Crested Cow-wheat

A cool early morning walk round Castor Hanglands NNR was an ideal antidote to yesterday's long hot day. Dew-soaked grass was studded with wildflowers including a fine display of Common Spotted-orchids, which are now at their peak. As the temperature rose butterflies started to appear including my first White Admirals of the year. I found two of my favourite species of plants - the very understated and often overlooked Marsh Arrowgrass and the much more showy Crested Cow-wheat. The whole experience was soundtracked by a melodious mix of birds including Chiffchaff, Willow warbler, Blackcap, Garden Warbler and Whitethroat.