https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/links.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/about.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/otheritems.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/gallery.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/news.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-new-website-is-launched https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tours-course-pdf-for-2015 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wildlife-photographer-of-the-year https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tours-and-workshops-for-2016 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wildscreen-wildphotos-2014 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/dolomites https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/page101623.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-sibillini https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/close-up-and-macro-courses https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/general-photographic-workshops-courses https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bb-for-naturalists-walkers-and https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tours-courses https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-gargano-peninsula https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/publications-phd https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/some-background https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/aul-h-d-blog https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wild-orchids-wb https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/favourites https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/using-mikromak-and-ts-robusto https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lock-down-and-beyond-2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bugs-wide-angle https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/plants https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wild-orchids https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/spiders https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/international-garden-photographer-of-the https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/portfolio365026.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/portfolio365970.html https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lock-down-2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bugs https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/meet-your-neighbours https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/new-workcovid-and-earlier https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/flowers-wide-angle https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tours-and-courses-hidden-worlds https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704542.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zjKZ8RKF3D144n6K8xvcW8CiXOI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_989027661543bbf8528a57.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/stemless-carline-thistle-carline-thistle https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mWJnTh26aFBXgChT9K2D8367bVA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17875816526244820022dbe.jpgStemless carline thistle, Carline thistle (Carlina acaulis ). Also dwarf carline thistle, or silver thistle Stemless carline thistle, Carline thistle (Carlina acaulis ). Also dwarf carline thistle, or silver thistle, is a perennial species in the family Asteraceae, native to alpine regions of central and southern Europe. The specific name acaulis means "without a stem," from Latin caulis "stem" or "stalk") The rhizome contains a number of essential oils, in particular the antibacterial carlina oxide The root was formerly employed in herbal medicine as a diuretic and cold remedy. While young, the flowerhead bud can be cooked and eaten in a similar manner to the Globe artichoke, which earned it the nickname of hunter's bread. In some cultures it was traditionally used as symbol of good fortune, fixed into the frontal door of the house. Mt Vettore, Umbria, Italy September, 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679310.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Wbt5SmUNsYG7Tax1nwmYpLk-N40=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1162086031543948c1ed41c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704550.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/10pYV6s03cRB9ZS1a9XdEjgoLKw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_687306077543bbf94c30fb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704752.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0kphJ57uP7Xr1UcsCGaXvWBRLyI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2055046964543bc60f4d868.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755872.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WxbFLsNBAmdEPgkQJoTcuT3z5UY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3199135525444035e40381.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377324.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LfX6qq9jwDLTYANx_Ak3bXlgyLk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12902811946244342ab725d.jpgCommon polypody (Polypodium vulgare) underside of frond to show sori. Common polypody (Polypodium vulgare) underside of frond to show sori. These are the capsules that are collections of sprangia that contain the spores. is a species of fern developing in isolation from along a horizontal rhizome. The fronds with triangular leaflets measure 10 to 50 centimetres and are divided all the way back to the central stem in 10 to 18 pairs of segments or leaflets. The leaflets become much shorter at the end of the frond. The leaflets are generally whole or slightly denticulated and somewhat wider at their base, where they often touch each other. They have an alternating arrangement, those on one side being slightly offset from those on the other side. The petioles have no scales. The sori are found on the lower side of the fronds and range in colour from bright yellow to orange. They became dark grey at maturity. The species is widespread and common in Wetsren and central Europe. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Deecember 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687391.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VOiBgRZYuoMlEFiuosuP6Y9pjmk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1285222581543a621077f1d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751191.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Paf8uW27-_sMtFrn6J8fW1R-_PY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6473950985443c47cdecfc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/knot-grass-acronicta-rumicis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J-6p2D7K7I8hv_gUwuC0Plo_0W4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1626170948543a544d843e8.jpgKnot Grass (Acronicta rumicis) Knot Grass (Acronicta rumicis) a colourful caterpillar for a rather dull moth in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/siebers-crocus-ceocus-sieberi-var https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7bJ1-pC6uR_c_E9RIJ64XqAi7Dc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_138927612262447e9af0668.jpgSieber's crocus (Ceocus sieberi var triclolor) Sieber's crocus (Ceocus sieberi var triclolor) a popular variety of the Cretan mountian crocus from the White Mountains (Lefka Ori). Garden image Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy March 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-ophrys-ophrys-sphegodes-subsp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K8DJNqFwCY3FKd_CfSOOu9k4j8Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_128078922162453be03b039.jpgHybrid Ophrys Ophrys sphegodes subsp. sphegodes x Ophrys holoserica subsp. dinarica Hybrid Ophrys Ophrys sphegodes subsp. sphegodes x Ophrys holoserica subsp. dinarica . A hybrid between th earky spder orchiud and the Apennine Late spider orchid.. Preci, Umbria,Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377912.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UeLOkZBLPnUZRSuH2tLHUYEmfyc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_66189003162453dff49e28.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) usually blue-violet but also in yellow, white and lilac Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) usually blue-violet but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation where it is an endemic of the Gargano peninsula and some other parts of Puglia in Italy. For a long time this species was thought to be Iris lutescens (syn chamaeiris) which instead occurs on the other side of Italy. (Lazio, Toscana) However it is now recognised as botanically different and distinct. It is a more robust species, with a distinct stem (up to 40 cm in cultivation) bearing two flowers at the head of each stem – hence the specific name. In comparison, Iris lutescens (as well as the other Apulian endemic Iris pseudopumila) bears only one flower, without a stem, (the floral tube acts as a stem). This species has a pleasant scent, with notes of roses and violets https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698851.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Qfx53nOHrwmQuAVmQCrGksuDalg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1526791641543b88bfaf061.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704676.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fZi5-o0FLYr7KOqcFaPCes0fZEg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1428454143543bc5abe0787.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377828.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bHOAs5n3KzdDIIdSIip0U0tZR-0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_54282276162453bd720977.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698968.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_QzcPwuM3YMs4GdZSG1-QEUIq2w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_442719671543b89630616e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/praying-mantis-mantis-religiosa-gravid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Fe2-34AZ1WQLtDb95tJ3rL0DrEQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1131544945624479a269708.jpgPraying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) gravid female devouring another gravid female Praying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) gravid female devouring another gravid female - the batt;e was to the death when one became the protein source for the other. The dominant female managed to bit the part of the torax closest to the abdomen which seemed vulnerable to the powers pincer-like mandibles and was devouring the other alive. Eventuall he thorax and head of the victim were severed from the abdoment. Photographed in a garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sept 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377630.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AJ0JyMQhwsreg11hUIb7J3NhCqQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_181281140162447bb7ab44f.jpgPraying Mantis adult ♀(Mantis religiosa) Praying Mantis adult ♀(Mantis religiosa) adult appears and is still on the wing in late autumn. Cesi nr Terni on the stones of a pre-Roman site (Umbri) Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377575.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2O3y0KUpVwW1TMUDMrVyeHp-xFQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1838246363624479af0b461.jpgCommon Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) revealing the scales on the wings Common Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) revealing the scales on the wings that make up the pattern. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Dec 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704760.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NwEPBKsI5n6V9AF3v71iqleU-Rw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1754692872543bc61ad04d4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/view-towards-leonessa-from-mt https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8KuTmxwPK59uiXS5XhmJ-MUxCL4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1817803387624481f8b5f90.jpgView towards Leonessa from Mt Terminillo View towards Leonessa from Mt Terminillo showing the limestone moutina landscape rich in flowers and butterflies -including the Apollo (Parnassius apollo). Mt Terminillo, Umbria. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974042.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_wJa3ndvLiXCU6soeJW4XaVvq_o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_103892819254636a6d1d810.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974194.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/F_0qz_KJK4jDXw3deTGqrCdgzis=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_801110084546372398ce71.jpgSawfly Ophrys (Ophrys tenthredinifera) Sawfly Ophrys (Ophrys tenthredinifera) a widepread and colourful orchid species on limestone grassland in the Mediterranean region.nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378014.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5wRduSf-UcyOggsn8djGHIrPzBA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13936732362454385c8739.jpgEuropean Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus European Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus)…The ‘Malmignatta’ or ‘Malmignatta’ or European Black Widow Spider is a creature that inspires fear as innumerable disparaging local names for the creature attest. Malmignatta combines Mal (bad) with mignatta (leech). The Latin name Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus does not damn the species for the specific name tredecimguttatus literally means thirteen spots…a reference to the 13 bright red spots on the black abdomen of the female. In younger specimens these appear as white spots with a red centre. The female of the species has a body length of about 7–15 mm (0.28–0.59 in), while the male is smaller and reaches 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) at best. Like all Latrodectus species, L. tredecimguttatus has a painful bite that is fatal in rare cases. They are not in close association with humans generally, although epidemics of bites have been reported.The Mediterranean black widow primarily lives in steppes and other dry grasslands, and can be a significant problem in areas where grain is harvested by hand. It is not aggressive but bites in defence… Only the female spider's bite is dangerous (either for humans or cattle) as the male cannot penetrate the relatively thick epidermis. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377918.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hPcguPPK8CVBe16tDvY8Q4ntvag=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_199810583562453e032f7dc.jpgToothwort (Lathraea squamaria) Toothwort (Lathraea squamaria) here parasitic on poplar roots but also on hazel and alder widespread in temperate regions of Europe. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704519.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cLuYwedo-voPUW69Q1CBa_tYjF0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1477749923543bbf5a442ef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crocothemis-erythraea-scarlet-dragonfly https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MGsGj7eeyXrw4iOFQuv6gAgDZS4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_392116950624860537a32b.jpgCrocothemis erythraea ♂ (Scarlet Dragonfly) Crocothemis erythraea ♂ (Scarlet Dragonfly) at Pesce Romana, Lazio. September 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/rosehips-the-fruits-of-the https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Zw6Aa1th8MhccolRQLgx4BRrykc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_98285785154396fe62cbf1.jpgRosehips the fruits of the dog rose (Rosa canina) Rosehips the fruits of the dog rose (Rosa canina) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377885.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7R_jBTHGn8widPvp0MRfvBrGlbw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5624922862453bfa4ca91.jpgRed Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) Red Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) an orchid growing on limestone, protected everywhere in Europe and Red Data Book listed. It is extremely rare in the UK where it is on the edged of its range and has just a handful of sites it grows in light dry woodland...beechwoods, under oak and at the margins of pine and spruce forests. If leaf cover above it becomes too dense then the species reverts to a vegetative growth and stops flowering whilst being dependent upon the mycorrhizal fungi in its roots. Piediluco (Lago di Ventina), Umbria, Italy. July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ladys-bedstraw-galium-verum-also https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GgviUtK_RmW-Y74sUa9xVrZd9_A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_202844199862453e1e98530.jpgLady's bedstraw (Galium verum) also yellow bedstraw Lady's bedstraw (Galium verum) also yellow bedstraw is a herbaceous perennial plant of the family Rubiaceae. which is widespread across most of Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia. In medieval Europe, the dried plants were used to stuff mattresses, (as the coumarin scent of the plants acts as a flea repellant. The flowers were also used to coagulate milk in cheese manufacture (which gives the plant its name, from the Greek word meaning "Milk" (Gala, γάλα) and, in Gloucestershire, to colour the cheese double Gloucester. The plant is also used to make red madder-like and yellow dyes. In Denmark, the plant (known locally as gul snerre) is traditionally used to infuse spirits, making the uniquely Danish drink bjæsk . Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377476.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pHhd8UWhNM41kihCSNT67Oy5WwE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_139810883262446770218b8.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377651.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bis7PWiv06w3TA7S-0mtKwIZiSA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_138071105162447e9b3aa02.jpgBlackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details also sloe, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa. The fruits are used to make sloe gin in Britain and patxaran in the Navarre autonomous community of Spain. The wood is used to make walking sticks, including the Irish shillelagh. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy March 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974202.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QvcTMB9Z4lOqCjjf3Yf6vQ7T_LM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_82636031854637482005b8.jpgSmall yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula) Small yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula). Mt Argentario, Tuscany, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/forking-larkspur-consolida-regalis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ro8VmamYg2Mnx7p9P9NJBiWFS4M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_188607609254396f4dc6219.jpgForking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) Forking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) a late-flowering cornfield weed photgraphed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 06/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686989.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-UspWHcSUgu1kQN3ad_VSDQ29WA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1981078536543a54914c88d.jpgExoskeleton of Cicada (Cicada orni) MYN Exoskeleton (exuvium) of Cicada (Cicada orni) left after emergence. Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy MYN. September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686967.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ED4ntFaBipzC-F-5ecx24NpUt9o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1040605993543a542b213b5.jpgBush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) MYN Bush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704423.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/s3zMXQJKVrMQApSlvIARbmYatNE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1702874880543bbea0a551a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377981.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bPfEYSDJALVPE8GWduiN5t2bqQ0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_201101025062453e2bcec66.jpgLevantine Pokeweed ( Phytolacca pruinosa) Levantine Pokeweed ( Phytolacca pruinosa) also known as. Indian ink plant has spread widely throughout S. Europe. The more famous Phytolacca americana (American pokeweed, pokeweed, poke) is used as a folk medicine and as food, although all parts of it must be considered toxic unless properly prepared. The root is never eaten but Poke salad ('poke salat') is considered part of traditional southern U.S. cuisine, where it is cooked three times in three changes of boiling water to remove some of the harmful components. Toxic constituents which have been identified include the alkaloids phytolaccine and phytolaccotoxin, as well as a glycoprotein. Blera, Lazio, Italy, September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377858.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V5DbsXe53iKWlddz5y_9MBds30U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_196134847662453beaf3b50.jpgApennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica and O. holoserica ssp dinarica) Apennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica and O. holoserica ssp dinarica). Plants found in the Central Apennines and also in Piemonte are characterised by longish petals, a lip with a prominent forward pointing apex and pointed side lobes. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689265.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_Y1vA0ojknWOaxqcqVWTsmugOLc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1575956630543aa25c9445e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686984.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2ZFQW_K79hbzFVz25HMkxNhTF3E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_942469354543a547d91993.jpgBrown Mountain Grasshoppers (Podisma pedestris) Brown Mountain Grasshoppers (Podisma pedestris) an abundant species in the high mountain zones of the Apennines. Terminillo, nr Terni, Lazio. Italy. September 2013. MYN https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377704.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/r1lzatNHd2l2vNFL8cTr9hSCkWI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_68108813762447ec45824d.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752181.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/H8e-DG4Ou5Ew8JYj511IZIK9LWc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9000835335443d33800659.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704708.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3yWQBZVXW4EBqFBsnYzsi_GMqxE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_707850815543bc5d777fce.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377983.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TdUNnGG5GfafqysOBHs3ijfVFP0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_43988700062453e2e27172.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755737.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Woa8XWY8zTbgZK0-5gWeAQaJ-jY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3709465465443ffb18d88b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377891.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CvMruQIr5nyIBZE9nNXWpQmh5JI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_207748734762453bfcb9366.jpgSlender helleborine (Epipactis exilis syn E. gracilis) Slender helleborine (Epipactis exilis syn E. gracilis) A rare and local species with slightly pendent flowers, not opening widled with a heart-shaped epichile and two marked pinkish tinged bosses at its base, The hypochile inner surface if brownish. Found in Italy and local and rare in beechowwds in the Apennines. Mt Amiata beechwoods, Aquapendente, Umbria, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bug-orchid-anacamptis-coriophora-ssp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/co2wgLye1nhXo5jKKGFG01_avhw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_94879730462453bf0d450c.jpgBug orchid (Anacamptis coriophora ssp fragrans) formerly regarded as Orchis coriophora ssp fragrans Bug orchid (Anacamptis coriophora ssp fragrans) formerly regarded as Orchis coriophora ssp fragrans. Like other Anacamptis it flowers slightly later in the season ...May and June. Mte Amiata, Toscana. Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/virginia-creeper-parthenocissus-quinquefolia-podere https://photos.on-this.website/wm/W8wIim6NxvSFm1JKdzVOiTOwbgw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_55697642262447ae6b1b06.jpgVirginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) - Podere Montecucco autumn colour in the garden Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) - Podere Montecucco autumn colour in the garden. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October, 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377646.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rkj6RR9egNgALScACZa0qNPjx4w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_84853411862447e97b086c.jpgCapsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare) Capsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare). This species has charcetristic red stems and bright green capsules when young, turning brown with age. It is a common species that forms cushions on tops of stone wall stops and roofs. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/spindle-tree-euonymus-europaeus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HDjfqmFLB1qFQkiptRVR6Nh6J-g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_98343664462447ad45c29f.jpgSpindle tree (Euonymus europaeus) Spindle tree (Euonymus europaeus) has very hard wood that was used in the wool trade for sindles-hence the common name. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-blue-butterfly-polyommatus-icarus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jWVR13m4CZmaXru_PxoseE3ohXY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17782122096245438f4012d.jpgCommon blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) feeding on nectar from Dodonaeus' willow herb (Epilobium dodonae) Common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) feeding on nectar from Dodonaeus' willow herb (Epilobium dodonae) also Chamaenerion dodonaei) growing on Mt Vettore . Nr Norcia, Umbria, September 2021 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981385.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AXcZjDkd7l4G3-BMDzUYs0BYFkg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5874763015465cfc7c77ea.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675276.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qjEBtGICo-k62LtgQFvx9yAyBS0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7543979105438046aad6ed.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20120427-035 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jJv9ooId5A_FLjoa59I83Tdlhs0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11739804045254144b83c72.jpgITA_PHD_20120427-035 Southern Festoon (Zerynthia polyxena) showing the pattern on the underwings. The festoons are butterflies of southern Europe in spring where their foodplants (Aristolochia sp ) grow. MYN nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-blue-butterflies-polyomatus-icarus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/psZSHlJNeygg_9tz9St9ui2qoLE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1678422352624879c025e91.jpgCommon blue butterflies (Polyomatus icarus) mating Common blue butterflies (Polyomatus icarus) mating The male (♂︎) has the brownish ground colour and the female (♀︎) blueish grey https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378015.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OUTHUoujS7isEcMbsktKy2yxTuM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16734686626245438672d95.jpgEuropean Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus European Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus)…The ‘Malmignatta’ or ‘Malmignatta’ or European Black Widow Spider is a creature that inspires fear as innumerable disparaging local names for the creature attest. Malmignatta combines Mal (bad) with mignatta (leech). The Latin name Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus does not damn the species for the specific name tredecimguttatus literally means thirteen spots…a reference to the 13 bright red spots on the black abdomen of the female. In younger specimens these appear as white spots with a red centre. The female of the species has a body length of about 7–15 mm (0.28–0.59 in), while the male is smaller and reaches 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) at best. Like all Latrodectus species, L. tredecimguttatus has a painful bite that is fatal in rare cases. They are not in close association with humans generally, although epidemics of bites have been reported.The Mediterranean black widow primarily lives in steppes and other dry grasslands, and can be a significant problem in areas where grain is harvested by hand. It is not aggressive but bites in defence… Only the female spider's bite is dangerous (either for humans or cattle) as the male cannot penetrate the relatively thick epidermis. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759400.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MsPMtMfja2A01mU_gPkETH3Tag8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_51773148354443ab292af3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377968.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DYA6kgtfxmEqHlldKetDr3mdCvc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_195942698362453e23f0e7a.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755725.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OEcEJoY1lYgoQfkbZ8Jb2weAvRE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7387212665443ff8a99762.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bellardia-bellardia-trixago https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eTCiNVaOTlGu4shlBPsz7xNTOJ4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11186478454396b9b67b93.jpgBellardia (Bellardia trixago) Bellardia (Bellardia trixago) an annual,semi-parasitic annual on grasses: two colour forms white/purple and yellow. Photo in grassland nr Ferla, Sicily. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755789.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/H9pETrF6BKiiX36elzFF01TYZK8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6874965185444003664606.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/kapelas-paronychia-paronychia-kapela https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8rF-Tgwqqcmcb8O09cH5GPE9yRI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_23443127162453e16c8761.jpgKapela's Paronychia (Paronychia kapela Kapela's Paronychia (Paronychia kapela) A member of the Caryophyllacea (pink family) which has a prostrate fom and the tiny flowers hidden by translucent, silvery-white bracts. foubd in stony places and rfry rocky fields fro 1500m to 2600m. Sibillini, Umbria, June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698889.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5or8gBkSq1l-TUZouQfZUC_NXzQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1024087563543b88f251cba.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377320.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PprPzAoZ0GC4A1OIDeoZrx-aj6I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4729765426244342609df3.jpgHarvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum) Harvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum). Sometimes called "daddy long-legs spiders they are not true spiders. Commonly found sitting in wait on flowers. Podere Montecucco,nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sepetember 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/primrose-primula-veris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NFn3bJzOh6WeHStUOqDs4TB52gE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_205074789462453dfb41c03.jpgPrimrose (Primula veris) Primrose (Primula veris) a frequent species in the woods of central and southern Europe in early. spring. Mte Peglia, Umbria, Italy March 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/grass-leaved-bellflower-edraianthus-graminifolius https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qPX4L1zuxx_c-rcTP8JSvm9wqgY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1804921890624481fa12492.jpgGrass-leaved bellflower (Edraianthus graminifolius) Grass-leaved bellflower (Edraianthus graminifolius) is a bellflower (Campanulacea) which has narrow-grass-like leves (hence the name - graminifolius) Terminillo, Umbria, Italy July 2021, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704763.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DUzIRKf6r1C5xjqogkFKIWwHGBg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_468077830543bc61f9e0a6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/moulted-exoskeleteon-shed-by-spider https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MDYVN-uZ44o5tmff9NhCv6i7t9I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6955378246244799ced038.jpgMoulted exoskeleteon shed by spider - four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus,) Moulted exoskeleteon shed by spider - four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus,) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy August 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704476.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DdgIKvRQgL6-PSHvj872tQ80ISk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2059378135543bbf007e3b3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698972.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7zNr7z5bKxORuAN7c2iXBgfyL1k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1767369745543b89690feef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704741.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t3-SieJShT8J8kOKR2a5g3M9TBw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_498633782543bc60192721.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388176.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pxNg7_LaE8pZ7V2iTRmW4p_mpEg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1925521672624879b839e2d.jpgPlain tiger (Danaus chrysippus) Plain tiger (Danaus chrysippus), also known as the African queen, is widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa with small colonies in and migration to S. Europe. Like the monarch it belongs to the Danainae a subfamily of the Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed, plants that contain toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. In Europe the larval foodplant is one of the Periploca species. The plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators because of their emetic properties and the species' coloration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas. In Europe, it occurs in far southern regions both as relict populations and as migrants (which reinforce those populations in late summer of each year. The insects here were photographed near Lago di Lesina, Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704749.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HibH9D_3h2FWC4eAMwPUCt6gmuY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_676462183543bc60b5fc57.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388178.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/muNzhEpnjarHcN6m4ohj_bp3HHM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1335845368624879b9aae4c.jpgPlain tiger (Danaus chrysippus) Plain tiger (Danaus chrysippus), also known as the African queen, is widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa with small colonies in and migration to S. Europe. Like the monarch it belongs to the Danainae a subfamily of the Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed, plants that contain toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. In Europe the larval foodplant is one of the Periploca species. The plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators because of their emetic properties and the species' coloration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas. In Europe, it occurs in far southern regions both as relict populations and as migrants (which reinforce those populations in late summer of each year. The insects here were photographed near Lago di Lesina, Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704455.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TtbrrdV0VtciE24Ng2cz-lU9xII=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1425853307543bbeda41d7d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759368.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rIVP9FQSg7rV-0lDvKlWRNG4OBk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_103155260954443a9a15b7a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752205.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7agy-SegLa6BT2FjJIipGfpZClQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10450704545443d36aa2eb1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974218.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3vtChJywxamx4jvI3LXhaQxvT2E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8354113754637521a0149.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) showing opportunistic spider ready to trap insect visitors Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Preci nr Norcia, Umbria Italy. May 2008. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/argiope-bruennichi-orb-web-spider https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DmOTU6HkTyQyunwHNNLa63_SJME=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_91744267162447999d4bb3.jpgArgiope bruennichi (orb web spider) ♀ Argiope bruennichi (orb web spider) ♀guarding its egg coccoon. Sometimes called the Wasp Spider due to its colouring. Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sept 2014 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/green-whip-snake-hierophis-viridiflavus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZVMvZ7O6r4E9DBJf_SRhBff9qjM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_45706766062447eac9f0e5.jpgGreen whip snake (Hierophis viridiflavus) Green whip snake (Hierophis viridiflavus) Also known as Coluber viriflavus and il Biacco, in Italian. Frequently found in Italy and elsewhere in the mediterranean region. It inhabits ts natural habitats are temperate forests, temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, arable land, pastureland, plantations, rural gardens, and urban areas. These snakes mainly feed on lizards, skinks, frogs, mice, as well as on the young and eggs of small birds. This species lays four to 15 eggs. They are very lively and when cornered, may bite furiously...a prolongued bite can be painful to humans. They hibernate in winter. Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/woodland-hawthorn-crataegus-laevigata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/clDJs26fB76JVPO_UqUmD-u5Gps=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_107368154062453e09484fa.jpgWoodland hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata) Woodland hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata). Also known as the midland hawthorn, English hawthorn, [ or mayflower, is a species of hawthorn native to western and central Europe, t is distinguished from the closely related common hawthorn, C. monogyna, in the leaves being only shallowly lobed, with forward-pointing lobes, and in the flowers having more than one style. Each style produces a seed, so its fruits also have more than one seed and these make them slightly oval, in contrast with the single-seeded and therefore round fruits of common hawthorn. Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria, ItalyApril 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377734.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e4eGxhqvyKm_525Cbm-fbvJyznk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_483148085624481fcb918b.jpgGrass-leaved bellflower (Edraianthus graminifolius) growing with Snow in summer (Cerastium tomentosum) Grass-leaved bellflower (Edraianthus graminifolius) growing with Snow in summer (Cerastium tomentosum) Terminillo, Umbria, Italy July 2021, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388179.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Bq4945Y3qXg5OkCxwkw0O_MqnX4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_483809970624879b9db422.jpgPlain tiger (Danaus chrysippus) Plain tiger (Danaus chrysippus), also known as the African queen, is widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa with small colonies in and migration to S. Europe. Like the monarch it belongs to the Danainae a subfamily of the Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed, plants that contain toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. In Europe the larval foodplant is one of the Periploca species. The plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators because of their emetic properties and the species' coloration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas. In Europe, it occurs in far southern regions both as relict populations and as migrants (which reinforce those populations in late summer of each year. The insects here were photographed near Lago di Lesina, Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388180.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2wP4ehTpu-y5-2a1L2lJstUdN60=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_367766639624879bac84e6.jpgPlain tiger (Danaus chrysippus) Plain tiger (Danaus chrysippus), also known as the African queen, is widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa with small colonies in and migration to S. Europe. Like the monarch it belongs to the Danainae a subfamily of the Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed, plants that contain toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. In Europe the larval foodplant is one of the Periploca species. The plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators because of their emetic properties and the species' coloration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas. In Europe, it occurs in far southern regions both as relict populations and as migrants (which reinforce those populations in late summer of each year. The insects here were photographed near Lago di Lesina, Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704662.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YwGDvJe-Vu__OxDLabr4nHTg8_c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1068270352543bc59807c62.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686970.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GfLtlaOuo8UKkfo38tUZuFv4pjE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_90354529543a54383fe32.jpgChafer Beetle (Protaetia (Netocia) cuprea) MYN Chafer Beetle (Protaetia (Netocia) cuprea) MYN a highly reflective species with a coppery sheen. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-daisy-bellis-perennis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/be57s5aWNhU9hGeQFU_gkhpQniM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1376304939624481f8f1974.jpgCommon daisy, (Bellis perennis) Common daisy, (Bellis perennis) is a common European species of the family Asteraceae, often considered the archetypal species of that name. To distinguish this species from other "daisies" it is sometimes qualified as common daisy, lawn daisy or English daisy. Historically, it has also been widely known as bruisewort, and occasionally woundwort (although the common name "woundwort" is now more closely associated with the genus Stachys). B. perennis is native to western, central and northern Europe, including remote islands such as the Faroe Islands but has become widely naturalised in most temperate regions, including the Americas[2][3] and Australasia. Abetone, Emilia Ramagna, Italy 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/head-of-great-tit-parus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/A4r8TqeHiFCzBzmh2sqeaNT2y5M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_180933779362447e99bfa85.jpgHead of Great tit (Parus major). Head of Great tit (Parus major). Parus major is a passerine bird in the tit family Paridae. It is a widespread and common species throughout Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia and east across the Palearctic to the Amur River, south to parts of North Africa where it is generally resident in any sort of woodland; most great tits do not migrate except in extremely harsh winters. Until 2005 this species was lumped with numerous other subspecies. DNA studies have shown these other subspecies to be distinctive from the great tit and these have now been separated as two distinct species, the cinereous tit of southern Asia, and the Japanese tit of East Asia. The great tit remains the most widespread species in the genus Parus. The great tit is a distinctive bird with a black head and neck, prominent white cheeks, olive upperparts and yellow underparts, with some variation amongst the numerous subspecies. It is predominantly insectivorous in the summer, but will consume a wider range of food items in the winter months, including small hibernating bats. Like all tits it is a cavity nester, usually nesting in a hole in a tree. The female lays around 12 eggs and incubates them alone, although both parents raise the chicks. In most years the pair will raise two broods. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ruby-tailed-wasp-chrysis-ignita https://photos.on-this.website/wm/I6S0qYRiS4L3cpzrjh-f2iPldEM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4105111446245438b0963c.jpgRuby-tailed wasp (Chrysis ignita) Ruby-tailed wasp (Chrysis ignita) is a species of cuckoo wasps: these are. kleptoparasites laying their eggs in the nests of other wasp species where their young consume the eggs or larva of the host wasp for sustenance. Chrysis ignita parasitizes mason bees in particular. Ruby-tailed wasps have metallic, armored bodies, and can roll up into balls to protect themselves from harm when infiltrating the nests of host bees and wasps. Unlike most other Hymenopterans, cuckoo wasps cannot sting. Chrysis ignita is found across the European continent. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy. August 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973980.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ArQUrrUxmr6WGfxSX9c_pbmh4sw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_714340662546366b362ce7.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704428.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KBisej3qR39nOjce-a6Jg4ZFxic=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_815255337543bbea93fa01.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974073.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aXq1QKatjkF_ze0o7I9zdBtlDwg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_43310351854636b6b192e6.jpgBumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) Bumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) a small ophrys that occurs circum-Mediterranean. Pescia Romana, Orbetello, Lazio, Italy, April2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388175.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YJSwyyWNDbOqNEu0yXnby8ZSAd4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_670798206624879b76ca70.jpgPlain tiger (Danaus chrysippus) Plain tiger (Danaus chrysippus), also known as the African queen, is widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa with small colonies in and migration to S. Europe. Like the monarch it belongs to the Danainae a subfamily of the Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed, plants that contain toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. In Europe the larval foodplant is one of the Periploca species. The plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators because of their emetic properties and the species' coloration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas. In Europe, it occurs in far southern regions both as relict populations and as migrants (which reinforce those populations in late summer of each year. The insects here were photographed near Lago di Lesina, Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704540.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CTbEldLuEwxqoIIN7jJNv4p_Kz4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2021153834543bbf806b179.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-four-spot-orb-weaver https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GGMs3IWpjBXaUwCgyOzwjqf-JSM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_136218149362443424b37dd.jpgthe four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus, the four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus,) is a common orb-weaver spider found in Europe and Central Asia, and as far as the Kamchatka Peninsula and Japan. Females can reach 17 mm in length, especially when gravid, males approximately half that. They are quite variable in appearance, ranging from brown to bright orange or green, but they always have the four characteristic, indented ,white spots on the abdomen. The darker color morphs are easier to identify, due to the contrast between the white spots and the rest of the body. The legs are sometimes brightly striped. File:Araneus quadratus - female.ogv A female eats a crane fly The spider lives in gardens, wooded areas, or wherever there is vegetation to string an orb web across. This species builds its web close to the ground to catch jumping insects such as small grasshoppers. The female builds the more elaborate web, complete with a funnel-shaped retreat off to the side where she goes during inclement weather. The web is smaller and closer to the ground than those of other species of orb-weaver. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378031.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oBMfhI2ujJmFfJbaitZAOBzPIE0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_52861176262454395645c2.jpgEuropean Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus European Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus)…The ‘Malmignatta’ or ‘Malmignatta’ or European Black Widow Spider is a creature that inspires fear as innumerable disparaging local names for the creature attest. Malmignatta combines Mal (bad) with mignatta (leech). The Latin name Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus does not damn the species for the specific name tredecimguttatus literally means thirteen spots…a reference to the 13 bright red spots on the black abdomen of the female. In younger specimens these appear as white spots with a red centre. The female of the species has a body length of about 7–15 mm (0.28–0.59 in), while the male is smaller and reaches 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) at best. Like all Latrodectus species, L. tredecimguttatus has a painful bite that is fatal in rare cases. They are not in close association with humans generally, although epidemics of bites have been reported.The Mediterranean black widow primarily lives in steppes and other dry grasslands, and can be a significant problem in areas where grain is harvested by hand. It is not aggressive but bites in defence… Only the female spider's bite is dangerous (either for humans or cattle) as the male cannot penetrate the relatively thick epidermis. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973822.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XNOoHhSZ5WNVIN173gZ04SMLlwM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1447266585463619991d94.jpgOphrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis Ophrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis May 2011 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378030.