Spanish Ibex - capra pyrenaica 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!
They are mountain goats!
 Spanish Ibex - capra pyrenaica |  Spanish Ibex - capra pyrenaica |
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.
Southern Gatekeeper - pyronia cecelia Other species sighted include the Southern Gatekeeper. This one has no underside wingspots, unlike its relatives the Common and Spanish Gatekeepers.
Meadow Brown - maniola jurtina 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.
 Grizzled Skipper - pyrgus malvae |  Grizzled Skipper - pyrgus malvae |
Thread-Winged Lacewing - nemoptera-bipennis 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.
The Dusky Heath is another brown butterfly identified by an underside rear wing-spot which is set forward and isolated from the other five.
 Thread-Winged Lacewing - nemoptera-bipennis |  Dusky Heath - coenonympha dorus austauti |
