On a Whin and a Prayer.

Called in at the car park at Whitehorse Hill yesterday and partook of a double cone ice-cream it was a monster and after sharing it with my shirt (it was melting before I could gobble it down) I then walked the ridgeway and just to the south of Whitehorse Hill where later in the year I find Stonechats,
there before me was this first winter Whinchat.
The Oxon Feather.

This tomato I picked off the vine yesterday and I promise I do not feed them on Viagra.

Well ! I never felt more like singing the blues.

South of Bampton towards the river thames I walked with the back pain somewhat easier, in that it is now more of uncomfortable twinges than the previously very sharp pain that was the result of a pulled muscle. My quest was to again view the Common Blue and Brown Argos butterflies that are stunning as they dance the wayside herbage. I'm pleased to write that I was not disappointed with many many individuals delighting me as they went about the business of ensuring there will be continuing generations to excite and entertain us.
The Oxon Feather.

Brown Argos.

Female Common Blue.

As yet unidentified Moth that I noticed on my bathroom window, it seems familiar but have forgotten its name.

Tern the Lock.

Amazing day for the sheer numbers of Common Blue Butterflies that were part of my walk from Bampton along the never-ending lane that ends before it reaches the Thames, along with Brown Argus and two Clouded Yellows that unfortunately evaded my camera lens. Other Butterflies seen were Red Admiral and Comma.
A phone call from a friend telling me he had seen a Stork circling above the Thames between Rushy Lock and Radcot  had tickled my interest alas I was unable to catch up with it. The Feather.

Much too hot for a jumper.

Watering my vegetable garden using a watering can at the outdoor tap situated close to the drains , I noticed things had got a bit smelly so I moved the drain cover and exposed this beautiful beast who promptly leapt out and found refuge under some green and shaded undergrowth.
The Feather.

Female Common Darter not as previously stated the Ruddy variety my thanks to the tall birder for pointing out my mistake and Female Southern Hawker.

Holly Blue

Linnet.

Red Underwing Moth.