Suffolk Argus 31 Spring 2004

Suffolk

Branch Contacts

Chairman Rob Parker, 66 Cornfield Road, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3BN (01284 705476) Membership Secretary Beryl Johnson, 28 Medway Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 0QH (01473 715701) Newsletter Editor Jim Foster, Lugano, The Street, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 6AH (01449 711484) Publicity Officer (Vacant) Programme Secretary Alan Johnson, 28 Medway Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 0QH (01473 715701) County Recorder (Butterflies) Rob Parker (address as above)

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BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

Conservation Officer (Butterflies) Rob Parker (address left) Conservation Officer (Moths) Tony Prichard, 3 Powling Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 9JR (01473 270047) County Recorder (Moths) Tony Prichard (address above) Secretary Tony Prichard, (address above) Treasurer Graham Bull, Willow Cottage, -1The Street, Raydon, Suffolk IP? 5LP (01473 310371) Committee Members Stella Wolfe, Mike Dean President Howard Mendel, c/o The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW? 5BD (0171 938 8782)

Volunteers Needed If you feelyou could help out now and then with the growing work of the Branch, please contact Beryl Johnson on 01473 715701.

Publishedby the SuffolkBranchof ButterflyConservation (The British Butterfly Conservation Society Ltd.) © 2003 all rights reserved Reg. No. 2206468 Reg.Charity No. 254937 Head Office:Manor Yard,EastLulworth, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5QP Tel: (01929) 400209 Editor: Jim Foster Logo: (Silver---<tuddcd Blue)Doug Hammersley Design: Stephen Ion, Cat & Mouse design Printer: 321 Printing, 25 BrookhouseBusinessPark, Hadleigh Road, Ipswich,Suffolk IP2 0EF

Swallowtail byBerylJohnson

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The Newsletter of the Suffolk Branch of Butterfly Conservation

BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

Spring 2004 Volume31

The SuffolkArgus

Spring2004

Contents Editorial

3

Dingy Skipper Survey 2004

3

Safety Code

4

Field Meetings 2003

5

Contributions for our newsletter should reach the Editor (address on back page) no later than:

11

Annual General Meeting

12

Spring

Accounts Update on the Suffolk Branch Action Plan for Moth Species (Part 2) My First Walk in the Pyrenees

13

Summer

April Fools Day

14 19

Autumn

August Bank Holiday

Butterfly Aber:rations in 2003 Insect Records from Summer 2003 Newsletter Details and General Information

21 22 23 Back Cover

For that difficult to find present, why not give a decorative butterfly or moth to mount on the front wall of someone's home ?

Copy Dates

Book Review

Suffolk Branch Contacts

~ uliili.';/}i.·r.'-· ....... ~""· ....

WJN --dfi~ ... y·~-

Editorial

Christmas Eve

Cast in aluminium and enamelled in very realistic colours at five times life-size,they will last for many years.

Highly individual nameplates too, to your own design, with no-obligation colour preview. Suffolk Branch will receive one quarter of the purchase price.

Anypiece of writing that is considered to be of interest will be published together with line drawings/prints /photographs.

The Suffolk Argus is your magazine, so please let us hear from you.

To advertise in the Suffolk Argus please contact Jim Foster on

Phone or fax Mervyn Crawford on Mildenhall (01638) 712600 for Colour brochure I Price list.

01449 711484.

2

A purpose built Hotel with all the facilities that today's travellers require yet in a rustic traditional environment that is welcoming and comfortable.

A purpose built Hotel with all the facilities that today's travellers require yet in a rustic traditional environment that is welcoming and comfortable.

Butterfly Hotel, Al 4 Bury East Exit Moreton Hall, Bury St. Edmunds Tel: 01284 760884

Butterfly Hotel, Al 4 Bury East Exit.

Moreton Hall, Bury St. Edmunds Tel: 01284 760884 23

Spring2004

The SuffolkArgus

Insect ·Recordsfrom Sum,m,er2003

by RichardStewart In our garden at Westerfield Road, Ipswich, we had a foretaste of what was to come when Azure Damselflies began emerging from our small pond on 24th May and from then to 12th July we witnessed many more such transformations and the engrossing sight of up to eight pairs of the same species egg laying. ' After returning from holiday we were able to make garden records on seventy of the days between 6rhJuly and 21st September, the day I am writing this. We recorded the Red Admiral on 58 days with a maximum of six on 30th August and the Painted Lady on 56 days, sometimes four or five chasing each other around the garden with a maximum of33 on 3lstJuly.

It is debatable if these were migrants, home bred or a mixture of both but another migrant, the Humming-bird Hawk Moth is usually seen once a year. In 2003 we had fourteen recorded visits between 11th June and 15th September, nectaring on Valerian and Verbena bonariensis but mainly on Buddleia. It was even seen flying during a rare shower of rain on 10th September. Compared to that the six records for the migrant Silver Y were disappointing but we probably missed it after dark on the Buddleia. The garden also had first records for Small Skipper and Purple Hairstreak, bringing the total up to 25 species. This butterfly bonanza attracted nine visits from a Hornet between 13th August and 7th September. It chased some butterflies though we noted only one detached wing. It was also observed on several days landing delicately on the pondweed to sip water.

Although many nectar sources were used Buddleia was the main attractant. I am surprised when people comment mid-July that theirs has finished flowering since by regular deadheading the flowering period can be extended - we still have several florets in late September.

In 2003 deadheading was done on 24th July, 3rd and 27th August and finally on 9th September. The aim is to remove the dead floret without cutting off adjacent new flowering shoots.

This continuous flowering undoubtedly contributed to the numbers and varieties of insects we attracted to our garden during the very hot summer of 2003.

Silver-YMoth byMervyn Crawford

PaintedLady byBeryl]ohmon 22

Editorial

by Jim Foster In the last Suffolk Argus I appealed for a copy of the May 1995 issue in order to complete a full set of the Argus for the Editor's files. Well, many thanks to member Mike Hall who sent me his copy, I am very grateful.

Since writing the last editorial I have spent two months watching wildlife in Australia. One fact I soon realised is that butterflies in the UK and Europe are far easier to photograph and identify than in tropical Queensland. Although we saw many beautiful butterflies there, they rarely came to rest at eye level and even if they did they were invariably skittish thus making photographing them difficult. The nectar is principally sourced in the treetops, as there is linle ground flora. This and the high ambient temperature resulted in butterflies being seen on the wing, but frustratingiy, usually flying by at a high 'rate of knots'. Still I must not complain as we saw an abundance of wildlife including the platypus.

Turning to the UK and Suffolk in particular you will note that the 2004 programme is enclosed with this newsletter. There are more meetings than in the past so there is a greater opportunity for members to attend! Please try to get to some of these meetings as the Committee try very hard to create an interesting series of field events. Two of the meetings are workshops to learn more about the Grizzled and Dingy Skippers. These are innovation~ ~nd deserve ~ •-<!-' .. support. L1kew1se the Moth ,.=""' ~"'"'·---:.:-; • Morning at Alder Carr could .·--·-·-····~:"' be useful to those who wish - -- ~ ••, to learn more about our moths. One result of the increased number of meetings is that the programme has had to be increased in size to accommodate the listing but this was preferable to reducing the font size.

Dingy Skipper Survey 2004

by Rob Parker Last year was a good one for the Dingy Skipper, and this challenges us to carefully survey potential overspill sitesJ mainly in the Kings Forest, and to re-check a number of historic sites that remain potentially suitable.

The survey will take place during the likely flight period of 3-23 May 2004, and features two training events for the benefit of volunteers who are not familiar with the butterfly in its Suffolk habitat. Please put the dates in your diary now, and if there is any chance that you may be able to participate in any way on any date, phone Rob Parker (01284 705476) as soon as possible, so chat we can plan to get the best results from the available effort. It seems highly likely that some financial support will be available to cover travelling expenses for this survey. Those with a botanical bent will be particularly welcome, since we plan to map the larval foodplant patches - Birdsfoot Trefoil, as an integral part of the search.

DingySkipper

by DouglasHammersley 3

Spring2004

The SuffolkArgus seen many butterflies, flowers, birds and animals.

Some I have already written about in previous articles and some I have yet to write about. I can highly recommend mountain walking as a way to keep fit, see the countryside and to get to know people and places.

5. Joining the walk is an indication of your interest in butterflies. By their nature butterflies do not remain conveniently by the main path and will offer many opportunities (temptations) for you to wander away. Take particular care to look out for hazards - rabbit holes, fallen or hanging branches, barbed wire, boggy areas, etc. Beware of wet grass, particularly on sloping ground.

Safety Code As with any other activity, there are hazards in the countryside and everyone taking part in a Field Trip or Work Party has a responsibility (duty of care), for their own safety and that of others. We try hard to ensure that our Events present no greater hazard than any other walk in the countryside, but please note and act on the following:

6. Children are welcome on our walks, but if under 16 must be accompanied by at least one adult for two children. It is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s) to ensure that the trip is within the children's ability.

1. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. If there are unusual requirements, these are noted in the individual trip details. Stout shoes are a minimum requirement for any walk.

• in

..

8, If you are uncertain about any details of the trip, ring the leader/contact in advance. There is always a telephone number given with the trip details.

9. If you decide to leave the event early, tell the leader.

10. Take care at YOURSELF.

3. The leader will provide a briefing on the trip before setting out, with details of any known particular hazards, and will also give advice on what to do in an emergency. Please listen carefully.

all

times,

but

ENJOY

We thank Upper ThamesBranchfar allowing us to publish their Safety Code.Pleasealsoreferto our own Safety Notes on the back of the Events Programme 2004-Ed.

4. At the briefing, please let the leader know if:you have a mobile telephone and are able to take it with you on the walk; you have First Aid qualifications.

4

2003

by Richard Stewart

7. Dogs are normally welcome on walks, but must be kept under control. Any exceptions are shown in the individual trip details.

2. During the main summer season you may be exposed to strong sunshine for much or all of the walk. Take a hat, use suncream or protection for exposed skin. Make sure that you have adequate food and liquid to drink with you. Equally, sunshine can easily turn to cold and rain during the day. Be prepared.

Butterfly Aberrations

Small Tortiseshell Ab. Semi-ichnusoides

byJim Foster

During 2003 I recorded the Small Copper var. caeruleopunctata, which has blue spots at the bottom of the hindwings, four times, all in Suffolk: FynnValley transect TM 2048 on 6th July, at Bixley TM 2044 on 11th July, then at Cavenham Heath TL 7572 on 17th August with the final and most satisfying one in our Westerfield Road garden, TM 169461, on 8th September.

Although I now check every Small Copper this was still a good number and brings my total for this aberrant form to eleven since my first record in 1998. To add to the garden excitement, Marie called me to look at an 'odd' Small Tortoiseshell on our Buddleia and with binoculars we were able to note its main differences compared to normal specimens. The usual border edging the top wings was replaced by a creamy black colour, there were very obvious creamy points to the top corners of the upper wings and just in from these were large areas of black. Thomas and Lewington describe it on page 123 of 'The Butterflies of Britain and Ireland' with an illustration and the information that this aberrant, semi-ichnusoides is a female form produced by high temperatures during the pupal stage. We observed it clearly on 31 st August and the day after, but regrettably weren't able to get a photo.

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The Suffolk Argus

Spring2004

eat there" pointing to a hill some 100 feet above.

"Non la" replied Dominique pointing to Mont Capell, which at 1194 metres altitude looked to me like Everest. Following a steep path through some pines I thought that when we come out into the open we would be there, but no, the top still loomed above us. I looked around at the grass and heather and thought that apart from the rocks this looks like a Suffolk Heath tilted at an angle of 30 degrees. I looked up and there was the top a few metres away, the others had all dropped back to let the new English member be the first to the top. It was a wonderful feeling and the highest I had climbed on foot. There was a strong breeze blowing at the summit but we sat just over the edge where it was sheltered and quite warm as long as you found a spot free of snow to sit on. Sitting down my feet did not hurt so much.

We were sitting in the sun under a brilliant blue sky yet the odd flake of shining white snow was drifting down. In front of us and to our right we could clearly see the Costa Brava coast in Spain and in front of us and to our left we could see the Cote Vermille coast in France. Directly below us in the valley were several French farms, the vehicle access to these is much easier through a bit of Spain as was proved by the French "La Poste" van taking this route with the mail. Dominique produced a bottle of "Banyuls", the local strong wine, and we all shared our offerings for a Grande Repas. After eating we stood on the peak looking at the mountains across the Tech valley. I heard phrases such as "Tour de Batere", "Tour de Mir", "Source le Tech" and with great reverence "Pie de Costabone" and "Huitheure le marche". My feet were saying huit minutes are enough for me. I saw a large building with a tower several kilometres to the right and asked if it was a church. I was told that it was Mas Cremadells a fortified farm. This had not been a peaceful place in the past. I asked if we were going back that way but told "Non par la" pointing almost directly down towards Saint Laurent, my feet were pleased.

