A weird weather day. The forecast was correct concerning wind – 20-30 mph steady much of the day. But sun levels and temperatures exceeded expectations – got into low 70s. The number of butterfly individuals remains low this year, but species diversity was not bad. Lots of dragonflies were about (far more than last 2 years, perhaps reflecting significant spring season rains?)
From Lucille’s, we tried Warren Grove at 9:45 (temp in low 60s, but windy), and were rewarded with Brown and Hoary Elfins in decent numbers, plus two sightings of fresh Sleepy Duskywings. Individuals from of an aging flight of American Ladys added our only other butterfly species, but no one left disappointed. Saw one small Eastern Fence
Lizard.
The reward was less at Chatsworth. Although Sand Myrtle was blooming for the first time in 3 years (a less brutally cold spring this year), activity was very low. A “leopard” moth – either a False Underwing [Allotria elonympha] or some actual Catocala – showed up, plus one Juvenal’s Duskywing and a couple of Brown Elfins and American Ladys. No Hessel’s.
Drove south to Tuckahoe (after interruption from a local traffic authority). Sunny now (supposed to be cloudy). A number of violet species were blooming (incl. Coast Violet and Lance-leaved Violet, I think, will add details later). Juvenal’s Duskywings and Atlantic Azures (Celastrina idella) were in good numbers, plus an Eastern Tailed Blue and one (just one) Henry’s Elfin (not everyone saw it; still this was a *phew* from the day list standpoint, as the brood was quickly waning – and the hollies here don’t look very healthy).
On the “south track” at Tuckahoe no additional elfins, but 4-5 female Falcate Orangetips, plus several fill-in species: Cabbage White, Red Admiral, and Pearl Crescent (pretty early). Kathleen retrieved her camera.
The Dennisville RR Tracks site was fun. Lively Atlantic Azure and Juvenal Duskywing activity, plus a strong dragonfly flight (now with some large darners – Seth will fill in details). Also a Little Brown Skink (aka Ground Skink) (Scincella lateralis). For target butterflies, about a dozen Juniper Hairstreaks (many high up in the “brood tree” Red Cedar, which Cooper helped me shake), also one handsome Eastern Pine Elfin, which put on a fine show for the group.
Last stop at Lizard Tail NC reserve, which was very wet this year (good for Northern Cricket Frogs). A Bald Eagle flew overhead as we prepared to walk in. Few butterflies were seen, but they included 3 nice Frosted Elfins. Also a Juniper Hairstreak right next to the cars as we were about to leave.
So 6 out of 5 wasn’t bad – all five brown elfins, plus one of the two green Callophrys. Every year is a different kind of adventure with this trip.