Fermyn Woods

[Cumbria]

Was thinking of giving this a go later this week or early next for Purple Emperor and White Admiral.

Is this the time or a bit later would you say. Also any information on this site would be much appreciated. I phoned the Forestry Commision today and they advised just walk from the visitors centre along the obvious paths. However they were unable to confirm whether they are on the wing.

[MartynA]

I live 5 miles from Fermyn, although I haven't been there for a few weeks.

I'd day it was a bit early for the Purple Emperor, although butterfliers generally seem to be emerging earlier most years.

I'll probably take a look up there myself next week

Martyn

[Rosieanne]

I would have thought you were too early too. No White Admirals at Monks Wood yet. I would recommend the entance to Fermy by the gliding club and NT property Lyveden New Beild. This is the opposite side to the visitors centre. On a sunny day between 10 - 2 you are almost guaranteed Purple Emperor.
Good luck
Rosie

[Cumbria]

Thanks Martin and Rosie

Do you think first week in July would be ok?

[Rosieanne]

The first sighting of 2009 was 29th June for the PE and 24th for the White Admiral at Fermyn, your best bet is to keep an eye on Beds Northants branch of Butterfly Conservation - Northants sightings - it is updated weekly rather than daily as I remember.

[Cumbria]

Excellent thanks Rosie

[Rosieanne]

Home Page Hi Cumbria, I think these guys are on the ball re latest sightings, I do hope you don't have a wasted journey, when they are out you can get really close up pics at the spot I mentioned because the males at least take salts or something from the roadway and this is one butterfly that is not easily spooked

[Cumbria]

Rosie thank you thats a very interesting and informative blog with as you say people who clearly have hands on knowledge. I have added it to my butterfly websites on favourites. If I have a wasted journey it won't be the first you have to take the hits and well as the sucesses. But these days with the net you have opportunity to minimise the risks which is what I try to do.

Thanks once again

[MartynA]

I hope you made it and found some of the many purple emperors that are about at the moment.... sadly another couple of weeks and it will all be over again!

Martyn