Filed under: HABITATS, Insects, meadows and grassland | Tags: bergamot, butterflies, ladybird, peacock, potato flowers, shield bugs, small tortoiseshell, small white butterfly
A really pretty Small Tortoiseshell butterfly was hovering around the Bergamot (Monarda didyma) that was waiting to get planted in the Potager Garden today, and a Small White (male) as well. But the best place in the church gardens at present for butterflies is the potato “avenue” we planted at the entrance – the potato plants are in flower and since Sunday I have seen several Peacocks and a Small Tortoiseshell on them. Small Tortoiseshells seem to be declining in Central and Southern Scotland, so it’s good to have them here.
Today by the potager there was also a Two-spot Ladbybird, and a BEAUTIFUL Shield Bug, which might have been Troilus luridus, but I am not sure. We planted the bergamot and other herbs to attract more insects.
Thistles, docks and clover appearing in the wild flower meadow and will have to be dealt with.
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Saw small tortoiseshell and dung beetle on the tar path the other night.
Comment by Dougie and Morven August 7, 2009 @ 1:52 pmDo you need ‘help’ with teh meadow work. Let me know.
Dougie
Thanks Dougie and Morven – wonder what the dung beetle was after!? Thanks for offer of help which we’ll surely take up next time we are cutting/raking the meadow. Margaret
Comment by Margaret August 10, 2009 @ 2:37 pm