Red Admiral

Here's a view of the underside too.

It's been a lovely morning, very warm when the sun is out, but a bit windy. I was sitting out in the garden just with the camera in hand waiting to see what would pop up to be photographed, when I noticed this Red Admiral basking on our apple tree. It was too far up for a photo so I just watched it for a little while (didn't want to disturb it just so I could get a photo), and it then flew off and landed on my buddleia (butterfly bush). Most of the flower-heads are now dead but there are still a few in bloom and this butterfly (along with a Large White which didn't hang around for long and another Red Admiral) started feeding. I moved to get a shot of the second Red Admiral (which was closer) when it flew over the fence and disturbed the first one which landed right next to me. Took a lot of shots (some better than others) but chose this one as the eyes and antennae are in good focus which is extremely difficult to get when photographing butterflies and other insects.

Also got photos of a young Starling sunbathing and the same Starling I photographed on Thursday was back to say hello and to give you all a wave!

I also realised this morning that there are no Swifts in the sky! They all must have flown south now. I did see one during the week (can't remember what day it was) but I never thought anything of it. It might very well be the last one I see this year. Good luck my avian friends on your journey! :)