Today's outing was in three parts. A visit to a lovely bluebell woodland, a countryside walk and a butterfly hunt. We were blessed with a fine day, cool and breezy in the morning with temperatures rising during the day and warm sunshine in the afternoon. What a difference a bit of sun makes! The countryside was at it's best.
East Wood is one of a chain of isolated, remnant woodlands in Lower Wharfedale some of which are familiar - Middleton Wood, Riffa Wood and Rougemont Carr. Following an introductory explanation of the background to the visit we enjoyed a gentle stroll through the woodland. On the lower, wetter ground was an extensive white sheet of Wild Garlic. On the higher and dryer ground there was a blaze of blue, the English Bluebells. Other woodland flowers included Celandine, Wood Speedwell, Wood Anemone and Greater Stitchwort.
We went on to complete a circular walk with an initial upward ascent following the Six Dales Way on an ancient track lined with Hawthorn bushes. We descended on a gravel path through a field with sheep and their lambs. We were greeted by a friendly farmer with "you elderly ladies are enjoying a walk in the sunshine"! Throughout the walk we enjoyed magnificent views of the Lower Wharfe Valley, Otley Chevin and Ilkley Moor.
As well as sightings of the birds of prey Buzzard and Red Kite, Curlew was heard. Bird song told us of the presence of Whitethroat, Blackcap, Robin, Blackbird and Crows. The sunshine had activated insect life. As well as dancing Orange Tip butterflies ( male and female), a Brimstone and Peacock butterfly were seen. An army of Ladybirds were seen on leaves and a wooden post, Cuckoo Flower was seen near to a beck.
In the afternoon we made our way to the East Chevin car park for our butterfly hunt. The opportunity was too good to miss as weather conditions were such that there was a promise of seeing Green Hairstreak butterfly (on the wing March - June) on the Bilberry slopes of the Chevin. Success was achieved evidenced by photos in the Gallery. It is a tiny butterfly with iridescent green wings with white streaks seen when stationary. A delightful gathering of Wood Sorrel with a pink tint was seen.
Julia managed the driving and parking of the minibus superbly. The group of 10 felt they had had a good day out. I was relieved that the day had gone well on a new untried venture.
Margaret