The first "Map"

As the sun shone and the temperature rose, checked out a site near a river and lakes.The expected Orange Tips and Small Whites were flitting along the banks of the pathways. Peacocks were knocking chunks out of each other defending territories at regular intervals along most paths, particularly near emerging nettles.

Disappointment when found that the dell where in past years Map butterflies were regularly seen has been completely blocked with brambles. Wandered to another favourite spot ... and spotted a Map butterfly (Araschnia levana) ... definitely the first of the year. Later a second one was seen.