Watching Purple Hairstreaks

by Paul Gilson

Purple Hairstreak

by Angie Steele

Having spent an enjoyable mid-August afternoon relaxing on the foreshore of the river Aide at lken we made our way back to the picnic site car park. Our car was just to the left of the lken footpath display board at the lower end of the car park. The time was approaching 5.00 pm and with the sun still shining it was still pleasantly warm; just perfect for the picnic we had brought with us.

To the left of the display board are two oak trees, about 20-25 feet high. le was whilst eating that I noticed movement in one of the oaks. Reaching for the binoculars it soon became apparent chat the silvery movement at the top of the tree were Purple Hairstreaks. Having packed away our picnic, I decided to look at the other tree for signs of life. It was not long before movement was detected. My wife and I were soon able to observe these beautiful insects at head height as they alighted forthe, down the tree. A perfect end to a perfect afternoon in a beautiful part of Suffolk. I wonder if any of our readers have seen Purple Hairstreaks on shorter oak trees?