Episode 2.74 - Firethorn Butterflies and Heatwave Heartbreak

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On a breezy, sunny late-May morning at High Ash Farm, Chris Skinner rejoices in an extraordinary influx of Painted Lady butterflies drawn to the pyracantha (firethorn) bushes around his house. He explains this “eruption” — a mass arrival from southern Europe fleeing extreme heat and nectar shortages — turning the thorny evergreens into a fluttering feast for these powerful migrants.

The pair also enjoy green hairstreaks dancing along the long new hedgerow, their iridescent green underwings flashing in the sun, and visit the maturing lake where yellow flag iris (queen of the marshes) shines and the first damselflies and emperor dragonflies hawk over the water. A charming little grebe (dabchick) dives nearby. Chris reflects on the sad loss of around 20 swallow chicks during the recent 30°C+ heatwave in the stables.

Listener letters add warmth: tawny owl nesting and pellet advice, ladybirds mating, a brave sparrow vs squirrel, whirligig beetles, swift callers bringing new arrivals, wildlife camera recommendations, and more.

This episode captures the dazzling highs and occasional lows of a changeable late spring — ideal for marvelling at butterfly migrations, wetland beauty, and the unstoppable rhythm of the seasons at High Ash Farm.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432378/episodes/19265370-episode-2-74-firethorn-butterflies-and-heatwave-heartbreak.mp3?download=true

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