Open verges on woodland margins are a good place to seek out the Gatekeeper in July, uniquely identifiable by the pairs of white dots on each wing.

July is the month where the diversity of life is at its most evident. Many animals and plants have already completed their first breeding cycle and the Crane flora is steadily changing.

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Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > This Blue-tailed Damselfly, recognisable by the tiny blue abdominal segment, is one of several species to be found along the Crane in July.

Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > Seeds spill forth from this Rough (Prickly) Sow-thistle, one of several species that is in bloom in July. This is a month of regeneration for many of the plants of the Crane Valley.

Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > After several months of growth the Lesser Burdock is preparing to bloom in July. The large hooked heads are capable of firmly latching onto almost anything and are said to be the inspiration behind velcro.

Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > In a case of batesian mimicry this fly Chrysotoxum bicinctum is sporting the colouration of a more dangerous wasp, presumably to fool any possible predators.

Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > For most of the season Greater Plantain just looks like a small column sticking up from the grass. However in July close inspection reveals that it is clad in delicate blossoms.

Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > July sees the first berries appearing along the Crane. These ripening fruits of Guelder Rose provide a sight in July that is normally associated with later in the year.

Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > The seedheads of Herb Bennet have dropped their petals in July and now the once-pretty yellow woodland flowers sport aggressively hooked seeds, which are inevitably destined for the clothing of anyone who scrapes against them.

Anita and Keith Martin (borsuk) > Hogweed is one plant that has largely finished blooming in July. The large dry flowerheads are now coated in chunky seeds that are awaiting dispersal.

Open verges on woodland margins are a good place to seek out the Gatekeeper in July, uniquely identifiable by the pairs of white dots on each wing.

Camera: Nikon Corporation (Nikon D80) |

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Original size: 1390px x 2454px |

Current: 170px x 300px |

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Keywords: gatekeeper

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