Lynchcombe Steps
Taking some shade – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Someset, UK. ID IMG_0173
Lynchcombe nature reserve enjoys the sunny south facing edge of the Mendip Hills in Somerset. Today it was so sunny the sheep kept out of the heat under a tree. Perhaps we have reached the end of the grey May?
Today was a joy, and I really enjoyed my scroll around the reserve checking everything was as it should be. My walk got off to great start watching the skylarks. They really are a sign of spring.
Skylark – Deerleap, Nr Wells, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_5063
I keep confusing them with Meadow Pipits.
Meadow Pipit – Deerleap, Nr Wells, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_5097
Across the reserve the hawthorn is beginning to blossom.
Hawthorn blossom – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_5140
I think this is the best display of bluebells we have had in the combe.
Bluebells – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_0200
In the woods they mix with the early-purple orchids.
Bluebells and Early Purple Orchids – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_0229
They are very beautiful.
Bluebells and Early Purple Orchids – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_5356
Dandelion flowers have gone over, but the buttercups have taking over and are now adding their own splash of yellow.
Dandelions – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_5111
For a reserve with no streams or ponds it does have a surprising number of dragonflies. When I caught my first glimpse I thought this was a hornet rather than a dragonfly. Luckily, it had a favourite perch and did not mind having its picture taken.
Broad-bodied chaser – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_5227
Demoiselles are also spreading out across the countryside at the moment.
Beautiful demoiselle – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_5435
And finally…
Nothing as wonderful as Lynchcombe happens by magic. The Somerset Wildlife Trust, its sub-contractors and volunteers work hard throughout the year in all weather to create this space for nature and people. An example, the removal of scrub to open up the landscape for flowers and insects. Right now it looks it bit shit but watch this space and things will come back so much better!
Scrub clearance – Lynchcombe, Mendip Hills, Somerset, UK. ID IMG_0197
