Bumble bee working in the grounds of Orchard Lee

Insects seem to be enjoying the prolonged sunshine and dry weather. Bumble bees of several sorts are working the flowers around the houses, and hopefully, have already done a good job pollinating the fruit trees.

We do need rain for the crops and the vegetables!

The swallows are back!

Great to see swallows swooping in and out of the barn again. Last year one lonely bird sat on its own for several days but this year the gang has arrived together. With the sun shining and a blue sky, the swallows bring an added lift to lovely days.
Not to be outdone, one of the little owls which breed between 2 barns, appeared in one of the old pear trees, a favourite perch from last year.

Another pleasing sighting - a brimstone butterfly in the back garden. Not endangered, but still not seen every day - see link to butterfly conservation site http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/Butterfly/32/Butterfly.html?ButterflyId=6

First radishes from the garden too.








http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/Butterfly/32/Butterfly.html?ButterflyId=6