Garden Butterflies Review 2013

After a poor start, 2013 proved to be an exceptional year for Butterflies in the garden.  During the hot spell in July and August, record numbers of Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell and Small White were seen. Some of the major sightings were as follows:
27th July - 11 Peacock.
8th August - 16 Peacock and 8 Small White.
10th August - 14 Small White.
20th August - 23 Small Tortoiseshell.
As well as the fine weather, the high numbers of Peacock and Small Tortoiseshell were probably due to the many Buddleja bushes that were in bloom at the time, and the Small Whites were attracted to a particular variety of Lavender.

In total, 9 species were recorded in both July and August, and overall for the year 14 species. However, 2009 (the year of the Painted Lady invasion) still holds the record at 15 species.