The ‘Whins’ & ‘Bridle’ Butterfly Walk – Sat 1st August 2009 10:30  

As in previous years, I will be leading a Butterfly walk on the Whins and Bridle on the above date. Let’s hope for some warmth and sunshine this year!

There are no facilities on either site but private facilities will be available on the day. Please note that both sites contain some steep inclines and people with limited walking abilities may not be able to
negotiate the sites safely.

Suitable clothing, sun protection, binoculars, a drink and a packed lunch are advisable.

Meet the leader at the entrance to the Whins on Far Bank, by the new Public Footpath sign, which leads to Shelley Infant School, SE 202 111.

The two sites are managed by Shelley Conservation Group and 22 species of butterfly have been
recorded on the Whins since 1997. We will be searching for a selection of butterflies and day-flying moths including Purple Hairstreak at this time of year. Site management and other wildlife on the two sites will
also be discussed.

Weather permitting there will also be an opportunity to visit a nearby wildlife garden and view the contents of a Moth Trap.

The morning session should last approximately 2 hours. Following a lunch break, there is the option of walking to the former Meadowlands Trust meadows at Thunderbridge, now owned by the HSBC. There should be a good selection of butterflies, moths and dragonflies on the wing here including White-letter Hairstreak.

Members of Yorkshire Butterfly Conservation have also been invited to the event and weather permitting good opportunities to learn, identify and photograph butterflies and day-flying moths will be available.

Steve Graham
Wildlife Advisor
Shelley Conservation Group

Thanks Alf

I wasn't aware it was Emley Show day but due to work commitments and getting a suitable date for both Hairstreaks was rather limiting!

Cheers,
Steve