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eRazvvLCzhAbwFKW1Ax1ifx0ck0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11324402116245439514a6f.jpglong-horned beetle (Vesperus luridus) long-horned beetle (Vesperus luridus) can reach a body length (from front to elytral apex) of about 12–18 millimetres (0.47–0.71 in) in males, while females reach a size of about 16–22 millimetres (0.63–0.87 in). Elytra are elongate and body is slender. Basic coloration is brownish or yellowish diaphanous. Both males and females are of the same colour,[2][3] This species shows an evident sexual dimorphism. The males are small, have wings and the elytra completely cover the abdomen. The antennas are much longer than in females. On the contrary the females are bigger, have very reduced wings (brachyptery) and are characterised by a swollen abdomen (physogastrism) holding enlarged ovaries. Elytra cover only partially the voluminous abdomen, letting visible the abdominal tergites. This species can be found in Croatia, France, Italy (including islands Sardinia and Sicily), Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia, and Voivodina. Adults of this species are nocturnals and can be encountered from late summer to autumn. The flying males become active at dusk and are attracted by artificial light. Larvae of these beetles have evolved some adaptations to subterranean life. In particular, they are characterised by a peculiar larval hypermetamorphosis, with some polymorphic larval instars. Larvae are polyphagous, but mainly feed on Grape-vine (Vitis vinifera) and Common Olive (Olea europaea). They are considered harmful to the cultivation of the grapevines, as the larvae dig tunnels in the roots. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. Umbria.September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-copper-butterfly-lycaena-phlaeas https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XNpt68k7OwfJiqeTtpewkBJKovc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2116080077624479ae6328b.jpgSmall copper butterfly ( Lycaena phlaeas) Small copper butterfly ( Lycaena phlaeas) widespread in Europe (except n. Scotland). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. May 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/long-horned-beetle-vesperus-luridus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JndKeoEDsmTqyQCRbangP0lL8Nc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_182589798562447ec226f99.jpglong-horned beetle (Vesperus luridus) long-horned beetle (Vesperus luridus) can reach a body length (from front to elytral apex) of about 12–18 millimetres (0.47–0.71 in) in males, while females reach a size of about 16–22 millimetres (0.63–0.87 in). Elytra are elongate and body is slender. Basic coloration is brownish or yellowish diaphanous. Both males and females are of the same colour,[2][3] This species shows an evident sexual dimorphism. The males are small, have wings and the elytra completely cover the abdomen. The antennas are much longer than in females. On the contrary the females are bigger, have very reduced wings (brachyptery) and are characterised by a swollen abdomen (physogastrism) holding enlarged ovaries. Elytra cover only partially the voluminous abdomen, letting visible the abdominal tergites. This species can be found in Croatia, France, Italy (including islands Sardinia and Sicily), Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia, and Voivodina. Adults of this species are nocturnals and can be encountered from late summer to autumn. The flying males become active at dusk and are attracted by artificial light. Larvae of these beetles have evolved some adaptations to subterranean life. In particular, they are characterised by a peculiar larval hypermetamorphosis, with some polymorphic larval instars. Larvae are polyphagous, but mainly feed on Grape-vine (Vitis vinifera) and Common Olive (Olea europaea). They are considered harmful to the cultivation of the grapevines, as the larvae dig tunnels in the roots. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. Umbria.September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981390.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/h4Y1KAkQ_DrgZNRV7JlVOeAtImQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10838692575465cff1ecc39.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377834.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Q6JneiHALmRhIDEpnsYVsFi6HUM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_61972080462453bdb660bd.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974230.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OT55EForoAq63qGZzoKS7oj9ydw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1426586987546375abc38c6.jpgHybrid Bee orchid x late spider orchid (Ophrys apifera X O.fuciflora = O.x albertiana) Hybrid Bee orchid x late spider orchid (Ophrys apifera X O.fuciflora = O.x albertiana) Sibillini, nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377583.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cfmboZXONlKwiMURSRED6XDPkMw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_194180993262447ad2e6645.jpgAutumn colour Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) Autumn colour Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) also known as Victoria creeper, five-leaved ivy, or five-finger, is a species of flowering vine in the grape family, Vitaceae. It is native to eastern and central North America. Parthenocissus quinquefolia is a prolific deciduous climber, reaching heights of 20–30 m in the wild. It climbs smooth surfaces using small forked tendrils tipped with small strongly adhesive pads 5 mm. The flowers are small and greenish, produced in inconspicuous clusters in late spring, and mature in late summer or early Autumn into small hard purplish-black berries 5 to 7 mm diameter. These berries contain toxic amounts of oxalic acid and have been known to cause kidney damage and death to humans.The berries are not toxic to birds and provide an important winter food source for many bird species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/sweet-chestnut-burr-castanea-sativa https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6O_sDWJpiMNtV1eJA5Tgbjalvt0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_65289271262447ae113a00.jpgSweet Chestnut burr (Castanea sativa) split to reveal the chestnuts within. Sweet Chestnut burr (Castanea sativa) split to reveal the chestnuts within. astanea sativa, the sweet chestnut, Spanish chestnut or just chestnut, is a species of tree in the family Fagaceae, native to Southern Europe and Asia Minor, and widely cultivated throughout the temperate world. A substantial, long-lived deciduous tree, it produces an edible seed, the chestnut, which has been used in cooking since ancient times. The species is widely distributed throughout Europe, where in 2004 C. sativa was grown on 2.25 million hectares of forest, of which 1.78 million hectares were mainly cultivated for wood and 0.43 million hectares for fruit production. The wood is widely used in Italy form beams, window frames and furniture because of its resilience and attractive grain. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377910.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lVkX8MBDykKmRcEARg1xoQTRhTs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_132611196462453dfe0ebf2.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) usually blue-violet but also in yellow, white and lilac Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) usually blue-violet but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation where it is an endemic of the Gargano peninsula and some other parts of Puglia in Italy. For a long time this species was thought to be Iris lutescens (syn chamaeiris) which instead occurs on the other side of Italy. (Lazio, Toscana) However it is now recognised as botanically different and distinct. It is a more robust species, with a distinct stem (up to 40 cm in cultivation) bearing two flowers at the head of each stem – hence the specific name. In comparison, Iris lutescens (as well as the other Apulian endemic Iris pseudopumila) bears only one flower, without a stem, (the floral tube acts as a stem). This species has a pleasant scent, with notes of roses and violets https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973951.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uJyJHo96-yLW98gkmGUvuj-Bz5Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_177734695454636282bb6e8.jpgfly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) Fly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) one of the most convincing of the Ophrys genus of insect mimics complete to the tiny &#039;antennae&#039; formed by the petals. It is an orchid of woodland margins on limestone. Torrealfina nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy April 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-scarce-crimson-and-gold https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dW4SkCgKXz_XwNz960X9kp2mYt8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_74652897262447ebf4c472.jpg The Scarce Crimson and Gold, (Pyrausta sanguinalis, The Scarce Crimson and Gold, (Pyrausta sanguinalis,) is a moth of the family Crambidae. The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in his 1767 12th edition of Systema Naturae. It is found across western Europe as far east as southern Finland. In the British Isles it was formerly found at multiple coastal locations in north-west England and Scotland, however it has now much declined and it is restricted to a few locations in Northern Ireland, in the west of Ireland, and a single site on the Isle of Man. The moth flies from June to August depending on the location. Orvieot, Umbria, June 2020 The larvae feed on common sage, rosemary and thyme. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687400.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ncRj7-c8lUoryuzcXEukuO2hG7o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_609841883543a623269a60.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/everlasting-pea-lathyrus-latifolius https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kxJ-TL3qQopxVeiupTryuG_OSvI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1637705617624473a4eb1ee.jpgEverlasting pea (Lathyrus latifolius) Everlasting pea (Lathyrus latifolius) is a robust, sprawling herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae. Usually a strong pink in colour occasionally white/ pink-flushed forms do occur. tt is native to Europe. Lathyrus latifolius has winged hairless stems, and alternating blue green compound leaves consisting of a single pair of leaflets. Unlike the similar annual sweet pea, (Lathyrus odoratus) it has no scent. Bumblebees pollinate the flowers. whereas butterflies visit the flowers for their nectar, but do not pollinate. Epicauta fabricii (Fabricius blister beetle), the caterpillars of Grammia oithona (Oithona tiger moth) and some herbivores feed on the leaves. However, the seeds are poisonous. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/siponto-ophrys-ophrys-sipontensis-an https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0KDmlJO08WiRhiKKFgdoz_YkApc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20517193615463613680d60.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, unusual green form. Nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377577.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nH1hXugy2fvdDuRoZZ7Q8oYCNLs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1935094052624479b04b303.jpgCommon polypody (Polypodium vulgare) underside of frond to show sori. Common polypody (Polypodium vulgare) underside of frond to show sori. These are the capsules that are collections of sprangia that contain the spores. is a species of fern developing in isolation from along a horizontal rhizome. The fronds with triangular leaflets measure 10 to 50 centimetres and are divided all the way back to the central stem in 10 to 18 pairs of segments or leaflets. The leaflets become much shorter at the end of the frond. The leaflets are generally whole or slightly denticulated and somewhat wider at their base, where they often touch each other. They have an alternating arrangement, those on one side being slightly offset from those on the other side. The petioles have no scales. The sori are found on the lower side of the fronds and range in colour from bright yellow to orange. They became dark grey at maturity. The species is widespread and common in Wetsren and central Europe. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Deecember 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385887.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B39u5NeuCKWzlf2n0_KwYyAfFW4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1544010634624860521e362.jpgThe cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) ( travelling with sheep and picking parasitic insects from their fleece The cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) ( travelling with sheep and picking parasitic insects from their fleece iA cosmopolitan species of heron (family Ardeidae) found in the tropics, subtropics, and warm-temperate zones. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Bubulcus, although some authorities regard its two subspecies as full species, the western cattle egret and the eastern cattle egret. Despite the similarities in plumage to the egrets of the genus Egretta, it is more closely related to the herons of Ardea. Originally native to parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe, it has undergone a rapid expansion in its distribution and successfully colonised much of the rest of the world in the last century. Orvieot, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377716.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1FmIp9p-W9qoyekEk0oFGQJufAM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_401966311624481ea57456.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973986.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/06OlevWaftNM1nCzuktXNvwXt5E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1839883727546366fced01a.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377913.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-oqmycFvNbiukDFKJcu7dRmqnZU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_51778721262453dff4783f.jpgPeach blossom (Prunus persica) Peach blossom (Prunus persica) the blossom is of a variety local to the Orvieto region that translatres as "peasant peaches' "Pesca di contadini". Garden, Orvieto, Italy April 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377835.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pLLCxzM7HEVzydp5ZomQKQGGCfQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_76572080362453bdb7b173.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377509.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Lcqt6vFW1Y9Lh6rjLUROCN9FuMQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_830544220624473a2ad504.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wolfs-bane-aconitum-lycoctonum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/p0GDYfsdPFXbsWMnhe07GgNCmgM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1208040833624473aa20662.jpgWolf's-bane (Aconitum lycoctonum) Wolf's-bane (Aconitum lycoctonum) belongs to the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. A species of flowering plant in the genus Aconitum, of the family Ranunculaceae, native to much of Europe and northern Asia. Lycoctonum is a rendering in modern Latin of the traditional name "wolf's-bane" It is an herbaceous perennial plant growing to 1 m tall. The leaves are palmately lobed with four to six deeply cut lobes. In many places the flowers are purple but in the Apennines many populations are all pale yellow Like all species in the genus, it is poisonous. Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385867.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Py4fOFveCsACu5Q2OG-MJmcqnmU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_71024625162485f90d82b1.jpgQueen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ Queen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ widespread in the Mediterranead region and characterised by large silver patches on its underwings. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377715.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LXASdOEVZ4ERK-qeWjqbhOOkgWE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2027366017624481ea3340d.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704427.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2ZHxnihDy5kX7bw46JhC3GxVHGM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1961077890543bbea70b52c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981373.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fXt7SuNCMOyHs_MAiPxCjqA3-k0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15544234095465cf351acf0.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377856.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_DRMPbYZ43FmEjMoJp3DeSQd-sM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_131225874362453be979018.jpgMan and Monkey Orchid Hybrid. Orchis x bergonii = Orchis anthropophorum x Orchis.simia. Man and Monkey Orchid Hybrid. Orchis x bergonii = Orchis anthropophorum x Orchis.simia. hybrid perhaps the most dramatic of all the natural hybrids O.anthropophorum forms: the lips of the flowers are reminiscent of O.anthrophorum but color and 'tails' on the figures are distinctly O.simia. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377974.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/U8fybQNMAebwEPJmeYUbx0IE0DA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_202446363362453e270012f.jpgRusty foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea) Rusty foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea) An imposing species with dramatically. coloured flowers. It grow in meadows and rocky places, wooldna edges on limestone. photographed on Terminillo, Lazio, Italy. July 20121 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377863.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UPP2Z_rJmCcqZ27iliMm8H_w7xU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_62174086262453bed84f68.jpgBee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var tilaventina). Bee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var tilaventina). A distinctive variety of Ophrys apifera (The bee orchid). It has a restricted distribution in the wide river valleys of the Southern alps and nearby regions where it grows in grasslands formed on banks of gravel carried out of the alps by the torrents. transferred out of the alps. The name 'tilaventina' refers to the Roman town Tilaventum on the river Tagliamento. However, the orchid has a much older name ‘purpurea' having been described in 1831 as Ophrys purpurea by Ignaz Friedrich Tausch (1793-1848). In Erich Nelson’s Ophrys monograph it is noted as being the only putative intergeneric hybrid of Ophrys (with Serapias). In an attempt to link it with known orchid species it has also been known as Ophrys integra suggested as a hybrid between O.apifera and Cephalanthera rubra…two orchid general too far apart to hybridise. Treviso, Veneto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/checkered-beetle-trichodes-alvearius https://photos.on-this.website/wm/To3j2SuZJroUklvxPX7pqJxDrAw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_96555597624434201860e.jpgCheckered beetle (Trichodes alvearius Checkered beetle (Trichodes alvearius) is a species of Soldier or belonging to the family Cleridae. It is is a very hairy beetle with black head and scutellum. The elongated elytra show a bright red colour with black bands. This species can easily be distinguished from Trichodes apiarius by the black stripe down the middle of the back (along the inner edge of the elytra) and the red apex, not reached by the black terminal stain.It is usually found on flower heads, feeding on pollemn and it does not fly readily, relying instead on its warning coloration to protect itself from predators. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388167.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e9LPS-z_Aqp0dUHgo4wicFK2jZ0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_928358342624879b301bc0.jpgSpotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) Spotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) widespread in mailand Europe in diverses warm habitats such as dry and rocky meadows and hillsides, steppes, field edges and fallow land. Foodplants various members of Palnatgo, Linaria, Veronica and Antirrihnum species. Sibillini, Umbira, May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-between-sawfly-and-bumble https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yU2BDq1q7HBh7m82H3lcsgNYFPQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1071278713546362642b72e.jpgHybrid between sawfly and bumble-bee orchids (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O.bombyliflora = O. x sommieri) Hybrid between sawfly and bumble-bee orchids (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O.bombyliflora = O. x sommieri). Pescia Romana, Orbetello, Lazio, Italy April 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377986.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CqEBj85Ec92ztyAcB4Otg7_Quz4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1680068662453e2fba111.jpgApennine edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale Apennine edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale), Apennine alpine star or just edelweiss, is a mountain flower belonging to the daisy or sunflower family Asteraceae. The plant prefers rocky limestone places at about 1,800–3,000 metres altitude. L. apennine is generally of smaller stature than L. alpinum. (the more familiar 'edelweiss'). It is non-toxic and has been used in traditional medicine as a remedy against abdominal and respiratory diseases. flowering on Mt Vettore, Umbria, Italy September, 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377969.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/D52sJ5eYyk1Tfp7brQRIhtfnnrg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_91936974562453e2471e8a.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/grass-of-parnassus-parnassia-palustris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DKWCbzXBkjKDqYBPsDpn1sz9LQM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_457668227624473a7a9939.jpgGrass of Parnassus (Parnassia palustris) Grass of Parnassus (Parnassia palustris) a local species found in damp grassy places and in marshes, usually in mountian regions in mainland Europe. The name comes from ancient Greece: evidently the cattle on Mount Parnassus appreciated the plant; hence it was an "honorary grass". The species epithet palustris is Latin for "of the marsh" and indicates its common habitat. It was described by the Greek physician Dioscorides, growing up a mountain in 1st century AD. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981399.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vhWl8qLU3O-VF_hyU9E6lt7rxMQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10031805025465d03b56f52.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species. Gargano nr Lago di Varano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377826.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IUObJTkzBZvMYi70evZTgpxthxM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_112808298662453bd5cdc16.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974210.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/o4R5Vjd5Qg0vTfasTGRvGQN_FO0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_815516228546374ccdc01f.jpgCalliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha) Calliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha), a rare Sicilian Endemic that probaly arouse from hybrids of O. candica with O, oxyrrynchos .Ferla, Sicily, April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973838.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b7D-b8xLpM2N8PB_e5oyhhVdUNg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1905139913546361b8b0030.jpgOphrys x etrusca - Hybrid Orchid: Early spider x Sawfly orchid (Ophrys sphegodes x O. tenthredinifera Hybrid Orchid: Early spider x Sawfly orchid (Ophrys sphegodes x O. tenthredinifera = Ophrys x etrusca) on the Via Appia Antiha, Rome, Italy. May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/glanville-fritillary-melitaea-cinxia-in https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XWt6KcXUgASNZBD7FCjvMjaGUzU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_159213325062454376b95b5.jpgGlanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) (in flight on left) with High brown fritillary (Argynnis adippe ) Glanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) (in flight on left) with High brown fritillary (Argynnis adippe ).Both widespread species in Europe but rare and diminishing in the UK. feeding on nectar from Adenostylis australis, a butterfly magnet in alpine regions. Gran Sasso, Abruzzo, Italy Junly 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/italian-shield-bug-graphosoma-italicum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HD-5bv43Hzk9Zs67AJr5pm02txs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2839029166244799e5e4fd.jpgItalian Shield Bug (Graphosoma italicum) Italian Shield Bug (Graphosoma italicum) a common species on umbillifer flowers. The red striping is a warning colour of foul taste. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752173.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1-d74aoQPJTI3gizhuhKbB_rWWw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19016043805443d32ab0031.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699168.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qfv4GOgeFzjfjDlUY1q2dFnkpL8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_287409649543b8b1484227.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-black-widow-spider-with https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Tew7_lDJ_gbv1cTiqunYrnx0OgQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3544249462454392550de.jpgEuropean Black Widow Spider with coccoon (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus European Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus with coccoon.…The ‘Malmignatta’ or ‘Malmignatta’ or European Black Widow Spider is a creature that inspires fear as innumerable disparaging local names for the creature attest. Malmignatta combines Mal (bad) with mignatta (leech). The Latin name Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus does not damn the species for the specific name tredecimguttatus literally means thirteen spots…a reference to the 13 bright red spots on the black abdomen of the female. In younger specimens these appear as white spots with a red centre. The female of the species has a body length of about 7–15 mm (0.28–0.59 in), while the male is smaller and reaches 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) at best. Like all Latrodectus species, L. tredecimguttatus has a painful bite that is fatal in rare cases. They are not in close association with humans generally, although epidemics of bites have been reported.The Mediterranean black widow primarily lives in steppes and other dry grasslands, and can be a significant problem in areas where grain is harvested by hand. It is not aggressive but bites in defence… Only the female spider's bite is dangerous (either for humans or cattle) as the male cannot penetrate the relatively thick epidermis. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy July 2021(Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus…The ‘Malmignatta’ or ‘Malmignatta’ or European Black Widow Spider is a creature that inspires fear as innumerable disparaging local names for the creature attest. Malmignatta combines Mal (bad) with mignatta (leech). The Latin name Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus does not damn the species for the specific name tredecimguttatus literally means thirteen spots…a reference to the 13 bright red spots on the black abdomen of the female. In younger specimens these appear as white spots with a red centre. The female of the species has a body length of about 7–15 mm (0.28–0.59 in), while the male is smaller and reaches 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) at best. Like all Latrodectus species, L. tredecimguttatus has a painful bite that is fatal in rare cases. They are not in close association with humans generally, although epidemics of bites have been reported.The Mediterranean black widow primarily lives in steppes and other dry grasslands, and can be a significant problem in areas where grain is harvested by hand. It is not aggressive but bites in defence… Only the female spider's bite is dangerous (either for humans or cattle) as the male cannot penetrate the relatively thick epidermis. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-green-lizard-lacerta-viridis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BQcIygD1xfTWzCXB7RmCNJn3YIs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10961550606245437346f1c.jpg European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) ♂︎ The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) ♂︎ is a large lizard distributed across European midlatitudes from Slovenia and eastern Austria to as far east as the Black Sea coasts of Ukraine and Turkey. It is often seen sunning on rocks or lawns, or sheltering amongst bushes. The lizard reaches up to 15 cm (5.9 in) from the tip of the muzzle to the cloaca. The tail can be up to twice the length of the body, total length is up to 40 cm (16 in). This lizard sometimes sheds its tail (autotomy) to evade the grasp of a predator, regrowing it later. The male has a larger head and a uniform green coloring punctuated with small spots that are more pronounced upon its back. The throat is bluish in the adult male and to a lesser extent in the female. The female is more slender than the male and has a more uniform coloration, often displaying between two and four light bands bordered by black spots.Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Aug 2021 Umbria, Italy Aug 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/autumn-colour-with-ginko-ginkgo https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BHR5eYo2aJA-O4-GOmpJOEHUkAo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_115118612962447ad637984.jpgAutumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) Autumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) A tree commonly known as ginkgo or gingko is a species native to China. It is the only living species in the order Ginkgoales, which first appeared over 290 million years ago. Fossils very similar to the living species, belonging to the genus Ginkgo, extend back to the Middle Jurassic approximately 170 million years ago. The tree was cultivated early in human history and remains commonly planted. Gingko leaf extract is commonly used as a dietary supplement, and is claimed to be a vasodilator. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675435.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/30Q6qqa0MD863iBh5M66ghfg73U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1172587948543807e81374c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-polypody-polypodium-vulgare-underside https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-_3uK1cmMG4JqF4QEUydOm_G5Yw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_28670775762443428a3e3c.jpgCommon polypody (Polypodium vulgare) underside of frond to show sori. Common polypody (Polypodium vulgare) underside of frond to show sori. These are the capsules that are collections of sprangia that contain the spores. is a species of fern developing in isolation from along a horizontal rhizome. The fronds with triangular leaflets measure 10 to 50 centimetres and are divided all the way back to the central stem in 10 to 18 pairs of segments or leaflets. The leaflets become much shorter at the end of the frond. The leaflets are generally whole or slightly denticulated and somewhat wider at their base, where they often touch each other. They have an alternating arrangement, those on one side being slightly offset from those on the other side. The petioles have no scales. The sori are found on the lower side of the fronds and range in colour from bright yellow to orange. They became dark grey at maturity. The species is widespread and common in Wetsren and central Europe. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Deecember 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973798.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/L4rbhMxdiFkCj5KXdvFQ5h1jtTc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1929211485463616ac1635.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, Nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377702.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/G0QjJvkExEOF9CHFhz3VCOgoPHE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120660009762447ec22b01d.jpg Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. The female reaching up to 6 centimetres and has a yellow head whereas the male is smaller with black head and longer antennae. The mammoth wasp is found in Mediterranean type habitats such as oak forests, maquis and garrigue and can only occur where its host, the European rhinoceros beetle Oryctes nasicornis is found. The female hunts in dead wood for the grubs which it paralyses with its sting and then lays a single egg on the larva. The wasp grub consumes the beetle larva apart from its skin, eventually building a cocoon and pupating. It emerges from the cocoon as an adult in the following spring. The species can be seen in warm weather feeding on the nectar of flowers, from May to September. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/spanish-broom-spartium-junceum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yOKUvQalO__K2Adob8m75enimcI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_181738067062453e0805324.jpgSpanish broom, (Spartium junceum) Spanish broom, (Spartium junceum) is a fragrant-flowered species in the family Fabaceae, closely related to the other brooms (in the genera Cytisus and Genista). Its leaves polay little part in photosynthesis which takes place mainly in green-shoots a water-conserving stratgy foir dry places. Orvieot, Umbria April 202i https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-tenthredinifera-sawflyophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/31-J7uGRFNDVTRxT0LXNDa0kmMg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1210342663546367767ca98.jpgOphrys tenthredinifera (Sawfly_ophrys) Sawfly Ophrys (Ophrys tenthredinifera) a common and colourful Mediterranean species.above Lago di Varano, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wolf-spider-lycosa-tarantula https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FbeOeBAhnQTtgv4e3PTdyzTlKXU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1223648228624479a45fbe1.jpgWolf spider (Lycosa tarantula) Wolf spider (Lycosa tarantula) female carrying her egg sac beneath her abdomen. These spiders are rather large, the females being as large as 30 mm in body length and the males around 19 mm The silken sac containing over 100 eggs is carried attached to the mother's spinnerets, and then after they hatch, the spiderlings climb on their mother's abdomen and ride around with her for some time until they are sufficiently mature to survive on their own. After leaving their mother's protection, the young spiders disperse and dig burrows. Lycosa tarantula is the species originally known as the tarantula, a name that nowadays in English commonly refers to spiders in another family entirely, the Theraphosidae. It now may be better called the tarantula wolf spider, being in the wolf spider family, the Lycosidae. Lazio, Italy September 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377576.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TB6TlZrNHIGzrWHgpkVN3axt_hk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1822783157624479b03d1e6.jpgCapsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare) Capsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare). This species has charcetristic red stems and bright green capsules when young, turning brown with age. It is a common species that forms cushions on tops of stone wall stops and roofs. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mirror-orchid-ophrys-ciliata-syn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qaNBY-i3b2lWoclUhtj5xzOWkPg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1181468835463688360f98.jpgMirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) Mirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) an intriguingly coloured insect mimic distributed throughout the Mediterranean, nr Grotte di castro, Lazio, Italy, April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-blue-female-polyommatus-icarus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c_005iglc5VehF9f4ZgzPXR_5aI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11528977316244799d8210b.jpgCommon blue female (Polyommatus icarus) ♀︎. Common blue female (Polyommatus icarus) ♀︎. The common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) is a butterfly in the family Lycaenidae found throughout the Palearctic. Common blue males usually have wings that are blue above with a black-brown border and a white fringe. The females are usually brown above with a blue dusting and orange spots. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377878.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZnZlLzcyHT4i1lnNfJ5-twrYWFA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2136170262453bf6b3355.jpgCoralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) Coralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) so called because of the shape of its rhizome and one of four species of European orchid considered to be predominantly saprophytic The others are Neottia nidus-avis, Epipogium aphyllum and Limodorum abortivum). It is a species of woodlands of pine and Spruce but is also found on dune land in Scotland in damper areas. The species is rare in the UK and has a circumboreal distribution in woodland mountain areas in in mainland Europe. Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-orchis-orchis-x-colemanii https://photos.on-this.website/wm/epLp23og6qRZqX_AZkULMiNGaCE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_761684749624481e81166e.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698896.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BQ0k8hK0fm4ZkedDnXM_x_Dw6zE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_934760445543b88fa80faf.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/blue-tailed-damselfly-ischnura-elegans https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K1DnNKGjNskCifl3In8eBY2cNhk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1870987738624879b678f9d.jpgBlue-tailed damselfly (Ischnura elegans) female rufescens-obsoleta Blue-tailed damselfly (Ischnura elegans) female rufescens-obsoleta. Female blue-tailed Damselflies come in a variety of colour forms.[4] Juveniles may be salmon pink, form rufescens; violet, form violacea and a pale green form. The colour darkens as the damselfly ages. Mature females may be blue like the male, form typica; olive green thorax and brown spot, form infuscans or pale brown thorax and brown spot, form infusca-obseleta. Adults fly from April to September to early October.[4] The adult damselflies prey on small flying insects, caught using their legs like a basket to scoop the prey up while flying, or insects taken from leaves. Damselfly nymphs are aquatic, and prey on small aquatic insects or other aquatic larvae.Widespread near open running water and still water. Gargano, Puglia, Italy Sept 2017. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704682.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xFh38v5FtpA-wW7yiwufEgdOcAA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_690974012543bc5b4a57dd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687388.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qUbSWOEGEL5xxnm4LENMOW0P5nc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1242047763543a62050602d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973954.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/06zuWjJHaV-pTpLbWB1lOTKVzHA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12008270065463638d2d640.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704688.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IUKG10py2TSwNCLSRXKMX7n3Wm8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1711184629543bc5bd1327b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704547.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7GqxK0-ZVkJB7InuwGeKnpu0cwE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_460926504543bbf8e651a0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687417.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jfhNQun18jz8NUTmwi8H3p_XIaQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_112556641543a62fc43a74.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377955.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Y_kXdC1LxEeaCWnDQ4hEaVij7sA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_143436572262453e1c2eeec.jpgYellow wood violet (Viola biflora) Yellow wood violet (Viola biflora) found in damp and shady places up to 2200m Abetone, Emila Romana, Italy. Julne 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377722.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Kodi425LKbl0e2d7awSGJN_on8U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1877493195624481f0efbcd.jpgNeapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus Neapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus but following a review of the species in 2014 it was decided that several distinct species existed . High in the Apennines on the Campo Imperatore (2000m +) an incredible display of spring croups occurs just after the snows melt. The timing of this can vary by a month or more. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377970.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-bG3kRtX0jnOKlxe9pgcqNBOT2g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_71200790062453e24d8ad1.jpgDeadly Nightshde (Atropa belladonna). Deadly Nightshde (Atropa belladonna). This species is a highly poisonous member of the Solanaceae which is the family that embraces tomatoes, aubergines, potatoes and capsicums. The fruits and tubers might be edible but their green parts are posionous ...they contain tropane alkaloids such as Atropine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine which are also presetn in the more poisonous members of other genera within the family: (Brugsmania, Datura (Thorn apple) and Hyoscyamus Henbane). Deadly nightshade, thorn apple and Henbane have long been favoured constituents of witches' and murders' potions. Atropine has medicla uses through its ability to regulate involuntary such as sweating, breathing heart rate and pupila dialtion (hence its use in eye surgery). All parts of Atropa belladonna are posionous and cause narcois and paralysis in humans and domestic animals though both cattle and rabbits seem able to eat it. The berries are large, shining and black and appealing to children...Mt Amiata, Tuscany, Italy, June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704526.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VJRfSSoTueskKnRnk8waXmvcmYI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1756018088543bbf66e5427.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378009.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e8fXilo_m2rDK0HO_oGjeywSLfs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5713337776245437eaaaec.jpgLong-horned beetle (Aegosoma scabricorne) Long-horned beetle (Aegosoma scabricorne). This species can reach a length of 25–52 millimetres (0.98–2.05 in).[5] It is one of the biggest long-horned beetles in Europe. Body is elongated, finely pubescent, of a reddish yellow color. Head is narrowed behind the eyes. Antennae are composed by 11 segments, rough in the male. Prothorax is narrowed forward, Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687347.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u-nG5wqNRHMXh32PUJFrLhe4TpA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1574285516543a617778136.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759403.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aMgm7EI2RDAfSKzs1i-FGgorxGQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_109796552754443ab58602e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377565.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FlvkVhugjI5qMpnfH785yAs5PPw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1724442705624479a7a1f07.jpgthe four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus, the four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus,) is a common orb-weaver spider found in Europe and Central Asia, and as far as the Kamchatka Peninsula and Japan. Females can reach 17 mm in length, especially when gravid, males approximately half that. They are quite variable in appearance, ranging from brown to bright orange or green, but they always have the four characteristic, indented ,white spots on the abdomen. The darker color morphs are easier to identify, due to the contrast between the white spots and the rest of the body. The legs are sometimes brightly striped. File:Araneus quadratus - female.ogv A female eats a crane fly The spider lives in gardens, wooded areas, or wherever there is vegetation to string an orb web across. This species builds its web close to the ground to catch jumping insects such as small grasshoppers. The female builds the more elaborate web, complete with a funnel-shaped retreat off to the side where she goes during inclement weather. The web is smaller and closer to the ground than those of other species of orb-weaver. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680743.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6sZGiEGEYcBcpUazeP-s3yp1tXc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_185584920854396b3bf2835.jpgStrawberry Tree (Arbutus andrachne) a common shrub/ small tree of the Mediterranean maquis and aslso the foodplant of the larvae of the Two-tailed Pasha butterfly (Charaxes jasius). The berries are edible but rather insipid. Photographed nr Orvieto, Italy ,October 2013. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704516.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w0Qm32vbPMX-IbAWfnYWX6JTKR8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1820560734543bbf53b0298.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377866.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vRuEH12A2UMrJ6UXpQ1i8PMmnyY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1404312462453bef79189.jpgBee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var tilaventina). Bee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var tilaventina). A distinctive variety of Ophrys apifera (The bee orchid). It has a restricted distribution in the wide river valleys of the Southern alps and nearby regions where it grows in grasslands formed on banks of gravel carried out of the alps by the torrents. transferred out of the alps. The name 'tilaventina' refers to the Roman town Tilaventum on the river Tagliamento. However, the orchid has a much older name ‘purpurea' having been described in 1831 as Ophrys purpurea by Ignaz Friedrich Tausch (1793-1848). In Erich Nelson’s Ophrys monograph it is noted as being the only putative intergeneric hybrid of Ophrys (with Serapias). In an attempt to link it with known orchid species it has also been known as Ophrys integra suggested as a hybrid between O.apifera and Cephalanthera rubra…two orchid general too far apart to hybridise. Treviso, Veneto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377916.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wWGuQlfgDqq3aXFX1t3fkJTa1EI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_67165138562453e01ccf0a.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) usually blue-violet but also in yellow, white and lilac Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) usually blue-violet but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation where it is an endemic of the Gargano peninsula and some other parts of Puglia in Italy. For a long time this species was thought to be Iris lutescens (syn chamaeiris) which instead occurs on the other side of Italy. (Lazio, Toscana) However it is now recognised as botanically different and distinct. It is a more robust species, with a distinct stem (up to 40 cm in cultivation) bearing two flowers at the head of each stem – hence the specific name. In comparison, Iris lutescens (as well as the other Apulian endemic Iris pseudopumila) bears only one flower, without a stem, (the floral tube acts as a stem). This species has a pleasant scent, with notes of roses and violets https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385905.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DcDt2JgZP573FP_Ea74dLE6vYKg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8371498986248605e73b52.jpgSilver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia Silver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia) ♀ a large butterfly of woodland clearings,eggs are laid on violet species. Gran Sasso, Umbria, Italy July 2021I https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704657.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9hEtK9Vjssxv3YhpUbnKeUQpCQY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_633705395543bc587f1e44.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675400.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/esGFE_9OYahRJ5cmQ0heAmZIQOg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1569817476543806b4865e3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698876.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jRzw5TPr_8w_v8oVq9xCrOfXJJg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1042731924543b88e2392ca.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/broad-bordered-bee-hawk-moth https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ijPQTq1hj3RRHVqEKixv39h95-w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17882665962485f8cad2c1.jpgBroad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) A day-flying species feeding on nectar rich flowers such as honeysuckle (the larval foodplant). When freshly emerged from the pupal stage the wings have a light covering of olive-green scales but these are quickly lost after the first flight rendering the wings transpaerent. Found in woodland rides and open grassland it is easily overlooked since its rapid flight makes it looks like a large bee or hummingbird hawk-moth. Scarce in the UK but locally frequent in the rest of Europe. Photographed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377874.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZD5nmgaynj5nVMiMe44IjTAl37U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_141129780862453bf495a14.jpgLesser twayblade (Neottia cordata also Listera cordata) Lesser twayblade (Neottia cordata also Listera cordata) This is an orchid of acidic habitats, never very common but may be frequently overlooked because of its small size and a tendency to grow underneath heather growing rooted in sphagnum moss and also on mossy woodland floors in conifer woods. It rarely exceeds 15cm in height (with taller stems in woodlands) and has a slender creeping rhizome (heavily infected with mycorrhizal fungus which provided a large part off its nutrition). The small flowers (about 2-3mm)) which look deceptively simple in structure for an orchid, are purple-green in colour with a somewhat swollen calyx and flowers persist long after fertilisation. The flowers produce nectar and are pollinated principally by fungus gnats The single erect flower-stem is often tinged red and is clasped near the base by a pair or ovate-orbicular glossy green leaves...they are roughly heart shaped (hence the specific name ‘cordata’whereas ‘twayblade’ refers to two leaves which are remarkably like the pair of cotyledons produced by beech seeds after germination germinating. It was formerly placed in the genus Listera along with the far commoner Twayblade (Neottia ovata) but molecular phylogenetic studies have shown that Neottia nidus-avis, the Bird's-nest Orchid, evolved within the same group. It has a circumpolar distribution being found in Europe, Asia, Greenland and large parts of North America (where there are several other Neottia/Listra species) . In the United Kingdom its distribution is western and northern becoming most common in the western highlands and is also found in Snowdonia and the Lake District. In Italy it is a rare species of Mountain woodlands (often spruce). Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/toothwort-lathraea-squamaria https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MWfUIJqng9teABK8o7gRrv19EeI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_85112293854396b58eff9b.jpgToothwort (Lathraea squamaria) Toothwort (Lathraea squamaria) a parasitc species on the roots of hazel and poplar. found nr Orvieto, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689280.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WZdT1Ot0DuF5Qb02JFq6UXxBQWI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1310774121543aa2a700751.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698862.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IOIOf8rMSeFN1_q07Mc3IRF4LRc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_148193286543b88d02e9e8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704705.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mE3k5R1TNOmzZvPhDQb6dRGytXg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_471524065543bc5d3d82b2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/white-tailed-bumble-bee-bombus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dZkwKelBwZLaOkm7GEoPy5BJ1E4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10468030416244798fa6cf9.jpgWhite-tailed bumble bee ♂︎ (Bombus leucorum) White-tailed bumble bee ♂︎ (Bombus leucorum) Bombus lucorum, the white-tailed bumblebee, is a species of bumblebee, widespread and common throughout Europe. Compared to other bumblebee species, they have shorter probosces which enable them to access nectar. The worker bee uses the horny sheath around the proboscis to make a hole thus reaching the nectar without entering the flower. Thus the worker bee does not come directly in contact with the pollen The nests of B. lucorum can be found underground and may be very large, containing up to 400 workers. Often, they are abandoned nests of old mice or vole. In the nest, the queen makes a circular chamber where she builds a wax egg cell in which she lays her first batch of eggs. The eggs are laid on a layer of pollen and then covered again with a wax layer. In the UK, they prefer to have their nests facing south for extra warmth. Villalba, Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/autumn-colour-virginia-creeper-parthenocissus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/283GwvkO0RX5Tn6pCQ4knu4n0B0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_118530487562447ad1b4de0.jpgAutumn colour Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) Autumn colour Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) also known as Victoria creeper, five-leaved ivy, or five-finger, is a species of flowering vine in the grape family, Vitaceae. It is native to eastern and central North America. Parthenocissus quinquefolia is a prolific deciduous climber, reaching heights of 20–30 m in the wild. It climbs smooth surfaces using small forked tendrils tipped with small strongly adhesive pads 5 mm. The flowers are small and greenish, produced in inconspicuous clusters in late spring, and mature in late summer or early Autumn into small hard purplish-black berries 5 to 7 mm diameter. These berries contain toxic amounts of oxalic acid and have been known to cause kidney damage and death to humans.The berries are not toxic to birds and provide an important winter food source for many bird species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-garden-spider-araneus-diadematus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/R1y7wrVluJE_P8b7HfRVgSZ8_wo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_146203652562447995d5e81.jpgEuropean garden spider (Araneus diadematus European garden spider (Araneus diadematus ) also called the, diadem spider, orangie, cross spider and crowned orb weaver. It is sometimes called the pumpkin spider, although this name is also used for a different species, Araneus marmoreus. It is an orb-weaver spider found in Europe and North America.Individual spiders' colourings can range from extremely light yellow to very dark grey, but all A. diadematus have mottled white markings across the dorsal abdomen, with four or more segments forming a cross. Sometimes webs can be found where the eggs have hatched within the cocoon and the tiny spiderlings scatter as a defence. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy, July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377849.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lX8SiPIPP6J6gl-bT_lW0Q4yAXA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_136453442462453be3f3da8.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species. The specific name Vomeracea is the latin for a ploughsare (blade) which recalls the shape of the lip. Most Seraias species are bo pollinated and can, towards evening be found with bee inside the 'tube' made my three sepals and two petals other than the lip. The plants are thought to produce a susbstance that is soporific for bees...and whent hey leave they do so carrying off the pollinia (pollen bundles). Mte Amiata, Toscana, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377889.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ovmTvq_8RbYC91m107tFbCYvuoE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_156024922962453bfbcf5b4.jpgRed Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) Red Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) an orchid growing on limestone, protected everywhere in Europe and Red Data Book listed. It is extremely rare in the UK where it is on the edged of its range and has just a handful of sites it grows in light dry woodland...beechwoods, under oak and at the margins of pine and spruce forests. If leaf cover above it becomes too dense then the species reverts to a vegetative growth and stops flowering whilst being dependent upon the mycorrhizal fungi in its roots. Piediluco (Lago di Ventina), Umbria, Italy. July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385864.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/D46V_Sx1jDh1tP850_sKPlLVYns=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_151204466862485f8e80f53.jpgBroad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) A day-flying species feeding on nectar rich flowers such as honeysuckle (the larval foodplant). When freshly emerged from the pupal stage the wings have a light covering of olive-green scales but these are quickly lost after the first flight rendering the wings transpaerent. Found in woodland rides and open grassland it is easily overlooked since its rapid flight makes it looks like a large bee or hummingbird hawk-moth. Scarce in the UK but locally frequent in the rest of Europe. Photographed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385822.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5HH0EAOoO6rVDEAS04hq9lXLpoY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_150644444062485e2542c56.jpgthe ladybird spider (Eresus kollari,) The ladybird spider (Eresus kollari,), is a spider species in the family Eresidae. It is one of the three species into which Eresus cinnaberinus or Eresus niger has been divided. Eresus kollari keep the remains of their prey stacked in the web. The females use the same burrow throughout their whole life. The prey can be large like tenebrionoid beetles, up to 32.5 mm long. Whereas males can be seen in the open on dry bare ground in daytime, the females oftn remain hidden within burrows. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385914.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7VYrl6bmDS-HvIKtEuC8sDoZthg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1221042680624860656ab35.jpgBroad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) A day-flying species feeding on nectar rich flowers such as honeysuckle (the larval foodplant). When freshly emerged from the pupal stage the wings have a light covering of olive-green scales but these are quickly lost after the first flight rendering the wings transpaerent. Found in woodland rides and open grassland it is easily overlooked since its rapid flight makes it looks like a large bee or hummingbird hawk-moth. Scarce in the UK but locally frequent in the rest of Europe. Photographed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377661.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tQkYTVRBcihx6R3d1k9Q8i0aYkU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6161343162447ea15b7af.jpgCaterpillar of the orange tip butterfly (Anthocaris cardamines) Caterpillar of the orange tip butterfly (Anthocaris cardamines) has a rapid growth rate and is superbly camouflaged on foodplants such as Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Orvieto, Umbria Italy. April 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-biscutella-x-otenthredinifera-o https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TZrqle0oc6Y76yoSEpo93Lu-FIQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18134735315463745c3de8e.jpgOphrys biscutella x O.tenthredinifera (O. x montis-angeli) Hybrid between the shield orchid and sawfly orchid (Ophrys biscutella x O.tenthredinifera = O. x montis-angeli). nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/napoleon-spider-synema-globosum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TTlImwI2ruGwygUe4iI0rqLa49k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_118627979862447ea537189.jpgNapoleon spider (Synema globosum) Napoleon spider (Synema globosum) the common name derives from - the black pattern on the abdomen resembling to the silhouette of Napoleon with hat.The adult males reach 2–4 mm in length, while females are 6–8 millimetres long. Found in the Mediterranean region from May through August on flowering plants (especially Umbellifers), waiting for their prey. The species shows variation in colour among females. Mature males have a black abdomen with two white marks. In mature females, the background colour of the abdomen can be red, yellow or white, .Prosoma and legs are black or dark brown. Orvieot, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/langs-short-tailed-blue-leptotes https://photos.on-this.website/wm/meGKN-kPLgdE95GT_rQiWWrxKQ0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_898294478624479a4ea143.jpgLang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) also Common zebra blue. Lang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) also Common zebra blue. Leptotes pirithous is a small butterfly with a wingspan of 21–29 mm in males and 24–30 mm in females. The uppersides of the wings are purple bluish in males, bluish brown in female. The undersides are dark beige striped with white lines. The hindwings show marginal orange and black spots and two small tails. Found . Frequents grasslands, including cultivated areas to 2300m. The larvae feed on the flowers and fruits of Fabaceae, Rosaceae and Plumbaginaceae . They are frequqnet mIgrants in and there is aLong flight season This species can be found in southern Europe (Spain, France and Italy), along the Mediterranean coast, in Asia Minor up to the Himalayas, and in most of Africa and Madagascar Feb-Oct (Nov) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/brimstone-butterfly-gonepteryx-rhamni https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CgNUFNVNodqoSy2qzEf0jRkplhw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_150022619162447ea0406c9.jpgBrimstone butterfly (Gonepteryx rhamni)♀︎ Brimstone butterfly (Gonepteryx rhamni)♀︎ The only member of the whites (Pieridae) to overwinter as the imago...the insect appears in early spring and also in warm spells duing winter in some regions. The male is sulphur yellow (hence the name Brismtone) whilst the female is a pale greenish tinged white. There are two species of larval foodplant: the alder buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula) and the common buckthorn (Rhamnus carthartica). The adult often overwinters within ivy on trees and with wings folded is highly camouflaged. Podere Montecucco, Orvvieto, Umbria, Italy. April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/transparent-burnet-zygaena-purpuralis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SCd7hifsVYxsBOkqhzSJQ0o1fYE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_945300172624879c198b92.jpgTransparent burnet (Zygaena purpuralis) Transparent burnet (Zygaena purpuralis) a burnet moth whose red colour is in patches rather than spots. Frequent in the Alpine meadows up to 2000m where its larvae feed on wild thyme species. Campo Felice, Abruzzo, Italy 10 June 2016 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377829.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aHYDv0EuckSmbB_8SWcE1apTBW8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_99086607462453bd754066.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755755.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AIwxmKibSR6fATRuJ-B2fYHUImQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6588026745443ffe659831.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377827.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YPKgYi8IGMFJjfU7siuFnQTAhG0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_82054915562453bd5e2f1d.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-cattle-egret-bubulcus-ibis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7-h_cxQypP4kNqpK-2c_If00_6Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_47233745462485f98b5e25.jpgThe cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) ( travelling with sheep and picking parasitic insects from their fleece The cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) ( travelling with sheep and picking parasitic insects from their fleece iA cosmopolitan species of heron (family Ardeidae) found in the tropics, subtropics, and warm-temperate zones. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Bubulcus, although some authorities regard its two subspecies as full species, the western cattle egret and the eastern cattle egret. Despite the similarities in plumage to the egrets of the genus Egretta, it is more closely related to the herons of Ardea. Originally native to parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe, it has undergone a rapid expansion in its distribution and successfully colonised much of the rest of the world in the last century. Orvieot, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698852.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TbVCszuGiXpJ3So2q-bUkAG1VE8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1666445132543b88c1662b9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mammoth-wasp-megascolia-maculata-the https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Q4sBo-QVgmOABaEmG1PVc3KKpI4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_45923762362447eb502b17.jpg Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. The female reaching up to 6 centimetres and has a yellow head whereas the male is smaller with black head and longer antennae. The mammoth wasp is found in Mediterranean type habitats such as oak forests, maquis and garrigue and can only occur where its host, the European rhinoceros beetle Oryctes nasicornis is found. The female hunts in dead wood for the grubs which it paralyses with its sting and then lays a single egg on the larva. The wasp grub consumes the beetle larva apart from its skin, eventually building a cocoon and pupating. It emerges from the cocoon as an adult in the following spring. The species can be seen in warm weather feeding on the nectar of flowers, from May to September. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377995.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hto0UqCDa1UV4PV4mX9sh3PXaLo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_204891344462453e3592ad6.jpgAutumn narcissus (Narcissus serotinus) Autumn narcissus (Narcissus serotinus) is a species of the genus Narcissus (daffodils) in the family Amaryllidaceae. It is classified in Section Serotini. It is native to southern Europe from Portugal to Greece Cyprus and Israel, where it blossoms in the autumn. It has one of the smallest coronas of the genus (see illustration). The flowers are fragrant, the tepals white and the small corona yellow. Usually a single flower is borne per stem with two occasionally. It appears in autumn when summer temperatures are lowers and its slender stems appear from the baked earth often close to the sea. Circeo, Lazio, Italy September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378013.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5pL-M1PQ2efv4PXGvpZS2SQoggw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1199727115624543837c223.jpgEuropean Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus European Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus)…The ‘Malmignatta’ or ‘Malmignatta’ or European Black Widow Spider is a creature that inspires fear as innumerable disparaging local names for the creature attest. Malmignatta combines Mal (bad) with mignatta (leech). The Latin name Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus does not damn the species for the specific name tredecimguttatus literally means thirteen spots…a reference to the 13 bright red spots on the black abdomen of the female. In younger specimens these appear as white spots with a red centre. The female of the species has a body length of about 7–15 mm (0.28–0.59 in), while the male is smaller and reaches 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) at best. Like all Latrodectus species, L. tredecimguttatus has a painful bite that is fatal in rare cases. They are not in close association with humans generally, although epidemics of bites have been reported.The Mediterranean black widow primarily lives in steppes and other dry grasslands, and can be a significant problem in areas where grain is harvested by hand. It is not aggressive but bites in defence… Only the female spider's bite is dangerous (either for humans or cattle) as the male cannot penetrate the relatively thick epidermis. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo19486458.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/k41uDUi1KOXqtkvLrFVJ9jdEI-4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_533822371524fcd0388131.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bertoloni039s-ophrys-ophrys-bertolonii https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6dRSotMv1h6OM0484P9gj9Q3rFs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93729301854636b388eb4c.jpgBertoloni&#039;s Ophrys (Ophrys bertolonii) Bertoloni&#039;s Ophrys (Ophrys bertolonii) a widespread species throughout Italy. nr Torrealfina, Orvieto, Umbria,, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-variation-ophrys-apifera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K16I7lYt4gNZ3ReCUp3WqH7exYI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_78239051762453bec57395.jpgBee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var tilaventina). Bee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var tilaventina). A distinctive variety of Ophrys apifera (The bee orchid). It has a restricted distribution in the wide river valleys of the Southern alps and nearby regions where it grows in grasslands formed on banks of gravel carried out of the alps by the torrents. transferred out of the alps. The name 'tilaventina' refers to the Roman town Tilaventum on the river Tagliamento. However, the orchid has a much older name ‘purpurea' having been described in 1831 as Ophrys purpurea by Ignaz Friedrich Tausch (1793-1848). In Erich Nelson’s Ophrys monograph it is noted as being the only putative intergeneric hybrid of Ophrys (with Serapias). In an attempt to link it with known orchid species it has also been known as Ophrys integra suggested as a hybrid between O.apifera and Cephalanthera rubra…two orchid general too far apart to hybridise. Treviso, Veneto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377572.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gXooIZA1Y5EjrgUxepHs2rXvC7s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1058872402624479ace9f22.jpgthe four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus, the four-spot orb-weaver, (Araneus quadratus,) is a common orb-weaver spider found in Europe and Central Asia, and as far as the Kamchatka Peninsula and Japan. Females can reach 17 mm in length, especially when gravid, males approximately half that. They are quite variable in appearance, ranging from brown to bright orange or green, but they always have the four characteristic, indented ,white spots on the abdomen. The darker color morphs are easier to identify, due to the contrast between the white spots and the rest of the body. The legs are sometimes brightly striped. File:Araneus quadratus - female.ogv A female eats a crane fly The spider lives in gardens, wooded areas, or wherever there is vegetation to string an orb web across. This species builds its web close to the ground to catch jumping insects such as small grasshoppers. The female builds the more elaborate web, complete with a funnel-shaped retreat off to the side where she goes during inclement weather. The web is smaller and closer to the ground than those of other species of orb-weaver. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699174.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tDeHZwcKaJFtmT1BI-fRM_LnyxI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1869429042543b8b22ccbea.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-black-widow-spider-latrodectus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mxjnKK2kZpgYyFgVg5C4uvYCauI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7284137906245438368920.jpgEuropean Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus European Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus)…The ‘Malmignatta’ or ‘Malmignatta’ or European Black Widow Spider is a creature that inspires fear as innumerable disparaging local names for the creature attest. Malmignatta combines Mal (bad) with mignatta (leech). The Latin name Latrodectus tredecimaguttatus does not damn the species for the specific name tredecimguttatus literally means thirteen spots…a reference to the 13 bright red spots on the black abdomen of the female. In younger specimens these appear as white spots with a red centre. The female of the species has a body length of about 7–15 mm (0.28–0.59 in), while the male is smaller and reaches 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) at best. Like all Latrodectus species, L. tredecimguttatus has a painful bite that is fatal in rare cases. They are not in close association with humans generally, although epidemics of bites have been reported.The Mediterranean black widow primarily lives in steppes and other dry grasslands, and can be a significant problem in areas where grain is harvested by hand. It is not aggressive but bites in defence… Only the female spider's bite is dangerous (either for humans or cattle) as the male cannot penetrate the relatively thick epidermis. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/digger-wasp-sphex-flavipennis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cAqrfUM0wWGSIzDTH2GbZjo59fk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_70855789662447992a9108.jpgDigger wasp (Sphex flavipennis). Digger wasp (Sphex flavipennis). Wasps in the genus Sphhex are predators that sting and paralyse insects. In preparation for egg laying, they construct a protected "nest" (some species dig nests in the ground, while others use pre-existing holes) and then stock it with captured insects. Typically, the prey are left alive, but paralyzed by wasp toxins. The wasps lay their eggs in the provisioned nest and the wasp larvae feed on the paralyzed insects as they develop. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. Umbria, Italy June 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/red-helleborine-cephalanthera-rubra https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AM4C-n_iOgd7s8rQ114ukC1Xx6o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18352367016244676c9ef06.jpgRed Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) Red Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) an orchid growing on limestone, protected everywhere in Europe and Red Data Book listed. It is extremely rare in the UK where it is on the edged of its range and has just a handful of sites it grows in light dry woodland...beechwoods, under oak and at the margins of pine and spruce forests. If leaf cover above it becomes too dense then the species reverts to a vegetative growth and stops flowering whilst being dependent upon the mycorrhizal fungi in its roots. Mte Sirente, Abruzzo, Italy. June 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704638.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uAWd19uLd0UtR5Rr7efBabtM_Qg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1214105290543bc55c2c0fb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/queen-of-spain-fritillary-isoria https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qBP7ij0VyWra-C9vxfySLhG3a3M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10047681226245439188f7a.jpgQueen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ Queen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ widespread in the Mediterranead region and characterised by large silver patches on its underwings. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, October 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679296.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/W26_1OaSLG1IFPY1pbFXcrrpcnc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7654422985439484f06310.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mantidfly-matispa-styriaca-also-known https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rbnVvMrdU6aQH9BCoPTZb-XO5Yw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12641587306244799bc0c7f.jpgMantidfly (Matispa styriaca) also known as Styrian praying lacewing Mantidfly (Matispa styriaca) also known as Styrian praying lacewing. Photographed at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto 05018 Italy, August 2020. The adult insect is a yellow-brown color with transparent wings that have a wingspan of 35 mm (1.4 in). The species can be found in southern and central Europe. Its forelegs are similar to those of the praying mantis, with the ability to seize living prey. The larval life-cycle has a number of distant stages: the larva emerges from reddish eggs after 21 days and then hibernates through the winter. In the spring, the larva searches for a female wolf or fishing spider, of the genera Lycosa and Dolomedes, and bores its way into the cocoon that the spider carries on its abdomen, by biting a slit open. In its first stage, it is carnivorous as shown by dead spiders being found around it. Before the larva moults, it resembles a bristle-tail (dipluran) then after the first moult, the species has short legs that it cannot use, a small head, jaws that extend straight out, and pointed antennae that extend beyond the jaws. Once the larva starts metamorphosis, it pupates by spinning a cocoon inside the spider's egg sac, in which it stays up to 14 days before its final moulting Pupation happens in the middle of June. It is a nymph after emerging from the cocoon, not yet in its adult form.[Once it enters the adult stage, the species hunt for prey by using fast strikes of their forelegs that can take less than 60 ms similar to the praying mantis. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704699.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8dO-HXASQ-XyQi_UJh7z7HsVn8E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_937965741543bc5cb1a9f8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-six-spot-burnet-zygaena https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sZKSZxRjUChhyU4s57eGZW83maQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19518120366245437a810d1.jpgThe six-spot burnet (Zygaena filipendulae) The six-spot burnet (Zygaena filipendulae) is a day-flying moth of the family Zygaenidae. This species can be found in meadows, woodland clearings, sea-cliffs and area rich in grasses and flowers, up to 2000 m altitude. It is an aposematic moth because it is distinguished by its colors as toxic to predators like birds and lizards. If attacked it emits a liquid containing cyanide. The adults fly on hot, sunny days from June to August,] and are attracted to a wide variety of flowers such as knapweed and scabious, as well as the larval food plants bird's foot trefoil, Dorycnium, Coronilla and clover. The species overwinters as a larva. The larva pupates in early summer in a papery cocoon attached to a grass stem Lago di Ventina, Terni, Umbria, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/plain-tiger-danaus-chrysippus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/X_kcCreQc6vg4cPxMj9hgynkvxE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1366934610624879b7051b8.jpgPlain tiger (Danaus chrysippus) Plain tiger (Danaus chrysippus), also known as the African queen, is widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa with small colonies in and migration to S. Europe. Like the monarch it belongs to the Danainae a subfamily of the Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed, plants that contain toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. In Europe the larval foodplant is one of the Periploca species. The plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators because of their emetic properties and the species' coloration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas. In Europe, it occurs in far southern regions both as relict populations and as migrants (which reinforce those populations in late summer of each year. The insects here were photographed near Lago di Lesina, Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377833.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_7eKXqz-981DSRuCCdsFWyDvnK0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_174098028262453bda3e412.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981382.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oCHbQZotr_l32NvbOAJKITB0VD0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11614360525465cfb38b90e.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751181.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mEtQ_osi3KZvSSfS91Mie62vL3I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15181330735443c45636ff9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755726.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8oKEIqYnI04ab5-siyYz2uwdfC0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4567447465443ff8cf06da.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689281.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EkMEXinaOKVg1jJYaeCHurmE6-E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2116855676543aa2ac9fa10.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/buff-tailed-bumblebee-bombus-terrestris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rpMkRQ4xlZEN4r2NbYc4ed3afvk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_42752704662447bb00af6f.jpgBuff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) Buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) Bombus terrestris, the buff-tailed bumblebee or large earth bumblebee, is one of the most numerous bumblebee species in Europe. Moreover, it is a eusocial insect with an overlap of generations, a division of labor, and cooperative brood care. The queen is monandrous which means she mates with only one male. Nests are usually found underground, such as in abandoned rodent dens. Colonies form comb-like nest structures with egg cells each containing several eggs. The queen will lay egg cells on top of one another. Colonies produce between 300 and 400 bees on average, with a large variation in the number of workerB. terrestris workers learn flower colors and forage efficiently. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751182.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jJaGQe5iw5DtRnubrRgaezBhjwU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8622198025443c45a33f15.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377587.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/i9maPOq04vHoKJuj8RYWAuhjINA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_82778002562447ad60ffd7.jpgOld man's beard (Clematis vitalba) Old man's beard (Clematis vitalba) also known as traveller's joy is a climbing shrub of the family Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family) Clematis vitalba has branched, grooved stems, deciduous leaves, and scented greeny-white flowers with fluffy underlying sepals. The many fruits formed in each inflorescence have long silky appendages which, seen together, give the characteristic appearance of old man's beard. In Italy, the sprouts are harvested to make omelettes (called "vitalbini" in Tuscany, "visoni" in Veneto). Numerous moths have it as a larval food plant. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. September 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377653.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PzAagfHSfETUfvdXFJCgNXF4OtM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_193328284262447e9c46a76.jpgBlackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details also sloe, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa. The fruits are used to make sloe gin in Britain and patxaran in the Navarre autonomous community of Spain. The wood is used to make walking sticks, including the Irish shillelagh. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy March 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377525.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2VS5OlXc-HSjEmQg4PY4btb9UXc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2007613846624473ad97e0e.jpgField Dodder (Cuscuta campestris) Field Dodder (Cuscuta campestris) a parasitic plant that forms a twining mass of stems on Triflium (Clover) species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy Nove 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/southern-bladderwort-utricularia-australis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mzeiPBZcK7iKCfPmZxnlcx8axcc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_26168888062443430cb1a8.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-oxyrrynchos-an-orchid-endemic https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oQRDfM-fgs7wpmlzHHYqpJvFBIY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_947802590546374b52e658.jpg(Ophrys oxyrrynchos) an orchid endemic mainly to Sicily and the Salento region (Ophrys oxyrrynchos) an orchid endemic mainly to Sicily and the Salento region, Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/rosy-garlic-allium-roseum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mmr5Up2Pxa-A4YVrNxWs2fr0yq0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209298904662453e0938a26.jpgRosy garlic (Allium roseum) Rosy garlic (Allium roseum) is an edible, species of wild garlic native to the Mediterranean region and nearby areas, with a natural range extending from Portugal and Morocco to Turkey and the Palestine region. Rosy garlic is widely cultivated, and has also become naturalised in other regions outside its natural range. Its odour is sufficiently powerful to deter animals such as deer and squirrel from attempting to eat it and it can be planted with other bulbs in a garden as a deterrent. Orvieto, Umbria, April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974240.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_-RbMXvzg27UlGzpzD0RjWd0930=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15099543235463764a31060.jpgOphrys sphegodes ssp garganica (Ophrys passionis ssp passionis) Ophrys sphegodes ssp garganica (Ophrys passionis ssp passionis) an orchid widespread in various parts of central Italy growing on limestone. Mt Amiata, Tuscany, Italy. June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377622.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tN7fpAClta7GNeDWFl95KYWVHic=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_56786646862447bb291706.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) with small elephant haw (Deilephila porcellus) The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) with small elephant haw (Deilephila porcellus) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377700.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HjVf7xj_6k1jlAtGwSeIAawRVb8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_79885460562447ec09ece4.jpg Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. The female reaching up to 6 centimetres and has a yellow head whereas the male is smaller with black head and longer antennae. The mammoth wasp is found in Mediterranean type habitats such as oak forests, maquis and garrigue and can only occur where its host, the European rhinoceros beetle Oryctes nasicornis is found. The female hunts in dead wood for the grubs which it paralyses with its sting and then lays a single egg on the larva. The wasp grub consumes the beetle larva apart from its skin, eventually building a cocoon and pupating. It emerges from the cocoon as an adult in the following spring. The species can be seen in warm weather feeding on the nectar of flowers, from May to September. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377994.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MT-Agj-mYzYpLwg2Pwc-R0KcMN4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_153662548462453e358f71a.jpgAutumn narcissus (Narcissus serotinus) Autumn narcissus (Narcissus serotinus) is a species of the genus Narcissus (daffodils) in the family Amaryllidaceae. It is classified in Section Serotini. It is native to southern Europe from Portugal to Greece Cyprus and Israel, where it blossoms in the autumn. It has one of the smallest coronas of the genus (see illustration). The flowers are fragrant, the tepals white and the small corona yellow. Usually a single flower is borne per stem with two occasionally. It appears in autumn when summer temperatures are lowers and its slender stems appear from the baked earth often close to the sea. Circeo, Lazio, Italy September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377613.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GQvwHi43et-59xHfWB588GPzvTY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_80292636662447ae8c767c.jpgAutumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) Autumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) A tree commonly known as ginkgo or gingko is a species native to China. It is the only living species in the order Ginkgoales, which first appeared over 290 million years ago. Fossils very similar to the living species, belonging to the genus Ginkgo, extend back to the Middle Jurassic approximately 170 million years ago. The tree was cultivated early in human history and remains commonly planted. Gingko leaf extract is commonly used as a dietary supplement, and is claimed to be a vasodilator. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-bee-eater-merops-apiaster https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uEgwjbRRLzvgHdFgnNOR7prmgwM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120488811262485e29454b3.jpgEuropean bee eater (Merops apiaster) European bee eater (Merops apiaster) The European bee-eater is one of the more colourful of the twenty seven different species of bee-eaters found worldwide.Bee-eaters are insectivorous and as well as feeding off bees also take many other insects including wasps, dragon flies and locusts. They tend to catch their food on the wing by swooping down from above and grasping their prey in their strong slim bills which they then take back to their perch. Prior to consuming bees and wasps in particular the bee-eater strikes or rubs its prey against a branch in order to remove the insects sting before consumption. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hornet-ophrys-yellow-variety-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UvBrbpVXmwk-xywENd3dhlcAljA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17787301154636254ac010.jpgHornet Ophrys yellow variety (Ophrys crabronifera var chlorantha) Hornet Ophrys yellow variety (Ophrys crabronifera var chlorantha) occasionally yellow forms of many Ophrys occur. Villalago, nr Terni, Umbria, Italy April 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704437.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bbJdQWyD7JBLUa5HeLPO-q7rHK4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1797801788543bbeb98eceb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-atilde-sorrentini-o-bertolonii https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cguIhlnoC2ObeyonK-guZtjlWp4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1411722090546361d44827d.jpgOphrys &Atilde;— sorrentini (O. bertolonii &Atilde;— O. tenthredinifera) Ophrys &Atilde;— sorrentini (O. bertolonii &Atilde;— O. tenthredinifera) Hybrid between Bertolonii&#039;s Orchid and the Sawfly Orchid (Ophrys bertolonii x O.tenthredinifera)- Benano,nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. May 2011 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698978.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8G-Bv_0I6l_wl6wOA0_xAE-rzPQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_235521817543b8970a3640.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20120504-042 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V-1DlAeBJkGrm1p6ZWMXw3uPSl8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_38807983525417695cd6e.jpgITA_PHD_20120504-042 Ascalaphid (Libelloides longicornis) Ascalaphids are ant-lion realtives and a failiar sight fluttering in warm dry grasslands throughout the Mediterranean region. MYN nr Orvieto, Italy. 05/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973956.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/p8c38jPIrweq5F2yOQ9ZSIHiRl0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1129765660546364165733c.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385856.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_asDSEr6bLGhBxONxG0-txAl-1o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209080747962485f84f1a60.jpgEuropean bee eater (Merops apiaster) European bee eater (Merops apiaster) The European bee-eater is one of the more colourful of the twenty seven different species of bee-eaters found worldwide.Bee-eaters are insectivorous and as well as feeding off bees also take many other insects including wasps, dragon flies and locusts. They tend to catch their food on the wing by swooping down from above and grasping their prey in their strong slim bills which they then take back to their perch. Prior to consuming bees and wasps in particular the bee-eater strikes or rubs its prey against a branch in order to remove the insects sting before consumption. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377631.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LwMMN9ApnrYd0-3xUHuDzXPSixg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_87295874562447bb7e77ed.jpgLang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) also Common zebra blue. Lang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) also Common zebra blue. Leptotes pirithous is a small butterfly with a wingspan of 21–29 mm in males and 24–30 mm in females. The uppersides of the wings are purple bluish in males, bluish brown in female. The undersides are dark beige striped with white lines. The hindwings show marginal orange and black spots and two small tails. Found . Frequents grasslands, including cultivated areas to 2300m. The larvae feed on the flowers and fruits of Fabaceae, Rosaceae and Plumbaginaceae . They are frequqnet mIgrants in and there is aLong flight season This species can be found in southern Europe (Spain, France and Italy), along the Mediterranean coast, in Asia Minor up to the Himalayas, and in most of Africa and Madagascar Feb-Oct (Nov) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20120504-040 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vAS5DLP4vzQbDdZp81kImomc4YA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14033380345254172c831a7.jpgITA_PHD_20120504-040 Ascalaphid (Libelloides longicornis) Ascalaphids are ant-lion realtives and a failiar sight fluttering in warm dry grasslands throughout the Mediterranean region. MYN nr Orvieto, Italy. 05/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/blackthorn-prunus-spinosa-flower-details https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AgE3FEpCVndNsxlVFwKraGQ5SAY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18951938696244342c733fb.jpgBlackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details also sloe, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa. The fruits are used to make sloe gin in Britain and patxaran in the Navarre autonomous community of Spain. The wood is used to make walking sticks, including the Irish shillelagh. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy March 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755754.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Yiyn2dtx_yYazFriZ_mTmathVrM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_314123585443ffe428399.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ponte-romano-roman-bridge-2nd https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AHMvUHsgkLpWZ979ZrxKpwP3QRU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1144137390624481e293923.jpgPonte Romano (Roman Bridge 2nd centure AC- Via Armerina Ponte Romano (Roman Bridge 2nd centure AC- Via Armerina Civita Castellana, Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698981.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XyIeEb0tzz5xKnqxUVG5NzSszTk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1198102320543b89746727f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687449.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/beETpKFaRnPiqL7kvW0MQRJ-zls=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_261592605543a644e7f727.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699207.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5Xp6TAd4tBf7-gLo90r0YzRk09Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_947959971543b8b8f50aa0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759316.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OmnuWvA4PO4QW6PHe51hvVutVP0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209926241154443a6629ff5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/levantine-pokeweed-phytolacca-pruinosa https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Zqmf0bX1MnbboakEvFjkSFhNM0s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_89239324262453e2a781cf.jpgLevantine Pokeweed ( Phytolacca pruinosa) Levantine Pokeweed ( Phytolacca pruinosa) also known as. Indian ink plant has spread widely throughout S. Europe. The more famous Phytolacca americana (American pokeweed, pokeweed, poke) is used as a folk medicine and as food, although all parts of it must be considered toxic unless properly prepared. The root is never eaten but Poke salad ('poke salat') is considered part of traditional southern U.S. cuisine, where it is cooked three times in three changes of boiling water to remove some of the harmful components. Toxic constituents which have been identified include the alkaloids phytolaccine and phytolaccotoxin, as well as a glycoprotein. Blera, Lazio, Italy, September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377593.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ee3iyU2r7_-l2Wc0-nSjzp856bo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_85244426562447ada1fbce.jpgSpindle tree (Euonymus europaeus) Spindle tree (Euonymus europaeus) has very hard wood that was used in the wool trade for sindles-hence the common name. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751155.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ynO6wZhGb2cXC16cRNp_kek_qmk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2523036905443c3ea73a0f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377677.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KR32S-EiL9sbSKF75XWdzft6CJ0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9021990062447eaeefdc5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-heath-coenonympha-pamphilus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w_nz5DLWNHyTMeZaPB23dVj2axw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_323652916244799154209.jpgSmall heath (Coenonympha pamphilus) Small heath (Coenonympha pamphilus) A common species, widespread in Europe. Larva feed on a wide range of grasses. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377619.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gm8lbyg59Q4YALBE2wjFF2XtPH4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_169904739162447bb07e6e1.jpgCommon blue female (Polyommatus icarus) ♂︎. Common blue female (Polyommatus icarus) ♂︎. The common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) is a butterfly in the family Lycaenidae found throughout the Palearctic. Common blue males usually have wings that are blue above with a black-brown border and a white fringe. The females are usually brown above with a blue dusting and orange spots. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/round-leaved-sundew-drosera-rotundifolia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PKqwTtjh53BVT4xrcGzGv5AeWXs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11728054862453e3159aee.jpgRound-leaved sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) Round-leaved sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) is a species of carnivorous plant that grows in bogs, marshes and fens. The plant uses enzymes to dissolve the insects – which become stuck to the glandular tentacles – and then extracts ammonia (from proteins) and other nutrients from their bodies. The ammonia replaces the nitrogen that other plants absorb from the soil, and plants that are placed in a high-nitrogen environment rely less upon nitrogen from captured insects. One of the most widespread sundew species, it has a circumboreal distribution, being found in all of northern Europe, much of Siberia, large parts of northern North America, Korea and Japan. Tuscany Italy September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751199.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IsxFh0UhGy4iMGvHtiTCeTRgy2s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17482286765443c4a18c384.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704502.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/A_qi-thf6a9ObymCqyncIk9qEoM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_278774276543bbf3775bb2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698919.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uWDBO_xb2jx9T5DrMWYSRxWdvP8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1476215589543b8919e0576.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/apollo-or-mountain-apollo-parnassius https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c-xZOlXIemNMTEtXp060s1q0uJQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_182923378162447bb0f2322.jpgApollo or mountain Apollo (Parnassius apollo) Apollo or mountain Apollo (Parnassius apollo), is a butterfly of the family Papilionidae (Swallowtail) a typically mountain species that prefers hills and flowery alpine meadows and pastures of the continental European mountains, in Spain, Scandinavia and Central Europe, in the Balkans up to northern Greece and in the Alps between Italy and France. There are numerous distinct local races and these have attracted the attentions of ruthless collectors over the years. This species is protected everywhere throughout Europe and is an endangered species. Mt Terminillo, Lazio, Itakly July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974236.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UdeY9kAqs93jOtN9c_kEHaHMPHg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1938384821546375fb1ff39.jpgOphrys apifera (Bee Orchid) var bicolor Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) an uncommon variety where the pattern on the lip is suppressed. nr Carsulae, terni, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752178.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qjIgU4kffB6Uw623C3l-vp4peig=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19609197755443d33391d79.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704474.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wdBve8x-e7cIHpx4JA6l9rYlS-w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_235786625543bbefc7c083.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377562.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9fmB3memxJhRwZlFHVBtMRo3wDQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1115060392624479a624b61.jpgLarva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) Larva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) penultimate instar on common rue as a foodplant, Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751220.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cYJAug5oTmrRldpB0VpZvQfVQD4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5364923285443c4f1e742f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704425.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nVlUkMDW4OznrwJlKAXoECc802M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1107763466543bbea518b50.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752248.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3r02ki3JmRcuh5H4CuAegwNjRLM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2283940635443d3eabea13.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698938.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sCMmpdoDoDSgapM7TXtb_V6SF3U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1731339273543b89371b8ce.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687438.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qloUppMOQUvQisqIJEP-yd3oPqw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2055254973543a63e36bbfb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/apennine-foxglove-digitalis-lutea-subsp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BpmEWCAVwU5HkNASGkqCtnk3ssM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1242776042624473ac8a6a6.jpgApennine Foxglove (Digitalis lutea subsp. australis, syn. D.micrantha) Apennine Foxglove (Digitalis lutea subsp. australis, syn. D.micrantha) Digitalis lutea, the straw foxglove or small yellow foxglove, is a species of flowering plant in the plantain family Plantaginaceae, that is native to western and southern Europe and North West Africa. Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377676.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DD0Duyd6Y7xfZpVIWN1lm9JW1nw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_201728806162447eaed4322.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687343.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CgGuiyLY_t_PhIKbEAYBHKzOVY8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1973157000543a616bd7e5d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377711.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4lcmfX05MCMrflo-54GvrWZ1Iys=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1664463193624481e5aaf1f.jpglush vegetation along the Rio Maggiore... lush vegetation along the Rio Maggiore with several species of fern...Via Amerina, Civita Castellana, Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755808.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/U-jI2fEd16SgvYwDnZA4im8S-Dw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_359558636544400614595a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-x-arachnitiformis-also-o https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kZaL-Xzs9XJi8a7FTQnS-7KA6mQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_510347925463621d09510.jpgOphrys x arachnitiformis (also O. exaltata subsp arachnitiformis) Ophrys x arachnitiformis (also O. exaltata subsp arachnitiformis) a very variable ophrys species one of a number of very closly realted species giving rise to considerable confusion. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377573.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bOvYjW8JwCpmIMfDcC2pqXjYjuk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1791333970624479ad06633.jpgField Dodder (Cuscuta campestris) Field Dodder (Cuscuta campestris) a parasitic plant that forms a twining mass of stems on Triflium (Clover) species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy Nove 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699217.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7Yrxr_eZ5oFwLE0jt1kX5AnSkGo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_193795543543b8bd66bff6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704733.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rfHoMPe3qaw8oT0sOYLXdi2nFg8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_338069032543bc5f7179eb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675396.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PgGE3QrVIz7EhB5HhyYKxvV-EgI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2074248294543806a393efe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/painted-lady-vanessa-cardui https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GuGL4wkU6SCRreK7JB6kAHdPtlE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_90851571862485f95b1467.jpgPainted lady (Vanessa cardui) Painted lady (Vanessa cardui) widespread in Europe and N Africa, often migrating in large numbers. Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385907.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WwIn6Vknr8Mis8vPQutIc2fqglo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18223210366248606012de2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hepatica-hepatica-nobilis-also-h https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6BZrb-jqsLTYSHYW1Ua2DJ1NzLw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_74761923462453df96799e.jpgHepatica (Hepatica nobilis also H. triloba and Anemone hepatica) Hepatica (Hepatica nobilis also H. triloba and Anemone hepatica) a very early flowering plants in mountain woodlands and shady rocky places. Like other Ranunculaceae, fresh liverwort contains protoanemonin and is therefore slightly toxic. Medieval herbalists thought it cured Liver ailments...hence a former common name Liverwort. This arose from the "Doctrine of Signatures' where a part of a plant tat resembled a human organ was thought to be able to cure it. The leaves have a kidney shape. Villa Cane, Orvieto Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755753.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UmouVsrr5Y3x9uXq6m54op2YpjM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10984417925443ffe202f13.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751160.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GMDc93biZBaz2lPujTnEPLJwjhA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5422087765443c3ffe9007.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/nursery-web-spider-pisaura-mirabilis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UT_QNyBXBDUDfqPXUdNZHT1ozc0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1891185360624879bf66b4b.jpgNursery web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis) Nursery web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis) Podere Montecucco, Orveto, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377563.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ggBDujhFb31sKeSucdCC1nQm0yo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1229586562624479a66751c.jpgLarva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) Larva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) penultimate instar on common rue as a foodplant, Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/continental-white-wagtail-motacilla-alba https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vLFiMElHsjWoT-AnjJ9RcM-5rSQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_155611934962485e266e466.jpgContinental white wagtail (Motacilla alba) Continental white wagtail (Motacilla alba) Very similar in apearance to the Pied wagtail (Motacilla yarrelli). The latter is often sedebntary whilst the white wagtail migrates. Th white wagtail has wing coverts of a lighter grey and other detail differences. Widespread in continental Europe. Mt Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2018. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/white-and-red-capion-hybrid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8QOI50yGI4GJAsEtGfGeMeRezpk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_47676165662453e13a2e33.jpgWhite and red capion hybrid (Silena latifolia x S. dioica) White and red capion hybrid (Silena latifolia x S. dioica). Where both species grow in close proximity then occasional hybdirds will be found. Piediluco, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755746.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3J40ncPF0uhJ9s_b7Iyc5gbnAhE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15008679435443ffd1a48be.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/clustered-bellflower-campanula-glomerata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hydeD-raHjJ7JVS5VurxJLFwyOM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21387584962453e2334709.jpgClustered bellflower (Campanula glomerata) Clustered bellflower (Campanula glomerata) known by the common names clustered bellflower or Dane's blood, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Campanula, belonging to the family Campanulaceae. Fpound mainly on limestone and chalk grassland, in rocky areas. Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2014 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377623.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Zf7H2kZh77iwY-c43I2UJ9R-QoY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10202646462447bb3d24a1.jpgLongicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) Longicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) This species can reach a length of 6–10 millimetres (0.24–0.39 in).[5] Head, antennae, pronotum and legs are black. Pronotum is slightly punctured. Elytra are yellow brown in the males, while in the females they are red. These longhorn beetles live in meadows and slopes in foothills and valleys.Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, ItalyJuly 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-hop-hornbeam-ostrya-carpinifolia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/myHSSFsreaJGH44V3Voqz6tvOxo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1323902030624473a62e85b.jpgEuropean hop-hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia European hop-hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704734.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ujAh9SmOKSL0vCg_eQUC_tkBU58=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_22434091543bc5f8e918f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377862.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/U5uvSXPIXtf8hsCaC-xgot6vgHk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_157434241562453bed7b369.jpgBee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var fulvofusca). Bee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var fulvofusca). Arare variant...alsmost certainly no more than an occasiopnal and thus a 'forma' rather than a 'var'. It lacks the distincive bib pattern characteristic of Ophrys apifera and the name 'fulvofusca means yellowish-brown. Ophrys apifera is consisnstently self-pollinated unlike all other members of the genus that are pollinated by small hymenopterans (bees and wasps). Thus there is no selection by visula or olfacotyr means and a considerable number of variations manage to occur. Treviso, Veneto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377888.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Lf5owYnxHyawsSqWUPHlGprTzyM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_57860491162453bfb7051a.jpgRed Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) Red Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) an orchid growing on limestone, protected everywhere in Europe and Red Data Book listed. It is extremely rare in the UK where it is on the edged of its range and has just a handful of sites it grows in light dry woodland...beechwoods, under oak and at the margins of pine and spruce forests. If leaf cover above it becomes too dense then the species reverts to a vegetative growth and stops flowering whilst being dependent upon the mycorrhizal fungi in its roots. Piediluco (Lago di Ventina), Umbria, Italy. July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698961.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GAs4nA1MEfaB8-ZKGVnetQRS-Ts=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_175074433543b895697d75.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698874.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kwMjQiK-lMM9bbDUsOoQuCoIYMw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_226838670543b88e0cad4c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377535.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kk-2N9bI-IkPYn03JzvTy0VPgtg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_824334018624479947deaa.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698924.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YJ_uV0ISdxDkkt6lx_uvpc-Lo_M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_692160398543b891f6f650.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687483.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uPNsulFDzyjPvWRFEXzYiuu8cD8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_24362300543a65b8eda2b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752183.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wom44Bajlqvi4EUeolMNHQdb95I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14511304425443d33c081f0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698958.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8Gf1_wrvim7J-JRCSBs1aRTrhMs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1102181814543b89537ac93.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699024.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c8WTFlrRFxsVtMZcH3ItxxEDfms=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_367330760543b89addb7b4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675421.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EMvBw20l6dkfbIfEP9yEECm8hb8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_519434652543807b06def4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/heath-fritillary-melitaea-athalia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/p4LqKGeYlGL5DTLmgV1ccycXCGg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1673997903624543731c774.jpgHeath fritillary (Melitaea athalia) Heath fritillary ( Melitaea athalia) widespread in S Europe but rare in the UK.. Photographed: Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689286.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iyNFHmzKvrHDTPNpyqOXRoekEOw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1672023149543aa2be09ea1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759272.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bnkiK8CdDbbt_LMrEUkBtgmyk0E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_114681185754443a3bd3813.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704537.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jvHVWDLL3tgPfUydjG7cElbBayY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1530618667543bbf7b16002.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/grape-vines-growing-nr-lake https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V2fsfj_cKOxs_aEbPKVhiG-wVNw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_50863857062447adbf1530.jpgGrape vines growing nr Lake Bolsena Grape vines in autumn growing nr Lake Bolsena with the islande of Bisentina in the background. BolseanLazio, Italy November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704736.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/emx1Xxcv3OJeqqP-e4FXU76paYs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_461355033543bc5fc67f93.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755747.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/27NqCWTALd5nknUM2w1XmVOU4a8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13186552055443ffd458688.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689423.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ce1ld_oFZK5j-xSPGDFr9sh1zYI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1808225102543aaaa43f638.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704641.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iXeOyRZOh_uyPmtue8RoAABlFZc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1979335732543bc5657a036.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/peacock-feather-to-show-irridescence https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yV9X8eSevx7hfM-FAb1WI16ctV8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1473966878624879b02a0c8.jpgPeacock feather to show irridescence Peacock feather to show irridescence at 10x magnification https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378018.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ls0IY67zr7-7AQXeNMrlGG4pYSs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2298043786245438a26d33.jpgViolet Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa violacea) Violet Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa violacea). Nests in wood on which its larvae feed. Non-aggressive but can sting. Adults are on the wing in summer and autumnthroughout southern Europe and again in spring after hibernation even emerging on warm winter days. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria August 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/contrasting-autumnal-leaf-colour-in https://photos.on-this.website/wm/F9rtTQCTxfcaOI5ddaUAAKNA_zQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_143037719562447ae17ee96.jpgContrasting autumnal leaf colour in Little robin (Geranium pupureum) Contrasting autumnal leaf colour in Little robin (Geranium pupureum) Geranium purpureum, also known as Lesser Herb Robert.has tiny flowers and is an upright annual. Although it has a limited distribution in the UK (Cornwall) it is widespread in S. Europe growing in stony or rocky places near the sea, on sheltered cliffs, disused railway lines, and particularly by roads and fields . The leaves when rubbed have a distinctive smell. Podere montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675412.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wQLAFwiM7A3m-wmJNxDHlSN5lJw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_92325634054380788227e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-swallowtail-egg-papilio-machaon https://photos.on-this.website/wm/g7qxFgHPKgoYS_0Hqc36kHTtUP4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5404651066244341a41ff5.jpgCommon swallowtail (egg) (Papilio machaon) Common swallowtail (egg) (Papilio machaon) - this is deposited rapidly with the female barely alighting on the food plants utilising the MicroMak 90mm proble lens which has astonishing depth of field and sharpness (in this case fennel) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704653.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yJEoBEK1gf_iVZknRTTwH4ftzwU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1773328490543bc580b157c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hoary-rosette-lichen-physcia-aipolia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8Ttej_CD83TIfnuwA0R6V2rr2t8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3845335086244342a8476f.jpgHoary Rosette lichen (Physcia aipolia) Hoary Rosette lichen (Physcia aipolia) lichen on fallen cherry. Widespread on the bark of deciduous trees (elder in this case) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687427.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mhP2ERF1c7jvG3Npv3HJwDZ7oK4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_808167899543a635852daf.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704525.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7XmC87Blmo0TwNpZzsf4ghPdDDQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_563440910543bbf64a735a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698928.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BFYe3LbPV0hHf4y2_WXZL1gSAFE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_378555978543b8924ea0a4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-ladybird-spider-eresus-kollari https://photos.on-this.website/wm/irWw3J1-Oa-2YvXmnYuWNjbzSJM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9927511362485e22d2469.jpgthe ladybird spider (Eresus kollari,) The ladybird spider (Eresus kollari,), is a spider species in the family Eresidae. It is one of the three species into which Eresus cinnaberinus or Eresus niger has been divided. Eresus kollari keep the remains of their prey stacked in the web. The females use the same burrow throughout their whole life. The prey can be large like tenebrionoid beetles, up to 32.5 mm long. Whereas males can be seen in the open on dry bare ground in daytime, the females oftn remain hidden within burrows. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/syntomis-phegea-amata-phegea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UjPtatSneY2Tm0l96YMLqu7kvqY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_533622148624879b5820b4.jpgSyntomis phegea (Amata phegea) Syntomis phegea (Amata phegea) . a day-flying moth,common in southern Europe and into the alps.It resembles a Burnet moth but is more closely related to the Tiger moths. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy June 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687382.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Z8Ji6GIUDrLIo_o-skZn1MxXYm0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_99472210543a61eea9993.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385903.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fnp-8Z_bPuPYL9xZUrXrCcdDXOI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12448592796248605cf26c6.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). nr Monteleone di Spoleto, Orvieto, Italy June 2015 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687421.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/E6aYZBOHo-iMeI-cBZ4pn_WA7y8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1462403679543a6329c4204.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699023.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5TqbU7DVixTtk1Z30wHM85qiMo0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1541397187543b89ac0a0a1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687461.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jQkzgLxjDjRmzCEehWeiYH4ePFs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1799162638543a64a29debb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-dog-violet-viola-riviniana https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aEoeCv4G-VeMsZj_tVsW8EwJ0es=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_140943749662453df7dcf75.jpgCommon dog violet (Viola riviniana) also known as Wood violet Common dog violet (Viola riviniana) also known as Wood violet. This is a species of flowering plant in the family Violaceae, native to Eurasia and Africa. It is also called wood violet and dog violet. It inhabits woodland edges, grassland and shady hedge banks. It is found in all soils except those which are acid or very wet.Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759353.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6bJJMqSpcCZnz-NOIT1BHV-ivhA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_107524380854443a87b60f9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377326.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gHCe9xLzq9ZVbkCq7bXo2dprSpA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17001428196244342c31397.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704649.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2Rh3AyKGdeBew7zBS_mJEO52Oq4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_495013383543bc57514429.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/apennine-trumpet-gentian-gentiana-dinarica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7m-smPO-977PgYIBDpPIMklEyz0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1852931314624540a3eac48.jpgApennine Trumpet Gentian (Gentiana dinarica) Apennine Trumpet Gentian (Gentiana dinarica) an alpine plants of limestone regions in the high Apennines. Campo Imperatiore, Abruzzo, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974192.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YFFWQzqUikY7Xz3td11ZWut5KUs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17200210454637223a12cb.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano penisula,found nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy Ap[ril 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674903.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/A-XrI04xYESMUUVWzVQlHhgFhMk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18359382365437e932bad00.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/rainbow-viewed-from-podere-montecucco https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gZepRC7QOqAXXjnJkwkiEnsuakI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5738597856244820348120.jpgRainbow viewed from Podere Montecucco with secondary bow just visible. Rainbow viewed from Podere Montecucco with secondary bow just visible. nr Orvieto, Umrbia, Italy October 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698982.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/caiUcGSq0RSj737c82azPhgEKvc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_929196097543b8976b0d67.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689428.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/f45qHm4_OaJ_F0z-6aCSU0Fubas=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2018788637543aaab666cb7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687478.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZvpGXvVCkzYicyPauWJdop_xUJk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1200401067543a65a8bd9da.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/dark-red-helleborine-epipactis-atrorubens https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9Tbu4rpcrnMHHaQZdAMHDRlIlkc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_349101492624467747fe59.jpgDark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens) Dark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens) growing at 1800m on Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy. July 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679363.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DD1UdGneEbvbGI5vvDGyR5P2jbc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_82879844554394a17a050e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388157.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jwQ_Lrr0ejdeSk5Q2r8HWcPL6EM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2120072707624879ab40b0d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755867.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AHknDAgNKdE8soOlL6KbuwFw54Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_104354915954440350f279b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/robber-fly-engelepogon-brunnipes-with https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kOr5AqoA7cRu1aheztdy4hESh4I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_165644054624879beb8da5.jpgRobber fly (Engelepogon brunnipes) with prey Robber fly (Engelepogon brunnipes) with prey https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752131.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ngbIhB4pOz0-kAQ87hsf8wY7Ywk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3375883765443d2adc09ef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lush-vegetation-along-the-rio https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KjU3VPKueroEXAL-nYsBX7KkFDA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_827340390624481e2c7bec.jpglush vegetation along the Rio Maggiore... lush vegetation along the Rio Maggiore with several species of fern...Via Amerina, Civita Castellana, Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704745.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/C3aJk1ScCbnmG9jpkMqlPg3J074=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1588798748543bc60671e34.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687433.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xajSr8C71htRHf_ZROttdLMimo4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1582943084543a63b1d63c6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698891.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xH5GTAcSM9BskxIPvbyjPtJmN0c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1457073181543b88f440ae7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675424.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zkqzxmWCQznscQxZAmAvYe8HP90=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1663790787543807bec0c1f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675275.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NJSWTfP6d4Fa4O0mTnAz9cAhKgM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20820939635438046718b8f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704718.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vLlplNEpYkO7JY81xxLRZ9DyBKA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1867872898543bc5e397c32.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704690.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QjXZFOLJ-QSLa5PhctFtFpNhers=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1031381921543bc5bf4bd80.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698885.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6gzEqYlpG6VpCZy7GLem6fkJPhc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1663796179543b88ed73d0c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687336.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/z8_5At8Sxun89ftxLcg4Gv3LXfg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_104560084543a6143644b8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704559.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9HVnr1-c9RVHUKhIOgjQrt6Dp9M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_447305255543bbfa58ad04.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687443.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/G2dc2JRFqS6UwuFs3LvKZFbVPKA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1104689526543a641cce121.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704621.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/R8VIKnLqUdGeT1VOVY4mJMGhLd8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1534018664543bc534e7e7e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/snowdrops-galanthus-nivalis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vpGGkUG5g6TGVBbKi9RpA9hUqwU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_201508726862453df3672f8.jpgSnowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) photographed near the stream Podere Monetcucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687467.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZD4Ymy5Tr-GeV1iBElQGQ28CLV0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_336442612543a658b0c3aa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687337.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ihlsk5IVGl_w0uOOGckrvGbXIFE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1851322506543a614728d23.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752207.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Z7d0h81Jsks3A-vrXfLNy9ownMo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18072001585443d37484152.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686985.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Jl-Jb97W0QtDT-tiOfIa6-Dco2Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1264135921543a5481f2029.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/pine-hawk-sphinx-pinastri https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NagzOUcwC7ISi4P_sjSiPkzlsKk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_175644396262485f95aeff3.jpgPine hawk (Sphinx pinastri). Pine hawk (Sphinx pinastri). .A local species found in S England and continental Europe. Larva feed on Scots pine, Maritime pine and other pine species https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/via-cava-tagliata-fantibassi https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vPIsCgNMmPNsIDuVWKI-RMFznhg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_999885502624481e5c3eca.jpgVia Cava - Tagliata Fantibassi, Via Cava - Tagliata Fantibassi, whose walls, cut by hand soar to 10m and beyond to 14m above. Archaeological Park of Amerina, Civita Castellana, Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704635.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/M3zsCi97l0Z-hgNdX1-FrizmJY4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_153343702543bc5531b640.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679302.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1WqYfP8QE6-7mlO8Wd6Mh_uGcLM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1368524663543948a031c7a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681156.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3mFAsQsKiKOESh6XTqhIcOtAHeI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120683004454396f7f18c2d.jpgForking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) Forking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) a alte-flowering cornfield weed photgraphed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 06/2012 (Paul HD) MYN https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377879.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aS5JzibBnP0uo79c9GfA-Fkp0Wg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_101921514962453bf74ede9.jpgCoralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) Coralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) so called because of the shape of its rhizome and one of four species of European orchid considered to be predominantly saprophytic The others are Neottia nidus-avis, Epipogium aphyllum and Limodorum abortivum). It is a species of woodlands of pine and Spruce but is also found on dune land in Scotland in damper areas. The species is rare in the UK and has a circumboreal distribution in woodland mountain areas in in mainland Europe. Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/shield-ophrys-ophrys-biscutella-also https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9Zeff-Nbow6igbAGTAl007QD6uU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1922933348546367d2b3fde.jpgShield Ophrys (Ophrys biscutella also O. crabronifera ssp biscutella) Shield Ophrys (Ophrys biscutella also O. crabronifera ssp biscutella) restricted to Gargano and mountain regions in S Italy. Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687374.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/suIc1c5_jvWDoeVhRJ4D9p037Kc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1507019109543a61d4c042d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/garden-chafer-phyllopertha-horticola https://photos.on-this.website/wm/87DIFAiB3_FkQAZbpvjXRDpBXEc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_34443533062485f93f3c43.jpgGarden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola Garden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola) a highly reflective species with a coppery sheen. The species feeds of leaves and can become a pset in nurseries. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704456.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cCu7_np4YBbUtPd1MlRC1lzjhG8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2095021157543bbedbde1b8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704531.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/y8tPu_CewKnbch5Ue0TTdvcXZMY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1802169637543bbf7051d4a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755785.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8kqqUGjHC9JSLI_N6JdwfXomBLE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4802086605444002c82948.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377957.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0lfP86QNNhLKkVztHkb6Al1wcUg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_137939913862453e1d50c39.jpgAlpine Pasque flower (Pulsatilla alpina subsp millefoliata) Alpine Pasque flower (Pulsatilla alpina subsp millefoliata). This species is widely distributed in the alpine regions of the Apennines, growing on open limestone areas in short turf soon after the snow melts. The name millefolia (thousnad-leaved) refers to the finely divided, feathery leaves.Mt Terminillo Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689259.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qpcZ4HUnv11CvrJXPgy0APU2hfs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1172843073543aa23ddc0d7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378026.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/k0tyZUq-Z9_VX7jGP7fuJr7Hy0A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13632659706245439047f04.jpgCommon blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) feeding on nectar from the Amethyst eryngo (Eryngium amethystinum) Common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) feeding on nectar from the Amethyst eryngo (Eryngium amethystinum). Mt Vettore, Umbria, September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687358.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iV4wIqhhs-wpT7Ll7e3O8jHLPFA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_758535658543a6199662f0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704719.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/85QmbOqQPKp0Rk4wBH7CDLSzVng=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_591774925543bc5e57d6d8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679298.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6Ad-Rl04hn_rOnLDOMFG74q6Pzo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17715756915439488f62263.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704697.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tfzunlDw7GjqN2JQnigsUjAIWZ4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93635824543bc5c908e28.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689288.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZJVMr5BTqXzJuf9olbNTutJvroo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1717773904543aa2c8e3610.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686941.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/U2rGOIHX4XqEyRJabA5L2U2DisQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_924328040543a4fc32647c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-yellow-ophrys-ophrys-lutea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vpNrJrEgTO9YpNIer7D4o9NCcpI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20446353955463623cc54b7.jpgSmall yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula) Small yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula) Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674896.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/y7kRu1n7C0KjTD0hy44FlqeZmQ4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14146696995437e8de80f10.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674898.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DCZ6TrilHA4om9DWbm9RGYoMrg0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21346316865437e8e923858.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698881.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bb33V18uoCnHwDsZNWtH8dGFdUk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_618621756543b88e8c7ab1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752214.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e5VILJQqyYuXu6T341A7QyPI-e8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16967049135443d381a35cc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755865.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7ej3HB7ewuL60geXUG9MtpEYkSQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1881063725444034b6aa0b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674904.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PXbtfeFGB89IiR044D96yomdEig=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14828699985437e93805186.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-swallowtail-papilio-machaon-revealing https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t7n5Kp2hvsUFkaqayJ7_Sn_QG8c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6944604526244342886d7d.jpgCommon Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) revealing the scales on the wings Common Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) revealing the scales on the wings that make up the pattern. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Dec 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377925.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ND11oWE5RFuDF_9H9bSUPTt9W8E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_187806701062453e0733b9d.jpgScorpion-senna (Hippocrepis emerus) Scorpion-senna (Hippocrepis emerus) Hippocrepis emerus, the scorpion senna,] This is a species of perennial plant belonging to the genus Hippocrepis in the family Fabaceae. Hippocrepis emerus reaches on average 50–150 centimetres, with a maximum of 200 centimetres. The plant has a lignified stem with green branches bearing five to nine leaflets. This plant occurs in northeastern Spain and in central Mediterranean countries up to northern Europe and to Asia Minor. These shrubs are usually found in wooded and bushy areas, on sunny, warm and dry slopes and around forest edges. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy April 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/stemless-carline-thistle-carlina-acaulis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZBPM9K4jG25AM3UoFYr_8CU5cfg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_175920871462453e2e4a04e.jpgStemless carline thistle (Carlina acaulis) growing with Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) Stemless carline thistle (Carlina acaulis) growing with Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), also known as European blueberry. Sibillini on Mte Vettore, Umbria, Septembr 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/apennine-edelweiss-leontopodium-nivale https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5ASobGT1fhTM3FnwraQII7g63sE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_31907467262453e2f6972f.jpgApennine edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale Apennine edelweiss (Leontopodium nivale), Apennine alpine star or just edelweiss, is a mountain flower belonging to the daisy or sunflower family Asteraceae. The plant prefers rocky limestone places at about 1,800–3,000 metres altitude. L. apennine is generally of smaller stature than L. alpinum. (the more familiar 'edelweiss'). It is non-toxic and has been used in traditional medicine as a remedy against abdominal and respiratory diseases. flowering on Mt Vettore, Umbria, Italy September, 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385866.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UbCIQSclHbYxAadzbwStwIcIjJw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_173371450062485f90b8681.jpgBroad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) A day-flying species feeding on nectar rich flowers such as honeysuckle (the larval foodplant). When freshly emerged from the pupal stage the wings have a light covering of olive-green scales but these are quickly lost after the first flight rendering the wings transpaerent. Found in woodland rides and open grassland it is easily overlooked since its rapid flight makes it looks like a large bee or hummingbird hawk-moth. Scarce in the UK but locally frequent in the rest of Europe. Photographed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675440.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e-fpdbKkDp9zKhvUoc1E8cktU2s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1670076270543807ffd9a6c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699008.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3BYoLJrkCUj0kuW4tv3UJsjUj44=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1000084034543b89999c0fa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752185.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7tvCZIDL3MovmUDEsEe_58Lbec4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20350850315443d34125c9e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699032.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XEMRWhjP2mkXJm9hv9DKr7FHbmg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_598672926543b89b846df7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704448.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JNn5MRz0XVvmI5h70q2K9Nzfcng=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1573753190543bbecc7c9ec.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704514.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-ak5bs-Lw9_TJ6MyCNSFud_IT6Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_316350258543bbf4f957da.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698909.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6D4GCPjhqyGGpi_bRFlYSeiBMhs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_390215110543b890b6b749.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/woolly-thistle-cirsium-eriophorum-cirsium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1y39SkNHMnx7NHThf778Ke4GvTs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_171530027624473aa12232.jpgWoolly thistle (Cirsium eriophorum) Cirsium eriophorum Woolly thistle (Cirsium eriophorum) Cirsium eriophorum, the woolly thistle,[2] is a herbaceous biennial species of flowering plant in the genus Cirsium of the daisy family Asteraceae. It is widespread across much of Europe. It is a large biennial plant with sharp spines on the tips of the leaves, and long, woolly hairs on much of the foliage. The flower heads are large and nearly spherical, with spines on the outside and many purple disc florets but no ray florets. The young leaves of C. eriophorum can be eaten raw, and the young stems can be peeled and eaten raw or cooked, after being soaked in water to remove their bitterness. The flowers are rich in nectar and attract bees, flies, beetles, butterflies and moths.[It typically grows in grassland, scrubland and open woodland on chalk, limestone or alkaline clay soils, including the disturbed ground caused by quarrying. Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377679.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zVBvKy4esvQ6xiETo63fEWLjOFI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_143309805562447eb1a1a69.jpgGreen whip snake (Hierophis viridiflavus) Green whip snake (Hierophis viridiflavus) Also known as Coluber viriflavus and il Biacco, in Italian. Frequently found in Italy and elsewhere in the mediterranean region. It inhabits ts natural habitats are temperate forests, temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, arable land, pastureland, plantations, rural gardens, and urban areas. These snakes mainly feed on lizards, skinks, frogs, mice, as well as on the young and eggs of small birds. This species lays four to 15 eggs. They are very lively and when cornered, may bite furiously...a prolongued bite can be painful to humans. They hibernate in winter. Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-passionis-x-ophrys-bertoloni https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vwAuXjGl6rdmX5cL9q50EIbPaSA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1112395894546367a461373.jpgOphrys passionis x Ophrys bertoloni ssp bertoloniformis. Ophrys passionis x Ophrys bertoloni ssp bertoloniformis. one of the hybrids unique to Gargano. Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752195.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4IjjrV1sHxvDT5mn1kC9pUPSyB4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2103023265443d35683b49.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755792.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QLobBKUuh4iN8M3rIXT0HNpi2zE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12881823835444003de2b5a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686952.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VuQ9HS3aAeuLW95yARqH-GGOh4k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_882869703543a53e841f9b.jpgjumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN jumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699010.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5xP90lT_7EbIHYBgRlaFlmU0j1c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_988576044543b899b79a6e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/rose-bay-willowherb-epilobium-angustifolium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DCcIBqFXJD8e_1trWJMFxU9M1i0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_792473054624473ac2f08d.jpgRose-bay willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium) Rose-bay willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium) found in montane regions in light woodland, at roadsides and on river banks. Terminillo, Lazio,, Italy July 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699028.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9jnCL3991RMjqRtZeIrrw2xCzyI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1306499243543b89b3d2a1f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377589.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qWfBGAhyo16lqlD4QOSsNKTosWs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209773444962447ad793d7f.jpgAutumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) Autumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) A tree commonly known as ginkgo or gingko is a species native to China. It is the only living species in the order Ginkgoales, which first appeared over 290 million years ago. Fossils very similar to the living species, belonging to the genus Ginkgo, extend back to the Middle Jurassic approximately 170 million years ago. The tree was cultivated early in human history and remains commonly planted. Gingko leaf extract is commonly used as a dietary supplement, and is claimed to be a vasodilator. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704623.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lpR5EQdoCeS4JjyxmIoth0f6Dyg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1485410106543bc53871da0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385926.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yK1wWqOe_wln52QnLTbNfpofz-U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11733372126248606e757a0.jpgHarvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum) Harvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum). Sometimes called "daddy long-legs spiders they are not true spiders. Commonly found sitting in wait on flowers. Podere Montecucco,nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sepetember 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/plaisance-helleborine-epipactis-placentina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vh9elN3TZ0H--p9I4Li5peEHQic=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1969667628624467764b616.jpgPlaisance Helleborine (Epipactis placentina) Plaisance Helleborine (Epipactis placentina) a are anther Italian species of Helleborine named after a town in Lombardy (It) Montecucco beechwood, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679341.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BbwaS6YzdSFIF86Ptm2G4Y0juCg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_137382835543949cc75190.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759268.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QkOvjDIJDEyh2ZdOPxNRdAscNiQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_193989329154443a3906eef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bog-violet-viola-palustris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HJ3Vk951NCduG3D3BICcICHvNPU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_102915620562453e1bc0468.jpgBog Violet ( Viola palustris) Bog Violet ( Viola palustris) A pale violet species, unscented and hairless, found in bogs and marshes in mountian regions in Italy. It is widespread in acid wetland in the UK. Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy. June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704493.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pL-klprzIIqrS9gUyMMMs6yD_1Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1205093360543bbf23e5675.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704724.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_4-EoYzC9oH5uyrysNyX2GIwMac=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_102800062543bc5eba78db.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704703.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/foF9Ae2drIxbPD3IlySTt8iLH_c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1827280817543bc5d1a32d6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704421.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7C4DZplPy-uSUDh1x-8Rbw7jUis=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_705386157543bbe9c93f05.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752138.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yOfvI0p4Ewx4bG5quqv1ECXsJ08=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18336170935443d2cb34471.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388169.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w-CQ2HvKhuaz9C0HdJi477i4wDs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1581651771624879b497b57.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). nr Monteleone di Spoleto, Orvieto, Italy June 2015 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704622.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Re8sPWA9FJlFIGFlhUjyq_SCFQg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_775900929543bc53689a84.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385874.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zXDVfHPwlwWMGrt6TdPsRF36RBA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6116401962485f984dfef.jpgLarge white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎ Large white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎ a widespread and common species. whose larvae are often a pest on garden brassicas. It is easy to ignore its elegance. Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria. Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699047.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Lf7U4PVoXWiPv2zTkcKHGHXv8oQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_271413316543b89ccbcaf8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-oak-hawk-marumba-quercus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/obNhmKt5zoLtHv21VslAdHaxYHs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_158500943562443421ea755.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385916.