Category: David

Cricket which had fallen into a small stream. Sadly, there was no way of rescuing it.

Holly blue butterfly fluttered along a hedge – they seem attracted to the holly which is growing there. Finally it settled in the sun on some hawthorn leaves.

Berries beginning to ripen on a Solomon’s seal plant, growing in the Dutch Garden at the back of Bantock House.

The second rare breed of pigs on Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, Oxford sandy and black pigs, or rather some piglets. Not only are the young cute, but they supposedly produce “succulent pork, fine bacon & excellent ham“.

On a related note, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust are planning that in the future the supplies for the cafes on Trust properties will be organic produce from the farm.

Himalayan balsam flowers are usually pink or white. Varigated orange ones are much rarer, but in my opinion more attractive. These were on plants growing at the edge of the Stratford Canal as it passed through Wilmcote.

Jackdaws, like other members of the crow family, will take anything they can grab. This pair were after the water put out for the poultry at Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote.