Grey morning, and a quick walk around the Ford. Spent most of the time searching ditches along the River Ash south of the Ford looking for insects and plants. Bittersweet (solanum dulcamara) was discovered along the footpath towards Ash Valley golf course as was common fumitory (fumaria officinalis). The latter has an acrid smell to the root and the sap can inflame eyes whilst the former is considerably less poisonous than deadly nightshade, it is related to both the tomato and potato. The flowers are similar to that of the potato blooms. A 1st record of harlequin ladybird was also discovered along this ditch. A green woodpecker made itself known as swifts and swallows flew overhead. Usual warblers called from the hedgerows along with yellowhammers and skylarks sang from the fairways of the adjacent golf course. Due to poor light, no dragon, damselflies or butterflies were on the wing.
The accompanying photographs show bittersweet (purple with yellow stamens) and the common fumitory along with the ladybird and dog rose (rosa canina). Also included here is a previously taken shot of moorhen with youngster. 
The final photo shows a coremacera marginata, a true fly of the diptera family. It feeds on small slugs and snails, so a welcome garden visitor.
The final photo shows a coremacera marginata, a true fly of the diptera family. It feeds on small slugs and snails, so a welcome garden visitor.
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