June Sightings Blog 2023

June Sightings Blog 2023

Kath Waterston

Summer is officially here, and what a glorious month June has been for wildlife!

The return of the hot, sunny summer days has created the perfect opportunity for spotting some of the incredible plants and wildlife that inhabits Brockholes at this time of year.

Butterflies, damselflies and dragonflies can be spotted hovering around the lakes, long grasses and wildflowers. Whilst the leaves of the trees have created a luscious green canopy for the birds and creatures below to shade themselves from the heat of the day.

Committee of Burnet Moths

Ken Hayes

Our first sighting for this month is this incredible committee of Burnet Moths taken by Ken Hayes whilst out exploring Brockholes.  These day flying moths can often be found perched upon Knapweeds and thistles within grassy habitats.

Did you know? The red spots on this moth indicates to predators that they are poisonous: they release hydrogen cyanide when attacked.

Roe Deer Fawn

Craig Smith

Craig Smith captured this incredible image of one of the adorable fawns currently running wild around Brockholes. Most Roe deer fawns are born in late May and early June when the weather is mild, giving the fawns the best chance of survival. They are born with a spotted coat which provides camouflage from any predators they may encounter; these spots begin to fade as they get older.

Ghost Moth

Pat Aitchison

This fantastic image of a Ghost Moth was taken by Pat Aitchison who has managed to capture the features of this incredible moth perfectly. Despite its super spooky name, the ghost moth is a real treat to observe. Often found at dusk within the summer months slowly rising, falling and hovering over grassy areas, the pure white wings of the male gives a ghost like appearance.

Great White Egret

Paul Lambert

This stunning Great White Egret was spotted within the reeds of Number 1 Pit Lake by Paul Lambert. Considerably larger than the similar little egret, the Great White Egret was once a rare visitor to the UK. They can often be found in wetland habitats standing in shallow waters waiting for their food to approach.  

Damselfly

Kath Waterston

The Emerald damselfly has a stunning metallic-green colour which covers its entire body, as seen in this incredible image captured by Kath Waterston. These magnificent insects can be seen from June to September hovering around bodies of water such as ponds and lakes.

Did you know? The emerald damselfly is also known as the ‘common spreadwing’ due to its habit of resting with its wings half-open.

What will you spot at Brockholes this month? Let us know on social media.