Marsh Fritillary issue

Overcast, 14°, Light ESE.

Ref: Marsh Fritillary butterfly.

TR has spoken with Nick Bowles who is the chairman of Butterfly Conservation for the 3 counties (Berks, Bucks & Oxon).

He doesn't believe these butterflies arrived at Cholsey on their own - they may be the result of last year's find in the same area which was believed to have been a release.

There are now no known sites for Marsh Fritillary in the three counties. The populations at both former sites are believed to have gone. 

It is believed by some that there is a butterfly breeder in the village and that person has been responsible for the release of rare butterflies over the years in Cholsey.

I am not sure of the legality of these actions.

In the meantime a nice pic of a Banded Demoiselle take by Alan along the river at Cholsey.



from Cholsey Wildlife https://cholseywildlife.blogspot.com/2020/05/marsh-fritillary-issue.html

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