Hornet hoverfly, a large hoverfly which looks like a hornet. Like all hoverflies it’s harmless. This was one of many insects attracted to a sunlit patch of ivy flowers by the canal towpath at Compton.
This is the largest hoverfly in Britain. Only occasionally recorded in England until after the Second World War; it is now well established down south and gradually spreading north, aided by global warming.
Heron standing on a dead tree on West Park lake, master of all it surveys. A couple of days earlier I’d been cutting through the park without a camera. Two herons were standing on the same tree, about as far apart as possible, each seemingly trying to stare out the other. This one would seem to have won the contest.
Female common darter dragonfly soaking up the sun while at rest on the railing of the footbridge over the pool at Compton Park, just a few yards distant from the male in the previous post. The insect was aware of my presence, but seemed unworried.
Male common darter dragonfly at rest on the decking of the footbridge over the pool at Compton Park recently, basking in the lunchtime sun. Up to three males of this species have been sharing the decking nearest the open water, each claiming a different portion as part of their territory.
Carrion crow up overhead in a tree by the canal at Wightwick, constantly surveying the area.
Nettle bending over, heavy with the mass of ripening seed.