Welsh Journals

other North Wales record is for Cors Goch, Anglesey (H. N. Michaelis). Anthophila fabriciana L. was everywhere on the island, flying over the nettles on which its larva feeds. This small dark moth, a member of the family Glyphipterigidae, can usually be seen in most parts of Wales throughout the summer, fluttering around patches of the ubiquitous nettle. M.J.M. NOTES ON BUTTERFLIES AND MOTHS IN RADNORSHIRE IN 1971 AND 1972 The very late and cold spring of 1972 can be held responsible for the scarcity of moths and butterflies in the county. This presumably not only killed off the insects at crucial stages of their development, but delayed the growth of vegetation so that the essential food plants were not available at the right time. This is emphasised by the fact that not only Lepidoptera have been affected. Bee keepers reported loss of stock and insufficient honey for winter feeding. Wasps were also fewer than usual in the autumn. In 1971 Orange-tip butterflies were holding their own in spite of grass cutting of verges destroying their food plant, the Cuckoo Flower, at the most crucial time. Only two specimens were seen in 1972, on 15 and 25 May. Two Green-veined Whites were seen feeding on Aubretia on 19 May and one on Buddleia on 2 August. The Painted Lady and Red Admiral were scarce in 1971 and absent from the area in 1972. Peacock butterflies were also missing in 1972, though seen on Buddleia flowers in considerable numbers in 1971. Small Tortoiseshells were seen in both years, feeding on garden rock plants in the spring. The many detached wings in out- buildings indicated that hibernating insects had been found and eaten by mice. Occasional Comma butterflies were seen, and one Holly Blue in 1971. At 1000ft. above sea level autumn frosts occur early and in 1972 cut short the flowering of the Michaelmas daisies, so beloved of end of season butterflies. Several of these beautiful insects are dependent on nettles for survival, so there is a strong case for modera- tion and delay in the cutting of nettle patches. A small quarry at Weythel is usually a rich area for butterflies but, as a result of cutting back of much of the vegetation, 1971 was a poor year. However, in August 1972 all was well again, and in mid-month the following were observed: Small Skipper, Meadow Brown, Hedge Brown, Ringlet, Small Heath, Tortoiseshell and Comma. Amongst the moths, one unusual observation in 1972 was the abundance of the Hebrew Character, which first appeared on 3 April at light and on many subsequent nights. The Silver Y Moth was not seen among garden flowers in August, but a few came to light in September.