Swallowtail!

A casual stroll all away around the Fen this afternoon was, for the first time in six weeks, pleasantly unspoiled by crowds! The reeds and willows fringing the usual dyke at the north-west corner held a staggering 28 Willow Emeralds, including many pairs: there were even several along the Lackford Run!

A few interesting birds today: 30+ Ruff, a latish Hobby and a calling Chiffchaff! Star turn, though, was a Swallowtail flitting around the Buddleias along the river bank. It eventually fed briefly (albeit high up!) revealing a lack of most of the usual blues and reds. My first September Swallowtail, shared with a fellow blues fan from Canvey Island, who happened to be walking by at the right moment!