The forecast was for sunshine with cloud coming over later in the day. However, as the seven of us gathered at the meeting point for the walk into Glenmarksie on 23^rd May the cloud was already beginning to obscure the sun.

There was very little insect life to be seen on the way up and that really set the pattern for the day. However, seeing a Wood Warbler and a Spotted Flycatcher, plus later on the hillside a Redstart and a Whinchat quite made up for the lack of insects.

By the time we reached the area where we were hoping to see Pearl-bordered Fritillary it was rather cool and only two of the butterflies were seen. No other butterflies, no large day-flying moths though a few micros were caught. Yet on 8^th May when Andy and I were at the site the Pearl-bordered Fritillaries were present, so it is guesswork whether we were too late on this visit or the cold conditions were responsible.

However the array of flowers on the hillside was wonderful. Lots of Common Dog Violets, the food plant of the Pearl-bordered Fritillary, and some very pretty deep pink Wood Sorrel flowers, normally white.

The Slowworm we came across was certainly suffering from the cold as one of the group was able to pick it up, it seemed to enjoy the warmth of the hand.

So, not many Lepidoptera but a very enjoyable day out.

Margaret Currie & Andy Scott