As I started down the steep rocky path from the top my right knee said, "I have had enough, uphill I don't mind, but downhill No". I hobbled painfully down the path descending some

300metres to a more level track that I found much better going. Re-entering chestnut forest we followed a gently falling path in and out of valley ends and I began to wonder if we would ever get there. Coming into a clear area we met a wide track and there in front of us was, yes, Mas Cremadells. The others said we were not lost and failed to understand my ''Temporarily unaware of our exact location". At least they said they now knew the way back to Saint Laurent. We followed the track that had seen better days, there were still traces of tarmac but it was now mostly stones and potholes. After about half an hour we arrived at another large Mas complex called Mas Noell. The largest building is used by the Education Authority to give children experience of country living.

Smaller buildings are still used for farming as was evident by the cows and sheep wandering freely around.

An old car rattled up the track containing two of the farm workers who stopped for a chat.

The driver switched off the engine so we could hear. When asked how far it was to Saint Laurent they said about four kilometres. My brain worked out that that meant nearly three miles, my feet were beyond thinking, my knee was just holding up. After a few minutes charring the driver tried to re-start the car but nothing happened. The passenger got out wielding a large hammer, we all stepped back. He lifted the bonnet and gave something several blows at which the engine burst into life. He hopped back in and they rattled off.

Setting off along the track we soon arrived at a source (Drinking water spring). We drank the cool clear water, my feet asked to be bathed but I had to refuse, as they would never have gone back into my boots. Fortunately various paths took short cuts across the loops in the track and we were soon back apart from the final 45-degree slope down a high bank to a proper tarmac road. I only got down this by borrowing Yvon's stick and easing myself gently down. Arriving back at the cars at 5.40pm and back to Le Boulou at 6.40pm.

Despite having to struggle to get my aching feet and legs out of the car it had been a wonderful and memorable day. Since this first walk I, and my boots, have been on over a hundred more and have

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Salisbury and extends over more than 1700 acres (657 hectares) covering an area of five miles by three at its broadest parts. Owned by the Forestry Commission prior to 1983, it was purchased by a Charitable Trust using funds provided by the late Lady Colman, who lived nearby. Currently there are four Trustees who work closely with various conservation bodies to develop the woodland as a nature reserve whilst continuing its management on commercial lines. It was designated an SSSI in 1985. Over 35 species of butterfly are regularly recorded and the opportunity to see the Purple Emperor attracts visitors from all over the country.

Our group spent the morning walking a circular route withi:l the wood and in spite of the damp conditions managed to record - Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Ringlet, Speckled Wood, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small White, Painted Lady and a female Silver-washed Fritillary. The rich and varied ground flora kept our botanists happy but to record a full list of flora noted would take up too much of this report.

By late morning the rain had stopped and we noticed a slight rise in the temperature, we then returned to our cars for a picnic lunch. It was during this break with the obligatory bananas being eaten and Jim Foster having just deposited his offering, that to everyone's surprise and delight a Purple Emperor descended onto the fresher banana skins. A male, somewhat worn, stayed long enough to be photographed and for all of us to have a good view of this most impressive butterfly.

A walk in the southern section of the wood, during the afternoon, was eventually abandoned, with the onset of more rain. The only species to add to our morning tally being a Red Admiral, thus making a total of twelve for the day, pretty good considering the weather! In the words of a member "this is such a beautiful wood I wish we could roll it up and take it back to Suffolk" and had it been a fine day the careful management of the rides and the creation of sunny scallops and clearings would have provided many more records to add to our list.

Sunday, day two of our weekend 'jolly', dawned fine and sunny with a fresh N.W. wind blowing, in complete contrast to the previous day's

2003 Field Meetings A Weekend in the Salisbury Area Saturday and Sunday, 26th & 27th July 2003

by Alan] ohnson Having had an extremely wet drive to Salisbury, from Ipswich, on the Friday, a combination of an early arrival coinciding with a 'window' in the weather conditions, we decided to find the entrance and car park for Bentley Wood, the venue for the following day's visit.

Once found, our half hour stay in the car park was to prove rewarding, with the occasional spells of sunshine tempting out eleven species of butterfly - Brimstone, Comma, Red Admiral, Sped·Jed Wood, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Green-veined White, Marbled White, a Silver-washed Fritillary which obligingly posed on a thistle, finally a fleeting glimpse of a Purple Emperor, high in the canopy. With our 'weather window' duly closing it was then time to find our Guest House in Salisbury and to meet others in our par-tystaying there.

The following morning saw our members assembled in the Bentley Wood car park, all eager to see the Purple Emperor, our 'target species' for the day. We stood admiring the roning banana skins adorning the 'roof' over an information board, these placed there to tempt the butterfly down from the canopy of an oak tree. However, the weather was • against us, with showers and longer periods of rain developing by mid-morning, also not very warm, very disappointing after the heat of the previous weeks.

Bentley Wood is approx. seven miles east of

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The SuffolkArgus

Spring2004

weather. Our group, now up to full numbers with the arrival of the four remaining members, was to spend the day on Salisbury Plain, our leader being Kevin Walker, of the 'C.E.H.', at Monk's Wood.

Kevin, undertaking research in the area, had kindly offered to show us around his 'patch' and duly met us at our first location, Everleigh Down, a few miles N.W. ofTidworth.

Our 'car park' was normally used by Army vehicles when on manoeuvres, fortunately, being Sunday, they were having a day off. We had been pre-warned of the dire consequences of parking on tracks used by Tanks! The Plain, is approx. 20 miles from west to east and 12 miles from north to south, parts given over to military use. Kevin showed us a map to explain the M.o.D. owned land, basically divided into three parts, the eastern area where we were at present, the western area around Imber, and a central 'impact' area consisting of the Larkhill Artillery Ranges. We gathered that this 'impact' area supported colonies of the Marsh Fritillary butterfly.

Setting off on our walk, up cowards Sidbury Hill, we had superb views of a vast green expanse of undulating chalk downland, the largest remaining such area in Europe. The walk eventually produced sightings of 21 species: Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Ringlet, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Peacock, Brimstone, Small Heath, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Copper, Marbled White, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Chalkhill Blue, Small Blue, Dark Green Fritillary and a Humming-bird Hawk Moth. Also we found two of the 'webs' of the Marsh Fritillary caterpillars, on Devil's-bit Scabious. Once again the chalk downland flora being too numerous to list here, but perhaps I should mention that Kevin searched, in vain, co show us a Tuberous Thistle (which only grows in Wiltshire) but he could only locate a hybrid of the Tuberous/Stemless Thistle.

Returning for a picnic lunch, we were most grateful to the Army for the provision of a 'thunderbox' (portaloo) in the parking area. This evoked considerable amusement and Richard Stewart was photographed, for posterity, exiting this edifice, perhaps it was fortunate that it wasn't

booby-trapped!

For our afternoon visit, Kevin led us in a convoy of cars, to the western end of the Plain, and the village of Lierle Cheverell. Here, a lane led us to Fore Hill and after leaving che cars, we crossed a grazing meadow which led us to a bowl shaped steep sided Coombe, the slopes of which were covered with a profusion of flowers. By now, although still sunny the freshening wind was tending to whisk the butterflies away from the flower heads. In this area we noted: - Marbled White, Common Blue, Chalkhill Blue, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Wall, Small Skipper, Dark Green Fritillary and Clouded Yellow.

Growing around the rim of the Coombe was the attractive and rare Woolly Thistle, the globular flower heads covered with a white cotton-like growth and up co three inches across, the largest of any British thistle. This now brought our weekend activities to a close, the visit providing a fascinating insight into two contrasting habitats. Our thanks co Kevin Walker for sharing his expertise with us, I'm sure we all left with a greater knowledge of a lovely area of Wiltshire.

Postscript:- Some members stayed on for a late afternoon walk and although still broad daylight, they were able to approach, quite closely, and photograph a Badger. The same memberspaid a brief visit to Bentley Wood on the Monday morning, seeing a Purple Emperor that conveniently alighted fairly low down on an Oak tree by the car park. A Silverwashed Fritillary and a White Admiral were also seen. The latter bringing the species count for the weekend to 21.

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My First Walk in the Pyrenees 8th January 2001

by James Mann Now for something completely different, not a butterfly in sight. When Anne and I had lived here in Le Boulou for just over a year I was asked if I liked walking and if so would I like to take part in 'La Randonnee'. I replied yes and I would. I did not know until later that I had been invited to join "Les Rafals" an exclusive group of seven or eight retired people who walked in the mountains each Monday. I was told I would need good walking boots, waterproofs, backpack, food and water etc, all the essential things to safely walk in the mountains. I was also told I should join the F.F.R.P.Federation Francaise de la Randonnee Pedestre which apart from anything else covered me by insurance so that in case of accident I would be picked up by helicopter, taken to hospital, and treated without charge, well wotth the 18 Euros so I joined the other 150,000 members in France.

On the day of the walk I was picked up at 8.30am, Anne said I looked like the 11 year old she remembered from school. We drove up the Vallespir to Saint Laurent de Cerdans at 670 metres altitude parking at the old railway station that has been closed since October 1940 when the line along the River Tech was washed away by floods.

We started off at 9-30am admiring the patterns in the thick frost on the cars. Climbing above the village we passed the last few houses and were greeted by the friendly barking of dogs who

no doubt would have liked to come with us. We soon entered an extensive old coppiced chestnut forest clearly planted by man. I have read something of the history of the area and discovered that iron had been mined and forged here from Roman times up to the I 960's. In the 17th century the supply of charcoal for che forges was running low so the chestnuts were planted to alleviate this.

The sun was shining brightly through the bare branches giving ever-moving patterns of light and shade. The path zigzagged steadily upwards and by about 10-30am we arrived at Mas Couloumer, a farm owned by a trio of Belgians who have been producing goat and cow cheese for 19 years. After having a welcome drink of coffee from our flasks we could not resist the temptation to buy some of the lovely fresh cheese. The path levelled out and we soon arrived at the village of Coustouges situated close to the Spanish border at 780metres.

The village has an interesting church which dates back over 1000 years and a 12th century medieval cemetery on whose gravestones it is possible to trace the old family names. The walk moved off out of the back of the village via Rue de Escalier, yes it was like a staircase. My feet were now telling me that I should have worn my boots in more, I knew I had at least one blister on each foot. My eye was taken by what looked like huge piles of reddish concrete. I was cold that there had been many volcanoes in this area and that this was red lava that had picked up stones as it rolled down the slopes and cooled. I have since seen lots of this "prehistoric concrete" cut into blocks and used in the construction of many of the old buildings, including parts of the Coustouges Church. The path now entered a pine forest and we began to encounter patches of snow but with the sunshine in seemed quite warm.

The path rose sharply for a few metres and came out onto a wide track leading off towards Spain. After following this for half an hour we came to a stone block at the side of the track with the number 545 cut into it. This was a Borne Frontier marking the border between France and Spain. We all played the game of leaving the country and having one foot in each country. My feet were now really hurting and I asked, "Do we

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-I The SuffolkArgus

Spring2004

Distribution Maps

Thornham Walks, 3rd August, 2003

weather in complete contrast to last year, when thunderstorms curtailed the walk. The good response from the public was very encouraging, also the enthusiasm shown by the children.

Hopefully, some may continue their interest shown in butterflies and moths.

This event is to be repeated in our 2004 programme and it will be a great help if more members were available to distribute themselves among a party to pass on information and help with identification.

Finally, our thanks to Thornham Walks and John Loombe.

by AlanJohnson

Four-spotted

Lunar Yellow Underwing

Buttoned Snout

Square-spotted Clay

Shaded Fanfoot

Pale Shining Brown 18

This event, a Joint meeting with 'Thomham Walks', is now in its fourth year. Previously the basic format was to 'meet the public' and to take an afternoon stroll through part of the Thomham Estate, near Diss, including their 'Butterfly Ride', For this year's programme it was decided to expand our activities into the morning and to include an illustrated talk - 'The Butterflies of Suffolk and how to identify them', presented by Rob Parker and Jim Foster. This was duly held in one of the rooms of the Field Centre, commencing mid-day and lasting for just over an hour, and attended by 18 members of the public, including three children. The excellent range of colour slides were well received by the audience.

At 2 pm, with numbers now increased to approximately double that of the morning, we were met by John Loombe, the Assistant Countryside Ranger, who gave us a brief introduction to the estate. In view of the large numbers it was decided to split into rwo parties, one being led by Rob Parker, the other by Jim Foster.

Our route was to take us through some of the estate's diverse habitats, the path initially bordered by grasses, thistles, knapweed and patches of bramble. This led us to the 'Pinetum', then through a wooded glade to the Victorian Walled Garden, now fully restored. Here the sighting of a Humming-bird Hawk-moth evoked much interest. Continuing past the Canal Pond we came to the 'Butterfly Ride', a mix of shady and brighter sunnier areas, set within the Connaught Plantation. The ride is only open to the public during July and August, Butterfly Conservation being involved in the project several years ago, at the invitation of Lord and Lady Henniker, owners of the estate.

