Sunshine at last

Stopped at a few places today for a good look around in the 15c sunshine and it looks like spring has just officially kicked off. 5 species of hoverfly today with Cheilosia proxima (1), Cheilosia pagana (2), Episyrphus balteatus (1) and Eristalis pertinax (1) at Garnwen on either sallow blossom or coltsfoot. While at Mynydd Bach gorse area above the school had Eristalis pertinax (2), Eristalis tenax (1) and Episyrphus balteatus (1) on early blossoming Blackthorn.

Four species of butterfly were on the wing for the first time this year  - Peacock, Comma, Brimstone and Small Tortoiseshell. Other insects including Tachina ursina (1), Kidney-spot Ladybird (10), Honey Bee (20), Andrena bee species male (1) and Buff-tailed Bumblebee (10).

The first summer visitors of the year have returned in 5 Chiffchaff at Caerau (1) and Mynydd Bach (4). There also seemed to be a lot of Goldfinch about where there have been very few this winter - Garnwen (6) and Mynydd Bach (15). Siskins were displaying at Garnwen and Long-tailed Tits were nest building at Mynydd Bach.

With fine warm weather forecast for the next few days, perhaps a few more insects will emerge.

 Tachina ursina

 Small Tortoiseshell

Kidney-spot Ladybird