Swallowtails......

[MikeBa]

A question from a newbie:-
3rd. Aug 2008 when in the near future should I plan a trip to East Anglia to see the swallowtail butterflies and where is the best site to visit
Thanking you guys in advance
Cheers Mike

[harasseddad]

It's a good question. Ordinarily the swallowtail has two emergences, with the main numbers coming out in May/June and a second group emerging in August. This year however they haven't gone away, with individuals being seen continously from the 12 May until yesterday (so far). So you could come at anytime at the moment, as the two groups seem to have merged.

Current sightings are coming from Hickling Broad and How Hill - Strumpshaw hasn't had any since mid-July. (However this might suggest that their swallowtails may emerge later this month, so it might be worth checking there if you draw a blank at the other two spots.)

The other spot worth checking is the butterfly conservation reserve at Catfield Fen - but Pm me for details if you're going there, as it's tricky to find.

[MikeBa]

Thanks harasseddad I will give a whirl
mike