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9PsEOE0a5GYOsXvZCE9mO2wh8mQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_729258613624860670c6f3.jpgQueen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ Queen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ widespread in the Mediterranead region and characterised by large silver patches on its underwings. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/heartsease-viola-tricolor-ssp-subalpina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/feYZCanD6Iqyh12G5kVNZlqAuas=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_117621268762453e194b993.jpgHeartsease (Viola tricolor ssp. subalpina) Heartsease (Viola tricolor ssp. subalpina) flowers in grassy and waste places up to 2700m. Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699099.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GfIDPpLrNCEi33Qzlxe4jJueeww=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1988815719543b8a586f80c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699049.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bfuDfIGMxtbASqxyockKTdFpMKk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_996816650543b89cedd7d0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704443.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jYbg9-kkPqO_QYkARz6lgm2cEvA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15801752543bbec56d4f3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752155.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EFiYSFR0ISNocK1TvhO8fnNXxxw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17787902375443d2fde2033.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bush-cricket-tettigonia-cantans-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RaZX0xIgvvT5_5z2JlTZwAU6wJc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1448834431543a541ddd50b.jpgBush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) MYN Bush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/branched-st-benards-lily-anthericum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9jxGFHiI27Q5_igZmrKgDwovEv8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1439838183624473a69d6b4.jpgBranched St Benard's Lily (Anthericum ramosum) Branched St Benard's Lily (Anthericum ramosum) These plants grow in sunny areas and calcareous soils, on semiarid grasslands, slopes and forest edges. In the Alps they can be found at an altitude of 0–1,600 metres. a herbaceous perennial plant with a rhizome. The genus Anthericum is currently placed in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Agavoideae. It was formerly placed in its own family, Anthericaceae, and before that in the Liliaceae. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751179.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tKFQkk_H-AWrqM420PY3lIE9S9c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7338734845443c44de7814.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689276.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/etApqPuQMbg5e02haugR_jyCzPc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_654511802543aa295a16e2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/dingy-skipper-erynnis-tages https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AZ3irRDtV4K5PyOBHlWtlyWT7WM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_74543470624879ab9cc3d.jpgDingy skipper (Erynnis tages) Dingy skipper (Erynnis tages) a widespread and common species throughout much of Europe.Larval foodplants are mostly vetches in the Lotus genus. Terminillo, Lazio. Italy June 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/autumn-narcissus-narcissus-serotinus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/N8f5t7BEwLQ6RtqMmuHLagZMGPc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120060898962453e345c132.jpgAutumn narcissus (Narcissus serotinus) Autumn narcissus (Narcissus serotinus) is a species of the genus Narcissus (daffodils) in the family Amaryllidaceae. It is classified in Section Serotini. It is native to southern Europe from Portugal to Greece Cyprus and Israel, where it blossoms in the autumn. It has one of the smallest coronas of the genus (see illustration). The flowers are fragrant, the tepals white and the small corona yellow. Usually a single flower is borne per stem with two occasionally. It appears in autumn when summer temperatures are lowers and its slender stems appear from the baked earth often close to the sea. Circeo, Lazio, Italy September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385858.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2XZNBwirtUKpLf2bfHhquK_59b4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_42896392162485f86a4458.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388192.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/covIp9EkB8NDvJVSnZPjv5Gv0rg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2048853075624879c224ae1.jpgTransparent burnet (Zygaena purpuralis) Transparent burnet (Zygaena purpuralis) a burnet moth whose red colour is in patches rather than spots. Frequent in the Alpine meadows up to 2000m where its larvae feed on wild thyme species. Campo Felice, Abruzzo, Italy 10 June 2016 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674893.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LI3VDIUTUYhOJJ03wR2fUnqPFsI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12786879635437e8d04db94.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755868.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3oXpDcLGy2xnzK1gzbTwRKqyLGc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_124326077754440353e97e8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675279.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hVVvKacOJ9oARgGo2-P4pqP74tw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_92952149854380470dd1a5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755775.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1hgZDzp4lGtExSIcrJixOKRbwq4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_245226002544400163e43a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704439.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Y2wXFzxJyuPQPCQelNG8pjjYpKc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1342498789543bbebed03a2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674907.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lASq74bB5c8xrvPOzshCXM2YlaM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1784151345437e94e1f40e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759291.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sFVvR-Y8FYEu1EtUWXc7-E2NbQY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_191894980554443a4c9bd1b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973982.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JmVIF2tFbSY0V9LpfkSKvOiJUHw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1310529788546366c6bb677.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis. Yellow variety. Hill above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687436.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fbHCFGhI7VNSuYIGdDt678WzSnM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_215516037543a63ced9893.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687333.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/n_WO8vQ-K00QF_Zj0NEUUx5NSdA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_164885143543a61352980b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698871.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/U_2p8-m17o1CEmYIuKb6MwV7Q1I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1097187705543b88dce4ee8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/early-purple-orchid-orchis-mascula https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eq7Rh63QrTEXXdhAQdkx9U219IY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_152818171962453bd8b4858.jpgEarly Purple Orchid (Orchis mascula) Early Purple Orchid (Orchis mascula) was referred to by Shakespeare as "dead Men's purples" a coarse reference to the fanciful resemblance of the twin tubers to human testicles. The name orchis is derived from ancient Greek for testicle. Nr Gavelli, Sibillini, Umbria Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-marsh-fritillary-euphydryas-aurinia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DWWCZcujvKFx4jDqQ1Ry2vFbXuo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_153610328462485e22f0ee9.jpgThe Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia ssp beckeri) The Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia ssp beckeri) The colouring on the upper wings is a more unifm orange than in the nominate race where parts of the wings are a lighter orange/yellow. The Marsh Fritillary is threatened, not only in the UK but across Europe, Preci, Sibillini, Umbria. Italy May 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974086.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iIGFgtX_mcU037yJryv5HpTqvfs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_66919992354636bd869786.jpgApulian Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. apulica) Apulian Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. apulica) a large flowered race of the Late Spider Orchid. Nr Peschici, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698988.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9MmA_A-K1q0wdlEXyAfJuxEiFR8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_108066770543b897eefc65.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687376.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4YLCGsd3j6FKkoQwIJ7avAE68CE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1708714361543a61dd2e040.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/autumn-leaf-colour-of-wisteria https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lO1bo8MaQ533VvncKJkVGiQq75A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_66990892662447ad794b27.jpgAutumn leaf colour of Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) Autumn leaf colour of Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) Wisteria sinensis, commonly known as the Chinese wisteria, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family, native to China. Growing 20–30 m (66–98 ft) tall, it is a deciduous vine widely cultivated in temperate regions for its twisting stems and masses of scented flowers in hanging racemes, in spring. It is highly attractive to large bees such as the Violet capenter bee (Xylocopa violacea). Wisteria sinensis was unknown in the west before 1816, when several agents of the East India Company working in China sent cuttings back to England.[1] Over the next several decades the plant became, and remains, one of the quintessential ornamental vines in temperate gardens worldwide. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689258.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/REmPvLV9EcfwswdbeA8XobZ_Ijs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1295231412543aa239b8953.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698839.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fjhlRemEyLaaBg68tLZp_aQBN9w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1875715733543b88b25a459.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699037.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lDqolGskQ9Y5YTgJO9XmBq2skmQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1999109938543b89bf7eac3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699036.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EDZJ356vT2zNj57tpW-j-CV34Yo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1583337850543b89bdb0468.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704739.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dnvSRxyF-GZ-8r6OwZSXrPHcKDg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_567307144543bc5ff5ffa0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674897.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wB2ejQKtNjhsLCgor4oPl6O4-xQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15177377675437e8e432b16.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698893.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cQMAjkzpSKA6G8w5Gb5wODFfqC4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1731335852543b88f5f2152.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lace-border-scopula-ornata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bR1ZnUAyr6lUiTRqXeXn-ZOOtlk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6221787846248606b78876.jpgLace Border (Scopula ornata) Lace Border (Scopula ornata) Found in south and central Europe: larva feeds on wild thyme and marjoram. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Uk. August. 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675419.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MpMxb7FYfZ5IXVBrtUikseUbQQ4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1618338526543807a90ec51.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755771.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/brAzFUlk9_h69JzNQbTEb-Cum7I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14266190025444000dcbf5f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974059.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TfKjQ0IoroOogxvvvdkwdDATXJA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_178503479454636b160d5b3.jpgHornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) Hornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) an endemic species restricted to the west coast of central Italy including the islands. Piediluco , Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/cinnabar-ophrys-ophrys-cinnabarina-one https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0p2VSeoItWPFuMnwXEaPTLNv0RY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1335188915463695a96a13.jpgCinnabar ophrys (Ophrys cinnabarina) one of a number of very closely linked &#039;species&#039; in the Ophrys fuciflora group Cinnabar ophrys (Ophrys cinnabarina) one of a number of very closely linked &#039;species&#039; in the Ophrys fuciflora group. Apricena, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. May 2011 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704615.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vpcWorPF0zQsznqDuaftLyG7iV4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_460661479543bc52a5c951.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704568.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NhL7NRi3dBSOUFXuyXiPeF4SfIo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_88187134543bbfb733bda.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686987.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Rm3hYRkmyeNb7oqGVzYR-PIgHNQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_338522079543a5487235b4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687351.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ml3VfJH25Vo1NMOABGaMvP_uDXk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1634289476543a618466efa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bay-laurus-nobilis-in-flower https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1IqDGkqhsqrSiyOSE1aoI6h_gPc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4236318062453dfe13200.jpgBAY (Laurus nobilis) in flower. BAY (Laurus nobilis) in flower. A shrub with green, glabrous smooth leaves, in the flowering plant family Lauraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is used as bay leaf for seasoning in cooking. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Itakly https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lappet-moth-gastropacha-quercifolia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0TGch-DXtTp9CxdC7y49y8vKPDc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1229395209624879bca1316.jpgLappet moth ( Gastropacha quercifolia) Lappet moth ( Gastropacha quercifolia) well camouglaged when at rest on tree bark. Larvae feed on oak Quercus), beech (Fagus) and poplar (Populus) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377652.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YT1v39z8iQB4YwUegYlrUHh1DtY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_164889443862447e9c2570e.jpgBlackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details also sloe, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa. The fruits are used to make sloe gin in Britain and patxaran in the Navarre autonomous community of Spain. The wood is used to make walking sticks, including the Irish shillelagh. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy March 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/young-goats-near-pitigliano https://photos.on-this.website/wm/paOVpl1wMkROHHun--k3jCLAOug=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_67176796762485e292378a.jpgYoung goats near Pitigliano, Young goats near Pitigliano, Tuscany, Italy. June 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751174.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UmpPfMwpmT4_FEQUV3aLfB-4jGU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8082683845443c43b36f6a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388165.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yhJqVb9URup25VvzhJeP9N6jq2A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_374083803624879b19d97e.jpgSpotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) Spotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) widespread in mailand Europe in diverses warm habitats such as dry and rocky meadows and hillsides, steppes, field edges and fallow land. Foodplants various members of Palnatgo, Linaria, Veronica and Antirrihnum species. Sibillini, Umbira, May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759438.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/REbBJy8Q2qlNGOw2ymo3I4RE-qE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_102201286854443ad485c55.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751187.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/78gQrv9ty4cb0IgwHsaUlR3Om98=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2861986965443c46f046b6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675441.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cccHmoAo-oBvI-TFjgUXletcymQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1153141089543808041cb5a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689273.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/twvuKwjbhQJlbdD3iC2vyvLzdps=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_415379135543aa287d2534.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689270.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Wl8K_Mavgpdaq1WWA_3AdQxLhKA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1990690518543aa275566c5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674912.html 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https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w-pBougiDt0lzI1ZkDh6ljo0kRg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17763505915443c4807916d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755772.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xKfSDE_RQsHA6GordQxrILh2J3g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_961546307544400101cf6f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752190.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NC58lhZzozs4w9IBV8m1wyi8AgY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2742495905443d34ccf14e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752262.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HKo1AQ3iWeiWBwuVm8GtIxZ9XZU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8001184115443d427c5a2b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755760.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8V2-mpx_SRLYfKLeQsk4DPELod4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3687035835443fff3f340c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755734.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fght0KgZ30QHFruDF3t0NipQu9E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1738373465443ffa61471d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755722.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4RErLhv65PWDHSo40SN50C_p28M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3342391505443ff824f324.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752123.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AWiKxOXG5j6gozlFPK-4JdC1nJQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9138981185443d28b68aa0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687370.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zVQE_BRzsvpSsYnWntE6sgZPjpw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2072308667543a61c49cba4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674919.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/H3Ds7owgW7Bg79cniBWZp0L0Rsw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8004651375437e9bf38353.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687424.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/maTDs062OZF72bNRKU63dLgHvW8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93728083543a633ceb834.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/toothed-orchid-neotinea-tridentata-formnerly https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mXO81o_Uvtq_wCIFvtY_XKQ_4aI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_124895369962453bde5a592.jpgToothed orchid (Neotinea tridentata) formnerly known as Orchis tridentata Toothed orchid (Neotinea tridentata) formnerly known as Orchis tridentata. A widespread and frequently encountered species on limetsone hillsides. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria. Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759301.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/d5WLzhVoaGJuQeY8xve4pyYSAD0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_185416346454443a578323f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689284.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CUquK47VB0-z1MS84slg61TIVT8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_373019518543aa2b56494e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752200.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OCWO3ecSyCKDZ4TDpMYh7XKmcOI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5684942955443d36061c21.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751214.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vaVPUuxJ20bpsG0ZhDNDvBu0icA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21361917695443c4e1b7fa0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698898.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6YpC98D-Pt5IOfL-jhJyUEWBZog=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1953145909543b88fc443ca.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689291.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/z2jcw4pHT5OgfwNLP8sI4cpznrg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1564796705543aa2d0e783d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755748.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/H2wKBefHcZ5H1snQ0JDT_FMtzEE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7119499945443ffd6d3404.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752231.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-e8JrJ1NB3A2yZ32VzKUlozCNu8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20864692715443d3b213a15.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689287.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FyMzXzyE9K7sM79F4jmpZe0Z1mY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1420337424543aa2c447829.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698873.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gyVPvrOkAO0j88N1xQDHRcyvJY8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_800277845543b88dea0338.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704451.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/syXsoc25i3nHA7yP4YgJL0Wlefk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_142146424543bbed2226e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704729.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PR9Vy8Hfc5RtCXnnGRw6Rfp7dJA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1411070745543bc5f35a072.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680222.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lEHXWEbGIZ7gYxyFX5NlIgGW4Ls=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_167810294154395f8d2854f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759255.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jQYHIJ-fV4YKY61DJN9GGpq5Vmo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_136768219554443a2d2a399.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704498.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/s7IunwipBk0jEnBq3pbUACatPy4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_284101049543bbf2c334ea.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687344.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w6rkhV-68Qd7eKWjx0jjoT0P0II=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_936878710543a616e67a48.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686936.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FLcqFhohfNW2wMbrH_BlZcVD0mY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1469858966543a4faf3179b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698855.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rKTEdaV2UXDp6qeE-wpeo87iEl4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1422933201543b88c6a9cbd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973979.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uM3XgEhVZNnhHe_0zpT0GZjzVi0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_225163306546366a1883a4.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679146.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t42eXBh41VHP96Z4yMi-3uid_v0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198145166954393b58405f7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679319.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Dybhthv-ZfVOHky9qllH1ma1rWo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_753131267543948e7a8edf.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698940.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PFaqv0lci00zyREwdjPEdUB02sM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2088500107543b89396599d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687345.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CjqBWTOQ8_4F_eLDgbxw7uqwLQg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_565766737543a61718fb9e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687452.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_iNzUaWSCNWtQBQUZuytCmkPBD8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1257137348543a64647e884.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385925.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SXz8vA1ddHfwuModXtifBVx12Tc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4836789256248606e5edc1.jpgSilver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia) ♀ Silver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia) ♀ a large butterfly of woodland clearings,eggs are laid on violet species. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2021I https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385899.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Nn6Rc8F53kmOa0XFO0G5c8DUonE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1918736293624860597ffc1.jpgSpotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) Spotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) widespread in mailand Europe in diverses warm habitats such as dry and rocky meadows and hillsides, steppes, field edges and fallow land. Foodplants various members of Palnatgo, Linaria, Veronica and Antirrihnum species. Sibillini, Umbira, May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377832.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TIntssJyZe1URF5fQXrtdHoq1rE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_140685837562453bda248f2.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). The intermediates range from magenta close to the O macula parent through a range of bi-coloured forms in pink/magenta with yellow to white with delicate spotting and colouring, The variations in shape of the orchid flowers includes contributions from both parents. Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698887.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uT6T20lx5d5Slq9NfxhuNdhwPd0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2000946830543b88eeeb47e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377594.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jkDdHE-7qLTa_1Rdif-K-pS7h78=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_119937139262447ada422a7.jpgMontpellier maple (Acer monspessulanum) Montpellier maple (Acer monspessulanum) Acer monspessulanum is a medium-sized deciduous tree or densely branched shrub that grows to a height of 10–15 m . It is native to the Mediterranean region from Morocco and Portugal in the west, to Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel in the east, and north to the Jura . Bagno Vignoni, Toscana, Italy Oct 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377568.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZbUwT_of95NcBB_wOHlxON9A4eY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_89854294624479aa13258.jpgLarva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) after 4th moult (5th instar Larva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) after 4th moult (5th instar) before pupation. Feeding on common rue as a foodplant, Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698849.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Zsp1HJ9i0p8VzuOIBA4eWulYr8Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2143137523543b88bddb4ea.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675399.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-psdH1wDoOcDGYw989a-yXMBPLg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1590055539543806b04d6f7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704460.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1uHx44-wIYQOw8UREQbs__LIduA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1526902939543bbee485b54.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704494.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/y2z_YETs4WESQ1ExDS9ougcjG6w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1285712289543bbf25987e4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686928.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lC1Abdu2h6b472FSMuThZO31FTs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_960389756543a4f8db24aa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686940.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zgFCU0QYPHpdaV6ViRv-X_Kemis=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2118071503543a4fbfb0afc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698860.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IWqRc4_P3QFU7HBaig-M6P0kkcY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1931345539543b88ce757e2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687346.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6NLbGcycAD9jIiwhfrfOa0GjZPQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_623019656543a617425744.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704508.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9AqTvpQ1X-_2RcmkdW_RbDvbflc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_902363793543bbf4515d84.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679313.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J4T3e_kvQZ6B3k-mj6rsiUllIic=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1691670379543948ce24abf.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698955.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/v_qm-FblHEIyxD06zIEt0CjlnII=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_95090505543b894c16a4b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755767.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gx3AJl1e7dmKSjSOVQrKgFQqp6k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2550138235444000417230.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679148.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/O4-rjD6yidJHHLqf5zLpIJunGUY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4669847354393b5f0ed04.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674908.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WP_-mekX5yXrX1kwf_c_WghyVk0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12077668475437e9545e117.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704651.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8R3-Df1hGQlPEqGc8m-CCAbrcsk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_361506256543bc57a603a9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679375.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8TzEZly3ImufeAGMfsuZYLXdO6M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_194063849654394a53881fe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689432.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xEUkf-c_BOys5GLfc2VxnB4v3rQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1547283800543aaac06c7a9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675416.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1zv05brnTZ6ix7uSDmyE49BNCpE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1806458491543807a1206cf.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755721.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Kx6wzEq3calS1RlNaIYp_yAZmQM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16596958035443ff8027349.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687484.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/p868bBZ2rKGe9dZUw8KHs79U3_E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_658387091543a65bb88d42.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bramble-blackberry-rubus-fruticosa-leaves https://photos.on-this.website/wm/l-T6GkUqny8HBh5LkEQOYDpHD1M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_44690421962447adeb8c5d.jpgBramble (blackberry) Rubus fruticosa leaves in autumn. Bramble (blackberry) Rubus fruticosa leaves in autumn. Blackberry (Rubus species) is an edible fruit produced by many species in the genus Rubus in the family Rosacea. They are sometimes lumped as subspecies and microspecies within the name Rubus fruticosa) The usually black fruit is not a berry in the botanical sense of the word. Botanically it is termed an aggregate fruit, composed of small drupelets. Vigorous growth and tendency to grow unchecked if not managed correctly means that the plants are also considered a weed, sending down roots from branches that touch the ground, and sending up suckers from the roots. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385868.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vfaCx-VZTakmNh-t5oUlMsPBJDY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_188363875162485f93d46d5.jpgBrown argus ( Aricia agestis) Brown argus ( Aricia agestis). a small buttfly belong to the family of 'Blues" (Lycaenidae) widespread in Europe in dry grassland areas. the larvae feed on rockrose (Helanthemum) and storrks bill (Erodium) species.Podere Montecucco, Orvieoto.May 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704625.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jcu8jMngxyt63s4-K_KgJs0_OOE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1822618662543bc53cd52c1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687361.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/M-u1wwkcCGU5CVPbvo6zn_KzmdM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1943556516543a61a340c16.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698911.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zLA0caWJIZPhLZ4TKzzNIU-ebbY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_342572421543b890f38710.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759425.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CSrcRg4VxdgZnnLzTo6Hz-cTkpY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_212788171554443ac61d0e3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689267.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MCzaJQvS3KuO7uB8EX1pzBgZaAI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1512409689543aa2613056e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674906.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vEbK6MEXAxOuvxBbYXv7k1XXd6o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6154214195437e949cc3b8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704289.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Lkyq0uuEJCKh3ZLZUmlbUVlJwhQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1354395670543bbb2c64e92.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974077.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mHtq0sLY46DIjXBo4HD3kkE-rOI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209382793054636b94f1923.jpgSmall-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) Small-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) growing in moist-woodland on a north-facing slope. Lesina, Gragnao, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704302.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/o3kSbrg_dyQTVSzKTj6eICzT5F8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_298885890543bbb438021d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679307.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PaW3VT8XC3h5NwI8pq2r5mpH1NY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2130770436543948b58a022.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755806.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Vy8ip4XLXTczs_qk0p-oxeaXXXU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12791011665444005c779ee.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755870.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NM-2H5_IDPf1CPpJg7Hh8mx6tZo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20354395085444035896a6f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680240.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aDzVjaOBTEfP3UtpMPTlYttsizQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_42195758454395fbd641d3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679149.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yFHXmmPSHiBwv_CnVoXg9oHAs_Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_36955945954393b63d6420.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759445.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-Ws19xDUEk_nPZ7FpyRpv-JITvw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_188550042554443adbbb4d5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675236.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fMbAhuRjHn1zyG0lfDFe_8VsD1A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_38369875543803f449fc4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377561.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1TPRbfv9FhHHSH1whgF59R5YnkA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1953083143624479a552104.jpgLang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) also Common zebra blue. Lang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) also Common zebra blue. Leptotes pirithous is a small butterfly with a wingspan of 21–29 mm in males and 24–30 mm in females. The uppersides of the wings are purple bluish in males, bluish brown in female. The undersides are dark beige striped with white lines. The hindwings show marginal orange and black spots and two small tails. Found . Frequents grasslands, including cultivated areas to 2300m. The larvae feed on the flowers and fruits of Fabaceae, Rosaceae and Plumbaginaceae . They are frequqnet mIgrants in and there is aLong flight season This species can be found in southern Europe (Spain, France and Italy), along the Mediterranean coast, in Asia Minor up to the Himalayas, and in most of Africa and Madagascar Feb-Oct (Nov) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699215.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IFqompxr_a-Wr1XQ39JiDCJ4A_Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1523142109543b8bcdbc6e5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687434.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iyMrZxl5kPFnM-3uQt4CeivQxAY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1974628463543a63badc341.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679371.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vC762ftHT-xHU7_5q_Dv9k8zdx0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_87278718054394a3fdb5a9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704297.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wAq8Xrh7zeJ55pepvHRLSrN9588=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1417660846543bbb39a5d96.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686939.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zOhH_mfGtu6K-MwfbS14LZqAQ8s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_575370257543a4fbbbc40d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759333.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/n7rmO3euqkvHnLxqsJBc4q7ENAM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_134910965054443a7808da0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751171.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MbgYN9lI82NZbMhx4wvtTZc9WJg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2573096655443c42fa947b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751170.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aG54Z87EkeMuLXdmdAeOJTdOD60=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11529472525443c42c3e98f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377670.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0bMsG7Y6fw0n4KuHkO-gvd7KAc0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_104191614362447ea8c5faf.jpgCheckered beetle (Trichodes alvearius Checkered beetle (Trichodes alvearius) is a species of Soldier or belonging to the family Cleridae. It is is a very hairy beetle with black head and scutellum. The elongated elytra show a bright red colour with black bands. This species can easily be distinguished from Trichodes apiarius by the black stripe down the middle of the back (along the inner edge of the elytra) and the red apex, not reached by the black terminal stain.It is usually found on flower heads, feeding on pollemn and it does not fly readily, relying instead on its warning coloration to protect itself from predators. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704628.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9wp88bmIguPo1N7hOg5vKp8hh_s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_574653269543bc5441cb2d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704445.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cJEquAizeyCrKA2NOfZdf_ZWYLc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2025343875543bbec8ccd5d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687389.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GIQKeiH6rBnbU6cPFioeBy4JcPY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1875758786543a6208b546a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675430.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WK9-OTViPQJC3yBq022cTr8Hhp4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_314338233543807d2c5463.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751165.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1zdO6WumSssY9aiMPSBMolSCelA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20979118965443c416e6fbb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751164.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wl6rouMyZK6pmdqdfzyZa-1Llxo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11302806265443c4121cbae.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679354.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JmHuNxczWIM8wG-nRDeE8H7sMpY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1239779400543949e86f576.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759288.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/j_rgQ8slmsIS_mBrKngT3v54XYg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_52548122854443a49e6a7e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687426.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MJd7bdDAwsZjRpgqKOT8Chil_WA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_145247319543a6348293b9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751161.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/irIel6BsOMxsiEbaksIdIZ0F0ts=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20748690495443c40384e87.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704636.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IxJzzD2VQM2uZ3681YbRRVlkRcc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_126512794543bc55576858.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680215.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_kNxFpSegoF2zN31mZ-pURAmyHc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_156068302854395f803cd9d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704435.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_wEwLcDFS_LKKzu-s5XdH_P3A90=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1535802146543bbeb79bbc4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22715204.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/16kCKuG_v7k5UTZDb6SfcDzWqek=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_159186097543c25ab6bc31.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689271.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BE7CZLbcL1EczlXrKCKU2N38pnE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1437688633543aa27dcc73f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679303.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6FmcMOvafTFkTvGM_qzm7XWVxyA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_724551447543948a564ed4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679353.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YilPSFlgmPVgdHSCKsJy_8J2kAE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1066736012543949e42b350.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/thick-leaved-saxifrage-saxifraga-callosa https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GF_K46qHfUspM1vrDiSzxq5diy4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21204891862453e22ab3dc.jpgThick-leaved saxifrage (Saxifraga callosa) Terminillo,, Lazio, Italy Italy June 2021 Thick-leaved saxifrage (Saxifraga callosa) Terminillo,, Lazio, Italy Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679331.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QY3dg1XSaBggs1-5oGEJ637vN_M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2027330716543949a744c52.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679330.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dmnMtmrA6vHVApBbF1TK5CDc3hE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1544552728543949a313336.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377972.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xxh4VxNWVSdgepJprR1wgbNeVjo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_129651876362453e25a235e.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699132.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ocoBLNUub2piAeVMg8f_ar11Jr4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1157939681543b8aafcf6c2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699112.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Xu69Jl7_Hv4qDDvyV7o7pCFZqWw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1836742926543b8a7d3daa6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755866.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mv_T-vBQqKNes_Tpo1Sxa7JUha0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4852852025444034e37190.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704642.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8zjzgd5rTgJdavNemZiY1IClWb0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1807196665543bc567471f8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699014.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2Zem03QqQ9XdLDoUMJ0upLeCovw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1088365955543b89a10b1e9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-between-bertoloniis-ophrys-and https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SvpKVmagx2edWCcWl1Ax04AgSCA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_203435681462453bf21e654.jpgHybrid between Bertolonii's Ophrys and the Majella Ophrys O. bertolonii x O. Ophrys sphegodes ssp majellensis ...also (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) Hybrid between Bertolonii's Ophrys and the Majella Ophrys O. bertolonii x O. Ophrys sphegodes ssp majellensis ...also (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) Mte Amiata, Toscana, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679321.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3vzmpKuw9J78FG0Zd9kkrEPFYdM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_82383727154394981586e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755778.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1QseXH4EYmliEqjnkHEOThlVB3s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20805747525444001d24976.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679315.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GDDVPyTO3jpkiuNmN3sl_-t3s70=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1394569065543948d56cf36.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687472.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tWnmwTiFirH36zHVW8TQFMAYaHE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_423703179543a6596d496c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687398.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YiilurCUYKtQ-XDfO5zI9LkkBbk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1033609015543a622ce9211.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687348.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_Yg8z3lHhlmhT9KG4kxCPRob8pc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_171803892543a617a46f8d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698870.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yg4K5HKC0syrOdtxcE5rnPqlnXw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_806298661543b88db850ca.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679373.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5PTf2gWB1FjjxpFOI2DLM9cmd28=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_204821768754394a48c98a9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698922.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NXrye5b5R9J0cEJRcchVUDNhWIo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_360643699543b891dbb688.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704716.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EdgSP_D3f1mGhWr6oMJ7dQ597zE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_857765466543bc5e0392b7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751166.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LIeYWGM14NU8tXAK9xtgM9BG9xg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10712206285443c41b7b485.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689263.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Doadair344Iete6iMyZsMDB6Wog=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1363389154543aa25038ba8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385919.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uh89FtYIkCYoNnz8Ksm758lEgFs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2083387711624860693d3fe.jpgHeath fritillary (Melitaea athalia) Heath fritillary (Melitaea athalia) a British rarity but widespread on mainland Europe. Orvieto, Italy, August 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698934.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tlorYoR9dUj0szNKlVxGPtTBU3I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_905872262543b8931cace9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687352.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eAYcntYl4dZ3e87Emgi055mcZNA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1892289995543a61878ad59.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752162.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5j2xt0UzCI3kGjbGUHc8F4-xHQM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3978319575443d30c7252a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687479.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tHQBof4Rx9Hjyr4JG_h-sOx9Fh8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1187627745543a65abacd9e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752241.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B-jEZLkPa7x2ncYkh40b4ToP3JY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19246490885443d3d564c2b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687464.