Alien Encounter

A return to the sand dunes of the Lancashire coastline.

Amazing to see the sheer diversity of plants and insects. Amongst the more common native plants an interesting selection of aliens. These include several naturalised garden escapes with the Broad-leaved Everlasting Pea being particularly striking. Also plenty of Asparagus and even tobacco plants.

Great to see many of the more specialised native plants – in particular the various Orchids. Perhaps not quite as many Pyramid Orchids as last year but the relatively cool and wet June may have set them back a week or two.

Surprisingly just the one Dark Green Fritillary seen. As per usual no sign of any Sand Lizards however one superb male recently put in appearance at Ainsdale Discovery Centre.