A total of fourteen species of butterfly was recorded during the afternoon, the very hot

Species seen: Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Red Admiral, Peacock, Painted Lady, Comma, Small Tortoiseshell, Green-veined White, Small White, Large White, Brimstone, Large Skipper, Common Blue, Speckled Wood, Humming-bird Hawkmoth.

Humming-birdHawk Moth byJim Foster

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Spring2004

North Downs Walk, August 10th 2003

Dehydration was starting to sap some of our collective energy in the afternoon though we used shady areas for short stops. However, there were two highlights still to come. The first was close views of two tattered Silver-washed Fritillaries in courtship on the path, one initially seen by Jill Perkins. They were head to tail, very close, the male presumably showering scent scales over the female, who was probably emitting her own scent from the tip of her abdomen. This courtship is fully documented in Thomas and Lewington, 'The Butterflies of Britain and Ireland', pp. 148-149.

Thanks to Paul Johnson we saved any climbing in the final field by skirting the lower left side and this produced several good close views of our last target species, Adonis Blue. More accompanied us, with several other Silver-spotted Skippers, as we walked down the lane back to Dorking. At no time did we identify any other Skippers or a late Ringlet, assuming that early emergence and the hot weather had already finished their activities. A final bonus was a total of six Clouded Yellows. At Dorking car park several of us made a quick move into a nearby air-conditioned pub to consume much-needed long, cool drinks.

by RichardStewart Ten members including two friends from the Norfolk Branch braved what was easily the hottest day any of us have experienced here.

Our initial steep ascent was not helped by the many passing motorbikes and four-wheel vehicles hut after we reached the top we didn't encounter them again. We recorded seventeen species on our ascent, but despite careful study of the abundant oaks no Purple Hairstreaks were seen.

The usual detour into a small reserve halfway up was particularly rewarding, with not just our first Chalk.hill Blues and a distant view of a Fricillary but also several Silver-spotted Skippers, not usually encountered so early on the walk. For the rest of the day they were abundant in even marginally suitable habitat and had we had the necessary energy our total would have been several hundred. Later one landed on Alan Johnson's blue sock and a mating pair, obviously with less discrimination, landed on Paul Johnson's rucksack.

With some reluctance we left this lovely area and continuing our climb were able to admire a coppiced area to the left, already colonised by Marjoram. Lunch was taken in welcome shade and Paul Johnson produced what initially seemed to be a short-listed entry for the Turner Prize, but was in reality a still iced drink in a boccie, having not defrosted. Various unhelpful suggestions were made about what he could do with it but luckily he had some more co drink.

The panoramic views from the top were much appreciated and we also recorded hunting Kestrel, Green and Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Several moths identified included Rush Veneer, Straw Dot, Treble-Bar and the migrant Silver Y. In addition to the nectar rich and extensive beds of Marjoram other planes noted included Autumn Gentian, Dodder, Clustered Bellflower, Centaury, Soapwort, Knapweed, Teasels (gone over) and some impressive clumps of Deadly Nightshade.

Butterfly species recorded: Three Whites, Brimstone, Clouded Yellow, Silver-spotted Skipper, Comma, Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Peacock, Painted Lady, Silver-washed Fritillary, Common, Holly, Chalk.hill and Adonis Blue, Brown Argus, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper and Small Heath: total of 21.

Overheard comment of the day: 'Why should we let the Waveney divide us?'

effect to hopefully benefit the plant and this species.

Distribution Maps

References

Davis, T., Green, D.G., Parsons, M. S., Bourn, N.A.D. (Eds.) 2003. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 4: April 2002 - March 2003.

Butterfly Conservation.

Haggett, G.M., 2002. Lunar Yellow Underwing, Noctua orbona (Hufnagel), larval survey in Norfolk and Suffolk Breckland. Butterfly Conservation.

" Joy, J. 2000. Regional Action Plan for East Anglia.

Butterfly Conservation.

Bordered Gothic

Mann, J & Prichard, T. 1998. Suffolk Action Plan.

The Suffolk Branch of Butterfly Conservation.

Parsons, M. S., Green, D.G., Bourn, N.A.D. & Waring, P. (Eds.) 2000. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 1: April 1999 - March 2000.

Butterfly Conservation.

Parsons, M. S., Green, D.G., Bourn, N.A.D. (Eds.) 2001. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 2: April 2000 - March 2001. Butterfly Conservation.

Parsons, M. S., Green, D.G., Bourn, N.A.D. (Eds.) 2002. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 3: April 2001 - March 2002. Butterfly Conservation.

White-spotted Pinion

Marbled Clover 8

17

The SuffolkArgus l 990's have suggested that populations may exist in the Sandlings. In the last few years Gerry Haggett has been leading work into the larval habitat requirements of this moth in the Brecks.

Some interesting findings have come out of this work especially in relation to the potentially adverse effects of sheep grazing in habitat management and the larvae utilising a transitory habitat in conifer plantations on Wavy Hair Grass (Deschampsia flexuosa). Over the winter of 2002/2003 some of the branch and moth group members carried out similar survey work in the Sandlings following some promising results from initial surveying in early 2002. This work showed that sizeable populations of the moth occur at most suitable locations in the Sandlings and would appear to utilise additional variations on acidgrassland habitat in comparison to the Brecks populations. I am unsure whether the discovery of the extent of the Sandlings populations is indicative of an upturn in the species fortunes.

This species would appear to come to light infrequently and can be confused with the commoner Lesser Yellow Underwing (Noctua comes). I suspect that the moth could well have been overlooked in the past, especially as the Sandlings is probably under-recorded in comparison to the Brecks. Larval survey work is expected to continue this winter.

Spring2004 foodplants have been noted elsewhere in the country this year and given the behaviour of closely related moths it would not be a surprise if this species turned out to eat a wide variety of lowgrowing plants. Unlike the Lunar Yellow Underwing it is not easy to narrow down on suitable habitats to survey for this species (nettle and elm being· rather common). Unless our understanding of its habitat requirements improve, recording of the adult at light will remain the main means of searching for this species. In the lase 6-7 years records of this species have increased (at least based on the records in the database) and possibly of more relevance is the increase in the number of locations at which it is recorded each year under 5 locations per year in the early nineties up to 13 sites in 2001 and 12 sites in 2002.

Pale Shining Brown Polia bombycina This species seems to be suffering similar fortunes to the Bordered Gothic. There have been no records of this species in the county since the regional action plan for this species was put together and there only appears to have been one record nationally in 2002. Our ignorance of the life history and particular habitat requirements for this moth makes targeted searching and managing for this species extremely awkward. Currently I do not feel very optimistic over the fate of this species in the country.

Square-spotted Clay Xestia rhomboid.ea

Cokophora tricolor

This widespread but local species seems to occur most frequently in the southeastern areas of the country. In Suffolk the coarse distribution would appear to align with that of the Lunar Yellow Underwing - another species where the stronghold populations are thought to occur in the Brecks with additional populations in the Sandlings. It is only in recent years that the larvae have been found feeding in the wild and initial findings seemed to indicate chat there was a preference for nettles growing under elm trees. Earlier this year some surveying was done by the moth group at sites where the adult has previously been recorded where there was nettle under elm trees. This met with some success and four larvae were found feeding on nettle and red campion. Additional

The only micro-lepidoptera with BAP status and apparently restricted to the Brecks in Britain. This is one of a group of micro-lepidoptera where the larva forms a case that encloses its body, presumably providing a level of protection. This species initially uses a detached floret of Basil Thyme as its first case and later on switches to cases made from pieces of grass. Surveying and monitoring of this species continues to be undertaken by Gerry Haggett in the Brecks with four areas being found to support the moth. The foodplant, Basil Thyme, appears to be subject to fluctuations in its population but the moth has been found on quite small colonies of the plant.

Habitat management proposals have been put into

16

Kenton Hills and Sizewell, 31 st August 2003

by Alan Johnson

.,

After joining the public footpath, which crosses Broom Covert, a group of four Brown Argus, was found by Geoff Hayes and Jim Foster. Small Tortoiseshell and a very pale female Meadow Brown, but in good condition, were also seen.

Onto Sandy Lane, a track which leads to the Leiston-Sizewell road, normally a good spot for seeing the Wall, but on this occasion none obliged.

However, a Buddleia bush provided us with Peacock, Red Admiral and Large and Small Whites.

Further on Grayling and Comma were noted.

Once at Sizewell Beach, we had our picnic lunches, and then continued our walk northwards.

The weather by now had become increasingly cloudy with a fresh northerly to N.W wind. The beach, normally bright with wild flowers such as Rest Harrow, Bird's-foot Trefoil, Ragwort and Hawkweed, but now most of the flowers dried and shrivelled from the past weeks of hot sunshine. A small clump of Sheep's-bit Scabious provided some colourful relief. Good numbers of Small Heath and Common Blue were seen; also a solitary Painted Lady and a Grayling egg laying on a tuft of grass.

Concrete blocks, remnants of anti-invasion measures from the 2nd World War marked the point at which we left the beach to turn inland.

Here, a patch of heather in flower attracted a mating pair of Grayling, also Small Heath, Small Copper and Common Blue. Nearby, in amongst tall dried grass stems a grasshopper was seen. Whilst this was being admired, one of our party spotted a Common Lizard, which promptly disappeared, to be re-discovered climbing up one of Sheila Keeley's legs, clinging to her sock! Dragonflies noted were Common Darter, Migrant Hawker, Southern Hawker and a solitary Ruddy Darter.

The final stage of our walk was along woodland rides, following the southern edge of Goose Hill, then Kenton Hills. Items of note being two brilliantly coloured Commas, on Blackberries, a Common Blue on Fleabane, a Grayling on Susan Peck's hat, and a Red Admiral 'drinking minerals' (sweat!) from Geoff Hayes' arm, obviously enjoying the taste as it lingered for quite some rime!

The weather by now was much cloudier and cooler, and our group well spread out, but eventually everyone returned to our starting point.

This was the last field meeting of our 2003 programme and 24 people attended it, probably a record for the Branch? Perhaps tempted out by the fine weather, or maybe the fact that it was our last meeting before we all go into 'hibernation'. It was good to see some new faces, including two visitors to the area, also three members from the Norfolk Branch.

The car park at Kenton Hills provided our first ~ightings of the day - Red Admiral and Comma, both on bramble, also Speckled Wood, Small Copper and Holly Blue. Earlier, another item of interest was a female Glow Worm found on a dry stony track adjacent to the car park. The initial part of our walk was to take us along waymarked permissive paths around Sizewell Belts, an area rich in wildlife, comprising grazing marshes intersected by drainage dykes and tree belts. Crossing a damp grazing area, House Martins, Sand Martins and Swallows were noted swooping low over the meadow, however the butterflies were confined to fair numbers of Greenveined Whites. On some of my previous visits this meadow has been occupied by a herd of cows, with attendant bull. However, on this occasion 'Ferdinand' and his harem were absent, much to the relief of my wife!

Anascent through bracken took us up onto Leiston Common, the grass now parched and the colourful haze of the areas of Sheep's Sorrel now gone. Here, Small Heath, Small Copper and the Small Copper blue-spotted aberrant form (caeruleopunctata) were seen, the latter possibly in a new area for our records? We then followed the path alongside Reckham Pits Wood, then crossed an open meadow, rabbit grazed with a few flower heads of Ragwort remaining. This area provided sightings of Grayling, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small Heath, Peacock and Small White.

9

The SuffolkArgus

Spring 2004

Once back, rime to exchange information and species seen, also an opportunity to admire photographs taken by Angela Woodrow, on our recent walk along part of the North Downs Way. A rewarding day with a good number of species of butterfly recorded, also very nice to see so many members and visitors

1f

Moth Night at Alder Carr Farm, 13th September 2003

by TonyPrichard This moth night followed the AGM held at Alder Carr Farm and several members were attracted to the light following the meeting and slideshow.

CommonBlue

by Douglas

Hammersley

A leaf-miner Bede/Lia somnulentella was recorded on the bindweed while we were setting up the lights. This previously scarce species seems to have had a very good year in 2003 with numbers of records being during the autumn, it will be interesting to note if it continues to be recorded in such numbers in future years. A reasonable selection of autumnal moths was recorded considering the conditions. Some late examples of Single-dotted Wave and Small Fanfooted Wave were noted, this autumn has seen some very late appearances of species normally associated with the summer months. Other species of note, on the basis of their more localised distribution, included Large Wainscot and Feathered Gothic. At this time of year woodland habitats normally prove to be more productive than more open habitats, on this night it proved the reverse with very little being recorded in the traps in the copse in comparison to the sheet light in its more open position.

The full species list for the night was; Bede/Lia somnulentella, Ypsolopha parenthesella, Celypha lacunana, Nomophila noctuella, Hypsopygia costalis,Blood-vein, Small Fan-footed Wave, Small Dusty Wave, Single-dotted Wave, Common Marbled Carpet, Brimstone Moth, Shuttle-shaped Dart, Seraceous Hebrew Character, Square-spot Rustic, Feathered Gothic, Common Wainscot, Angle Shades, Rosy Rustic, Large Wainscot, Burnished Brass and Snout.

