Tag Archives: Somerset

Spring in Somerset

Wild Clary at Mells
Bush Vetch, near Iford
Mayfly by the River Avon, of the kind known to fly fishermen as the Drake Mackerel. This one has its serial number painted on its abdomen!
Silk Tents of Ermine Moth Caterpillars, in a hedge near Iford
Ermine Moth caterpillars in their silk tent. Both the caterpillars and the adult are white with black spots, like the magnificent robes of “ermine” (Stoat pelts) worn by Lords (and Monarchs at their Coronations).
A sea of Wild Garlic in coppice woods near Iford

Crosswort, near Iford; a handsome plant in the Bedstraw family
Yellow Rattle near Imber, on Chalk Grassland, playing its usual role of weakening the tall grasses — it’s parasitic — and so allowing the beautiful and varied flowers including Orchids space and light to grow.