Diary: September 2003

The last September weekend in the garden for 2003 comes to a close. But what a weekend; beautiful weather and that wonderful melancholy atmosphere that is a September speciality.

There were plenty of insects enjoying the fading heat of summer including many wasps, bees and hoverflies. There were quite a number of red admirals (Vanessa atalanta) about and, best of all, several commas (Polygonia c-album). Although generally brown in colour with black markings, these distinctive butterflies are easily recognised because of the characteristic undulating outline of their wings. They get their name from a distinct, comma-shaped white mark on the underside of their wings. I think I've seen more of these butterflies this year than any time since I was a boy. It is also the first time I can recall seeing any in my current garden.