The Tithe Barn

A private nature reserve carefully created over many years turned out to be a real gem. After a warm welcome we were treated to the sight of many different moths sheltering in layers of egg boxes in a large moth-trap. A large and enormous pink and grey Elephant Moth crawled obligingly on the owner’s hand. Led by the owner on his quad-bile, our convoy of cars drove safari-style down narrow grass tracks to a poll with beautiful water-lilies and flowers such as Purple Loosestrife, Marsh Trefoil and Cranesbill.. Lots of froglets lurked in the grass. Fluttering around were butterflies galore, including Meadow Browns, Gatekeepers, Red Admirals, Brown Argus, Small Tortoiseshell and many white varieties. A field full of thistles and ragwort attracted colourful Peacock butterflies. It was a privilege to have access to such a beautiful natural environment on a warm sunny July morning. Frances Wilmot