luck was definitively smiling on me. Just as we were getting ready for a family trip to Norwich, ahead of our move there in August, Howard Vaughan phoned. A Death's-head would be on display at Rainham Marshes - a mere half-hour from home - from 10am that day.  One detour later, and we were salivating over an enormous female as it slumbered in its temporary tupperware home. Quite exceptional. Jaw-dropping. Hannibal, eat your heart out. For the full story, read the RSPB Rainham Marshes blog.