29 July, Friday

Elizabeth and I did a butterfly survey on the way to the western fen. Arrived at the fen gate soon after 11 am and found the 4 cattle near the gate. The two steers were standing side by side head to tail by the pasture pump. I noticed the trough of the pump was dry so I carefully checked it and refilled the trough. One of the steers was somewhat irritable and was not happy at my presence so I left.

I think it and the others were irritated by the flies around their eyes.Other than that they were clean and soon after moved a little way to eat.

We then resumed the butterfly survey. We found 9 different species: the best this year by far.

Spoke to a lady and gentleman on the permissive path: they requested more seats.

Several golden ringed dragon flies  and an emerald damsel fly along the canal.

Richard