On The Lane
Marilyn and her husband Robert joined forces this week to lead a walk in Wetherby, After the minibus dropped off the group at Morrisons in Wetherby, Robert led the minibus to park up at the end of the planned walk. Having rejoined the group at Morrisons we were led along the High Street before we turned off through the Wilderness car park to reach the riverside path. It was here that we spotted a treecreeper. The group quickly became strung out with the botanists taking their time and delighting in the abundance of spring, over the day seeing almost twice as many plants in flower as on the previous trip. The final tally was 112 plants in flower and 4 ferns. Notable species on the riverside included Yellow Archangel, Wood Melick and Russian Comfrey. A kingfisher was seen on the river and a buzzard was seen overhead, being mobbed by a crow. 29 birds were seen in total.
The faster paced of the group had a very leisurely lunch stop as they waited for the botanists to join them. After lunch as we left the river path, there was no doubting that we were passing close to the water treatment works. Our route continued along a hedge-lined lane where Greater Stitchwort and Black Bryony were recorded. A yellowhammer was seen as we skirted the perimeter of a field where we also spotted a distant hare running around.
Singing RobinAfter crossing a road a Four Spotted Chaser was seen beside a pond; one of 5 dragonflies/damselflies seen. The dry, moderately warm conditions yielded a butterfly count of 5 including Brimstone, Orange Tip and Peacock. We turned off the road, passing Wetherby racecourse, continuing downhill to join the trackbed of the disused railway line which took us back to the bus via the underpass.
The variety of habitats on this walk had undoubtedly been a factor in providing rich botanical interest. The wild cherry blossom and apple blossom were particularly beautiful and it was very unusual to see 6 species of Speedwell in one outing.
Many thanks to Marilyn and Robert for leading this lovely walk. See the pictures here.
Sue