10

"

received each year remain low although some years prove better than others. This may suggest that the population is relatively stable but at low density. It might also mean that the species may be vulnerable to slight changes in the habitat that might rip the balance against its favour. This year (2003} I carried out targeted searches for this species looking for the moth in the coastal and Breck areas in an attempt to assess its current status. I did not manage to locate it in any of its coastal haunts or in the Brecks. Fortunately, David Young had more success when he recorded it at Maidscross Hill, a known locality for the moth, during the year. Due to the lack of success in finding this species in 2003 searches will continue in 2004.

be easily found by 'beating' the foodplant. Larval surveys in recent years in sourheastern counties have proved very productive and in 2003 I undertook a survey for this species in Suffolk with the aim of recording it from as many I 0km squares as possible. This proved very successful and along with additional records from Sharon Hearle, Neil Sherman and Andy Musgrove the larva was recorded this year from thirty 10km squares. With previous adult records the moth has now been recorded from forty-one I 0km squares in Suffolk, good evidence that the moth is well distributed in the county. I suspect that most places in Suffolk where the foodplant occurs will be found to support the larvae, my experience was that over most of Suffolk it was nor hard to find larvae if hop was present.

Four-spotted Tyta luctuosa

,,

A day-flying species that was last recorded in Suffolk in the Brecks during the very early 1990' s (Thetford Forest, 1991, Gerry Haggett}. Various recorders have made visits in recent years to sites where it was known to occur but all have proved negative. Currently in Britain there appear to be three sizeable populations of this moth and these are monitored each year and currently seem stable.

A record of this moth in Essex in 2000 opens up the possibilities that colonies of this moth may exist un-discovered in areas of Suffolk. The caterpillar feeds on field bindweed (a rather common plant} and there seems to be a requirement for bindweed that is on open sunny verges or disturbed ground - presumably hot microclimates. This species would be worthwhile keeping· an eye out for around the county wherever the foodplant occurs in a suitable habitat from mid-May to August.

Buttoned Snout Hypena rostralis Since rhe action plan was written for this species its place on the list has come under some scrutiny.

The approach taken is that if the species does not warrant its BAP status then evidence must be provided to produce a case for its removal. The adult moth does not respond to light very well so light trap records have been rather low on the ground. The larva feeds on hop (Humulus) and can

Shaded Fan-foot Henninia tarsicrinalis From a county viewpoint I suspect that there has been little change in the status of this species since the original plan was produced. The moth remains largely confined to the more easterly areas of the county with a single recent record from the west of the county (Great Cornard, Stuart Reed}. New sires are discovered for this species each year bur I do not think these indicate recent spread and colonisation by the moth. I suspect we are still in the process of discovering the moth at existing haunts where it may well have been present for many years. As this species seems to be in a reasonably healthy state it is not my intention to push for specific surveying for this species as additional records/sires are gained through our normal moth recording activities. This species occurs at a regularly recorded sire and numbers will be monitored over the years. As far as I understand wild larvae have not yet been found and research into the earlier stages of this moth and the species' habitat requirements could prove interesting.

Lunar Yellow Underwing Noctua orbona A moth that has previously undergone a national decline leaving occasional scattered colonies across rhe country with its main stronghold being in the Brecks. Records of the moth at light in the late

15

7

The SuffolkArgus

Update on the Suffolk Branch Action Plan

Moth Species (Part 2)

by TonyPrichard This article completes the update on the moth species covered in the Suffolk Action Plan. The current status of some species is of major concern whereas others seem to be faring relatively well. The Branch and Suffolk Moth Group are actively involved in the surveying and monitoring of some of these species and have some encouraging results as well as some disappointments.

Bordered Gothic Heliophobus reticulata marginosa Since the regional action plan was written this species has continued its decline. A colony identified in Kent in 200 I returned negative results in 2002 and despite being a National Moth Night (NMN) target species in 2002 it appears no records were made in 2002. In 2003 an individual, apparently of the resident form, was recorded in Norfolk at Honing by Phil Heath, suggesting that the species may still be resident. A singleton was recorded from Landguard in 2000 by Nigel Odin and presumed to be a migrant. A record from Thetford in 1995 by Steve Dudley has come to light and updates the last known year this species

Spring2004 was recorded in the Brecks. Not far from the location of this record is Barnhamcross Common and the Branch and the Suffolk Moth Group have been recording at this site in recent years but with no sight of any Bordered Gothic. Just to the south of the common is the RAF Barnham training camp and this his been subject to occasional moth recording but again there has been no sign of Bordered Gothic. The Brecks is not an underrecorded area, with moth recorders from around the country visiting the area, so unless the species is at a very low ebb it would appear strange why this moth is not recorded more often in the area.

General moth surveying of the Brecks will continue and visits to previously known sites not recently surveyed will be made over the next year or so.

Book Review

by Rob Parker

A Butterfly Notebook by Douglas Hammersley.

(The Book Guild, Lewes,

2003) 140pp,304 illustrations. Hardbound

(ISBN 1 85776 722 5) £25

White-spotted Pinion Cosmia diffinis This formerly widespread species underwent a severe decline as Dutch Elm disease affected its larval foodplant. Recently some encouraging reports of sightings have been received from nearby counties; Huntingdonshire, Cambridgeshire and Essex.The most recent county reference I have for this species is from the Walberswick area in the late 1990s, although I've still to track down the precise details of the record. David Young and myself searched the site for White-spotted Pinion larvae early on in 2003 but no larvae of the target species were found. A visit to the same site by the moth group with lights later in the year in August failed to attract the adult moth. The Moth Group has targeted occasional moth nights for this species in recent years but with no success. I understand that it has a liking for 'sugar' and better results may be achieved with this than with light so we'll probably try chat technique in the future. Despite the recent negative results I would think that the chance of this moth still residing in Suffolk remains high and surveying for this species will continue.

Marbled Clover Heliothis viriplaca This species continues to be recorded in low numbers from both the Breckland areas of Suffolk and the Suffolk coastal areas around Aldeburgh, Thorpeness and Sizewell. Numbers of records

14

.,

'

..

Anyone who appreciates the line drawings in "Suffolk Argus"will be delighted to hear that Doug Hammersley's paintings have now been published under the title of "A Butterfly Notebook''. He has captured grace of movement in addition to natural beauty, with a nice blend of scientific accuracy and art. His work is no less detailed than Richard Lewington's pictures of set specimens, but each butterfly has been brought to life. To complement the illustrations, Doug has written interesting and amusing accounts of his observations, describing the images of courtship, feeding and pairing shown on the facing pages, and offering anecdotes that reflect the changes in distribution and scarcity over the years.

A skilled medical illustrator by profession, and keen naturalist in retirement, the author has created a "notebook" of the butterflies of his acquaintance; most of the British species, with a smattering of attractive Continentals to add a little spice. Each picture is accompanied by his note of where and when, with a certain favouritism for his home patch at West Harling Forest, Norfolk, and with earlier memories of Northumberland, and occasional forays to the Pyrenees and the Adriatic.

As the illustrations are so much larger than life, he

includes one life-size image on each page as a point of reference. In some cases, the larger pictures serve very nicely to assist with identification, and to highlight the points of difference between two similar species. Reading his account of che features separating Small and Essex Skippers leaves a clearer understanding than many of the field guides, for example. The volume is nicely produced, and the choice of paper has catered well for the reproduction of texture and fine brushwork, without generating the reflection that often spoils glossy photographs.

There is only one photograph, and that is a whimsical portrait inside the dust cover, capturing Doug in a moment of repose. An active member of our Branch, a contributor to this journal and chairman of the Thetford Natural History Society, Doug has produced a book that is a delight to me, and I know it will become one of my favourites. It is neither a comprehensive work of reference, nor a superficial coffee table book. It falls nicely into the niche of what many lepidopterists would like to find in their Christmas stocking; a book to read and re-read, images to view with pleasure.

Published by The Book Guild and available from good bookshops, or by telephone order line on 01825 723398.

Purple Emperor

by DouglasHammersley 11

-I The SuffolkArgus

Annual General Meeting 13th September 2003 Chairman's Report for 2003

by Rob Parker The Suffolk Branch of Butterfly Conservation was formed ten yearsago next month, and in our first decade we have achieved a great deal.

Presently you will hear from individual committee members describing the activities of a Branch that is financially healthy, benefits members with an excellent programme of field visits, and with the "Suffolk Argus",a first-rate newsletter. More importantly for butterflies, we are hard at work influencing landowners seeking to improve the habitat in farmland margins as well as gardens and privately owned conservation areas.Thiswill benefit our common butterflies and moths in the wider countryside in parallel with our efforts to understand the needs of our Biodiversity Action Plan species.

This year, our hard working team has been joined by Sharon Hearle, Butterfly Conservation's Regional Officer for the East of England; and I am pleased to tell you that she has already been active spotting Dingy Skippers, tracking down colonies of White-letter Hairstreak and counting Silverstudded Blues, as well as in administrative roles such as making conservation inputs to the management plans for Local Nature Reserves, and in improving the co-operation with Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex Branches.

Sharon has also started a transect on the Devil's Dyke. Technically it is in Cambridgeshire, but the butterflies do not know that, and I see it as an extra finger on the pulse at the county boundary. Another new transect has been started at Cavenham Heath by the English Nature warden, and I have identified several farms that could host useful transects - if only we had a few volunteers ready to walk them regularly.

You will remember all the endeavour that

Spring2004 Julian Dowding put into the Buckthorn for Brimstones planting three years ago. I am pleased to report that this year we were able to observe a notable development, with Brimstones not only appearing in Holywells Park, but also breeding there. Let us hope that they will become properly established around Ipswich, and even more widely across the east of the county.

Another notable achievement by a Branch member, was the publication of Doug Hammersley's book: "A Butterfly Notebook"- it is a delightful collection of superb illustrations, and I urge you to take the opportunity to look at it later during the coffee break.

The number of events we run in collaboration with other organisations seems to be on the increase.

Our regular event for Thornham Walks was more elaborate and more successful than usual, we took moth and butterfly walks for the RSPB, and again spoke at a FWAG walk. The Suffolk Wildlife Trust has used our expertise at evening lectures and •butterfly walks and plans a more elaborate programme next year. Let me take this moment to thank all those who have taken part in any of our events, and particularly to the committee members, who bear almost the entire load. In another collaborative venture, two of us guided parties from the British Entomological & Natural History Society around the SSS! at RAF Barnham - a site with Lunar YellowUnderwings as well as Dingy Skippers.

After the Chairman's Report the following reports were presented by the committee member responsible: Moth Conservation Officer's Report Butterfly Conservation Officer's Report Membership Secretary's Report Editor, Suffolk Argus Report Treasurer's Report. (The Accounts are published on the following page.)

Programme Secretary's Report

BUTTERFLYCONSERVATIONSUFFOLKBRANCH Income & Expenditure Account for 12 Months Ended 31st March 2003 2001/02 (9 months) £900.00 £13.36 £85.00 £2.00 £150.00

,

2002/03

Membership Subscriptions ............................................................................£1,164.00 Bank Interest ........................................................................................................£7.49 Donations: General Fundraising ......................................................................£118.70 Butterfly Plants (Suffolk Show) ........................................................£86.50 Sale of Merchandise...........................................................................................£39.10 £1,415.79

£1,150.36

~,

f\..

INCOME

£88.00

Cost of Sales ......................................................................................................£25.00 £1,390.79

£1,062.36

£85.00 £0.00 £239.60 £0.00 £0.00 £57.27 £17.00 £18.89

EXPENDITURE ...................................................................................................... .

Donation ...........................................................................................................£310.00 Suffolk Show .....................................................................................................£144.70 Newsletters / Programme.................................................................................£664.25 Repairs .................................................................................................................£3.99 Member's Night/ AGM .....................................................................................£167.20 Office Expenses .................................................................................................£69.83 Conference Expenses .........................................................................................£0.00 Depreciation .......................................................................................................£62.21 £1,422.18

£417.76 SURPLUS / (LOSS) ON CURRENT YEAR

£644.60

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st MARCH 2003 CONSOLIDATED FUND

Represented by: Girobank plc ....................................£1,432.94 Alliance & Leicester ...........................£770.85 Cash in hand ..........................................£3.08

Balance 1.4.2002 £2,989.78 Add surplus on year £(31.39) Donated stock entered £(40.00) in error 2001-2002

£2,206.87

£2,918.39

Write down value @ 20% £118.54 £22.12 £73.78 £45.82 Write down 3yrs £85.00 ...........................................................£248.85 Debtors ..............................................£298.77 Stock - Merchandise ..........................£224.50

ASSETS as at 31.03.2003 £150.00 Generator Projector Table £29.99 Exhibition Tent £100.00 Display Stand £229.12 Software £85.00

The Committee, as listed on the back cover, was then elected. With the formal business having concluded The Chairman invited Sharon Hearle to give the meeting a resume on her first period in office as Eastern Region Officer. This was followed by member's slides and a 'Moth Evening'.

