Here’s another very early, surprise, spring sighting, my first Small copper butterfly (Lycaena phlaeas) of 2026. I don’t usually see these beauties until early to mid May but this gorgeous glistening creature popped up to defend its little territory when I walked across a local horse paddock ten days ago, on 25 April. Small coppers are one of my favourite butterflies so I’m very much looking forward to seeing more in the weeks to come.