Going Through the MeadowOur visit to Scargill House was long awaited but oh what a wonderful day it turned out to be! Sunshine, blue skies, butterflies on the wing, a plethora of flora, stupendous views of Wharfedale and "the crowning jewel" of a pied flycatcher. The minibus was full for our day's outing: Margaret and Alan chose to drive by car. We were warmly greeted by Hugh and Lisa Firman, our leaders for the day. They looked after us superbly offering tea/coffee and biscuits before our walk. This involved a steep ascent of the valley side. Hugh and Lisa proved to be excellent guides showing us the special plants and insects, explaining the history and conservation management of the estate.
Speckled Yellow Moth68 species of flora including grasses were identified by Joan, in addition there were 4 fern species. There were shouts of "blue moor grass", "mountain melick","rock rose", "woodruff" ! We enjoyed grassland and woodland species that thrive on limestone. Spring seemed to have been extended into summer with violets, wild strawberry, early purple orchid seen at their best. There were signs of more good flowers yet to come - St John's wort, bloody cranesbill to name but two.
Green Hairstreak ButterflyMuch excitement was shown by one of our group at a sighting of a speckled yellow moth (not just one but a good number were seen enjoying the sunlight and their food plant - wood sage). This day flying moth is a rarity nationally. Other butterfly species were brimstone, green-veined white, speckled wood and green hairstreak. The northern brown argus and dark green fritillary were yet to come.
However the species that created the most interest on the day was the pied flycatcher.Nest boxes had been put in situ only 3 weeks ago and this morning Hugh had observed a pied flycatcher using the nest box. 
Bugle Would it make an appearance for our group? It was seen wrestling with a worm on top of a dry stone wall. I thought flycatchers were supposed to prefer flies. The Scargill worms must be especially delicious. 24 bird species were recorded including siskin and goldfinch, several pheasants eggs were seen.
Our most productive day was rounded off by a cup of tea and cake at the Centre followed by a visit to the Walled garden. Our thanks go to Hugh and Lisa for giving us such an enjoyable day. Margaret