Butterflies and heatwaves

With the heatwaves we keep having (in the UK - these temperatures are 'hot' for us, but 'pleasant' for many other people), I have noticed many more butterflies this year, so that is one positive.  

I do not do well in the heat, so this summer is a struggle for me. I realise I am a lot more fortunate than many people, and indeed, the UK is not experiencing the horribly high temperatures that Europe is under at the moment.  A mix of the unpredictability of the menopause and warm temperatures at night mean I am not at my best. 

However, back to the butterflies.  I have seen the ubiquitous cabbage white butterfly, which seems to cope in any weather, and more Peacock butterflies and  Red Admirals (like the one in the photo, enjoying the buddleia).   I have also seen a little brown butterfly, but it flew off too quickly for me to identify it or to get a photo.

I am looking forward to the cooler days of Autumn - it's not good to wish the time away though!

Autumn sun

 We have been so lucky yesterday and today as we have had sunshine and the bluest of blue skies.  The combination of Helianthus Lemon Queen against the blue sky never fails to lift my spirits.  This year in particular, the Helianthus has been fantastic.

 I watched a plane leaving a vapour trail.

 Magnolia Lilifolia Susan's yellowing leaves looked beautiful against the blue.  I don't think even a Mediterranean sky could beat ours today.

 The butterflies, bees, wasps and other insects were also enjoying both the sunshine and the ivy flowers.  Ivy can be a thug and trying to keep it under control is a never-ending process, but it does have the benefit that insects love the flowers and birds love the berries.  I saw Red Admirals...

...and I was really pleased that this Comma butterfly stayed still long enough for me to take a photo.

The sky has lightened up now and clouds have interrupted the clear blue, but what a beautiful couple of mornings.

Hello to Lynne Mackay - welcome to Feltabulous.

Butterfly on the ivy

Once the sun had come out this morning, following a misty autumnal start to the day, I notices lots of insects visiting the ivy flowers on the wall. I was really pleased to catch this butterfly ( I think it is a Red Admiral) enjoying the nectar and the sunshine. The sky really was this blue too.

It really was one of those moments that makes you glad to be alive!