Just out taking some photo’s of our wildflower turf and spotted a Ringlet butterfly (Aphantopus hyperantus). Their ecology suggests that they can be found in open fields, rides (grassy tracks), and glades within woodland. Although it was quite an overcast day, it is not unusual to spot a Ringlet butterfly. It is one of the few species that flies on overcast days, largely due to its dark colouring, which allows it to warm up quickly. There is normally one brood per year showing around mid July through to August. We have had visits from Ringlet butterflies previously, however, notice how the left wing of this butterfly is very badly damaged. Maybe it had a lucky escape from a predator, probably a bird, and our wildflower meadow turf provides it with the perfect shelter.
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