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_xbFDT2lkqGCXSgWp_xgGi_0Kzw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1846862541543a6584224c4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680670.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0e2zowB4xbyzOENaN7BacISkc1w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_83974215454396a3edb146.jpgBerries of the Stinking Iris (Iris foetidissima) (also Roast beef plant or Gladdon) Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687462.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6uFLD16qji_ifq8zpv2pwNohyag=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1853235110543a64a8567ab.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704735.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EXaI_Ue-hu0jKyV9uoD85AFuB-Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1220412168543bc5fb110e9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687392.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/P8CpppHzwGexOKpOQhRc7ygTmCY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1521260375543a62168212f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385865.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/irzbrx5gl-AmMJQyc5AQVB7OMS0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_57832889462485f8ec58c1.jpgBroad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) A day-flying species feeding on nectar rich flowers such as honeysuckle (the larval foodplant). When freshly emerged from the pupal stage the wings have a light covering of olive-green scales but these are quickly lost after the first flight rendering the wings transpaerent. Found in woodland rides and open grassland it is easily overlooked since its rapid flight makes it looks like a large bee or hummingbird hawk-moth. Scarce in the UK but locally frequent in the rest of Europe. Photographed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679314.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ONQROtYzcmabPhX-5yi637TrAEs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1040786028543948d1b1883.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755761.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hafSfWVfKNh_vKHWrP00qf8etXw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11123859405443fff61fada.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687481.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UkJ78HG2kWbp9przUE95bQ0Ifi8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_428225652543a65b208cc5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759434.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yILc11Ns303HUsWZVQxtO5SVsS8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_189264414054443acebc432.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751200.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iEt4gmsnLYTxpveW2wAoYCevQEI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18193489005443c4a709b45.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751216.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KgBC0FHB1cba_OuzFzaC5y3-rA4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21357623865443c4ea0dc64.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377922.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SlzOz2WfC2dl3CAs0oZm2qQqSsU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198990628562453e060684d.jpgToothwort (Lathraea squamaria) Toothwort (Lathraea squamaria) here parasitic on poplar roots but also on hazel and alder widespread in temperate regions of Europe. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. 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https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RFi2zS0EgspNeqjSNVlesia5DUE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8019905345443d2857e5fb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687454.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TxLDLjVo969ZDYUHyKudij0f5uk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1849481068543a64732088c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699026.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Oo5G7ayBRvpjTzZu7eF6Eq-6QIw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2131466037543b89af64d6f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687444.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3IXV2AFV3n9ICVxN-v5Bp1xQtnI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_878382584543a6424eac54.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687409.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Nc55quR--XWBQI4k9Zz8Efg6YaI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_478545263543a62deab7d1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704660.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w6jl0iP_k3hFRbH1ZHwE4BpQNMc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1312136809543bc5923f9a4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704495.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zEWq2riIqzoBijUs6bmOttKdVoM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_796294253543bbf27e8070.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687401.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AnnB30YiCmE2HudmIbGYgWezfLs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1224455585543a6234e6d5a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687408.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ec0a67aMog0BQjsji2OaTejjbdc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_805704155543a62dbab921.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981402.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EjgfUZa1oR0rQ9ryZ0aU4Oq_Q4U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16749356825465d04e6825c.jpgEastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) . April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687442.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/chgKk-1ymdQwvKtdWedzDc10qNk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1264288527543a641423a63.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687435.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kS-P0C4vldYZiWLn1EgF42003YA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1427260794543a63c697b00.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675388.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KywQgMbDwjPgNRTROfDx39wAth4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_829539769543806862d625.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679339.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b8gg-xhK38VGzq4HTLiv4c5VYLk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1673484091543949c79f2db.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755765.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qbgr21o42skssHcRT3WWTR7wKu4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14919426415443ffff2c02f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686937.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/L2VafxLsd0EY2qlHdmB0B7_2Pkk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2059971135543a4fb33cbb5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689261.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0euUXCDCQliOvLAryjXWR9_Af1U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_705400078543aa247458b5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755768.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/r7VRGyLQdm4royBY_QYaqiqJa-E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_105679727754440006892c3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699179.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8MfSgly454BYIOCEpUFuSMQXNCk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1104420202543b8b326d210.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755766.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aWm2An2Ka-pYZw1EqiXBFNQVaNw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1404919969544400019eea0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699106.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8PCZGeF6AUa3Sippe98hmYmnGvs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1937504241543b8a6ce8e4d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751215.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mLtgkhxTzx5ZLQF38kJgFMRhtgo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19751908885443c4e67c320.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704458.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aW0gryaRw7LOdqZKKIQblvjStu0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_545340257543bbedf97a9a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tongue-orchid-serapias-lingua https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CKAQdrdiBvHKZ7RwNUZnwF3Kelk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5207220115465d02ccf902.jpgTongue Orchid (Serapias lingua) Tongue Orchid (Serapias lingua) a widespread S. European species. Gargano nr Lago di Varano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751196.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zCWRRghtj7FU-0p8YY0wlljCJ7A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20981440925443c490bc34b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22715201.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zLBxe_CPVQnB0jD8qUhTcqec2B0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_716694016543c25a74843c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704754.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/O_7fiINord_Ck_IiZIQ02Fakqjg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1039918630543bc611b8cd0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679301.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QGzbVaW3rCvTEVJIKSS5Q8Z0pNU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11009863345439489bdc1e6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687383.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ko2bc0p8P79BlP0nVX_YbNyMEfw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_970297689543a61f1d6ff7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698894.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/S_B4rvLRTFsQ-qNlsPWw2IZ1f3k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_329018798543b88f868b7b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689264.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/D8E51RfQeao7hAaDzdmUliaZC6c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1081326108543aa254abb13.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704620.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1CMO9_OZwPbJFPziYfygu2zVkQk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_97423012543bc53331703.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680238.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GyYRbR240vSDHP4M5XbD1Cc0Wwc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_193829021754395fb642d68.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686932.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zLae4Xd29r22Ys2gmLc9urbpHtc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_481368975543a4f9c51eca.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687416.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wOCOUdC3gY19hj0R3ZbKNK3fM-A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_35723526543a62f7035dd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704457.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J1xIxdZnSMwwj4oH0bsDH2CRvAg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1658943409543bbedd881fc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699067.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iCECgP8hb_YjZVQDsZwKvZqyJs0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_500418053543b8a0227cea.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755764.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/x855iMeT2gX32DKRL_u-Vc4GsD8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5288703095443fffd20c48.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687423.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Udjf4RvaAzhCtfrxFEl22Nv4mIg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_892014616543a6337713df.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698878.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sMJRspMBu6lEPGljijola5cBOv4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1997838872543b88e57c515.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681225.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8uEMvXsi374j4bZS-c-VhXBZB2M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_77523542454396fe8dda60.jpgBorage (Borago officinalis) Borage (Borago officinalis) used as a culinary herb and for medicinal use. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981394.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qnzKYKqvQ9ac9pjpfnNjK_QnKNc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3357232455465d00d38155.jpgEastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) Eastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) closely realted to Serapias vomeracea. Pantalica tombs nr Ferla, Sicily. May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686927.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mg_R8aJIu4SzvgyZImDNrUpJ6Ck=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1682777521543a4f894f712.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698954.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3vOMgs0IRAiyXbBnp8LK3hfmTbQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1296674359543b894a5b975.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686942.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lQ5yCseiDa8kf58jEpXpfNIfRvY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_50356083543a4fc6cbe2a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704454.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PTh2xcAFImy0EOebddDF9invs1s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1975836648543bbed820b53.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698984.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/x3axVfwfFAICfW1sozI3SZmfZho=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_590059913543b8978ef6ce.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698907.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EK_1sgnWp0Afd0JFJ2kAuvHiGNo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1758785919543b890990342.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704742.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/arMBq0lzD63VniumBaAhZF1OxKo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1155715911543bc603a64cc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675390.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3Gvm19hA1GbDYgXyC10cyxdFNVI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19336977785438068dd3d31.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704506.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dnI1QJXL2r9pcnlnoFX6SX_cygw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1258071665543bbf410eb82.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679312.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jjO5-FOVHhXfddU9ddSNPsGAb7U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1733171024543948ca64346.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704544.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ig0Qm1EoXfBbP88wnDhtLPfAK2s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_387701714543bbf89717a9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686963.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KdZKURkLu14P3fBNtlajxb-nafU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2089701197543a5419b8b93.jpgLongicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) Longicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981370.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_IGUDxlFgfxhqYkxGl6E2CiRdeE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14597437635465cf253e11a.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751209.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mOk5IY-MCEwFreJCECR_gJtFySo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8870660865443c4cd276e8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759382.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DQe8sySVU6ga0JAe6KceBUmHsOw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2063205454443aa4022a1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974219.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yHGY5uaO51gAj4PEnIBQhVp3Kmw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14909440325463753951185.jpgLate Spider Orchid (Ophrys fuciflora) Late Spider Orchid (Ophrys fuciflora) a widespread Mediterranean species also found in Kent.Benano nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759430.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BmpoatXtySGydkOC2ISKWU3Nr10=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_104802906454443ac9f2789.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759282.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XcxfjZUh-RTAGlRMmHDPAdMq06M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_73584949554443a45300f2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687405.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/INSgBLVkpgREgScVe8ltPd46u14=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_737285039543a624122d5e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755744.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Lrjlb1l_7JHho7mzoNaVfe9iIe4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15898447135443ffcb4ad45.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752216.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6DSmnFaZU4hUmoCTiCys-baJYwg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13803504475443d38657bc2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704430.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uY6_rGoVbU5hYwm_9p8FR2OGjaQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1548613815543bbeacc4165.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704492.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ikVwKeXeyNcIHv1s4vNKDXqu4n0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2069681908543bbf21711c9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704432.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vXd4dZxYI_HNX0MnF9IAqtDRdj4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1646642287543bbeb1aaaf9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751198.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Jzsb8S_BW3lyd05g12x6acGKu7g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9986274225443c49c69f5b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385859.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KXaWc_RUY-XgESU55eZjERu1itA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_85705539562485f8770865.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704613.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Za9dQRBTUJ3gyGCf-zHhU4C_YCI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1291470011543bc5274a60a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751205.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qPgSvkwSCE-4qQYNoRmNAoK-vYs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10387846165443c4bc10e03.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679372.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3eZR2wJe3iOfpazxOf-klLctsj8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_32328641054394a44cd0ef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704759.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OM3jXRRo519xbs4HaDTtjcv01k4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_742742853543bc618d9010.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675384.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BRGNw_ZxPYo-0McbqHJp964CYpk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_517158977543806784aada.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698994.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hn5HC4Re_KpcRpzEHRAuMUUPDJM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1843000094543b8986eaab6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675410.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mSqBhEiIYpmisQwwljg-5cotD9A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16450115875438077f3ee0b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704644.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SpKjb_RMj22kML3BAtE_hmxlvhM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_466319363543bc56be5240.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675382.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AQybQv4BZwP-mu8aPjL9pY1neIg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_292599307543806702b1f0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20120811-047 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AXvwHDseI-S-T4uVZY4GeJt6yHY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1704779764525417f8be12d.jpgITA_PHD_20120811-047 Convolvulus hawkmoth (Agrius convolvuli) a powerful flier that appears at dusk to gather nectare from tubular flowers such as Tobacco (Nicotiana) and petunias into which it inserts a long (10-12cm) proboscis. Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 08/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751190.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ho7XYCbKAHC9xB5AvriH0bHTC-Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1423317145443c479b05ed.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687488.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WkzUPrh7n845Y7Wmz3zg68t5df0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_674381052543a65c85ea2f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo19486460.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tZ2mnOVjdqevB7zpQudF6wkfw7o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1165510592524fcd3a48e14.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675436.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VdCikU0ve2GNHvQ4MvZM0PTlKXQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_396637794543807ecce02f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704738.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QPbl6eLPHzGYhdY-iT-lh_4VJCA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1377312063543bc5fdca27b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755718.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rKJHqjumTs2GjZjufFbDEOicFuw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15900702975443ff796ade7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698845.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0YSvsHhRxMIOwYTaIA5-4RbOwnc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1185214555543b88b9dfd4a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704433.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/E7PceCGYHx5kcROeLwY9EymAbXw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_695487508543bbeb4440fc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687390.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zqOArkk6p5mQXMGk49SO4S5_Im8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1145284530543a620b96b85.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699216.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IYj-2eD1Y-7mMAhNkx1ttSR4y-E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_635645273543b8bd0389f7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680803.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EuD_fgynGAOQZL3CGJmugORWRSM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_187442529454396ba5b4069.jpgBellardia (Bellardia trixago Bellardia (Bellardia trixago) an annual,semi-parasitic annual on grasses: two colour forms white/purple and yellow. Photo in grassland nr Ferla, Sicily. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/shining-meadow-rue-thalictrum-lucidum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MNYQD-9CVMZQAwDAnlvvn0q-BYg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11995155962453e150d952.jpgShining meadow rue (Thalictrum lucidum) Shining meadow rue (Thalictrum lucidum) A species of wet meadows with a wide distribution in Italy. Piediluco, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751212.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xYy8RUzT3AQGECmP9c8v_atm1wM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7837150625443c4d9ef4ae.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20120328-033 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ci8YR0F8cs2FNS0vlatne0_YZs8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11787969215254140600d9e.jpgITA_PHD_20120328-033 Longhorn Beetle (Cerambyx scopolii) common in trunks of poplar. Found emerging from woodpile nr Orvieto. Italy. 03/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687350.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XKxlKKbMVtF5SKMsmMvovVXtRys=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_468330171543a61814c5c1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675423.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Th9LNzrqpSV3uu4k-pdmJ_wc3TA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_116119191543807b99ffed.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679329.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BoVP_9XW-NWtEjfxNvyzuTkZajQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1440322825439499fd3bca.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698916.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ixeMRN5M5cubQuiXvLa2gOaM1vc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_369570350543b891662bf5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755763.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-om9QnYJNYpyLNp1_hQ7zL4klKA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10893817655443fffb28179.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687415.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BoSSVS52eRQmlQsMlCvrl8KwjPA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1560644040543a62f3a6e38.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687008.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pYGgcfnqkpEjVqQKpZF7JEvOLY0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_368938138543a54dfa202e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698931.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iPQ5T8HjugXYgvLrLwH0nUXilsI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2037483184543b892858206.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752225.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EC7Bu7DBPuzf_DQaCq13Y-nNHbs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9454776065443d39dcc4c5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704710.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/f7V3ZZhxJKHE38--nV3sVKSZDjU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1545225692543bc5d943f92.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704541.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RK1yNynDkLUAk0nZEBVJlCbFwcU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1766256498543bbf82c1b97.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698904.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/g_ehfT3iy6wW9LC1Od40eg8o1EY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1419260940543b8903a8064.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704656.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BhQAwxHBvJL1qKgAmJMOTtUIKDU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_363057471543bc5861967b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679351.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/viHHiKf4lGviQu4_TsH4acEhoi0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_852865841543949df83690.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680228.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YW0gpo804w8jLVZS8-P3arjUmqQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_95646062554395f9720439.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679299.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oxNQrUdRVIx-bDIwhDhh-DF4cPE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_26509734654394893348d2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377887.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/v6p9g64n54wY36JjyCRQ1EbC1TI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_196164399162453bfb17b04.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Lago di Ventina, Terni, Umbria, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751203.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zXLCBXBSlytCsaAqApDuIW1A9eU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3733204755443c4b42dfa6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681178.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yjbatiMfATvmeayNaapyV9akKWc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_177784798254396f9fa24b0.jpgChicory (Cichorium intybus) Chicory (Cichorium intybus) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco.Orvieto, Umbria Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-nettle-urtica-dioica-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TH5CZvAGMi_nLxiNqw3yRtXXk5g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_38451543554396f9003491.jpgCommon Nettle (Urtica dioica) MYN (MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. MYN. July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687339.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/G6utAdv88pHpdjeKvNif9G5Adbs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1759934359543a614ea54e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/borage-borago-officinalis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sF2Zbja9XcwVnjBKTnuNye4ectM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_103884026954396f5a5a11e.jpgBorage (Borago officinalis) Borage (Borago officinalis) used as a culinary herb and for medicinal use. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/dull-ophrys-ophrys-fusca-ssp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BLJt6Y_QoyEoaexTTayVBc3sy-c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1630687193546366db5ce4e.jpgDull ophrys (Ophrys fusca ssp fusca) Dull ophrys (Ophrys fusca ssp fusca) a widespread and common species in S Europe with a large number of races, some identified as separate &#039;species&#039; Hill above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752143.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nJ2RbI1u5rIkKUFe9XNILcsx8RU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4915870825443d2df58abe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698935.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7ZOXPb5Uqs_bqM-CiirKgG0B6ZM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1075047040543b89337e51a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-bumble-bee-with-early https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XfLzHnlFcf90mC8F0T0DspLNDMY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4848050695463747b46c5a.jpgHybrid Bumble Bee with Early spider (Ophrys bombyliflora x O. sphegodes = O.x hoeppneri) Hybrid Bumble Bee with Early spider (Ophrys bombyliflora x O. sphegodes = O.x hoeppneri) Mt Argentario, Tuscany, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679147.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uBFR9e4ZvNqa_8dWMAZthFrY5H0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_83937387954393b5c856f4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699033.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NpelbRykSiXGhq1x-hGMs17KDQA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_241904095543b89ba03c4b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704438.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CYWOazgzwq4OROJOxJw_TFnEIQw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_352386344543bbebcac450.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752125.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e1NO16azAq7DsGv2XpHtJ3dJTlo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19696873035443d295b4c7d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759319.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EYOFUxHSEfkJmw-mJdWqVjnvUEM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_137520640754443a6a77b83.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755790.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3iYmGEqXgQCoXa7xu_gnV9CGXZI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1898870113544400389842d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752221.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ptNReo8rgk7Vo11ZlI8-9Wj-GKY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_692018205443d392c78f2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689278.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/m5IqWlhwC4_aSEZ92NKe8eyUL44=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2079360775543aa29964c7d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/field-gladiolus-gladiolus-italicus-syn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T25wS_T_li68KGgDp-9SDYJe-Ag=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_61375646854396f6330eec.jpgField Gladiolus (Gladiolus italicus syn. G. segetum) Field Gladiolus (Gladiolus italicus syn. G. segetum) a plant of cultivation disappearing with intensive cultivation https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/early-spider-ophrys-ophrys-sphegodes https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T9BQntg7ShUL6VX_x96AiQPh_hA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_130363560546369f11fea0.jpgEarly Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) Early Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) a variable and widley distributed species of S England (Kent, Dorset) and europe. Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675280.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6mmTjPIUwNr3OfYlcJ2PRMoM3lg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3962898285438047489d48.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679376.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-k3uOeR0JRj8F2sYR2ao5FE6mc8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_75282008754394a56d50c0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679332.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_pSPo8CfsSihndc5bsu_HYrakFY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_755387405543949ad05425.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679153.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/70wLp6j1140gguQ4sk5kcqUc_i0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_92324510554393b6d95bac.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687386.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oRVxRqD4gsgCTgqyp6RI6wReq74=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_485556506543a61fe5a4af.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704563.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lVD1gAVMjoGojDkdgvviSkh9sQU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2116268411543bbfada1cbe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974206.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LssPSiHGgZG66u0TNfzV-3Cp0u4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1962099408546374b0df888.jpgMirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) Mirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) an intriguingly coloured insect mimic distributed throughout the Mediterranean, Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759364.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WjYWrdaYcNzkP_gsTNYVh-Q2iZ8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_60645378754443a95309ea.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699061.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GZZuvQPs5EaEWP8QDU29sFK0GPk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1353988087543b89f15a1be.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675446.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YyvfsTCXbrYJ9wsg-SPt42zaFpQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2019915372543808155425c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675411.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/H_uBtQI9SrMouGE9feozriisky8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_169498057543807832833e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699080.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B4ln67kaDnxcedtadOfuGXYvUKA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_930610640543b8a2526f4e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755715.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ovs9l69-tJh31AJ3LAwacWXqlgg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2163520895443ff7266881.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752159.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/n0CeHuf-YlMenSBNmiplVXTNjgs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18869080555443d30716022.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698926.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HNYwI_xK32AFlmPcWWjWjZtL2XU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_758932965543b89213d3b6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mediterranean-medlar-crataegus-azarolus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6KCEvm28BxR_VpqDI4oE3IEPBYo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_44637670562447ad305baf.jpgMediterranean Medlar (Crataegus azarolus) Mediterranean Medlar (Crataegus azarolus) - fruits edible but slightly acidic https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679377.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PajgD3jFdadnrmGuK5tS27tInMs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_214567594554394a5b28dfe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704485.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BI2-00nzFPfjJeujXjVTLQ3wt24=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1900502496543bbf12cc109.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687465.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sxuzhZeLrSMkAeyiZN684A3jCMA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_216690448543a658666ce4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681142.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GNq7X7Q66O9rIiVTBwfYastHbYI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_158219474754396f6e55a46.jpgField Pansy (Viola arvensis) Field Pansy (Viola arvensis) - in the wild garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687005.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YkHeF4NDpfZQP1ZuTHLd5Clzv9k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_962436000543a54d5bb876.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704693.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8c4XbhkSWd2ArolOZBLkM6gyimU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1320383690543bc5c340d75.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973999.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ED1V1d94-7XYnkBI0rX9MhQn5c8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1647956543546367b8a382c.jpgOphrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) Ophrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759279.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nqCJTd8TnFuqGsJUdYCce30y1ks=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_210047933054443a41ce985.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/purple-viper039s-bugloss-echium-plantagineum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GbZ-jqQ7SKF4XxlEWnx7CfSLK5M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13584792854396f6673132.jpgPurple viper&#039;s bugloss (Echium plantagineum) Purple viper&#039;s bugloss (Echium plantagineum) wild garden at Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687357.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8vpOxIhxJ3blthbwtT19YuJYJpk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1002994663543a619501348.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698910.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u8SAKxDaTFJNTlB9eWoi2hWJbEE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1025445774543b890d31722.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/paper-wasp-polistes-associus-feeding https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TO3-q260M5PzZ_YFzEnvvxW25zw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18851950456245438fafc08.jpgPaper wasp (Polistes associus) feeding on nectar from Eryngium Paper wasp (Polistes associus) feeding on nectar from Eryngium A species characterized by very light eyes, the ocelli arranged according to an equilateral triangle, The dorsal surface of antennae is black in both sexes, with wide and deep longitudinal groove. The Clypeus (brioad plate at facial front) is uniformly yellow, markedly depressed, with a distinct longitudinal ridge and a black stripe. Mte Vettore, Sibillini, Umbria, September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704640.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/je1LN5Bpze15hxUrieX_BwJZzf8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1642801042543bc563bf060.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755794.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4l7FG6Avw_TZ76NqfLQ8lEUhYS8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7496823554440042ea21e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698901.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DbGeKafGhbqC4fEuwUtOBScqIbI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_92829964543b88ffe82e6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704717.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uHhzYxgDR1nk5NtMmKyptWKHUZ8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_518785893543bc5e1d5ca4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686954.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9At0nNIKcWjx7DA-t5BeZQpmGSk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1437818386543a53f222d2f.jpgjumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN jumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699197.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jehGyuh4ToAdp4BIy_uc2RvwMiw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1587147842543b8b67205b3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704748.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/igJ2wYKkleOPfU-ZSz_qZuk8uQU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_997581398543bc609cb9b3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674914.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KQ2nHiP_WRI1S13vCfkfkhSP3XE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13635235085437e99e16399.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698937.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FQ1Kz_UVUNTqSHubkT4GmXIXm3o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_287443579543b89357ce14.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698888.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7Yq_vfPwMRyVyzfD7HvbIlKSkQQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_171992904543b88f090433.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bush-cricket-tettigonia-cantans https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TO_pWehBpZTwZ87zGr9ZHtcmh98=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_270473070543a54220f6da.jpgBush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) Bush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698859.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bNxar1qVz8fSN7QpVkWWiykymdg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1232936572543b88cb9b139.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973818.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KFsjqz4iu3BxFCwGXU2LGlrKyRs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13973872985463619266ac7.jpgOphrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis Ophrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis May 2011 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755777.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7swsK0ZhLIDSCIU3718nyoEWJ2c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4496582455444001ac588e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704663.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KQ7hX2M25D4Zxg_xLR7lu6qgnSE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1421425110543bc599c10b2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679322.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sS385UEy_UtFVp9nnZQZn05P7TQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12402756645439498609d4a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679368.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rdm-5QrkIFksT68vs70HVz93sIw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198166517254394a2eeddcb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675398.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kVTLz9AEQ1LpXGdhKSbaH_GiE2I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1411292038543806ac34f68.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974044.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PQyc_FdN0UQIAdiMkv_HtlVycDI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_37320432254636a8000844.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Hornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera) Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981387.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eG-ecN6IDL4szByIr1A_ySjeYac=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7179278935465cfdb97487.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752233.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eZPW4QbbqhYNY3TDvZR87SYVAzk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9362635205443d3b9e618d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704560.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ds9AKqe8CTSLCRlvZyWsqcomzGM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1225519306543bbfa745890.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751208.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mjBi-Td3AJFCL20IrsrVWIUF_88=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16222309375443c4c8e645c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704431.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iXQ1hrHnlNVNW1fGptJ3C8fBQEE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_152391856543bbeaee2531.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/eastern-serapias-serapias-orientalis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mpJwRSmkf46e5pQxcyfK1OhKREo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4085648295465d00119376.jpgEastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) Eastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) closely realted to Serapias vomeracea. Pantalica tombs nr Ferla, Sicily. May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687455.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OymnIb2o5_ruPmy_uUkkr4F7zTg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1815039037543a647b3eb1d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755732.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K3xsIj7GLQjPz4Fwc3L-2ypPy34=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13889280125443ffa2c33fd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759441.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tMzu5XN0nMF6lMfRHMKLC7tCiY8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_207347305054443ad76a60d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687430.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fFM6pXOsV8hjT8XapvPUIFXQyP8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1241777710543a63836821d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687477.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eTwaSsg77vxoQV3MqbBA0rpdQe0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1404077362543a65a594cef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377699.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nnJ3nJFgxxN9tK5hvv_KCssUkUM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198182340562447ec08dd47.jpg Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. Mammoth wasp (Megascolia maculata) the largest wasp in Europe. The female reaching up to 6 centimetres and has a yellow head whereas the male is smaller with black head and longer antennae. The mammoth wasp is found in Mediterranean type habitats such as oak forests, maquis and garrigue and can only occur where its host, the European rhinoceros beetle Oryctes nasicornis is found. The female hunts in dead wood for the grubs which it paralyses with its sting and then lays a single egg on the larva. The wasp grub consumes the beetle larva apart from its skin, eventually building a cocoon and pupating. It emerges from the cocoon as an adult in the following spring. The species can be seen in warm weather feeding on the nectar of flowers, from May to September. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974083.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GU4w0AgChgnhTtSrM40SH_vYXIs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93486495454636bbf69d94.jpgHorned Ophrys (Ophrys cornuta = O. oestrifera) Horned Ophrys (Ophrys cornuta = O. oestrifera) widespread in Greece but very rare in Italy. Nr Peschici, Gargano, Puglia, Italy, Monte Nero, Gargano , Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687476.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DiIop3E7ywwB_hvcXySJjOHm-2o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_453103581543a65a0913ab.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686962.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SmX7l1bztUWfe3pt1RVm9sZG9kY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1523694395543a54157d418.jpgLongicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) Longicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679369.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K6OmjEsZ_8fgLvSHSWeoMtjfuyI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5400999954394a3774026.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/southern-comma-polygonia-egea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EYovsMZLAuAYwyp7QwuCV9YQ_yk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_81479735862447999eee45.jpgSouthern comma (Polygonia egea). Southern comma (Polygonia egea). A butterfly of the family Nymphalidae found in southern Europe. The butterfly flies from March to September depending on the location. The larvae feed on Pellitory of the wall (Parietaria officinalis). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Umbria, Italy. June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704712.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7NIQmcnXEDTqNG-7R1q5kwKbCBw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_678550963543bc5dcd723d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687471.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/O5_fAh3aIo5cUv2L18Nxqd-kANk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1033244048543a659442f8b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699202.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ffounYzp-7wFTzQjf9Tj3t6jWvk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_712293080543b8b7c69f6a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679356.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OIuAItcJVnRS8-Ktd3Ix8hlLU-I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1916055426543949f7bbe31.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686961.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/f7UGEeWI52vdAHNfE3CVEqXfXLI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1370683738543a541113639.jpgLongicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) Longicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704680.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GcovMO2EoDtbYt6APkoLyZK8CLw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_576479247543bc5b01980b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/deadly-nightshde-atropa-belladonna https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ou07-jGgWFcK9TWpujMWeFb6ec0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1068285975624473a06f34f.jpgDeadly Nightshde (Atropa belladonna). Deadly Nightshde (Atropa belladonna). This species is a highly poisonous member of the Solanaceae which is the family that embraces tomatoes, aubergines, potatoes and capsicums. The fruits and tubers might be edible but their green parts are posionous ...they contain tropane alkaloids such as Atropine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine which are also presetn in the more poisonous members of other genera within the family: (Brugsmania, Datura (Thorn apple) and Hyoscyamus Henbane). Deadly nightshade, thorn apple and Henbane have long been favoured constituents of witches' and murders' potions. Atropine has medicla uses through its ability to regulate involuntary such as sweating, breathing heart rate and pupila dialtion (hence its use in eye surgery). All parts of Atropa belladonna are posionous and cause narcois and paralysis in humans and domestic animals though both cattle and rabbits seem able to eat it. The berries are large, shining and black and appealing to children...Mt Amiata, Tuscany, Italy, June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752140.