July 2023 in Bicknor Wood

This was the World's hottest ever July. It may not have seemed like it as the UK suffered in a low pressure depression, but heatwaves and wildfires across Europe lasted throughout the month. Chestnut flowers produced copious amounts of pollen which can produce cross-reactive symptoms. As if simple hay fever isn't bad enough.

A young fox was seen on 10th July, with its mother resting nearby.

The Red Admiral stands out vividly with its bright colours on the top of the wings, but almost disappears when its wings are closed.

This wasn't planned as a butterfly heavy post, but it is mid-summer, what were you hoping for?

Birds often moult after the rigours of raising their new family. Typically small woodland birds look very shabby at this time of year as evidenced by this Goldfinch seen just outside the wood in The Coppice.