12

£(31.39)

£772.12 Liabilities .............................................(£60.60) NET WORTH

13

£2,918.39

-I The SuffolkArgus

Annual General Meeting 13th September 2003 Chairman's Report for 2003

by Rob Parker The Suffolk Branch of Butterfly Conservation was formed ten yearsago next month, and in our first decade we have achieved a great deal.

Presently you will hear from individual committee members describing the activities of a Branch that is financially healthy, benefits members with an excellent programme of field visits, and with the "Suffolk Argus",a first-rate newsletter. More importantly for butterflies, we are hard at work influencing landowners seeking to improve the habitat in farmland margins as well as gardens and privately owned conservation areas.Thiswill benefit our common butterflies and moths in the wider countryside in parallel with our efforts to understand the needs of our Biodiversity Action Plan species.

This year, our hard working team has been joined by Sharon Hearle, Butterfly Conservation's Regional Officer for the East of England; and I am pleased to tell you that she has already been active spotting Dingy Skippers, tracking down colonies of White-letter Hairstreak and counting Silverstudded Blues, as well as in administrative roles such as making conservation inputs to the management plans for Local Nature Reserves, and in improving the co-operation with Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex Branches.

Sharon has also started a transect on the Devil's Dyke. Technically it is in Cambridgeshire, but the butterflies do not know that, and I see it as an extra finger on the pulse at the county boundary. Another new transect has been started at Cavenham Heath by the English Nature warden, and I have identified several farms that could host useful transects - if only we had a few volunteers ready to walk them regularly.

You will remember all the endeavour that

Spring2004 Julian Dowding put into the Buckthorn for Brimstones planting three years ago. I am pleased to report that this year we were able to observe a notable development, with Brimstones not only appearing in Holywells Park, but also breeding there. Let us hope that they will become properly established around Ipswich, and even more widely across the east of the county.

Another notable achievement by a Branch member, was the publication of Doug Hammersley's book: "A Butterfly Notebook"- it is a delightful collection of superb illustrations, and I urge you to take the opportunity to look at it later during the coffee break.

The number of events we run in collaboration with other organisations seems to be on the increase.

Our regular event for Thornham Walks was more elaborate and more successful than usual, we took moth and butterfly walks for the RSPB, and again spoke at a FWAG walk. The Suffolk Wildlife Trust has used our expertise at evening lectures and •butterfly walks and plans a more elaborate programme next year. Let me take this moment to thank all those who have taken part in any of our events, and particularly to the committee members, who bear almost the entire load. In another collaborative venture, two of us guided parties from the British Entomological & Natural History Society around the SSS! at RAF Barnham - a site with Lunar YellowUnderwings as well as Dingy Skippers.

After the Chairman's Report the following reports were presented by the committee member responsible: Moth Conservation Officer's Report Butterfly Conservation Officer's Report Membership Secretary's Report Editor, Suffolk Argus Report Treasurer's Report. (The Accounts are published on the following page.)

Programme Secretary's Report

BUTTERFLYCONSERVATIONSUFFOLKBRANCH Income & Expenditure Account for 12 Months Ended 31st March 2003 2001/02 (9 months) £900.00 £13.36 £85.00 £2.00 £150.00

,

2002/03

Membership Subscriptions ............................................................................£1,164.00 Bank Interest ........................................................................................................£7.49 Donations: General Fundraising ......................................................................£118.70 Butterfly Plants (Suffolk Show) ........................................................£86.50 Sale of Merchandise...........................................................................................£39.10 £1,415.79

£1,150.36

~,

f\..

INCOME

£88.00

Cost of Sales ......................................................................................................£25.00 £1,390.79

£1,062.36

£85.00 £0.00 £239.60 £0.00 £0.00 £57.27 £17.00 £18.89

EXPENDITURE ...................................................................................................... .

Donation ...........................................................................................................£310.00 Suffolk Show .....................................................................................................£144.70 Newsletters / Programme.................................................................................£664.25 Repairs .................................................................................................................£3.99 Member's Night/ AGM .....................................................................................£167.20 Office Expenses .................................................................................................£69.83 Conference Expenses .........................................................................................£0.00 Depreciation .......................................................................................................£62.21 £1,422.18

£417.76 SURPLUS / (LOSS) ON CURRENT YEAR

£644.60

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st MARCH 2003 CONSOLIDATED FUND

Represented by: Girobank plc ....................................£1,432.94 Alliance & Leicester ...........................£770.85 Cash in hand ..........................................£3.08

Balance 1.4.2002 £2,989.78 Add surplus on year £(31.39) Donated stock entered £(40.00) in error 2001-2002

£2,206.87

£2,918.39

Write down value @ 20% £118.54 £22.12 £73.78 £45.82 Write down 3yrs £85.00 ...........................................................£248.85 Debtors ..............................................£298.77 Stock - Merchandise ..........................£224.50

ASSETS as at 31.03.2003 £150.00 Generator Projector Table £29.99 Exhibition Tent £100.00 Display Stand £229.12 Software £85.00

The Committee, as listed on the back cover, was then elected. With the formal business having concluded The Chairman invited Sharon Hearle to give the meeting a resume on her first period in office as Eastern Region Officer. This was followed by member's slides and a 'Moth Evening'.

12

£(31.39)

£772.12 Liabilities .............................................(£60.60) NET WORTH

13

£2,918.39

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The SuffolkArgus

Update on the Suffolk Branch Action Plan

Moth Species (Part 2)

by TonyPrichard This article completes the update on the moth species covered in the Suffolk Action Plan. The current status of some species is of major concern whereas others seem to be faring relatively well. The Branch and Suffolk Moth Group are actively involved in the surveying and monitoring of some of these species and have some encouraging results as well as some disappointments.

Bordered Gothic Heliophobus reticulata marginosa Since the regional action plan was written this species has continued its decline. A colony identified in Kent in 200 I returned negative results in 2002 and despite being a National Moth Night (NMN) target species in 2002 it appears no records were made in 2002. In 2003 an individual, apparently of the resident form, was recorded in Norfolk at Honing by Phil Heath, suggesting that the species may still be resident. A singleton was recorded from Landguard in 2000 by Nigel Odin and presumed to be a migrant. A record from Thetford in 1995 by Steve Dudley has come to light and updates the last known year this species

Spring2004 was recorded in the Brecks. Not far from the location of this record is Barnhamcross Common and the Branch and the Suffolk Moth Group have been recording at this site in recent years but with no sight of any Bordered Gothic. Just to the south of the common is the RAF Barnham training camp and this his been subject to occasional moth recording but again there has been no sign of Bordered Gothic. The Brecks is not an underrecorded area, with moth recorders from around the country visiting the area, so unless the species is at a very low ebb it would appear strange why this moth is not recorded more often in the area.

General moth surveying of the Brecks will continue and visits to previously known sites not recently surveyed will be made over the next year or so.

Book Review

by Rob Parker

A Butterfly Notebook by Douglas Hammersley.

(The Book Guild, Lewes,

2003) 140pp,304 illustrations. Hardbound

(ISBN 1 85776 722 5) £25

White-spotted Pinion Cosmia diffinis This formerly widespread species underwent a severe decline as Dutch Elm disease affected its larval foodplant. Recently some encouraging reports of sightings have been received from nearby counties; Huntingdonshire, Cambridgeshire and Essex.The most recent county reference I have for this species is from the Walberswick area in the late 1990s, although I've still to track down the precise details of the record. David Young and myself searched the site for White-spotted Pinion larvae early on in 2003 but no larvae of the target species were found. A visit to the same site by the moth group with lights later in the year in August failed to attract the adult moth. The Moth Group has targeted occasional moth nights for this species in recent years but with no success. I understand that it has a liking for 'sugar' and better results may be achieved with this than with light so we'll probably try chat technique in the future. Despite the recent negative results I would think that the chance of this moth still residing in Suffolk remains high and surveying for this species will continue.

Marbled Clover Heliothis viriplaca This species continues to be recorded in low numbers from both the Breckland areas of Suffolk and the Suffolk coastal areas around Aldeburgh, Thorpeness and Sizewell. Numbers of records

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Anyone who appreciates the line drawings in "Suffolk Argus"will be delighted to hear that Doug Hammersley's paintings have now been published under the title of "A Butterfly Notebook''. He has captured grace of movement in addition to natural beauty, with a nice blend of scientific accuracy and art. His work is no less detailed than Richard Lewington's pictures of set specimens, but each butterfly has been brought to life. To complement the illustrations, Doug has written interesting and amusing accounts of his observations, describing the images of courtship, feeding and pairing shown on the facing pages, and offering anecdotes that reflect the changes in distribution and scarcity over the years.

A skilled medical illustrator by profession, and keen naturalist in retirement, the author has created a "notebook" of the butterflies of his acquaintance; most of the British species, with a smattering of attractive Continentals to add a little spice. Each picture is accompanied by his note of where and when, with a certain favouritism for his home patch at West Harling Forest, Norfolk, and with earlier memories of Northumberland, and occasional forays to the Pyrenees and the Adriatic.

As the illustrations are so much larger than life, he

includes one life-size image on each page as a point of reference. In some cases, the larger pictures serve very nicely to assist with identification, and to highlight the points of difference between two similar species. Reading his account of che features separating Small and Essex Skippers leaves a clearer understanding than many of the field guides, for example. The volume is nicely produced, and the choice of paper has catered well for the reproduction of texture and fine brushwork, without generating the reflection that often spoils glossy photographs.

There is only one photograph, and that is a whimsical portrait inside the dust cover, capturing Doug in a moment of repose. An active member of our Branch, a contributor to this journal and chairman of the Thetford Natural History Society, Doug has produced a book that is a delight to me, and I know it will become one of my favourites. It is neither a comprehensive work of reference, nor a superficial coffee table book. It falls nicely into the niche of what many lepidopterists would like to find in their Christmas stocking; a book to read and re-read, images to view with pleasure.

Published by The Book Guild and available from good bookshops, or by telephone order line on 01825 723398.

Purple Emperor

by DouglasHammersley 11

The SuffolkArgus

Spring 2004

Once back, rime to exchange information and species seen, also an opportunity to admire photographs taken by Angela Woodrow, on our recent walk along part of the North Downs Way. A rewarding day with a good number of species of butterfly recorded, also very nice to see so many members and visitors

1f

Moth Night at Alder Carr Farm, 13th September 2003

by TonyPrichard This moth night followed the AGM held at Alder Carr Farm and several members were attracted to the light following the meeting and slideshow.

CommonBlue

by Douglas

Hammersley

A leaf-miner Bede/Lia somnulentella was recorded on the bindweed while we were setting up the lights. This previously scarce species seems to have had a very good year in 2003 with numbers of records being during the autumn, it will be interesting to note if it continues to be recorded in such numbers in future years. A reasonable selection of autumnal moths was recorded considering the conditions. Some late examples of Single-dotted Wave and Small Fanfooted Wave were noted, this autumn has seen some very late appearances of species normally associated with the summer months. Other species of note, on the basis of their more localised distribution, included Large Wainscot and Feathered Gothic. At this time of year woodland habitats normally prove to be more productive than more open habitats, on this night it proved the reverse with very little being recorded in the traps in the copse in comparison to the sheet light in its more open position.

The full species list for the night was; Bede/Lia somnulentella, Ypsolopha parenthesella, Celypha lacunana, Nomophila noctuella, Hypsopygia costalis,Blood-vein, Small Fan-footed Wave, Small Dusty Wave, Single-dotted Wave, Common Marbled Carpet, Brimstone Moth, Shuttle-shaped Dart, Seraceous Hebrew Character, Square-spot Rustic, Feathered Gothic, Common Wainscot, Angle Shades, Rosy Rustic, Large Wainscot, Burnished Brass and Snout.

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received each year remain low although some years prove better than others. This may suggest that the population is relatively stable but at low density. It might also mean that the species may be vulnerable to slight changes in the habitat that might rip the balance against its favour. This year (2003} I carried out targeted searches for this species looking for the moth in the coastal and Breck areas in an attempt to assess its current status. I did not manage to locate it in any of its coastal haunts or in the Brecks. Fortunately, David Young had more success when he recorded it at Maidscross Hill, a known locality for the moth, during the year. Due to the lack of success in finding this species in 2003 searches will continue in 2004.

be easily found by 'beating' the foodplant. Larval surveys in recent years in sourheastern counties have proved very productive and in 2003 I undertook a survey for this species in Suffolk with the aim of recording it from as many I 0km squares as possible. This proved very successful and along with additional records from Sharon Hearle, Neil Sherman and Andy Musgrove the larva was recorded this year from thirty 10km squares. With previous adult records the moth has now been recorded from forty-one I 0km squares in Suffolk, good evidence that the moth is well distributed in the county. I suspect that most places in Suffolk where the foodplant occurs will be found to support the larvae, my experience was that over most of Suffolk it was nor hard to find larvae if hop was present.

Four-spotted Tyta luctuosa

,,

A day-flying species that was last recorded in Suffolk in the Brecks during the very early 1990' s (Thetford Forest, 1991, Gerry Haggett}. Various recorders have made visits in recent years to sites where it was known to occur but all have proved negative. Currently in Britain there appear to be three sizeable populations of this moth and these are monitored each year and currently seem stable.

