Bloodsuckers (not really what they feed on). also called common red soldier beetles (Rhagonycha fulva). Late last month, every umbellifer flower head I looked at in the Barley Field seemed to have some of them feeding along with other insects.
Towards the end of July, green-veined white butterflies were present in some numbers by the canal on the stretch between Aldersley Junction and Newbridge. Here is one resting on canalside alkanet plants, occasionally moving to show the veining on the underwing which distinguishes this species from the small white butterfly.
Thistle flower buds, looking in close-up more like cacti than any kind of temperate zone vegetation, then the soft flowers when the buds open.
Gatekeeper butterflies – another species I have been noticing in greater numbers than in recent years this summer.
Nettle with seeds beginning to ripen, standing tall by the footbridge over the Comton Park pool. This picture of the highest section of the plant was taken from eye level.
I’ve seen more cinnabar moth adults than usual this year, but for a long time no caterpillars. These were the first I eventually noticed, on ragwort, their favourite food plant, in Baggeridge Country Park.