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XA10kCC_nx0RRZAoqZsT88T8ylo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13864705445443d2d34e2bb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-x-etrusca-hybrid-orchid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Q_TE7aWv6Ml76SAGrJQPx19KwUU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_830781312546361b0acb2b.jpgOphrys x etrusca - Hybrid Orchid: Early spider x Sawfly orchid (Ophrys sphegodes x O. tenthredinifera Hybrid Orchid: Early spider x Sawfly orchid (Ophrys sphegodes x O. tenthredinifera = Ophrys x etrusca) on the Via Appia Antiha, Rome, Italy. May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698970.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Z2wMmH9_xra5gk9OlOZKHx2LxAg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_780630556543b89651c266.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752257.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yxpGIrwE7OolBkGq4mGYP20w-BY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2049465035443d4100490d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755799.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8L2BiHqT4F2EBP37FWZ30BeUyZ8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13601823605444004e5dbe9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759285.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t7Q6OnGMTBTNxlIBhMKm8P1-1Ws=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_101585084354443a47c2931.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675394.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UcIS0Qnoun2cjQhlX33okwmOboA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19121520645438069bed1af.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698848.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0pa_MdNG5tledMSS8tENHfyluMI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1995708601543b88bbb4dbd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698835.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6C-CGqd61CdRFdrhySJFoJ_aPCY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2132228876543b88ade49eb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704513.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/y41I7ec704JC5T1haTdzcCUSAIo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_663370028543bbf4dadc82.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752145.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/R0F3TgBEwuS3PyyyjhX8knPn-QY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1484081785443d2e940d76.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704300.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nd1pL0CPsPxU0AE2cosQQDvetWw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1678702604543bbb3eec81a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681170.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PlR7_27eTH6WjgVuW0CKGWuWC1Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_207520081954396f9321446.jpgCommon Nettle (Urtica dioica) MYN (MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. MYN. July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704675.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xCFJtN15UZum4lR8B8KGuYJH5mY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_187900039543bc5aa24892.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wisteria-wisteria-sinensis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0ZwKSZvI-957Fz57d-5BBd7torU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_54691999954396b87dadbc.jpgWisteria (Wisteria sinensis) Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) a memberof the pea-family (Fabaceae) that is widely cultivated as a garden plant. nr Orvieto, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755773.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T61w422CNvOKD0I79GcF31ejoXg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14429801645444001217e97.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755814.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LOmctbZ5hTAnxwsqCb64sOzh6-g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1595636265444006cc0827.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974003.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HP-R5YIzJZ1_FlnTWZW-j0HPN0g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1135083358546368002e484.jpgHorned Ophrys (Ophrys cornuta = O. oestrifera) Horned Ophrys (Ophrys cornuta = O. oestrifera) widespread in Greece but very rare in Italy. nr Peschici, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698863.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9FSSR3PLpHE_p8kDxHM7s6RRZPA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1307925814543b88d23c4ba.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687378.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0OGP0tLSiWUZy_Fdbo26tEihvd4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_242958058543a61e2012ea.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981363.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2jh42WAjGCxbjOcbTc5-kIN3buU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2794285155465cf02118b3.jpgHeart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) Heart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) flowering in a small colony nr Rome (Colli Romani), Lazio, Italy May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/snakeshead-fitillary-fritillaria-meleagris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RxFcePLb1B4ksBYB-5xsttsqC0E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_176309475662453dfadf7be.jpgSnakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) Snakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) is a plant of damp grasslands and river flood meadows up to 800m altitidue. It is widespread in Europe with some spectacular sites in the UK and in floodplains in continental Europe. It has numerous common names including 'leper lily' for the resemblance to the cup once carried by lepers. mekleagris means spotted like a guinea fowl . Garden origin, Umbria,, Italy Mar 20102 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704758.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aUqgT31aJXLSS_iUFr4I7fwSYi4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1910754804543bc6172dac1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-fly-orchid-hybrid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Rl9F-nVbvO_T-a1wgzi0BPBjIBQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_639441317546361f927373.jpgBee orchid -Fly orchid hybrid (Ophrys apifera x O. insectifera) O. x pietschii Bee orchid Fly orchid hybrid (Ophrys apifera x O. insectifera) O. x pietschii, A arere hyvrid found just off the A303, Wiltshire UK. June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974006.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4Fjxe8lb3jlLc102A2fHnUdbSos=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4256042965463685a50fbf.jpgO. x francinae, Ophrys hybrid from Gargano O. tenthredinifera X O.apulica One of many hybrids in Gargano, Italy a region in which the density of orchid plants and pollinators seems to favour hybrid formation. nr Monte St Angelo, Gargano. Italy. April 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751180.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a90Q2r6LuhMOCMLqswTSuPsPMXM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20999331825443c451d95dd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675381.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3xTZPyCTUdyJo9zJvyoJnDItOro=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13717541415438066be17d5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687439.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/n_T2oyBwOBEoROvS3K1LGv2ijsU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_129438123543a63eed6ae5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/jumping-spider-philaeus-chrysops-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sy-sc5b70F-IR-tCi9GRPMYvZbQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_949499682543a53e4b0e03.jpgjumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN jumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/gourd-flower-lagenaria-sp-calabash https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KBKcg8dPlOOgD3fMwvw9t3SO2FI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_164874018154396faa648fc.jpgGourd flower (Lagenaria sp - Calabash) Gourd flower (Lagenaria sp - Calabash) cultivated - Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674900.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MpAjpU7nQqF-XfJv7QVdnQDFPkQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17515097225437e8f36de39.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704566.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c68_DkTjR8JP_R5ofix4DlOJ5mQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_756876343543bbfb1c622c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679151.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hy0grT0N8JZNdzhrMCHr9Lx1Hkg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_59877690854393b68f287b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crab-spider-synaema-globosum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qhFk9y2F6-Tw23pc7LNT5_7rZac=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_185793699543a53fab4152.jpgCrab spider (Synaema globosum) crab spider (Synaema globosum) a colourful spider. MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687469.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kE52O7MPD_3FDRuHxCv278DBXN0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1878254954543a658f78195.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679344.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4B3qeyTqyouxzsUyYX6HlDnf0TE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1111290285543949d28e03e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755818.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/s7XEnA1_7Ut77Rx5QI3yXXQF1wI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_202193564554440072083e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679378.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sVqgX0IrXORYVIh7Vn4GOrYliOc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_31073509954394a604e824.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698944.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rkNXpgwIvd9O6ZHgmJ6kstFeuA4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_412104856543b893f30f8f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679390.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wV7jl16Og08Ve-cqMkP-wQg2Z2I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_175231133354394f10061d6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679347.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TOPHsqyXpa956VMOMpcYsuyKong=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_758780055543949d745904.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704510.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xHDpSleTqf9lcqCWolRJKfyCiOQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2117486403543bbf497a55f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751206.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CyiCZ6X2iQEVa7PbM8-swYMjIRc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13304728845443c4c069aa5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689275.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/m-z65X05kOCdsZ9Yn1o1vWfvr1c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_487802266543aa2902fb6b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689260.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ofja3CsIsh_HjkQ9uHPBDi8GBa0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_779982861543aa241c0e08.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974050.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aMXfoONavgzy-plKPgwdTJcE5yc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_29072626154636ab4ed490.jpgHornet Ophrys yellow variety (Ophrys crabronifera var chlorantha) Hornet Ophrys yellow variety (Ophrys crabronifera var chlorantha) occasionally colour forms of many Ophrys occur. Piediluco , Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704681.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cSYo8G4NHLFClV3FnyX9cv0IPfM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1467195421543bc5b22b6e9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689268.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/azzx2h6tN8qIkAGtqrAKMNa-3js=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1303780438543aa2671d3d1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/white-butterbur-petasites-albus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0kRCoqrAvcWDG0U6bUqyOYImkA0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_207890356962453df96ec97.jpgWhite butterbur (Petasites albus) White butterbur (Petasites albus) a species of central Europe, growing near water, belonging to the same branch of the Compositae as coltsfoot. The leaves are remarkably large. Old bridge and falls on the Olpeta river just outside Farnese, Viterbo, Lazio March 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/convolvulus-hawk-herse-convolvulii https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FxiO8x9nwojtFlqaPb_5NgbXbbA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_191268416262447997239d7.jpgConvolvulus hawk (Herse convolvulii) - Convolvulus hawk (Herse convolvulii) - a large hawkmoth that visits tobacco flowers in early evening. Breeds in S Europe: migrant in UK. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751201.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5GA3vEE_HxzWgZfQLHb_UdGBC2s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19133260295443c4abb2b60.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681119.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rQHLibNZMSd-46i73miwAHrfFi0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_131772965654396f50ef9d7.jpgForking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) Forking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) a late-flowering cornfield weed photgraphed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 06/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377530.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/G32d7KkgHVfqIk3DankGGWfAIIU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_222850047624479914c418.jpgCrab spider (Misumena vatia) ♀︎ with its coccoon anchored to a leaf of Eryngium Crab spider (Misumena vatia) ♀︎ with its coccoon anchored to a leaf of Eryngium. Podere anchored to a leaf of Eryngium. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy. August 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751183.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_t-VKR_-DLxmC_7wSVqm9NJ_4-Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17818017635443c45f0dd59.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679152.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7ezRhdoEgrn5aaxZBMWdnXxlYQk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_50256747354393b6b3a8ed.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675422.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rFmoGtZ1_OKphqSwCEZvChBqVUI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_137442185543807b5bca55.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674918.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6GQRpqrK90LxjEFLsark7CdCeYE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16880661585437e9b962cde.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675429.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DTFu7L4yDt36ekGwBr4Mm7DtoaM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_760428137543807cd96861.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679326.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/apL0Q10YCyQd3b0XhEW7ovQPEC0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1899143115439499305767.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675444.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4iiwrTBi4jQtlZ2aXbPqQMteJXQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_202735538254380810f1ffb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675238.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AzvVNjlNSWMjitxuIgXEf9oWh_E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_613958568543803f805159.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704441.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iMp_f67-pRnkf9Gndvy6EuW8H-E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_504468618543bbec25657a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680232.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/abg7a6mYDntV8mJAiaOqIaELC1U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_130274570854395fa6dce15.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675242.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hR0idwSKuY10LzcUkZMlo8ikNDg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_117938396543803ff1d75f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675427.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MjrD2mz8JXf-2ntDRlGm6J5Pxos=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_494699903543807c9be5fb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674901.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1FWOjaNiPUy3ls001rTgEoRLyGo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15168106415437e8f7cec77.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981407.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IdmxIiRxuAJDkREsU-YFxWsxtxc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6564162545465d06ba2bfe.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680230.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mf82UMZudkpNeBrqv2WlZ-9oHsc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_193737243254395f9a83f6d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679144.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b0DpX8SSCC7FVuS8586Fcq6pdmw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_23626867954393b516b7c9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675420.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WtIOQYnbOCy86v5JEzj5eSE-RW8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_633725011543807acea3e9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679324.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/54KDXcUgf6rCRllEQuLdAvOQJCo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11730387605439498e23ae2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704535.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1E5jti853eU7SLukBJ7FFrzj65w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1473962414543bbf76c7405.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755810.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/h1lt-_dAAhzyyjJ-Boo2tkktkfQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_106512244354440065dfa5a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687004.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/49J7YSNcZVQZD2UaboFGeWHv-ls=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_36734626543a54cf9e2b6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680221.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tnweCb-AfNvd7nhBs3TSVf7ybeE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_154685728654395f8a7498d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377303.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/z9KkHuGebEfHtIGzv-T7C8A6zvw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19520518546244341a2e27a.jpgCommon Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) life-cycle, Common Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) life-cycle, photogrpahed with chrysalis formed from caterpillars saved after a cold autumn and overwintered. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy May 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679355.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dqE5JG4pSudClYOpIRklJHL0dQI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1487195289543949ec6d890.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675389.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LPvizSJ7FfE3tod8DMD4Ox8JQl4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17389244805438068a2e243.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675442.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ufmtm4BETgEliMu7zXVgF_9QSVc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17772563325438080a4d358.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704558.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GK_yPuSL6sYpZyli27tvVOQHLbY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2134579102543bbfa3341b4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704440.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XOIlIQ6krWsitrPHQPCKmwA8by4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_208695932543bbec0b2562.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755793.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/N9bOQzQhRSgrJFC44Wk5VrQBQIM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_195124077254440040bb12c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679304.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GLlUfcbcrfvqpTE7Tjj-nJZDsE0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_803866159543948a9427d1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679334.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V560bEcFczW6z6U8J_udV9n8m8Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_390975160543949b6c254a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755797.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Mn3_dGPhOqbsZCiKxXfJUd5crgE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15049941265444004a13dab.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755788.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sYez0sHiqBcVkjZsfX2cKZoIogQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_633749824544400344e8d8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755871.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jcMWxH50M4XSv85wWLf7-ihezOU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10690964995444035b981e5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-swallowtail-papilio-machaon-life https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PhrddEs406iCqYzpy9yN4uxKgBc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1657047669624434194ee05.jpgCommon Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) life-cycle, Common Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) life-cycle, photogrpahed with chrysalis formed from caterpillars saved after a cold autumn and overwintered. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy May 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755780.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xwr-O4ucVJZSb8WS6_0fynnvaNw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2637705375444002127754.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704543.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QYY17XmTxhqMdVLYhm4X6bjj150=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_493255351543bbf87193b6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704743.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/j-cg3uOIED2Taywz9HzGiECRis0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_678074302543bc604dcaa9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377309.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zp2tN8aVOYyyllyZIiyI7jZjXcM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19760729396244341ead57f.jpgCrab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎ Crab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎often found on plants where bees visit where they sit waiting..The name derives from the way the animla hols its ront legs ready to grasp an unwary pollinator.. Podere Montecucc,o, Umbria (Italy) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755800.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wG2ggYsbMNkyqxXKGQOODYQw2cs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_50085347954440050ca9cc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704567.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UlZ_w2W7dIsRo9mp_H2k-gIB868=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1824932538543bbfb473c10.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704557.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OhQMj17xtmnwPxtUs9b-eH21LKE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1355200665543bbfa1381c3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675401.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PerEIPJf1DsvDG8u6qMgUOSuIas=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_816775303543806b78c9e0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755801.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-wHD8FaQoNYQAm1Pn4O72up1Z54=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1540264528544400539c892.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704473.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DM-ixPLeH4me0X_8BaPAG5G_3AA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_530058826543bbef9950a7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704483.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ct2DxYTN6haU_Gx0bisBOUu0rGA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_595050954543bbf0f726f7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759293.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9hNO3mRT5T1mVay3idvu8_5czpI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_54134283554443a4ff2ffd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755786.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GZQ4rrHwmRadEnsYJCc_Q3eSEdg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14519035145444002e73144.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675391.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ETpmvg0Rm5Qi15ebL7LdKDQNS78=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_139638227054380691c352d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704762.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CZDm-Jy0N7auFzwHG8SrIs203oI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1112999449543bc61ce7971.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755802.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WKnS0oJLwHlP9XCgqW9IVB7wrfo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_63898404954440055a83e7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755787.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4E3ulo12vtF28kjk9_DK8nJ-kJw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1991219128544400325e3f7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679364.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5P88Jvq7SUTGrH5qPH181Y9JZ0A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_188549986554394a1c6a1bb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675386.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_1bk3z_9sTMk6vUB3Lan3tQ0l20=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10195316495438067ef1aaf.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679309.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TfOiOMt5g6zMHL1eQz2-a-1oebI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_282720702543948bde3ede.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755815.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u_Rlv6YPHzwz9p9xkWCouB-c19A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3129773355444006f6cd0e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755795.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9lmHSXa65AQDEpE4qV8ycq2zmcw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12087760544400450b498.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755731.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_f5wRATVBqjjNOyeMmSskL6TWTg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16298789985443ff9f02ae4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755738.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5-oMVs_zkUuOdebunvM6YdgoWpw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6136009135443ffb4d410e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679366.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Yj6y8Dar68VAQadh6zUwziKyd7o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_24576189754394a25d7361.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704429.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pw4COxAtV5vsUCMznYVUitpj13M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_144294256543bbeab27b5d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686966.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xZbeieSBguWhTGGUmrrQ2a79n1k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_242297541543a5426dd4ab.jpgBush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) MYN Bush Cricket (Tettigonia cantans) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981408.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-gwsSCcay31SPLrwKncU_sXDNos=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16220101665465d078dec28.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755730.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Do68-rGGp9B1F0JaVWZwlral_UI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10881325695443ff99673db.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675392.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/j4pamCtMFOhOvuDkcqZ8xq7Kdag=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17343958605438069565cb7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/alpine-flax-linum-alpinum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vPpXiTfrbJ-at7mHBCk0vwicEz4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12964302906244739f5c28f.jpgAlpine flax (Linum alpinum) Alpine flax (Linum alpinum).A high mountain species that occurs in central and southern Europe and western Asia, in rocky lawns, limestone hills and mountains of Pyrenees, Alps, Apennines, Rhodope Mountains and Urals, at an elevation of 1,400–2,500 m. This perennial plant blooms from May to August.[2] The flowers are bent before flowering, where as floral peduncles remain erect after flowering. Typical pollinators are insects (bees, bumblebees, wasps, hoverflies, etc. Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio. Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704757.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b1ZcjLfTYqsaxqoddI7z5AD6LZo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_24354014543bc61508cd8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675439.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lGWsEfXZfa9xfJNVciWTlOlqrQc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1193032627543807fc2dd13.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675413.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Gpyx3TSYBUfZO_NlzM1EyMzX8e0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_793066315438078cd3cbc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687406.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aNPouz7mMS5xxYLJr5SPj3Dy0bQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_704886390543a62d4c1595.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755809.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bu3qCTa0tS1ZnRQkdWJ-3frJLks=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_158157059754440063ac42c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22715207.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_uPlTzFAPxJyZeEkN7lyipr4bgU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_715272673543c25af370b4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704647.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WK6VRphzQRanTSLWUT4QDB62uR4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2108110953543bc5719f37a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704648.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uCkrtwolPUia7FzJMq6yTUzoXgU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_709345981543bc573639bd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679389.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/USu8O6tchCJj8YMp3DcE7v8vYIM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15179214954394f0d98dd9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686930.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2bXmGpXx_8oz4xY9Rh-EQMvsd1M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1482634002543a4f9533fa8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704632.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a-PBLC_Q8vUfWEkWb_YwlzG8S2c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1565004256543bc54c6b52f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mouse-eared-chickweed-cerastium-vulgatum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/h9HxX34SZ1pq22rk7oeHfjvvfOQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_458272996244341b7e5d1.jpgMouse-eared chickweed (Cerastium vulgatum). Mouse-eared chickweed (Cerastium vulgatum)...tiny white flowere captured utilising the MicroMak 25mm proble lens https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687399.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IoeNy8dgdstGW5cv3h23MMa2yXI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_467146261543a62306361f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704528.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ccdK-BzZaw-8qLGcKswf6yemPk8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_265667726543bbf6abd55d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680219.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qA88FbWGJ6PTz6C6tkAXxD6Bnyw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_185491201354395f8740d71.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704520.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4rBQNTNdz21lW7ufvVMJ7GLv4eI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1878105868543bbf5c7bc78.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752238.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mI9S8IAxDyHiNbY64dM6OG_yqMg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7748284435443d3cb4c37e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755873.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UcDfcTpzB0w-ktnCrvLuK2bu-d8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_66291402854440360dc76f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687000.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tOe7pLp4XAGEGMXtM9JUkDnwJxQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1530736848543a54bd91edc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755779.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QaxMo3DBvsfveyDOxxoo4iunjZ8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1341782495444001f03fc7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686938.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cVQiyMPJhsyLgy61V8ieLbRxUvk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1472367581543a4fb6d74e5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686958.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ligkHCwKuAHlmPY7JZD5CC697G4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_241228417543a5402ebacc.jpgCrab spider (Synaema globosum) crab spider (Synaema globosum) a colourful spider. MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crab-spider-misumena-vatia-on https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DfHRYRYZy1OqIXBLPI0PgPRfme8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_566102081543a54409a52e.jpgcrab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender. MYN crab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender MYN. Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687367.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LDiMf28Hzmk0wMOFH5FBqYIaUZE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1128785499543a61ba10714.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752168.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4iaUSctXWl4NNNp9vdHrBv5ObW8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19049457935443d31d5c9f2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704486.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jrp2Zinl3PnPBIynP53f4wcfu30=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_565676100543bbf15789ad.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704631.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mtUzxLFCBkU8UOUDkq4SbkHQruE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1009460387543bc54a90b4d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687473.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0SzF4fYsTcYrzCefGYLFQ5dOWf0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_31200793543a6599830a4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686931.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GD6TCNJ-4MA4SRMoWZF-yZ5Bdf0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_267639239543a4f98de88e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687359.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2Rhvd9QgPGZSI2M_kFyOYKb4zCM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1018753120543a619bf3ebb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699212.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wuV7f8uVkhD67oFB8-CHI5k2A7c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1466218981543b8ba0072c4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680214.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IZ_XJ_vQwCykhgueiqm4a10lAhw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14746121054395f7b12d25.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752152.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YoGaD1Lde_HogNbQqHJaZNI02LU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_417833315443d2f7cca54.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759409.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ApKU3HUce17J1H_uaOF6no_njHM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_179455849854443ab9af472.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759412.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TysydSwdDdBRhiPGcjzPznRYi1k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_141709166554443abc62163.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675426.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SZh6DF75CClwEDav_XDWN_L7MT4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_184806004543807c578556.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759416.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2yXhemfLfTrQF1hLvPITTZqsmcw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_48737211654443ac018c06.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687334.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/anAwreOk5n-sBR6moZbZY6LQ7nE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1942763914543a6138941d1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687396.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yWNZGljmI5cTUR5Op41pSnLQ6dY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1268790387543a622676a9a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679150.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Qo9IXZ9WUIkfzeGZ8Aa7V1b99Hw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_87819051254393b66f04da.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686969.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NCAjc5-8lQi-If_xJ9BOXm_yJ58=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1631953706543a5433e38f9.jpgChafer Beetle (Protaetia (Netocia) cuprea) MYN Chafer Beetle (Protaetia (Netocia) cuprea) MYN a highly reflective species with a coppery sheen. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687397.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yKguRwfCxs4uRnhadsHdzhYsUHQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1048841457543a6229bf82c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687431.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6x0IkeQrnYd6wh5Q6CfVtzNY6TM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_447660974543a6397c7f49.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704626.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HTYl9-d7WXCD6-PaqBTFjO1OMEk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_509060518543bc53fd5095.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679357.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tskhs4AO1YCy1hoy5cAkS_2WCV4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1737831795543949fc439b0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704299.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WmLgL0mdLolValo16YFtYMbZW3w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1602115585543bbb3d8b585.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704686.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ig-9bK_qHejBq5IscEwGWV_SCmk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1583349899543bc5b8ae7ca.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698962.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dCK6FCqWytvzuWN4CAOeVB98RuQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_116001884543b89586c273.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699012.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PyYBK-J809xd3r3sDIbFIjuaWzk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1720238220543b899ee0255.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378000.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ApLjo5x9JlTm98noDCSuWop0Tgk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_45932733262454374d806f.jpgSilver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia Silver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia) ♀ a large butterfly of woodland clearings,eggs are laid on violet species. Gran Sasso, Umbria, Italy July 2021I https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704633.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cfG8X4FqAXD3sTWSzhHjszFHVBI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1178704107543bc54edadd9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704518.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mUj4zEdfu1xvgHbux0nxIv9-agA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1538246932543bbf576fdb5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687368.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BDBofeIv3UdEmbwPn1_8KD5H-sM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1513166436543a61bf8388c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755741.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WgXHXvQQIEzcfPo0d-e5ZzR_tvc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9653958385443ffbfe6973.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755729.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lqUoHExifPScbsJ_RuffG8UHuPM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3509269415443ff9468884.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698917.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u4ftmEX3yz6IcCrrisEmqGaF6OQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1491472642543b8917d6bd1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687429.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9BE95hjIWIPdqDjf50d2XRVAyBE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_553752191543a636be48e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674899.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dy19W71-aTxBz4Ggk82lp87FG-8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6731366585437e8edc3e14.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704523.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B1Vll3TgctSEcsk2kf9lZv-Xklc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1264773692543bbf607dbac.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752269.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KfqXNEt46CSaEXgUwCCNZbP_EiY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4884917355443d4454a5ee.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687463.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HF9hbuuH-nlZXN9HYGnDk4QbMwQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1112044072543a64ae54ebe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755774.html 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https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tJXMyl7Qx4JrEuE9SePka7oGdGY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_523285538543bbece7955e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687366.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/72vwRZ5R42C41Vd6IwQQcGSts9E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_554082934543a61b7d9025.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687480.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RSe-AlegSXs1AB1ELP-bzPRB2TM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1738058561543a65ae92409.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755807.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/W-0uF6LYfsHrta3LKBs6DOUVmoI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18801398425444005f6b98b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675385.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2UuNFRNTvkkEjtve1JulNG9gFHc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3573073015438067c00621.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759394.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_WpD7eErWVIjkEh3x8igHFEH730=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120680941554443aae13f2a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674805.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/A1KxbHhgQxhY_L7YONur6El-lpY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12368010645437e2b420e16.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689269.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gvKyFwGbSw95q2LQKGHAhNA_n0I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_842615843543aa26d961f1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686953.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LAt1GJs0_mDptKYyWSMJqgJNB0U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_235776012543a53ee1477c.jpgjumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN jumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704548.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iRki2m7YGyEhoqAUMmixJGsaMms=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1377317454543bbf90cd258.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377698.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HJ_eomZWL_Dky9Jf32_2y1tVuus=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_86754879062447ebf86927.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687394.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qkmS_FJHXQ5blt_BlNU3fh_gIaA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_608658077543a62200106d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704471.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zzo4kQDi8tFo9vdn1A3W_YWL2MQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1464620601543bbef5bf093.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698900.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TcWifBlKw9iO4xVzorNyxcjoupk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_972328684543b88fe4ca89.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674913.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RLdWfGwMxm6VhEkRYguZA0T5Qhk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18703817535437e9983f65e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687422.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DLbNX-6_f1k1HeY7EW55n_dfayE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1392812486543a6331e72f8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689431.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MLi6F_4zj5HpBzUyUCarqr7_-cQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1864712650543aaabcdfadc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377597.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ywvr0c4GWQ4ceDvUVgrhmoCz5e4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_144240597662447add28d48.jpgItalian Maple (Acer opalus) Italian Maple (Acer opalus) is a species of maple native to the hills and mountains of southern and western Europe, from Italy to Spain and north to southern Germany, and also in northwest Africa in Morocco and Algeria. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree growing to 20 metres (66 ft) tall, with a trunk up to 1 m diameter. Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679328.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wtX4tttAtUeVDFFl_FodptiXSmA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6785766635439499babf58.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755735.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8zLUFII1a1kPoxrL345XoLzDCRE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1359937065443ffa8affc9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20110913-002 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dG7boI3mzGx3_BDuaAm25esLUxc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12267573665253e28441593.jpgITA_PHD_20110913-002 Larva of common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) almost full-grown pre-pupation.MYN on fennel stem, garden,Orvieto, Italy. 09/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687451.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0Db9DRzSCdFNfr1DvqymHJ7tiTw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_160727015543a645be1965.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752209.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FG0JnGwquknlaJfgFNfiogG0BuA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14398403275443d37896c7b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704509.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DqHPntTnKW1UI1opBg1A-kstr0s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1961497330543bbf471e897.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759326.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QXCFCGMG8aXHAUA1Xh3NwxWzJKE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_123828940354443a725f172.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755869.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nw25yjOpsDqN-LgDMFdq44mKEYo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10580110695444035642cab.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/silene-ciliata-ssp-graefferi https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aTfWz9eUCtseo2KOI7jrDKN1Hf0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_208116324854396fbdcc7ba.jpgSilene ciliata ssp graefferi Silene ciliata ssp graefferi in late summer (September )on the moraine of Mt Terminillo nr Terni,Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680217.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lHeCElf1a_IMTJZCTrIeQroLMag=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_149106873154395f84018bb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981375.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XgdAND850H0XChbm31239BMNmVo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3536555505465cf4b75854.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674909.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7OjQJURZQGDmew8yIo0T9-fOvgo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3635984905437e95826220.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752129.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jGJ7TAn7wMtIfMeZmT97mhphzCM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3058469375443d2a77ea0a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687450.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Q9ShoK44fYQ37aJgUGgIq-l7shY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2088657899543a64552c906.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704692.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1Au4SPAwjLzM3RAArB2_WadvDfc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_976056471543bc5c159a70.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704751.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IiBO8pZXTQ5FjU2RkbFhtVllgPI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1002459894543bc60d5e0a5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704529.