Repeat Visit to Whitehill Wood

We made a repeat visit to Whitehill Wood yesterday to see the Yellow Star-of-Bethlehem fully in flower; most were in bud 2 weeks ago at the time of the count.   We found 6 plants in flower, but with all the heavy rain over the last week (50mm at home) the Windrush was at a high level and at some point, probably last Saturday, it had flooded the path, covering the Yellow Star-of-Bethlehem and leaving them mud spattered.

They were even harder to see than usual, though it was much easier to find no-flowering plants, stark against the mud. 

It made it obvious just how little competition these plants tolerate, with virtually bare earth around them. Plants of Lesser Celandine, Dog's Mercury and a grass were scattered here and there but nothing else.

Another highlight was Toothwort, just beginning to emerge on the roots of hazel and buried debris.

We also found some nice otter prints.   Two weeks ago we saw spraint; maybe the real thing on the next visit (but in truth I doubt it.)

Overnight I ran the moth trap at home with 5 species caught.   All are common:

• Brindled Beauty
• Hebrew Character
• Clouded Drab
• March Moth
• Common Quaker

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• March Moth
• Hebrew Character
• Clouded Drab