Pembrey Burrows Wednesday 22nd August 2018

A spell of rather wet weather early on this morning, whilst fixing a broken stile, left me needing to change trousers and put on some waterproofs, I'm not a keen wearer of waterproof trousers but we were about to enter the fresh water reed bed for a spot of ringing ride management.

I haven't had time to do any ringing of my own for months so preparing the rides for a spot of Swallow roost action should spur me on.

Thanks to Brian and Veronica for their hard and sweaty graft.


After lunch we wandered down to CE51 to try and survey for Strandline Beetles, despite a good search none were found, this is likely to be my last opportunity this season to search for this rare beetle.

Brian found a beetle of interest which I'm waiting for an ID on;[now updated] I found an Ichneumon Wasp, seemingly out of context on the beach!, I've tentatively identified it as Ophion obscuratus, 

Phaleria cadaverina, one of the "darkling" beetles

a poor record shot of the Ichneumon wasp

Meanwhile Veronica found a young Slow Worm under a piece of wood on the beach

After the beach Veronica and I set off to check the Owl box situated on the edge of Pembrey Country Park, so far its occupants have included Honey Bees and Grey Squirrels so it was no surprise today to find that a wasps nest occupied the box!!!! (no photos due to the quick exit)

Now don't forget the next guided event, a strandline safari, is at Pembrey burrows on Saturday 1st September it is important to book onto the event, especially as parking restrictions are now in force, we will provide suitable parking.

Oh and to top off my day a surprise holiday to Lesvos booked for September....