Marsh GentianAnother fine weather day for an outing to this extensive YWT nature reserve north of York. Largely cloudy punctuated with periods of sunshine and a pleasant breeze. Warm enough for butterflies to be on the wing throughout the day.
Unusually, there was no toilet stop en route. There are also no facilities on the commons though fortunately sufficient discreet areas!
After parking the bus at the 'Common Road Crossing' car park, north of Strensall, we were led around the section to the west of the railway line by Mike Knaggs, a member of the Botany Group. The main objective was to see a nationally rare plant the Marsh Gentian and this was achieved within the first half hour by Donald who was typically scouting off the main path. Several of these lovely blue flowers, superficially similar to Harebells were found in this one patch. 
Tawny Grisette (Amanita fulva)All told some 150 flowering plants were counted by Joan, Alice and Eric including Saw-wort.
Lepidopteran interest was constant with 10 different butterfly species and several day flying moths. Particular mention must be made of Silver Y's which were literally everywhere and must have been in their thousands; species seen: Small Copper, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Small and Green-veined Whites, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Speckled Woods and singleton Small Skipper and Brimstone. Moths; Straw Dot, Shaded-broad Bar, Udea lutealis, Agriphila tristella and the rather splendid Chevron which was a new one for me. 'Hawkeye' Amanda spotted a beautiful Broom Moth caterpillar.
Hardly any birds were seen which is not untypical for August. Many different fungi were seen but except for Penny Bun and Suede Bolete most could only be identified in the field to the following families; Russula, Lactaria, Coprinus and Boletes. A frequently seen bright yellow russula was most probably Russula claroflava.
LizardLunch was taken in a patch of long grass alongside a path as there was an absence of logs or stones to sit on. We were however treated to the sight of the Scarboro express steam loco whilst we picnicked.
Towards the end of the walk Common Lizards were photographed basking on some fallen logs.
Stuart, who took over from Sue for the return leg, had the unenviable task of navigating the vast Clifton Moor Centre in order to find toilets. Another lovely day out and thanks to Mike Knaggs, the drivers and the organisers.
John Gavaghan