This saturday the Bog Squad worked at Lockshaw Mosses in Fife (between Alloa and Dunfermline). The day incorporated cutting of Rhododendron bushes, which are growing in big patches across the open bog, as well as walk over surveys to look for Large Heath butterflies. However we hardly had stepped onto the Moss when the first Large Heath butterfly crossed our path. Thanks to Callum - our 'young legs' - the butterfly could be netted and identified (see photo) - success! This is the first record of Large Heath butterflies on Lockshaw Moss, which are rare occurrences in Fife in general and have only been recorded on one other site. What a fantastic start to the day!
In total we came across 27 individual Large Heath and plenty of Hare's tail Cotton grass and Cross-Leaved Heath, which are essential food plants for these butterflies. We also recorded other plants & insects and came across moths such as True Lover's Knot, Wood Tiger and Common Heath. We saw a beautiful and lonesome Heath Spotted Orchid and a Common Nettle full of Peacock butterfly caterpillars at the side of the track leading to the Moss (see photos).
We managed to clear a substantial patch of Rhododendron, see the before and after photos below.
We found an interesting range of insects during our survey but also whilst cutting Rhododendron - at times quite distracting! So much to see!
All in all it was a thoroughly enjoyable day - the banter was good, the weather was just right and we made a great discovery...see below a photo of the momentous Moment with Callum holding the pot with the Large Heath in question...Thanks to everyone involved for their hard work, interest and enthusiasm!
Hopefully we can repeat the success on our next days out!
Hopefully we can repeat the success on our next days out!