Branch Newsletter

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NEWSLETTER No. 8 - Winter 1982/83

WEST MIDLANDS BRANCH, BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

During 1982 many species of butterfly were seen at an exceptionally early date, influenced by the warm, dry, sunny Spring. It was the sunniest Spring (March/April/May) since 1955, April of all months even provided the longest dry spell since July 1976, followed by May with only 40% of normal average rainfall.

I am endeavouring to evolve a formula for predicting the dates on which different species will appear, as a function of the preceding weather patterns. For this, more data is required on observed first dates this year. I would welcome such data if it approximates to or is earlier than the dates shown in the table below. The location is also required, but the nearest town or village will suffice.

Brimstone	31 January	Small Tortoiseshell	23 March
Comma	23 March	Peacock	23 March
Small White	8 April	Orange Tip	22 April
Green Hairstreak	25 April	Grizzled Skipper	26 April
Wood White	27 April	Large White	8 May
Pearl-bordered	9 May	Dingy Skipper	13 May
Small Heath	14 May	Small Copper	14 May
Marsh Fritillary	15 May	Duke of Burgundy	16 May
Common Blue	18 May	Small Pearl-bordered	23 May
Large Skipper	24 May	White letter Hairstreak	20 June
High Brown Frit	29 June	White Admiral	29 June
Grayling	11 July	Brimstone (summer brood)	11 July
Peacock	17 July	Holly Blue (summer brood)	21 July

Some species are not listed, but data would be welcome for these if the dates are exceptionally early. Migrant species not required.