Seeing the Changes 2081

At the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Llanelli, Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum) was in bloom.

Birder's bonus 240

A new collection of European white storks (Ciconia ciconia) at the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Llanelli. All males, unfortunately.

Insect Food Plants 34. Dark Green Fritillary and Common Dog Violet

The larvae of the Dark green fritillary (Mesoacidalia alaja) munch on violets, including that of the Common dog violet (Viola oroviniana).

Insect Food Plants 33. The Geranium Bronze Butterfly and Geraniums

The Geranium bronze butterfly (Cacyreus marshalli) is a South African species that's made it way to France and Italy, where Geraniums are much-used in floral decorations.

Seeing the Changes 2080

Invasive Harlequin beetle (Harmonia axyridis) in my Loughor garden.

Seeing the Changes 2079

More natural history at Crymlyn burrows. Canadian fleabane (Conyza canadensis) and Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) were in bloom. Stone bramble (Rubus saxatilis) in fruit. Also spotted Small blue (Cupido minimus); Small skipper (Thymelicus flavus); Meadow brown (Maniola jurtina); Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus); lots of Six-spot burnet moths (Zygaena filipendulae) and a female Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni) in flight.

Insect Food Plants 32. The Common Blue Butterfly and Bird's Foot Trefoil

Common blue butterflies (Polyommatus icarus) lay their eggs on members of the Leguminosae (bean family), including Bird's foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus).