Marsh Fritillary in mid-Wales

19th - 21st May 2023

Marsh Fritillary

A long weekend in mid-Wales presented the perfect opportunity to try to see my first ever Marsh Fritillary. We were based at Gregynog near Newtown and on the Saturday morning I set off early at 7.30 a.m. to meet up with Andy at the village of Gorsgoch. From there it was a short drive to the nature reserve at Rhos Glyn-yr-Helyg where we parked up and made our way into down a path and across some fields. The weather was fine and soon Andy spotted the first Marsh Fritillaries which were in excellent condition having just emerged in the past week. In total we probably saw in excess of 10 individuals.

Marsh Fritillary

Marsh Fritillary

Marsh Fritillary

Back at Gregynog I spent time exploring the woods that surround the large manor building. Pied Flycatchers were encountered frequently with several singing males. There were also the odd Common Redstart but unfortunately no Wood Warblers were heard or seen. A Tawny Owl was flushed and there were excellent views of other common woodland and grassland species.

male Pied Flycatcher

Swallow

Song Thrush