Tuesday 29th July

What a difference a day makes! After last night's downpour the temperature had settled down to something fairly comfortable but a few spits of rain accompanied me as I cycled into work at 07:15. A single Swift flew overhead by Kiln Barn Farm, Ditton and it was quickly followed by a small party of House Martins zipping low over the track. All heading south! The Little Owl chose a new position, sitting on a fence post near Kiln Barn Farm having being evicted by hay bales that reach the roof of it's favourite roosting barn. A lunchtime cycle to the buddleia where the Silver-washed Fritillary was seen yesterday proved fruitless - the bush had held 2x Comma, 6x Peacock and Red Admiral yesterday, but nothing today. As I cycled back to work, I noticed a flock of Swallows had replaced the House Martins seen this morning - they dipped low over the fields, resting on Gallagher's Gallop fence as the spits of rain intensified...and the cows all lay down...just about says it all! After a short rest they were back up in the air, and off, again south and out of sight.