September in Bicknor Wood

September is the month that starts autumn. Whether you adhere to the meteorological calendar autumn that starts on Sept 1st or prefer the astronomical autumn as marked by the equinox on 22nd Sept, autumn is upon us and with it, the "season of mists and mellow fruitfulness". 

Leaf drop has started and I was surprised to see that one of the latest tree species to leaf in the spring is now the first to start shedding. The Chestnuts' serrated-edged leaves can be already be seen, brown and crisp along the paths.

Some trees have been showing brown leaves all year, but have not dropped them. These trees have suffered squirrel damage and the leaves will stay on for ages. The classic autumnal fall is caused by abscission. More of this next month.

A new dragonfly was noted late into the season on Sept 24th. It was a Common Darter and showed the dark colouring of an aged individual. 

Migrant Hawker was also seen. It has been a pleasure to watch and photograph this summer.

For the most part, the flowers have gone, The only blooms left in the wood for the pollinators are the Ivy flowers. Said to be as rich in calorific value as peanut butter!

The three reliable species of bats were also recorded this month. Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle and Noctule. They were enjoyed on Sept 21st as Jupiter outshone Saturn in the southern sky over The Coppice and Imperial Park. The Fox was seen early in the month and a Rabbit finally sat still long enough to be snapped.

September is frequently a quiet month in the woodland as the summer visitors start leaving for sunnier climes. The Blackcaps have not been heard singing this month. Chiffchaff only noted as individuals probably passing through on their own migration. In total, only 15 species altogether were listed throughout September. A walk on 29th brought only 2 (Robin and Magpie) species sighted with Blue Tits heard but not seen.

Ichneumon Wasps are a huge family of insects. It might be possible to reduce this specimen to species level given the time, so if anyone has a few moments, try this link.

A few butterflies are still around. The Speckled Wood, above had it's own post earlier in the month. The Comma, below, was seen on Sept 24th and will hibernate as an adult before laying eggs next spring.