A record of this moth in Essex in 2000 opens up the possibilities that colonies of this moth may exist un-discovered in areas of Suffolk. The caterpillar feeds on field bindweed (a rather common plant} and there seems to be a requirement for bindweed that is on open sunny verges or disturbed ground - presumably hot microclimates. This species would be worthwhile keeping· an eye out for around the county wherever the foodplant occurs in a suitable habitat from mid-May to August.

Buttoned Snout Hypena rostralis Since rhe action plan was written for this species its place on the list has come under some scrutiny.

The approach taken is that if the species does not warrant its BAP status then evidence must be provided to produce a case for its removal. The adult moth does not respond to light very well so light trap records have been rather low on the ground. The larva feeds on hop (Humulus) and can

Shaded Fan-foot Henninia tarsicrinalis From a county viewpoint I suspect that there has been little change in the status of this species since the original plan was produced. The moth remains largely confined to the more easterly areas of the county with a single recent record from the west of the county (Great Cornard, Stuart Reed}. New sires are discovered for this species each year bur I do not think these indicate recent spread and colonisation by the moth. I suspect we are still in the process of discovering the moth at existing haunts where it may well have been present for many years. As this species seems to be in a reasonably healthy state it is not my intention to push for specific surveying for this species as additional records/sires are gained through our normal moth recording activities. This species occurs at a regularly recorded sire and numbers will be monitored over the years. As far as I understand wild larvae have not yet been found and research into the earlier stages of this moth and the species' habitat requirements could prove interesting.

Lunar Yellow Underwing Noctua orbona A moth that has previously undergone a national decline leaving occasional scattered colonies across rhe country with its main stronghold being in the Brecks. Records of the moth at light in the late

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The SuffolkArgus l 990's have suggested that populations may exist in the Sandlings. In the last few years Gerry Haggett has been leading work into the larval habitat requirements of this moth in the Brecks.

Some interesting findings have come out of this work especially in relation to the potentially adverse effects of sheep grazing in habitat management and the larvae utilising a transitory habitat in conifer plantations on Wavy Hair Grass (Deschampsia flexuosa). Over the winter of 2002/2003 some of the branch and moth group members carried out similar survey work in the Sandlings following some promising results from initial surveying in early 2002. This work showed that sizeable populations of the moth occur at most suitable locations in the Sandlings and would appear to utilise additional variations on acidgrassland habitat in comparison to the Brecks populations. I am unsure whether the discovery of the extent of the Sandlings populations is indicative of an upturn in the species fortunes.

This species would appear to come to light infrequently and can be confused with the commoner Lesser Yellow Underwing (Noctua comes). I suspect that the moth could well have been overlooked in the past, especially as the Sandlings is probably under-recorded in comparison to the Brecks. Larval survey work is expected to continue this winter.

Spring2004 foodplants have been noted elsewhere in the country this year and given the behaviour of closely related moths it would not be a surprise if this species turned out to eat a wide variety of lowgrowing plants. Unlike the Lunar Yellow Underwing it is not easy to narrow down on suitable habitats to survey for this species (nettle and elm being· rather common). Unless our understanding of its habitat requirements improve, recording of the adult at light will remain the main means of searching for this species. In the lase 6-7 years records of this species have increased (at least based on the records in the database) and possibly of more relevance is the increase in the number of locations at which it is recorded each year under 5 locations per year in the early nineties up to 13 sites in 2001 and 12 sites in 2002.

Pale Shining Brown Polia bombycina This species seems to be suffering similar fortunes to the Bordered Gothic. There have been no records of this species in the county since the regional action plan for this species was put together and there only appears to have been one record nationally in 2002. Our ignorance of the life history and particular habitat requirements for this moth makes targeted searching and managing for this species extremely awkward. Currently I do not feel very optimistic over the fate of this species in the country.

Square-spotted Clay Xestia rhomboid.ea

Cokophora tricolor

This widespread but local species seems to occur most frequently in the southeastern areas of the country. In Suffolk the coarse distribution would appear to align with that of the Lunar Yellow Underwing - another species where the stronghold populations are thought to occur in the Brecks with additional populations in the Sandlings. It is only in recent years that the larvae have been found feeding in the wild and initial findings seemed to indicate chat there was a preference for nettles growing under elm trees. Earlier this year some surveying was done by the moth group at sites where the adult has previously been recorded where there was nettle under elm trees. This met with some success and four larvae were found feeding on nettle and red campion. Additional

The only micro-lepidoptera with BAP status and apparently restricted to the Brecks in Britain. This is one of a group of micro-lepidoptera where the larva forms a case that encloses its body, presumably providing a level of protection. This species initially uses a detached floret of Basil Thyme as its first case and later on switches to cases made from pieces of grass. Surveying and monitoring of this species continues to be undertaken by Gerry Haggett in the Brecks with four areas being found to support the moth. The foodplant, Basil Thyme, appears to be subject to fluctuations in its population but the moth has been found on quite small colonies of the plant.

Habitat management proposals have been put into

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Kenton Hills and Sizewell, 31 st August 2003

by Alan Johnson

.,

After joining the public footpath, which crosses Broom Covert, a group of four Brown Argus, was found by Geoff Hayes and Jim Foster. Small Tortoiseshell and a very pale female Meadow Brown, but in good condition, were also seen.

Onto Sandy Lane, a track which leads to the Leiston-Sizewell road, normally a good spot for seeing the Wall, but on this occasion none obliged.

However, a Buddleia bush provided us with Peacock, Red Admiral and Large and Small Whites.

Further on Grayling and Comma were noted.

Once at Sizewell Beach, we had our picnic lunches, and then continued our walk northwards.

The weather by now had become increasingly cloudy with a fresh northerly to N.W wind. The beach, normally bright with wild flowers such as Rest Harrow, Bird's-foot Trefoil, Ragwort and Hawkweed, but now most of the flowers dried and shrivelled from the past weeks of hot sunshine. A small clump of Sheep's-bit Scabious provided some colourful relief. Good numbers of Small Heath and Common Blue were seen; also a solitary Painted Lady and a Grayling egg laying on a tuft of grass.

Concrete blocks, remnants of anti-invasion measures from the 2nd World War marked the point at which we left the beach to turn inland.

Here, a patch of heather in flower attracted a mating pair of Grayling, also Small Heath, Small Copper and Common Blue. Nearby, in amongst tall dried grass stems a grasshopper was seen. Whilst this was being admired, one of our party spotted a Common Lizard, which promptly disappeared, to be re-discovered climbing up one of Sheila Keeley's legs, clinging to her sock! Dragonflies noted were Common Darter, Migrant Hawker, Southern Hawker and a solitary Ruddy Darter.

The final stage of our walk was along woodland rides, following the southern edge of Goose Hill, then Kenton Hills. Items of note being two brilliantly coloured Commas, on Blackberries, a Common Blue on Fleabane, a Grayling on Susan Peck's hat, and a Red Admiral 'drinking minerals' (sweat!) from Geoff Hayes' arm, obviously enjoying the taste as it lingered for quite some rime!

The weather by now was much cloudier and cooler, and our group well spread out, but eventually everyone returned to our starting point.

This was the last field meeting of our 2003 programme and 24 people attended it, probably a record for the Branch? Perhaps tempted out by the fine weather, or maybe the fact that it was our last meeting before we all go into 'hibernation'. It was good to see some new faces, including two visitors to the area, also three members from the Norfolk Branch.

The car park at Kenton Hills provided our first ~ightings of the day - Red Admiral and Comma, both on bramble, also Speckled Wood, Small Copper and Holly Blue. Earlier, another item of interest was a female Glow Worm found on a dry stony track adjacent to the car park. The initial part of our walk was to take us along waymarked permissive paths around Sizewell Belts, an area rich in wildlife, comprising grazing marshes intersected by drainage dykes and tree belts. Crossing a damp grazing area, House Martins, Sand Martins and Swallows were noted swooping low over the meadow, however the butterflies were confined to fair numbers of Greenveined Whites. On some of my previous visits this meadow has been occupied by a herd of cows, with attendant bull. However, on this occasion 'Ferdinand' and his harem were absent, much to the relief of my wife!

Anascent through bracken took us up onto Leiston Common, the grass now parched and the colourful haze of the areas of Sheep's Sorrel now gone. Here, Small Heath, Small Copper and the Small Copper blue-spotted aberrant form (caeruleopunctata) were seen, the latter possibly in a new area for our records? We then followed the path alongside Reckham Pits Wood, then crossed an open meadow, rabbit grazed with a few flower heads of Ragwort remaining. This area provided sightings of Grayling, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small Heath, Peacock and Small White.

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7 The SuffolkArgus

Spring2004

North Downs Walk, August 10th 2003

Dehydration was starting to sap some of our collective energy in the afternoon though we used shady areas for short stops. However, there were two highlights still to come. The first was close views of two tattered Silver-washed Fritillaries in courtship on the path, one initially seen by Jill Perkins. They were head to tail, very close, the male presumably showering scent scales over the female, who was probably emitting her own scent from the tip of her abdomen. This courtship is fully documented in Thomas and Lewington, 'The Butterflies of Britain and Ireland', pp. 148-149.

Thanks to Paul Johnson we saved any climbing in the final field by skirting the lower left side and this produced several good close views of our last target species, Adonis Blue. More accompanied us, with several other Silver-spotted Skippers, as we walked down the lane back to Dorking. At no time did we identify any other Skippers or a late Ringlet, assuming that early emergence and the hot weather had already finished their activities. A final bonus was a total of six Clouded Yellows. At Dorking car park several of us made a quick move into a nearby air-conditioned pub to consume much-needed long, cool drinks.

by RichardStewart Ten members including two friends from the Norfolk Branch braved what was easily the hottest day any of us have experienced here.

Our initial steep ascent was not helped by the many passing motorbikes and four-wheel vehicles hut after we reached the top we didn't encounter them again. We recorded seventeen species on our ascent, but despite careful study of the abundant oaks no Purple Hairstreaks were seen.

The usual detour into a small reserve halfway up was particularly rewarding, with not just our first Chalk.hill Blues and a distant view of a Fricillary but also several Silver-spotted Skippers, not usually encountered so early on the walk. For the rest of the day they were abundant in even marginally suitable habitat and had we had the necessary energy our total would have been several hundred. Later one landed on Alan Johnson's blue sock and a mating pair, obviously with less discrimination, landed on Paul Johnson's rucksack.

With some reluctance we left this lovely area and continuing our climb were able to admire a coppiced area to the left, already colonised by Marjoram. Lunch was taken in welcome shade and Paul Johnson produced what initially seemed to be a short-listed entry for the Turner Prize, but was in reality a still iced drink in a boccie, having not defrosted. Various unhelpful suggestions were made about what he could do with it but luckily he had some more co drink.

The panoramic views from the top were much appreciated and we also recorded hunting Kestrel, Green and Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Several moths identified included Rush Veneer, Straw Dot, Treble-Bar and the migrant Silver Y. In addition to the nectar rich and extensive beds of Marjoram other planes noted included Autumn Gentian, Dodder, Clustered Bellflower, Centaury, Soapwort, Knapweed, Teasels (gone over) and some impressive clumps of Deadly Nightshade.

Butterfly species recorded: Three Whites, Brimstone, Clouded Yellow, Silver-spotted Skipper, Comma, Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Peacock, Painted Lady, Silver-washed Fritillary, Common, Holly, Chalk.hill and Adonis Blue, Brown Argus, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper and Small Heath: total of 21.

Overheard comment of the day: 'Why should we let the Waveney divide us?'

effect to hopefully benefit the plant and this species.

Distribution Maps

References

Davis, T., Green, D.G., Parsons, M. S., Bourn, N.A.D. (Eds.) 2003. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 4: April 2002 - March 2003.

Butterfly Conservation.

Haggett, G.M., 2002. Lunar Yellow Underwing, Noctua orbona (Hufnagel), larval survey in Norfolk and Suffolk Breckland. Butterfly Conservation.

" Joy, J. 2000. Regional Action Plan for East Anglia.

Butterfly Conservation.

Bordered Gothic

Mann, J & Prichard, T. 1998. Suffolk Action Plan.

The Suffolk Branch of Butterfly Conservation.

Parsons, M. S., Green, D.G., Bourn, N.A.D. & Waring, P. (Eds.) 2000. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 1: April 1999 - March 2000.

Butterfly Conservation.

Parsons, M. S., Green, D.G., Bourn, N.A.D. (Eds.) 2001. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 2: April 2000 - March 2001. Butterfly Conservation.

Parsons, M. S., Green, D.G., Bourn, N.A.D. (Eds.) 2002. Lepidoptera Conservation Bulletin: Number 3: April 2001 - March 2002. Butterfly Conservation.

White-spotted Pinion

Marbled Clover 8

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-I The SuffolkArgus

Spring2004

Distribution Maps

Thornham Walks, 3rd August, 2003

weather in complete contrast to last year, when thunderstorms curtailed the walk. The good response from the public was very encouraging, also the enthusiasm shown by the children.

