Knapweed full of insects - Durlston Country Park 24th June 2023
As sea mist began to lift and reveal the intense and hot June sun beating down on the emerald landscape, we were fixated by a patch of deep purple knapweed. These flowers acted like a nectar petrol station, hosting a vibrant array of summer insect life. Marbled White and Small Skipper butterflies, dazzling Six-spot Burnet moths and shiny Swollen-thighed beetle. The jewel of the crown, what most captured our attention, were Lulworth Skippers. Numerous Lulworth Skippers. It was a pleasure to spot several on these plants, a real wealth of this rare and localised butterfly species. A mark of identification, the gorgeous crescent of the females was a sight for sore eyes as these miniature butterflies glowed golden in the sunlight. A luxurious and thrilling wildlife encounter.
The tranquil scene would be somewhat shattered as upon one knapweed up the stem did climb a giant. An enormous cricket which was striking to see and an instant attention grabber, a Great Green Bush-cricket. It commanded the purple flower head when it emerged, snapping at a Lulworth Skipper as if to hunt. A captivating few minutes watching this colossal insect which we had never seen before. These few minutes immersed in the wonders of summertime grassland was exceptional.
All of the pictures in this photoset are ones I took yesterday of the species mentioned, however not all of them were at this particular patch of knapweed. The photos in order of appearance are of; knapweed, Marbled White, Marbled White and Six-spot Burnet together, Great Green Bush-cricket, five consecutive images of Lulworth Skippers and Lulworth Skipper and Six-spot Burnet.
This is from a couple months ago but my mom found this guy absolutely lost in the sauce of this peach and immediately brought it over to show me. We’re in Maryland!
Mood, I do this in peaches too. This lil friend is a common green June beetle, Cotinis nitida :)