Today was spent around the Broads with Strumpshaw the first destination of the day. Walking down to the garden a Swallowtail was immediately seen feeding on the flowers in the borders and as usual gave excellent views.
Walking onto the reserve a number of Lizards were seen warming themselves up on the boardwalk giving the best views I think I have ever had of one.
A couple of Norfolk Hawkers were seen around the reserve but probably due to the blustery conditions they didn't hang around for long, unlike this Blue-tailed Damselfly.
Moving on to Catfield Fen a few Variable Damselflies were seen and then on the way back at least two Norfolk Hawkers were patrolling up and down the path and over a small pool battling with both Hairy Dragonflies and Four-spotted Chasers.
Completely down to luck I managed the flight shot below of one of the Norfolk Hawkers which is a pretty good effort for a point & shoot camera!
Around the reserve a good number of Swallowtails were encountered including this one in the car park.
Other photo opportunities were provided by this female Brimstone and an Emperor Moth caterpillar.
Lastly a quick check of the Downy Emerald site produced a brief male and an ovipositing female.