Hopefully, some may continue their interest shown in butterflies and moths.

This event is to be repeated in our 2004 programme and it will be a great help if more members were available to distribute themselves among a party to pass on information and help with identification.

Finally, our thanks to Thornham Walks and John Loombe.

by AlanJohnson

Four-spotted

Lunar Yellow Underwing

Buttoned Snout

Square-spotted Clay

Shaded Fanfoot

Pale Shining Brown 18

This event, a Joint meeting with 'Thomham Walks', is now in its fourth year. Previously the basic format was to 'meet the public' and to take an afternoon stroll through part of the Thomham Estate, near Diss, including their 'Butterfly Ride', For this year's programme it was decided to expand our activities into the morning and to include an illustrated talk - 'The Butterflies of Suffolk and how to identify them', presented by Rob Parker and Jim Foster. This was duly held in one of the rooms of the Field Centre, commencing mid-day and lasting for just over an hour, and attended by 18 members of the public, including three children. The excellent range of colour slides were well received by the audience.

At 2 pm, with numbers now increased to approximately double that of the morning, we were met by John Loombe, the Assistant Countryside Ranger, who gave us a brief introduction to the estate. In view of the large numbers it was decided to split into rwo parties, one being led by Rob Parker, the other by Jim Foster.

Our route was to take us through some of the estate's diverse habitats, the path initially bordered by grasses, thistles, knapweed and patches of bramble. This led us to the 'Pinetum', then through a wooded glade to the Victorian Walled Garden, now fully restored. Here the sighting of a Humming-bird Hawk-moth evoked much interest. Continuing past the Canal Pond we came to the 'Butterfly Ride', a mix of shady and brighter sunnier areas, set within the Connaught Plantation. The ride is only open to the public during July and August, Butterfly Conservation being involved in the project several years ago, at the invitation of Lord and Lady Henniker, owners of the estate.

A total of fourteen species of butterfly was recorded during the afternoon, the very hot

Species seen: Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Red Admiral, Peacock, Painted Lady, Comma, Small Tortoiseshell, Green-veined White, Small White, Large White, Brimstone, Large Skipper, Common Blue, Speckled Wood, Humming-bird Hawkmoth.

Humming-birdHawk Moth byJim Foster

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The SuffolkArgus

Spring2004

weather. Our group, now up to full numbers with the arrival of the four remaining members, was to spend the day on Salisbury Plain, our leader being Kevin Walker, of the 'C.E.H.', at Monk's Wood.

Kevin, undertaking research in the area, had kindly offered to show us around his 'patch' and duly met us at our first location, Everleigh Down, a few miles N.W. ofTidworth.

Our 'car park' was normally used by Army vehicles when on manoeuvres, fortunately, being Sunday, they were having a day off. We had been pre-warned of the dire consequences of parking on tracks used by Tanks! The Plain, is approx. 20 miles from west to east and 12 miles from north to south, parts given over to military use. Kevin showed us a map to explain the M.o.D. owned land, basically divided into three parts, the eastern area where we were at present, the western area around Imber, and a central 'impact' area consisting of the Larkhill Artillery Ranges. We gathered that this 'impact' area supported colonies of the Marsh Fritillary butterfly.

Setting off on our walk, up cowards Sidbury Hill, we had superb views of a vast green expanse of undulating chalk downland, the largest remaining such area in Europe. The walk eventually produced sightings of 21 species: Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Ringlet, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Peacock, Brimstone, Small Heath, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Copper, Marbled White, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Chalkhill Blue, Small Blue, Dark Green Fritillary and a Humming-bird Hawk Moth. Also we found two of the 'webs' of the Marsh Fritillary caterpillars, on Devil's-bit Scabious. Once again the chalk downland flora being too numerous to list here, but perhaps I should mention that Kevin searched, in vain, co show us a Tuberous Thistle (which only grows in Wiltshire) but he could only locate a hybrid of the Tuberous/Stemless Thistle.

Returning for a picnic lunch, we were most grateful to the Army for the provision of a 'thunderbox' (portaloo) in the parking area. This evoked considerable amusement and Richard Stewart was photographed, for posterity, exiting this edifice, perhaps it was fortunate that it wasn't

booby-trapped!

For our afternoon visit, Kevin led us in a convoy of cars, to the western end of the Plain, and the village of Lierle Cheverell. Here, a lane led us to Fore Hill and after leaving che cars, we crossed a grazing meadow which led us to a bowl shaped steep sided Coombe, the slopes of which were covered with a profusion of flowers. By now, although still sunny the freshening wind was tending to whisk the butterflies away from the flower heads. In this area we noted: - Marbled White, Common Blue, Chalkhill Blue, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Wall, Small Skipper, Dark Green Fritillary and Clouded Yellow.

Growing around the rim of the Coombe was the attractive and rare Woolly Thistle, the globular flower heads covered with a white cotton-like growth and up co three inches across, the largest of any British thistle. This now brought our weekend activities to a close, the visit providing a fascinating insight into two contrasting habitats. Our thanks co Kevin Walker for sharing his expertise with us, I'm sure we all left with a greater knowledge of a lovely area of Wiltshire.

Postscript:- Some members stayed on for a late afternoon walk and although still broad daylight, they were able to approach, quite closely, and photograph a Badger. The same memberspaid a brief visit to Bentley Wood on the Monday morning, seeing a Purple Emperor that conveniently alighted fairly low down on an Oak tree by the car park. A Silverwashed Fritillary and a White Admiral were also seen. The latter bringing the species count for the weekend to 21.

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My First Walk in the Pyrenees 8th January 2001

by James Mann Now for something completely different, not a butterfly in sight. When Anne and I had lived here in Le Boulou for just over a year I was asked if I liked walking and if so would I like to take part in 'La Randonnee'. I replied yes and I would. I did not know until later that I had been invited to join "Les Rafals" an exclusive group of seven or eight retired people who walked in the mountains each Monday. I was told I would need good walking boots, waterproofs, backpack, food and water etc, all the essential things to safely walk in the mountains. I was also told I should join the F.F.R.P.Federation Francaise de la Randonnee Pedestre which apart from anything else covered me by insurance so that in case of accident I would be picked up by helicopter, taken to hospital, and treated without charge, well wotth the 18 Euros so I joined the other 150,000 members in France.

On the day of the walk I was picked up at 8.30am, Anne said I looked like the 11 year old she remembered from school. We drove up the Vallespir to Saint Laurent de Cerdans at 670 metres altitude parking at the old railway station that has been closed since October 1940 when the line along the River Tech was washed away by floods.

We started off at 9-30am admiring the patterns in the thick frost on the cars. Climbing above the village we passed the last few houses and were greeted by the friendly barking of dogs who

no doubt would have liked to come with us. We soon entered an extensive old coppiced chestnut forest clearly planted by man. I have read something of the history of the area and discovered that iron had been mined and forged here from Roman times up to the I 960's. In the 17th century the supply of charcoal for che forges was running low so the chestnuts were planted to alleviate this.

The sun was shining brightly through the bare branches giving ever-moving patterns of light and shade. The path zigzagged steadily upwards and by about 10-30am we arrived at Mas Couloumer, a farm owned by a trio of Belgians who have been producing goat and cow cheese for 19 years. After having a welcome drink of coffee from our flasks we could not resist the temptation to buy some of the lovely fresh cheese. The path levelled out and we soon arrived at the village of Coustouges situated close to the Spanish border at 780metres.

The village has an interesting church which dates back over 1000 years and a 12th century medieval cemetery on whose gravestones it is possible to trace the old family names. The walk moved off out of the back of the village via Rue de Escalier, yes it was like a staircase. My feet were now telling me that I should have worn my boots in more, I knew I had at least one blister on each foot. My eye was taken by what looked like huge piles of reddish concrete. I was cold that there had been many volcanoes in this area and that this was red lava that had picked up stones as it rolled down the slopes and cooled. I have since seen lots of this "prehistoric concrete" cut into blocks and used in the construction of many of the old buildings, including parts of the Coustouges Church. The path now entered a pine forest and we began to encounter patches of snow but with the sunshine in seemed quite warm.

The path rose sharply for a few metres and came out onto a wide track leading off towards Spain. After following this for half an hour we came to a stone block at the side of the track with the number 545 cut into it. This was a Borne Frontier marking the border between France and Spain. We all played the game of leaving the country and having one foot in each country. My feet were now really hurting and I asked, "Do we

19

The Suffolk Argus

Spring2004

eat there" pointing to a hill some 100 feet above.

"Non la" replied Dominique pointing to Mont Capell, which at 1194 metres altitude looked to me like Everest. Following a steep path through some pines I thought that when we come out into the open we would be there, but no, the top still loomed above us. I looked around at the grass and heather and thought that apart from the rocks this looks like a Suffolk Heath tilted at an angle of 30 degrees. I looked up and there was the top a few metres away, the others had all dropped back to let the new English member be the first to the top. It was a wonderful feeling and the highest I had climbed on foot. There was a strong breeze blowing at the summit but we sat just over the edge where it was sheltered and quite warm as long as you found a spot free of snow to sit on. Sitting down my feet did not hurt so much.

We were sitting in the sun under a brilliant blue sky yet the odd flake of shining white snow was drifting down. In front of us and to our right we could clearly see the Costa Brava coast in Spain and in front of us and to our left we could see the Cote Vermille coast in France. Directly below us in the valley were several French farms, the vehicle access to these is much easier through a bit of Spain as was proved by the French "La Poste" van taking this route with the mail. Dominique produced a bottle of "Banyuls", the local strong wine, and we all shared our offerings for a Grande Repas. After eating we stood on the peak looking at the mountains across the Tech valley. I heard phrases such as "Tour de Batere", "Tour de Mir", "Source le Tech" and with great reverence "Pie de Costabone" and "Huitheure le marche". My feet were saying huit minutes are enough for me. I saw a large building with a tower several kilometres to the right and asked if it was a church. I was told that it was Mas Cremadells a fortified farm. This had not been a peaceful place in the past. I asked if we were going back that way but told "Non par la" pointing almost directly down towards Saint Laurent, my feet were pleased.

As I started down the steep rocky path from the top my right knee said, "I have had enough, uphill I don't mind, but downhill No". I hobbled painfully down the path descending some

300metres to a more level track that I found much better going. Re-entering chestnut forest we followed a gently falling path in and out of valley ends and I began to wonder if we would ever get there. Coming into a clear area we met a wide track and there in front of us was, yes, Mas Cremadells. The others said we were not lost and failed to understand my ''Temporarily unaware of our exact location". At least they said they now knew the way back to Saint Laurent. We followed the track that had seen better days, there were still traces of tarmac but it was now mostly stones and potholes. After about half an hour we arrived at another large Mas complex called Mas Noell. The largest building is used by the Education Authority to give children experience of country living.

Smaller buildings are still used for farming as was evident by the cows and sheep wandering freely around.

An old car rattled up the track containing two of the farm workers who stopped for a chat.

The driver switched off the engine so we could hear. When asked how far it was to Saint Laurent they said about four kilometres. My brain worked out that that meant nearly three miles, my feet were beyond thinking, my knee was just holding up. After a few minutes charring the driver tried to re-start the car but nothing happened. The passenger got out wielding a large hammer, we all stepped back. He lifted the bonnet and gave something several blows at which the engine burst into life. He hopped back in and they rattled off.

Setting off along the track we soon arrived at a source (Drinking water spring). We drank the cool clear water, my feet asked to be bathed but I had to refuse, as they would never have gone back into my boots. Fortunately various paths took short cuts across the loops in the track and we were soon back apart from the final 45-degree slope down a high bank to a proper tarmac road. I only got down this by borrowing Yvon's stick and easing myself gently down. Arriving back at the cars at 5.40pm and back to Le Boulou at 6.40pm.

Despite having to struggle to get my aching feet and legs out of the car it had been a wonderful and memorable day. Since this first walk I, and my boots, have been on over a hundred more and have

20

Salisbury and extends over more than 1700 acres (657 hectares) covering an area of five miles by three at its broadest parts. Owned by the Forestry Commission prior to 1983, it was purchased by a Charitable Trust using funds provided by the late Lady Colman, who lived nearby. Currently there are four Trustees who work closely with various conservation bodies to develop the woodland as a nature reserve whilst continuing its management on commercial lines. It was designated an SSSI in 1985. Over 35 species of butterfly are regularly recorded and the opportunity to see the Purple Emperor attracts visitors from all over the country.

Our group spent the morning walking a circular route withi:l the wood and in spite of the damp conditions managed to record - Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Ringlet, Speckled Wood, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small White, Painted Lady and a female Silver-washed Fritillary. The rich and varied ground flora kept our botanists happy but to record a full list of flora noted would take up too much of this report.

By late morning the rain had stopped and we noticed a slight rise in the temperature, we then returned to our cars for a picnic lunch. It was during this break with the obligatory bananas being eaten and Jim Foster having just deposited his offering, that to everyone's surprise and delight a Purple Emperor descended onto the fresher banana skins. A male, somewhat worn, stayed long enough to be photographed and for all of us to have a good view of this most impressive butterfly.

