Hoverflies

Several hoverflies in the garden today availing of the now abundant nectar sources, including Rhingia Campestris.  Hoverflies are important pollinators and predators of aphids.

Rhingia Campestris

Rhingia Campestris

Swifts at last

I've finally seen a swift this year, with three flying north over Mellor on May 17th! I think this is the latest date I've ever recorded. Yet again it has been a cold week. Other late records include cuckooflower which is normally out in April around here. I still haven't seen any orange tip butterflies, but that is also partly down to me as I've not been out enough. There have been several green-veined whites in the garden during the week though, when the wind drops and sun breaks through. Silver birches are just coming into leaf and the Ash still has a week or two to go. The Ash is always last but surely its not waiting until June!