The middle of July, and already these hazelnuts are beginning to ripen.
Thistle flowers
This bumblebee gathering nectar from a thistle flower.
A smaller insect can just be made out on this flower.
Pond skater
These insects can be found walking along on the surface of ponds.
Water lily
Water lilies are now fully out, like this one on the pond at Wightwick Manor a couple of weeks back.
Moth
The ragged wings of this moth probably show it has been around for a while.
Hare’s foot inkcap
This small and inconspicuous inkcap was growing on wood chippings mulch.
Speedwell
Beautiful tiny blue flowers.
Ash keys
The new season’s keys are beginning to ripen on ash trees.
Bindweed
Yet another weed with a beautiful flower.
Speckled wood butterfly
Speckled woods like shady gardens, which give a similar environment to their original preferred setting, sunny glades in woodland.
The males settle on a bright sunlit patch and spread their wings to display themselves, to deter other males from intrusion while trying to attract females. White plastic garden furniture can give favourite posing positions.
The butterflies are much less conspicuous when they perch with their wings folded together.
