Another new feature for visitors to Compton Verney this year is the circular walk around the east meadow, which we began mowing back in the spring. Starting at the pedestrian gate near the 3 arch bridge, the path crosses straight over the area where the old village of Compton Murdak once stood, and loops around the field, raising up at the farthest point to reveal a stunning view back to the mansion of Compton Verney itself.
Whilst I was out working, travelling along the freshly mown grass path, I was again impressed with the insect life that buzzed and flew and hopped about amongst the sward. If my phone camera had been working, I'd have tweeted a picture to tell you all about it there and then - @GaryWebb1 Not only this, but the flowers that were still beaming away, attracting all those insects to feed. The change for the field from agricultural use to that of wildflower meadow is great for the area, and offers much for wildlife and visitors alike.
Of course, the field is due for its topping any day now, if the weather allows, which will of course leave margins for the wildlife to escape to. It occured to me however, that last season I did find some precious time to snap a few photographs, of anything that took my fancy. So in case you haven't made it over to the meadow this year, the photo's may help fill the void that you didn't know you had!
I've added names where known, but do point out any glaring mistakes or offer suggestions with species identification, as I'm always happy to correct for accuracy. Enjoy!
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| Ox-eye daisy. Also known as Moon-daisy, or Dog-daisy. - Leucanthemum vulgare |
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| Common toadflax - Linaria vulgaris |
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| Meadowsweet - Filipendula ulmaria |
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Knapweed - Centaurea (Greater or Common? I need a closer look in the field before I commit!) |
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| Ragged-robin - Lychnis flos-cuculi |
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| Tufted vetch - Vicia cracca |
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| Common ragwort - Senecio jacobaea |
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Cinnabar moth (Caterpillars) - Tyria jacobaeae |
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Common Blue - Polyommatus icarus |
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| Peacock - Inachis io |
Well there we have it, but a small slice to show the variety that exists within the east park in early to mid summer. I hope you like it.
All the best, Gary
