It took three train trips up a Welsh valley and a lot of stomping around cow-pat filled fields to see my first Small pearl-bordered fritillary of the year. On the first two visits, the ‘conservation’ cattle had been in the two fields at Aberbargoed Grasslands National Nature Reserve where I usually find these locally scarce butterflies, which did rather restrict my explorations – the cattle were large, had calves with them, blocked several of the paths across the fields, and there was constant loud bellowing between the herds in the two fields, which wasn’t exactly reassuring as to the safety of the situation. (One of my Twitter followers suggested I just loudly shout ‘Boo’ at them and was certain they’d then move away but every year there are news stories of walkers being trampled by cows so, as an elderly woman walking alone, I was not prepared to risk it.)

Fortunately, during my third visit the cattle were in adjoining fields, which meant I could more easily wander all the pathways. Unfortunately, butterfly numbers were still very low compared to previous years so, although I saw perhaps six Small pearl-bordered fritillaries in total, I was only able to get close enough to photograph one of them. And, as you can see, the photos are not my best. Still, I was pleased to see at least a few of these magical butterflies flitting about the paddocks, and can only hope their numbers will bounce back next year.

Another visit to Aberbargoed Grasslands National Nature Reserve last week produced my best ever views of Small pearl-bordered fritillaries so I thought I’d share a couple of photos of these stunning little butterflies.

They get their name from the series of pearl-like markings that can be seen along the outside edge of the underside of their hind wings, though I personally think all their markings, on both the upper- and under-sides of their wings are as exquisite as pearls.