Green Down

by Jeff Bevan · 10th June 2017

The Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Green Down is a steep bank on the side of the Polden Hills in the heart of Somerset.

My first view of Green Down – Somerset, UK. ID DSC_0930

This first view of Green Down was confusing. It does not have the wide open plains of top of Collard Hill. Instead it reminded me of the lower quarry area of Collard Hill with its steep stepped bank, long grass and scrub.

Large Blue

I have to start with the large blue butterfly. This time of year Green Down like Collard Hill is covered in photographers chasing after any hint of a large blue. Many eyes do help – busy days can be rewarding.

Large Blue (Maculinea arion) – Green Down, Somerset, UK. ID 822_4409

Today was not one of those busy days. The wind and cloud was not a promising start but the weather did gradually improve and soon a few large blues were spreading their wings (in front of the cameras) to soak up some sun.

Marbled White

I think of marbled whites as being July butterflies so I was surprised to see this one as I entered the reserve.

Marbled White (Melanargia calathea) – Green Down, Somerset, UK. ID 822_4002

There were several marbled whites flying around the reserve they were very fresh and full of energy.

Painted Lady

My second butterfly was completely different.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) – Green Down, Somerset, UK. ID 807_9416

An old worn out painted lady just lying in the middle of the path.

Dog Rose

As the reserve opens out there were several dog rose bushes.

Dog Rose (Rosa canina) – Green Down, Somerset, UK. ID 822_4490

Many of these flowers played host to a swollen-thighed beetle.

Swollen-thighed beetle (Oedemera nobilis) on Dog Rose (Rosa canina) – Green Down, Somerset, UK. ID 822_4533

As did this yellow rock rose.

Swollen-thighed beetle (Oedemera nobilis) on Rock Rose (Helianthemum nummularium) – Green Down, Somerset, UK. ID 822_4462

Small Heath

Next this small heath played hide-and-seek. Hiding against a matching stone – good try.

Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus) – Green Down, Somerset, UK. ID 822_4175

Meadow Brown

Some may think this butterfly is so successful because of its brown camouflage. I think its because its so sensitive they detect approaching photographers much earlier than other butterflies. Respect.