
They are mountain goats!




The Dusky Heath is another brown butterfly identified by an underside rear wing-spot which is set forward and isolated from the other five.
![]() Following the sighting of a Two-tailed Pasha in the Rio de-la Miel by friend Allen Hartley, I took a trip up the Valley and climbed Castle Rock at the top in search of the elusive butterfly. No luck with that particular quest but there were some interesting sightings anyway. For example I inadvertently disturbed this female Ibex with two kids who made their getaway around the near vertical west side of the Rock. Mother led the way so the two youngsters had to follow, leaping and clambering across the treacherous cliff face. It was incredible to watch, one slip would have meant certain death but to my relief the wonderfully deft and sure-footed animals made their escape without mishap. Just like mountain goats, oh...wait a minute? They are mountain goats! ![]() Although I did not find the Two-tailed Pasha I did come across this exotic Scarce Swallowtail, a very large and handsome butterfly. Not actually scarce within its normal range, the English name simply describes its status in Britain. ![]() Other species sighted include the Southern Gatekeeper. This one has no underside wingspots, unlike its relatives the Common and Spanish Gatekeepers. ![]() The Meadow Brown is a very plain insect with a single white spot in the "Eye" and no distinct underwing patterning. This is very different from the intricate marbled patterning of the diminutive Grizzled Skipper which blends in with its surroundings very effectively. Camouflage in action. ![]() This one is not a butterfly, it´s a close up look at the very delicate and beautiful Thread-winged Lacewing which thrives on the hot dry side of Castle Rock. The Dusky Heath is another brown butterfly identified by an underside rear wing-spot which is set forward and isolated from the other five.
1 Comment
Bob Wright
26/6/2013 14:33:45
Great story Steve with some cracking photos; most enjoyable. Bob
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AuthorRetired seafarer living in Frigiliana, a white village in Malaga Province in southern Spain. Married to Elena. Keen bird and wildlife watchers. Archives
November 2022
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