A walk in the southern section of the wood, during the afternoon, was eventually abandoned, with the onset of more rain. The only species to add to our morning tally being a Red Admiral, thus making a total of twelve for the day, pretty good considering the weather! In the words of a member "this is such a beautiful wood I wish we could roll it up and take it back to Suffolk" and had it been a fine day the careful management of the rides and the creation of sunny scallops and clearings would have provided many more records to add to our list.

Sunday, day two of our weekend 'jolly', dawned fine and sunny with a fresh N.W. wind blowing, in complete contrast to the previous day's

2003 Field Meetings A Weekend in the Salisbury Area Saturday and Sunday, 26th & 27th July 2003

by Alan] ohnson Having had an extremely wet drive to Salisbury, from Ipswich, on the Friday, a combination of an early arrival coinciding with a 'window' in the weather conditions, we decided to find the entrance and car park for Bentley Wood, the venue for the following day's visit.

Once found, our half hour stay in the car park was to prove rewarding, with the occasional spells of sunshine tempting out eleven species of butterfly - Brimstone, Comma, Red Admiral, Sped·Jed Wood, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Green-veined White, Marbled White, a Silver-washed Fritillary which obligingly posed on a thistle, finally a fleeting glimpse of a Purple Emperor, high in the canopy. With our 'weather window' duly closing it was then time to find our Guest House in Salisbury and to meet others in our par-tystaying there.

The following morning saw our members assembled in the Bentley Wood car park, all eager to see the Purple Emperor, our 'target species' for the day. We stood admiring the roning banana skins adorning the 'roof' over an information board, these placed there to tempt the butterfly down from the canopy of an oak tree. However, the weather was • against us, with showers and longer periods of rain developing by mid-morning, also not very warm, very disappointing after the heat of the previous weeks.

Bentley Wood is approx. seven miles east of

5

Spring2004

The SuffolkArgus seen many butterflies, flowers, birds and animals.

Some I have already written about in previous articles and some I have yet to write about. I can highly recommend mountain walking as a way to keep fit, see the countryside and to get to know people and places.

5. Joining the walk is an indication of your interest in butterflies. By their nature butterflies do not remain conveniently by the main path and will offer many opportunities (temptations) for you to wander away. Take particular care to look out for hazards - rabbit holes, fallen or hanging branches, barbed wire, boggy areas, etc. Beware of wet grass, particularly on sloping ground.

Safety Code As with any other activity, there are hazards in the countryside and everyone taking part in a Field Trip or Work Party has a responsibility (duty of care), for their own safety and that of others. We try hard to ensure that our Events present no greater hazard than any other walk in the countryside, but please note and act on the following:

6. Children are welcome on our walks, but if under 16 must be accompanied by at least one adult for two children. It is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s) to ensure that the trip is within the children's ability.

1. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. If there are unusual requirements, these are noted in the individual trip details. Stout shoes are a minimum requirement for any walk.

• in

..

8, If you are uncertain about any details of the trip, ring the leader/contact in advance. There is always a telephone number given with the trip details.

9. If you decide to leave the event early, tell the leader.

10. Take care at YOURSELF.

3. The leader will provide a briefing on the trip before setting out, with details of any known particular hazards, and will also give advice on what to do in an emergency. Please listen carefully.

all

times,

but

ENJOY

We thank Upper ThamesBranchfar allowing us to publish their Safety Code.Pleasealsoreferto our own Safety Notes on the back of the Events Programme 2004-Ed.

4. At the briefing, please let the leader know if:you have a mobile telephone and are able to take it with you on the walk; you have First Aid qualifications.

4

2003

by Richard Stewart

7. Dogs are normally welcome on walks, but must be kept under control. Any exceptions are shown in the individual trip details.

2. During the main summer season you may be exposed to strong sunshine for much or all of the walk. Take a hat, use suncream or protection for exposed skin. Make sure that you have adequate food and liquid to drink with you. Equally, sunshine can easily turn to cold and rain during the day. Be prepared.

Butterfly Aberrations

Small Tortiseshell Ab. Semi-ichnusoides

byJim Foster

During 2003 I recorded the Small Copper var. caeruleopunctata, which has blue spots at the bottom of the hindwings, four times, all in Suffolk: FynnValley transect TM 2048 on 6th July, at Bixley TM 2044 on 11th July, then at Cavenham Heath TL 7572 on 17th August with the final and most satisfying one in our Westerfield Road garden, TM 169461, on 8th September.

Although I now check every Small Copper this was still a good number and brings my total for this aberrant form to eleven since my first record in 1998. To add to the garden excitement, Marie called me to look at an 'odd' Small Tortoiseshell on our Buddleia and with binoculars we were able to note its main differences compared to normal specimens. The usual border edging the top wings was replaced by a creamy black colour, there were very obvious creamy points to the top corners of the upper wings and just in from these were large areas of black. Thomas and Lewington describe it on page 123 of 'The Butterflies of Britain and Ireland' with an illustration and the information that this aberrant, semi-ichnusoides is a female form produced by high temperatures during the pupal stage. We observed it clearly on 31 st August and the day after, but regrettably weren't able to get a photo.

21

Spring2004

The SuffolkArgus

Insect ·Recordsfrom Sum,m,er2003

by RichardStewart In our garden at Westerfield Road, Ipswich, we had a foretaste of what was to come when Azure Damselflies began emerging from our small pond on 24th May and from then to 12th July we witnessed many more such transformations and the engrossing sight of up to eight pairs of the same species egg laying. ' After returning from holiday we were able to make garden records on seventy of the days between 6rhJuly and 21st September, the day I am writing this. We recorded the Red Admiral on 58 days with a maximum of six on 30th August and the Painted Lady on 56 days, sometimes four or five chasing each other around the garden with a maximum of33 on 3lstJuly.

It is debatable if these were migrants, home bred or a mixture of both but another migrant, the Humming-bird Hawk Moth is usually seen once a year. In 2003 we had fourteen recorded visits between 11th June and 15th September, nectaring on Valerian and Verbena bonariensis but mainly on Buddleia. It was even seen flying during a rare shower of rain on 10th September. Compared to that the six records for the migrant Silver Y were disappointing but we probably missed it after dark on the Buddleia. The garden also had first records for Small Skipper and Purple Hairstreak, bringing the total up to 25 species. This butterfly bonanza attracted nine visits from a Hornet between 13th August and 7th September. It chased some butterflies though we noted only one detached wing. It was also observed on several days landing delicately on the pondweed to sip water.

Although many nectar sources were used Buddleia was the main attractant. I am surprised when people comment mid-July that theirs has finished flowering since by regular deadheading the flowering period can be extended - we still have several florets in late September.

In 2003 deadheading was done on 24th July, 3rd and 27th August and finally on 9th September. The aim is to remove the dead floret without cutting off adjacent new flowering shoots.

This continuous flowering undoubtedly contributed to the numbers and varieties of insects we attracted to our garden during the very hot summer of 2003.

Silver-YMoth byMervyn Crawford

PaintedLady byBeryl]ohmon 22

Editorial

by Jim Foster In the last Suffolk Argus I appealed for a copy of the May 1995 issue in order to complete a full set of the Argus for the Editor's files. Well, many thanks to member Mike Hall who sent me his copy, I am very grateful.

Since writing the last editorial I have spent two months watching wildlife in Australia. One fact I soon realised is that butterflies in the UK and Europe are far easier to photograph and identify than in tropical Queensland. Although we saw many beautiful butterflies there, they rarely came to rest at eye level and even if they did they were invariably skittish thus making photographing them difficult. The nectar is principally sourced in the treetops, as there is linle ground flora. This and the high ambient temperature resulted in butterflies being seen on the wing, but frustratingiy, usually flying by at a high 'rate of knots'. Still I must not complain as we saw an abundance of wildlife including the platypus.

Turning to the UK and Suffolk in particular you will note that the 2004 programme is enclosed with this newsletter. There are more meetings than in the past so there is a greater opportunity for members to attend! Please try to get to some of these meetings as the Committee try very hard to create an interesting series of field events. Two of the meetings are workshops to learn more about the Grizzled and Dingy Skippers. These are innovation~ ~nd deserve ~ •-<!-' .. support. L1kew1se the Moth ,.=""' ~"'"'·---:.:-; • Morning at Alder Carr could .·--·-·-····~:"' be useful to those who wish - -- ~ ••, to learn more about our moths. One result of the increased number of meetings is that the programme has had to be increased in size to accommodate the listing but this was preferable to reducing the font size.

Dingy Skipper Survey 2004

by Rob Parker Last year was a good one for the Dingy Skipper, and this challenges us to carefully survey potential overspill sitesJ mainly in the Kings Forest, and to re-check a number of historic sites that remain potentially suitable.

The survey will take place during the likely flight period of 3-23 May 2004, and features two training events for the benefit of volunteers who are not familiar with the butterfly in its Suffolk habitat. Please put the dates in your diary now, and if there is any chance that you may be able to participate in any way on any date, phone Rob Parker (01284 705476) as soon as possible, so chat we can plan to get the best results from the available effort. It seems highly likely that some financial support will be available to cover travelling expenses for this survey. Those with a botanical bent will be particularly welcome, since we plan to map the larval foodplant patches - Birdsfoot Trefoil, as an integral part of the search.

DingySkipper

by DouglasHammersley 3

The SuffolkArgus

Spring2004

Contents Editorial

3

Dingy Skipper Survey 2004

3

Safety Code

4

Field Meetings 2003

5

Contributions for our newsletter should reach the Editor (address on back page) no later than:

11

Annual General Meeting

12

Spring

Accounts Update on the Suffolk Branch Action Plan for Moth Species (Part 2) My First Walk in the Pyrenees

13

Summer

April Fools Day

14 19

Autumn

August Bank Holiday

Butterfly Aber:rations in 2003 Insect Records from Summer 2003 Newsletter Details and General Information

21 22 23 Back Cover

For that difficult to find present, why not give a decorative butterfly or moth to mount on the front wall of someone's home ?

Copy Dates

Book Review

Suffolk Branch Contacts

~ uliili.';/}i.·r.'-· ....... ~""· ....

WJN --dfi~ ... y·~-

Editorial

Christmas Eve

Cast in aluminium and enamelled in very realistic colours at five times life-size,they will last for many years.

Highly individual nameplates too, to your own design, with no-obligation colour preview. Suffolk Branch will receive one quarter of the purchase price.

Anypiece of writing that is considered to be of interest will be published together with line drawings/prints /photographs.

The Suffolk Argus is your magazine, so please let us hear from you.

To advertise in the Suffolk Argus please contact Jim Foster on

Phone or fax Mervyn Crawford on Mildenhall (01638) 712600 for Colour brochure I Price list.

01449 711484.

2

A purpose built Hotel with all the facilities that today's travellers require yet in a rustic traditional environment that is welcoming and comfortable.

A purpose built Hotel with all the facilities that today's travellers require yet in a rustic traditional environment that is welcoming and comfortable.

Butterfly Hotel, Al 4 Bury East Exit Moreton Hall, Bury St. Edmunds Tel: 01284 760884

Butterfly Hotel, Al 4 Bury East Exit.

Moreton Hall, Bury St. Edmunds Tel: 01284 760884 23

Suffolk

Branch Contacts

Chairman Rob Parker, 66 Cornfield Road, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3BN (01284 705476) Membership Secretary Beryl Johnson, 28 Medway Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 0QH (01473 715701) Newsletter Editor Jim Foster, Lugano, The Street, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 6AH (01449 711484) Publicity Officer (Vacant) Programme Secretary Alan Johnson, 28 Medway Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 0QH (01473 715701) County Recorder (Butterflies) Rob Parker (address as above)

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BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

Conservation Officer (Butterflies) Rob Parker (address left) Conservation Officer (Moths) Tony Prichard, 3 Powling Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 9JR (01473 270047) County Recorder (Moths) Tony Prichard (address above) Secretary Tony Prichard, (address above) Treasurer Graham Bull, Willow Cottage, -1The Street, Raydon, Suffolk IP? 5LP (01473 310371) Committee Members Stella Wolfe, Mike Dean President Howard Mendel, c/o The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW? 5BD (0171 938 8782)

Volunteers Needed If you feelyou could help out now and then with the growing work of the Branch, please contact Beryl Johnson on 01473 715701.

Publishedby the SuffolkBranchof ButterflyConservation (The British Butterfly Conservation Society Ltd.) © 2003 all rights reserved Reg. No. 2206468 Reg.Charity No. 254937 Head Office:Manor Yard,EastLulworth, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5QP Tel: (01929) 400209 Editor: Jim Foster Logo: (Silver---<tuddcd Blue)Doug Hammersley Design: Stephen Ion, Cat & Mouse design Printer: 321 Printing, 25 BrookhouseBusinessPark, Hadleigh Road, Ipswich,Suffolk IP2 0EF

Swallowtail byBerylJohnson

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The Newsletter of the Suffolk Branch of Butterfly Conservation

BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

Spring 2004 Volume31