Through the Lens - LITTLE CREATURES!

The Somerset Levels are famous among other things for the lattice work of Rhynes that are so important for drainage throughout the area.  And it not new news that these drainage ditches of varying depths and widths are also so very important for their contribution to the sustainability of wildlife indigenous to the county.  But perhaps most popular and commonly thought about are the Moorhens, Coot, Ducks, sometimes even Swans that we catch a fleeting glimpse of as we pass by in our cars.

But the benefits as a sanctuary for wildlife goes far beyond these more obvious and visible residents and a gentle, quiet stroll reveals a whole world of interesting and beautiful creatures of a much smaller size:

These beautiful Hawker Dragonflies have perhaps been a little more prolific in the area this year, often seen it trios or even larger groups, darting about just a little distance above the waterline.

Even seen with surprising regularity in gardens this year, far from any large source of water, a delightful sight as they feed in and around plants such as Lobelis and Fuschias.

And, as many people have observed, this has been a good summer for other migrant and resident species of smaller size:

The Small Copper Butterfly although a common sight through most of the British Isles has had times of extreme scarcity in North Somerset but this summer, with a long spell of good temperatures following a damper start, has proved extremely good for numbers.  I found this beautiful little creature amongst a small colony on the Rhyne bank yesterday afternoon.

And this Gatekeeper (or Hedge Brown) is also one of many found in the area.  So, without venturing too far, and with a little bit of patience and open eyes, the rivers and verges can be a rich source for photographers and wildlife lovers alike.  Of course it should be said that extreme care needs to be taken not to disturb or venture closer than is comfortable for our delicate, fragile neighbors!