These last few weeks as I’ve stepped out of the door each morning I can’t help but feel autumn in the air. Summer is most certainly drawing to a close. Blackberries are ripening in the hedges, the first hues of the beckoning season are beginning to appear, the House Martins have reared their second brood which are preparing to fledge any day now, and there have been a few misty mornings bringing with them that earthy smell that I associate with autumn. It isn’t quite here yet though and these past couple of weeks I have been enjoying those moments that you only really get at this time of year, when the last of the summer’s butterflies bask in the morning sun and dragonflies perch peacefully between flights.

One species which I always enjoy seeing is the Small Copper. This year I hadn’t seen many though, I’m not sure whether that was simply down to the area I was in or another factor but I know I wasn’t the only person to comment on the seeming lack of these pretty little butterflies. I was really pleased therefore to see a huge number on a recent trip to The Lodge, headquarters for the RSPB. I took a great many photographs but I think this was my favourite of the day.

I was also lucky on that day to see a few lovely Brown Argus, a species which I never seem to see regularly. As such I’m rather fond of finding them and photographing them.

Lastly in terms of butterflies I thought I’d share slightly unusual view of a Speckled Wood. I see these gorgeous creatures regularly but usually basking with wings open and so I rather like this ventral view.

Of course I couldn’t mention this time of year without including dragonflies. I have taken a lot of shots of this particular species of late, the Common Darter – namely because my garden is teeming with the beauties! I particularly love the autumnal colouring in this image though so couldn’t leave it out of my little seasonal summary.

Despite the sunshine and balmy days, I’m sure you will agree there is definitely a hint of autumn in the air!

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