WFV - Malham Boardwalk, 12 July 2022

Submitted by Wildlife Field… on Fri, 15th Jul 2022, 11:39am

An initial few drops of rain gave way to a fine day as 5 of us ventured onto the boardwalk at Malham.  So much to see and record, senses can become quite overwhelmed initially.  Sadly marsh cinquefoil had just gone over which was a shame but the mass of marsh valerian was wonderful and the smell of meadowsweet was delightful.  John spotted a pregnant common lizard on the side of the walkway obviously attempting to warm up.  Numerous butterflies were on the wing, these being mainly ringlet and green-veined whites.  A sedge warbler was spotted by Stuart on a nearby tree and reed buntings were also seen.  The variety of sedges on the site is amazing and Alice was in her element as she attempted to name them all.  John pointed out the lunar hornet moths which had been attracted to the pheromones he had bought with him.  Other moths seen were silver-ground carpet, clouded border, common carpet and pearl-band grass veneer.

Progress round the walkway was slow but eventually we reached the area where the sundews were most prevalent.  These were in flower and time was spent admiring their beauty.  The deer grass in this area was stunning alongside a large patch of bog asphodel looking glorious in full flower.  Orchids could be seen throughout the site with evidence of hybridised common spotted/northern marsh amongst.  An emperor moth caterpillar was also seen on the side of the boardwalk.  A short walk was then taken down the lane to the Field Centre where fairy foxglove, in its white form, was seen growing in the wall.  Shining cranesbill was also noted.  

An outing to this site never disappoints delivering a total of 114 species for our list and providing so much for us to see and admire.  Our thanks must go to Alice for organising and leading the trip and also to our drivers, Stuart and Sue N, for getting us there - and back - safely.

See the photos here. 

Sally Tetlow

Submitted by Wildlife Field… on Sun, 17th Jul 2022, 10:49am

Permalink

I did not identify all the sedges!  The variety and abundance though added to a most enjoyable day.  Alice

Add new comment