22.06.20 Orchids Otley Chevin

Submitted by Wildlife Field… on Mon, 22nd Jun 2020, 7:37pm

My plan today was to hunt for orchids in an area of the East Chevin.The area I had in mind was an area of grassland/ heathland beyond the board walk and pond when approaching from Pool Bank. On my initial exploration I saw two diminutive but fully formed Common Spotted Orchids in pristine condition. However following further exploration of the heathland I decided to return on the same track. It was here that I spotted one good sized orchid adjacent to the path. Further along I came across a small colony of approximately 25 C.S Orchids hidden by bracken. A good result. 

The heathland habitat contained some plants that are associated with acid heathland. They included Bilberry, Bramble, Bracken, Heath Bedstraw, Tormentil, Marsh Thistle and Common Valerian. My approach had taken me alongside a dry stone wall and ditch where Foxglove and Greater Birds foot Trefoil were seen. The pond was rather overwhelmed with the vegetation of Flag Iris and Bull Rush . There were good numbers of butterfly species enjoying the nectar of Bramble flowers in the sunshine - namely Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral and Meadow Brown. A Small Heath butterfly was seen in the grassland. 

The distant views of Almscliffe Crag and Wharfedale were superb. 

This was a short but productive morning outing. Weather conditions were fine and sunny initially however it became cloudy and cooler through the morning. 

Margaret

See photos here

 

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