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fnfezJ5AS58o29Xq-C2afMgTmfw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_460278913543bbf6c523d8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377695.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3UOspNRy4_DTWVo2cCW1QkEBknk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_37504304162447ebd0f63b.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). nr Orvieto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686996.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hhFAImjTPdYaMNNwKiPYoA4MLEo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_386383014543a54ad3fad6.jpgsouthern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€ southern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€a large dragonfly frequent in S Europe. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759342.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jyzGQ_M1DAC4TSHUjXtjhsubYFw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_96694212054443a80a2276.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679349.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1rbK0SaUucNmHMz_9eYeCcqOnNw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1514443486543949dc5ec67.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755770.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZzpcvL45Xe6ZFnB6tUsI85lHD8Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10869459885444000b7af15.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679305.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XL9A9_6ecbzY1U01AfyomFk09dc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1046102437543948ae35e0e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20120808-044 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EAv8alDQMXbkmUrzA1bSEOBV5_I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_571179943525417aa53dae.jpgITA_PHD_20120808-044 Scarce swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirus) a beautiful insect with a gliding flight. The larvae feed on sloe.Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy.08/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704468.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6IMDJgZLOZdzr__aDUy2XXXYtZA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1345360690543bbef1e564d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755783.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vCwFRbSdTokNCCFL0A4V3i0edjI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_151735450054440025c3710.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681129.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pW0lm7i3bxI1Y992WPKUOEM0EHY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_97492594054396f5d8f0ce.jpgBorage (Borago officinalis) Borage (Borago officinalis) used as a culinary herb and for medicinal use. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704556.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pxaVZaSJxLBhV0_4yYql2xOgXTo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_780514834543bbf9eea993.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704477.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/n1Hnq3avYvYUamhSySUQnl03DZE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1407959272543bbf02a23a1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687418.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JZ0ryPsaUHGcq1hqK_i9dO3b1nQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1239104913543a6302e692a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698837.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NNG6Pft-ysp__BT_aMv5mTtksTk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1220922587543b88afe9ca9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981364.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TJ1odemJCEjA_pbLeqWwYH8y5WM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1790259935465cf062403b.jpgHeart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) Heart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) flowering in a small colony nr Rome (Colli Romani), Lazio, Italy May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698985.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jXJOYNSIGZGi71mD_QrZ3XixO_w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1226070837543b897a8a024.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704612.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/p6CnjBVRZtX_hk50zPM1uE4bcic=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_668803764543bc524cdfff.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377609.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xDA240UWjvMfHQlAem9_3i5JHmc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_192852556862447ae65eaf1.jpgOld man's beard (Clematis vitalba) leaf colour in autumn Old man's beard (Clematis vitalba) leaf colour in autumn. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy Octobr 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377473.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bQHA5xdYbNXAowtqv639WHLqi84=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18942800406244676ed9563.jpgCreeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) Creeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) . An uncommon orchid in Europe. The name ladies tresses derives from the twisted flower stems that carry the tiny glandual flowers. The stems thread mossy cushions in pine woods,usually at high altitude, hence the ame creeping, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 20020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377737.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Y0FZLfoIdPLQIMGpn72JecATH0M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_166755664624481ff2836a.jpgCherleria capillacea (also Minuartia capillacea) Cherleria capillacea (also Minuartia capillacea) . A member of the Caryophyllaceae (pink and campion family) growing on limestone high on Mt Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377996.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/718MK_7nBXsCNAyM9xxUrHiXV-w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_131073869362453e365db0b.jpgForking Larkspur (Consolida regalis Forking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) a late-flowering cornfield weed photgraphed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 10/2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377567.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/orWxwyJmkq7_kKapB2zoBU8-wj8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1448853340624479a8dec21.jpgLarva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) at 14 days after 2nd moult (third instar). Larva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) at 14 days after 2nd moult (third instar). Feeding n common rue as a foodplant, Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377672.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ncxU88t35I7xC_IiIPxHc1CR6dk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_183782425862447eaa45533.jpgJumping Spider (Euophrys rufibarbis. Jumping Spider (Euophrys rufibarbis.) A member of the family Saltidae . Female photographed on sage leaf with prey. The male has a distinctive reddis 'beard hence the name 'rufibarbis'. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377869.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wlKbwiTgUXTlMooX9n9ubgaOjTo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_202757486062453bf0e1013.jpgOphrys sphegodes ssp majellensis (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) Ophrys sphegodes ssp majellensis (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) an orchid endemic in various parts of central Italy growing on limestone https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377551.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9RjPOVU93UXnNl3o0tLb2azpFrE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4045965466244799ec0b0e.jpgItalian Shield Bug (Graphosoma italicum) Italian Shield Bug (Graphosoma italicum) a common species on umbillifer flowers. The red striping is a warning colour of foul taste. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378001.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oQjZzcWqtk4Vw7zXXSyUnifLQLc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_161851672562454374db455.jpgHeath fritillary (Melitaea athalia) Heath fritillary ( Melitaea athalia) widespread in S Europe but rare in the UK.. Photographed: Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759379.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1qg-H-uheE4e4WMfRpHYB4YtCKg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_47221065054443aa0bb04d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377601.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JlBVvYOEY9qVjrgo6pHub_j6zzk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_103504285362447adf539fb.jpgWild Cherry (Prunus avium) Wild Cherry (Prunus avium). also Sweet cherry, Bird cherry. Prunus avium is a deciduous tree growing to 15–32 m tall, with a trunk up to 1.5 m in diameter. Widespread in Europe.Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377555.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vBkCoF2tQX7NDKkacrY7TLZhEvc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1658389264624479a106952.jpgHarvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum) Harvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum). Sometimes called "daddy long-legs spiders they are not true spiders. Commonly found sitting in wait on flowers. Podere Montecucco,nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sepetember 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377554.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/islA-SlYnoaz9l7e--5MU8P54PY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1637529523624479a106986.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy JAug 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377837.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/340LhJzNVpXMuj9GMwijaDjGEIk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_22791662662453bdd0a3ad.jpgMan Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) Man Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) a widespread Mediterranean and European species. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria. Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377893.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-yU2WTLz3Zb-1xSr2BfRnxUtpXc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_104210807662453bfe9a5dc.jpgDark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens). Dark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens). This species survives snow covered screes in winter and the heat of summer in limestone mountian areas. Here it is growing at 1800m on Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377612.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bt94RXDI0Qa__3ok3GaOU8B8Coc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_109530636762447ae80f37e.jpgVirginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) - Podere Montecucco autumn colour in the garden Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) - Podere Montecucco autumn colour in the garden. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October, 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377664.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jwt5VMzO_II4m57B_GBzrLtqeEg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_206865445662447ea386861.jpgSeven spot Ladybird Coccinella septempunctata also Coccinelle 7-punctata. Pupal stage. Seven spot Ladybird Coccinella septempunctata also Coccinelle 7-punctata. Pupal stage. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377894.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w5gfq6ci1z9TETHkz3h6H9FPfk4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_38263807462453bfebc05a.jpgDark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens). Dark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens). This species survives snow covered screes in winter and the heat of summer in limestone mountian areas. Here it is growing at 1800m on Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377671.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yMpMiZY8Km9S7VI3ZHj6fr-I644=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_91939006862447ea947a92.jpgCrab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎ Crab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎ often found on plants where bees visit where they sit waiting..The name derives from the way the animla hols its ront legs ready to grasp an unwary pollinator.. Podere Montecucco, Umbria (Italy) May2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377860.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZV09S-SwZXXwozYVn7C-QukcJC0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_190508660962453bec4a483.jpgEarly Purple Orchid (Orchis mascula) Early Purple Orchid (Orchis mascula) was referred to by Shakespeare as "dead Men's purples" a coarse reference to the fanciful resemblance of the twin tubers to human testicles. The name orchis is derived from ancient Greek for testicle. Nr Gavelli, Sibillini, Umbria Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377908.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rzmSmn9MOkotgJcnghFKor4ufDY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_181637391862453dfc1e4ff.jpgSnakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) Snakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) is a plant of damp grasslands and river flood meadows up to 800m altitidue. It is widespread in Europe with some spectacular sites in the UK and in floodplains in continental Europe. It has numerous common names including 'leper lily' for the resemblance to the cup once carried by lepers. mekleagris means spotted like a guinea fowl . Garden origin, Umbria,, Italy Mar 20102 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377825.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gSHaXTH8DrA-KgC2Z45vKFVMRQ8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_101787348562453bd494540.jpgFew-flowered Orchid (Orchis pauciflora) Few-flowered Orchid (Orchis pauciflora) a frequent orchid of rocky, limestone places in the Mediterranean from Sicily eastwards. Disitinguished from O provincialis by the darker yellow on the central lobe of the labellum and the comparatively few flowers in the spike. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377606.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5fP0xByEnsRiLztTJM1XWz6XB18=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_128471939562447ae381622.jpgContrasting autumnal leaf colour in Little robin (Geranium pupureum) Contrasting autumnal leaf colour in Little robin (Geranium pupureum) Geranium purpureum, also known as Lesser Herb Robert.has tiny flowers and is an upright annual. Although it has a limited distribution in the UK (Cornwall) it is widespread in S. Europe growing in stony or rocky places near the sea, on sheltered cliffs, disused railway lines, and particularly by roads and fields . The leaves when rubbed have a distinctive smell. Podere montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377843.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hKIsP2g2-AkL57jiX8xt48Qj81U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_207566493362453be072a1f.jpgHybrid Ophrys Ophrys sphegodes subsp. sphegodes x Ophrys holoserica subsp. dinarica Hybrid Ophrys Ophrys sphegodes subsp. sphegodes x Ophrys holoserica subsp. dinarica . A hybrid between th earky spder orchiud and the Apennine Late spider orchid.. Preci, Umbria,Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377694.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GNWg1W0cFjByBcwr2rh0aD6QPmw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_160089197362447ebbca642.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). nr Orvieto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377867.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hCqsMkPxlW1ZqDYmTDFEvDOMGrI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_53414476562453befada48.jpgOphrys sphegodes ssp majellensis (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) Ophrys sphegodes ssp majellensis (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) an orchid endemic in various parts of central Italy growing on limestone https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377547.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5xqKt-OqqLGPZEe5Cqep3rNa3OU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11291196176244799c5ee13.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377602.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IjncBCvNWIEkkAMSrKuGOcwSAB0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7085116662447adfc3f2f.jpgWild Cherry (Prunus avium) Wild Cherry (Prunus avium). also Sweet cherry, Bird cherry. Prunus avium is a deciduous tree growing to 15–32 m tall, with a trunk up to 1.5 m in diameter. Widespread in Europe.Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377975.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RWzy-pm_4ETa1dRzVr7dL3R9vlc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_161550072562453e2765d7e.jpgApennine Foxglove (Digitalis lutea subsp. australis, syn. D.micrantha) Apennine Foxglove (Digitalis lutea subsp. australis, syn. D.micrantha) Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377915.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/o5TElPbzBCoG5hbJXXrEP4UcFLc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_91833959262453e0092dd0.jpgSnakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) Snakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) is a plant of damp grasslands and river flood meadows up to 800m altitidue. It is widespread in Europe with some spectacular sites in the UK and in floodplains in continental Europe. It has numerous common names including 'leper lily' for the resemblance to the cup once carried by lepers. mekleagris means spotted like a guinea fowl . Garden origin, Umbria,, Italy Mar 20102 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377723.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KJCoalJ0emave-XUjcZB9OtxpsM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_274287776624481f2c1a2e.jpgNeapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus Neapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus but following a review of the species in 2014 it was decided that several distinct species existed . High in the Apennines on the Campo Imperatore (2000m +) an incredible display of spring croups occurs just after the snows melt. The timing of this can vary by a month or more. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385911.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/clHVLhFSbwaW8GZgYnF-OXtwt7w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1584279580624860642f705.jpgPrivet hawk moth. (Sphinx ligustris) Privet hawk moth. (Sphinx ligustris) a large member of the hawkmoth family (Sphingidae) whose larvae feed on Privet and lila amongst other species (Sphingidae). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385886.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9k_PJGY3nfhhV-0Z15s2ie9iK1c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_40078815962486051ab2c5.jpgLarge white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎ Large white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎ a widespread and common species. whose larvae are often a pest on garden brassicas. It is easy to ignore its elegance. Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria. Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crab-spider-thomisus-onustus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B7_ZK6mL1PwwSWsZcu2AJmTMcyU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5681639656244341801225.jpgCrab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎ Crab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎often found on plants where bees visit where they sit waiting..The name derives from the way the animla hols its ront legs ready to grasp an unwary pollinator.. Podere Montecucc,o, Umbria (Italy) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388185.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xjCwCgcljxk9yCCQngoy5Ao9V1Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1264138703624879be2d626.jpgEuropean dwarf mantis ( Ameles spallanzania European dwarf mantis ( Ameles spallanzania) a small species: abdomen in is often held upwards in female. Found in sparse, low vegetation. Nr Allerona, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388156.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QW_jYQkb-87aTJs7e8z4HwEoJCc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_380149667624879a94e626.jpgMarbled white ( Melanargia galathea) Marbled white ( Melanargia galathea) - a butterfly of rough grasslands, often on limestone. Photographed: Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704487.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tN4S4qlNHOdbMQhhiilOKu4lU4c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1468123951543bbf17aea4d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699046.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Er55GA7_BkaAwGg2nQjb2dPIYxU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_786947533543b89cb1113e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385893.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gtT-AzsaWLIt60wGbqEnnTEQNTA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_116871803562486055b9605.jpgHarvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum) Harvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum). Sometimes called "daddy long-legs spiders they are not true spiders. Commonly found sitting in wait on flowers. Podere Montecucco,nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sepetember 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385873.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vWBqJ48OXXgmQEmRyNGyfmzK3qg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_181756120862485f9706b15.jpgLarge white (Pieris brassicae) ♂︎ Large white (Pieris brassicae) ♂︎ a widespread and common species. whose larvae are often a pest on garden brassicas. It is easy to ignore its elegance. Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria. Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385889.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5U7_uL9MOZ1wxBbvl2GCFIA0uHI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_148114425062486053323ca.jpgEuropean garden spider, (Araneus diadematus) European garden spider, (Araneus diadematus) Also called diadem spider, orangie, cross spider and crowned orb weaver. It is an orb-weaver spider found in Europe and North America. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, Auguest 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388184.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DV0ZyOYr_feZAWHiEp93KvA1AoU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1495241702624879bd9da84.jpgEuropean dwarf mantis ( Ameles spallanzania European dwarf mantis ( Ameles spallanzania) a small species: abdomen in is often held upwards in female. Found in sparse, low vegetation. Nr Allerona, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388170.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/USPkOZIxSzCcU11XZsmet8-AsG8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_201817504624879b4f4042.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). nr Monteleone di Spoleto, Orvieto, Italy June 2015 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675443.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FPl2BpGWC-SbeD5zInjwyijFQbM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3461528535438080d6d262.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759260.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2pVhQiVxUCx1CNGHLLey4SX55xQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9101204854443a31890cd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388162.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7nIXvh8aqalHmaOpXGSaJe74OZM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1751874180624879afa6c57.jpgJumping Spider (Philaeus chrysops) Jumping Spider (Philaeus chrysops) an active and colourful jumping spider frequent in dry meadows and on bushes in early summer, S. Italy. Here, photographed waiting for pollinating insects as putative prey in a flower of a toothed orchid (Neotinea tridentata). https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675415.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2NIAvRGFt6xciWuUhLzl2eusE8I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15842720755438079a3519a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675395.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/i4SZWdenfRgBGRPr-BSy9DXDonA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15990644885438069f90b06.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679311.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0uynYY6RIbkAqqOZOc1yWtWJulQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1104175583543948c5688c3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675274.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WttY8hx1wdm7IHOvk-8-rJKWkT4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_99292845054380464631e4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674915.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vZCemu39aqF2pSF4qUA7CJCRloQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21034372665437e9a7c1445.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377599.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1jsSCWIuKsCzFzuNbuXcba0M_Sc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_188205640762447ade56123.jpgSpindle tree (Euonymus europaeus) Spindle tree (Euonymus europaeus) has very hard wood that was used in the wool trade for sindles-hence the common name. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674916.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9yQ477HXWshTI8K7u3ScXXI4L6o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5219549265437e9ad1912d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679360.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xoVdMoRWKig7jVFQzSKeGw5XodI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_39256347654394a0b4ebbe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679306.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/drqkZo_Xp9N6Mij3V0EvouEveio=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1692116855543948b1a1a8b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679370.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8D7FGLKEONkmhuCPQ5dWYBgSteQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_133461277154394a3b57336.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675397.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wlWN3iAq5SRrA-NI1Wy8mfYWfJM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1386345613543806a7c45bc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679358.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fi2xFQbv3XgSkIfrqTh695plEbE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_86198466554394a002da87.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675393.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mWPmltNMugx4alp61L7ybB8QSuk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_27813003154380698acd0d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675437.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hl-EFEcOunrxvWYgi2hyLgjz_z8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_843129004543807f0f0a73.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377836.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7-5NI44rj3Mx6kgVNBeC2vPDU_o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_101084281362453bdcb4796.jpgApennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica and O. holoserica ssp dinarica). Apennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys Apennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica and O. holoserica ssp dinarica). . Plants found in the Central Apennines and als in Piemonte are characterised by longish petals, a lip with a prominent forward pointing apex and pointed side lobes. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674910.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pSVNsRajzK3Kq5UzsgCrTsWIUro=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20461963665437e95bc6293.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674902.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Pm01_NXMJUzmMtq2wWpwnMGFuXA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4142255145437e92dd52b4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674895.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-XHYR3YrPtJ06dfxdR3wHQNQciU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2151007605437e8d9cab33.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687342.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IoFlU8xidMA8u5VqC6dR87rNIO0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1979091575543a6167c2049.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679316.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vX1lTDnRkt6Y3pTcoIeU4N4_h4I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2023086500543948db8d7db.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680671.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/C8EbiarrlFFmWJllN07F1nBim28=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_179768742054396a41af332.jpgBerries of the Stinking Iris (Iris foetidissima) (also Roast beef plant or Gladdon) Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679154.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gL-pC5_5Qwbgy28L0iY9VFu43iQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_181602449254393b7033a30.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687340.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8o5LPMuDQTFA2oA8xRoommIYHIA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_180825588543a615434031.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687460.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OaFnAYMUccOHG0zaKx9iqNGZFgg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1164213630543a649b4f0ae.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687470.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SBG80znK9qNWYB5I381Dpcxg5PQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_46977387543a6591f211b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687375.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/E4PWbbBILAemp8z8RyJ5jA1LKzs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_545009215543a61da3da64.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687441.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zSlzZrL-Mq8ltXgof3AAHyzr090=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1010551784543a6408e4fbe.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689279.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PcPeqNV5rnh3xjeQSO_hax-Dehg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_118338299543aa29fe99d8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686981.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TNeLGlJokSGj7vlOA3aDdCjNpT4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1302252143543a546b7e278.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687356.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Oc-3iBD3hEwwR83cH8WO3cKTOdM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_829648016543a619197e27.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689429.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kJ_W1NcZDUTn9ewV7yPXM97gcU0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1097030779543aaab97ee32.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687353.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4S2hGf-P07YwkCjDYInT8qy2DCc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_737051924543a618a61135.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687387.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uHQUW8lj_KF6itmTGI5Hm76FHXQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2010901053543a62015baaf.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687371.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/q3LQ4y6S_jXf67UU2vZyHDHMlP8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1643879027543a61c8607e8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759338.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/N1b7vCB1l6Sdv0urnvHMo4e_yHA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_74654668754443a7c9b03d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687377.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0t2gD58UwEaICZP7lJz7v3UIvIA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1005764631543a61dfd186c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687365.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zRDX2O1DgDGnEkvnGwB6gi16XdI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_31438694543a61b3bba4a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686943.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cDTjAto-WI4-tYhxiEX8RDCJD6o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_235756906543a4fcb9ad22.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699022.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1_ije1iULgiHGDMVD9FaxUPwwCg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1971372830543b89aa66103.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377853.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ld6a2M5f9K4mxWYvbXDcoWWszuM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_91570368962453be6c89c6.jpgFew-flowered Orchid (Orchis pauciflora) Few-flowered Orchid (Orchis pauciflora) a frequent orchid of rocky, limestone places in the Mediterranean from Sicily eastwards. Disitinguished from O provincialis by the darker yellow on the central lobe of the labellum and the comparatively few flowers in the spike. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704533.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MEkDHl4xFCuAiXGiQLRIyTSSABk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_529452634543bbf74e0049.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686979.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EaU3PrGKjDY-_uuTr891Qvnxuys=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_659520181543a545e3814d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689427.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ufg0QrhJCMTPB_NhdXb2m2kA2pM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2128553962543aaab32a8ee.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686929.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cGgGB9vC8N9bZi5y6AbJVpxb9t4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_917208452543a4f91801b7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687411.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ai-3OgFUI_n9Fu8Xd_9Qfj8vji0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1852224727543a62e3a7145.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687360.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ShVX00Go4DwBr_wHHu9lNfTwM6I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_537185328543a61a029443.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687381.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Tr_aq9zRl_UZIQLtampydwGVzC8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_798386241543a61ea7fdd9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687335.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/txXhpBrOgSPU9BqzjPnJ9tEbiWU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1578466730543a613fb6ae1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687338.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZBgESvAqbmjkW7inJYJeVZI8Gfk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_529165080543a614b4f9a8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687384.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yhn5NcKRtZ8hKS-hcNt-RyKsrgQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_597725101543a61f5c8d29.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687349.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZlVxR6mq-4hs97XAwzDwtdaSuTc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2008798608543a617e13e72.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689257.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J9jgNTcYaGzFFaXWuJihCRI0WrE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1343966830543aa235527e8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687447.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qilr2LgbC9P73TUI-ZJ15KB-dTM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_152617747543a644218e2e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687445.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LE30ucbQP-GJmy6DJhBIsZw5GPg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1777102012543a642f32502.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687385.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0VhXFyMbMVkr5XmGAUFKs6dCgsE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1437298561543a61fadf73f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687355.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LiRWaJGh4eBfPInhHqGryqke7To=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_395618154543a618ed014e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687425.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Bz7hrvzO5nHigBDE7noVk9hmFd8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_109395637543a6340235ba.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704465.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Tx8t_YoYSSFSe31FD16Riag9eRA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_46815060543bbeebd7298.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704507.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WJ6qKoiEFSNgmL8M8sqXaBDwCcU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1858953135543bbf4340951.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704422.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VHjcfpAUSnVsZ-A025rND0ZpoEg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2128115553543bbe9eae103.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704655.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/h92WJhvj3RRqLuunt6ss6DmPQOM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1740016055543bc5845f8b5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704500.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/O6LnZGohHNogadCNZSoDU-nym5M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1133349028543bbf3301941.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704538.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EcZwo7sSUbZNuFbM8pieq_h9BYw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_853283037543bbf7cf1da2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704467.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/COfwnvJDfdiUOqyyNkk_kdQr2gc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1028832439543bbeef4650f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704475.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/f15DAidxq8DVIbhf1H-RgZsG72g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_953275673543bbefe3217a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704731.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QzQarG6kuvg5Ai6eXGrRhnhrIMA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_890265121543bc5f544256.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704616.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Biao_0vE8JKx8f6kzDKCNmd1pDU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2115635856543bc52c0159e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704670.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uya_UFZaUiy3DVTBzqrQeg1O0bE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1370028700543bc5a3ec8e4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704746.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/i71nRvO6jOLzEaMI2VMPxcGF1dU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1147321243543bc6083fc29.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704725.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0sgvGgBu-Eu2dRHDhl7rxboeUSk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1914945866543bc5ed6b4d5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704466.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oBtDjvh_Pw011zKPfi7liANR0n4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1416247070543bbeed6f417.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687453.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1ne_Em2HBD417Ju1JpfAcqu1ZY0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_294698773543a646ce2ae8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704619.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a2OFQ4HeQ7dD2WB9J8FJS9pdkO8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1206875615543bc5310640f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704696.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ksM4luyAG705y37aokftDOODABM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_290671475543bc5c7252aa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704481.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/D47ZVLq5bg4XKu0mMfLXmYkz_7U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_296935055543bbf0bc6a9b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704444.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rgFMED7djD8Uekvjk5fvwYWSbGY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_895638857543bbec6a99b9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704614.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1wBc16I6emmW1oHPovKexRTU7U0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1790990302543bc528907fc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704292.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EXBliIMnUqTPIHQHEXYCb3ehhfY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_27621232543bbb3263e60.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704490.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fcAzFlfmBGx9ayCsZ9qRzwiuUpI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1385698495543bbf1d87565.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973868.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sywQyyZFZ0Ey0h5CEh9KBXSG6UU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93424357546361ed85dd5.jpgWasp orchid (Ophrys apifera var trolli) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974223.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vTUA5GVenlavIm5jWEgCQ6gdJlo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_65751535254637570264fa.jpgEarly Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) Early Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) a variable and widley distributed species of S England (Kent, Dorset) and europe. Nera Valley, nr Spoleto, Umbria, Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974212.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4kxpEbWQgzdDCfZ-6J6FS9IJPF0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_30002663546374d6099e3.jpgCalliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha) Calliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha), a rare Sicilian Endemic that probaly arouse from hybrids of O. candica with O, oxyrrynchos .Ferla, Sicily April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/sowbread-cyclamen-hederifolium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kz-meHwTH6_KyYcSwVW-QG0UmiY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_112862454396a311812b.jpgSowbread (Cyclamen hederifolium) Sowbread (Cyclamen hederifolium) an autumn flowering species. Feral pigs reputedly fed on the tubers (hence the name &quot;sowbread&#039; and the ivy-like leaves with highly variable marbling appear after the flowers (hederifolium = ivy-leaved). Photographed nr the Etruscan tombs at Norchia, nr VIterbo, Lazio, Italy - September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974208.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pPQnrnYcWulpPWy10sM2LMvKdR0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1754677977546374ba533f0.jpgOphrys lacaitae (Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys) Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys (Ophrys lacaitae) a rare, rather late flowering species endemic to Sicily and parts of the S. Italian mainland also regarded as a subespecies of O. fuciflora, Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974222.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EcXk7UdMzYyNPUZWNhsPf6RGfCY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_331203676546375617647e.jpgLate Spider Orchid (Ophrys fuciflora) Late Spider Orchid (Ophrys fuciflora) Sibillini Forms with narrow lips and prominent appendage. Nera Valley, nr Spoleto, Umbria, Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973945.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hy1i4qd5jh6MG3JMTGgzrW_2aIM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_199058119954636275bffd7.jpgHybrid between sawfly and bumble-bee orchids (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O.bombyliflora = O. x sommieri) Hybrid between sawfly and bumble-bee orchids (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O.bombyliflora = O. x sommieri). Pescia Romana, Orbetello, Lazio, Italy April 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698879.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iDoYq8H_hFAToOpESguJMwk2jeA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_821216524543b88e70285a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973985.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_roU6ohXHA1R52fr7e8tz33yGyA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1271621471546366eb7f863.jpgBumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) Bumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) a small ophrys that occurs circum-Mediterranean- Uccellini Hills, Tuscany, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698877.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/p6CAO6KI56HL8cks54iHmArGBoo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2075312548543b88e4072ca.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981393.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZTbDuVYJKvZpKPuupl4JljFVa20=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12096159795465d00544662.jpgEastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) Eastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) closely realted to Serapias vomeracea. Pantalica tombs nr Ferla, Sicily. May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680234.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pNSH9JgcqZEV85NAVHCYRWU69x8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_79082239354395fae4db45.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698913.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gFe3AJ3RIiImDDBq1F6jwlIFo0c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2146720337543b8911597c8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698952.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nRiiNSGm_dhYZLEJzA1S_g1k4lI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1862936018543b89487c888.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698883.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/k0Z6XG-LFOHkJNY0OPiswbJx0RQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1624343507543b88ea941c2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698957.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eCYfdPsT3L8-jxj4dHphIswtrTE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1303115478543b8951ec396.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699001.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aC9sk8tAP_kqW3hM2YOG6RjvI-0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1157100103543b89900e1e3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698971.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B64YX5JR4JglWYs-2wNh-qlUjjs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1535355623543b8967170ee.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699044.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1fmoTuQ21Gz3uEpGSL7czOwEg88=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1059578223543b89c907849.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377846.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_RBIW_dQQCP3T-pF0wn2_SCHy3s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_151582951162453be2ab01c.jpgBi-coloured Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) Bi-coloured Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) more correctly named O. apifera forma bicolor) an uncommon variant where the pattern on the lip is suppressed and coloration divided with lower part of lip brownish and basal part light yellowish cream. Villalba, Orvieto, Umbria, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699002.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fSamORskhsH5l8nSjgm-Nb2fdhM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_396575900543b899236c0f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698976.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/R1lznn1qYt3y0YkcZioDi0pHbr0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_163322857543b896ea4c70.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699020.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XnVWS8dVyc7G0CKqUa2Y6VsTN1k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1602107529543b89a8b2786.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698869.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MSjegX2jj_TwRlD2DgmXTUUTYzw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1872747216543b88d9bf31e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698854.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1Qeqb26ZYL7TvZ1NaS04EXRjZfo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2116878177543b88c3ae777.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699138.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QZd75fv7hguB8TDpkJzONHERfvk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_193759960543b8ac29f621.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698991.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K0HCup4LchPwHExYsRrGs9lLJXw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_743628606543b8982d7bdd.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698979.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/m6IX97pAQwbpODiryzQoSHvqJyw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_401117698543b8972b94a2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377857.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dUtqP8G6LA22rbqSp4WBFsmHgnU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_177818440562453be98a81e.jpgMan Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) Man Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) a widespread Mediterranean and European species. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria. Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698945.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4d4Xu3xmW3T24_C6eExziIDEWW0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1478741171543b89410e476.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698915.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GMtXeQ4Lg0fwRKHcSpCYwymdCOk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1392220020543b891390736.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699125.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/j0iC89VPL24OztS9iRIFHrQrs60=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2074656765543b8a9e9e6e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699038.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pGNEhxpZLht32nCSfHNLcVNJA_M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1927277272543b89c150ae7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699043.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TKqTFwHCK1UUjFJRnBWgxc-tmBE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_221904789543b89c75fb87.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698999.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RP6DATzZWLylUq0W9pqVVZlQ-Xs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_920872074543b898c68c6a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981405.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B0DMihzgui_UyMUezfg9Vc32m5I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7014608075465d05f499b8.jpgEastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) Eastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) closely realted to Serapias vomeracea. Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698973.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NteBdCqALF7Q9Za885Jzi2EpvsA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1049373244543b896aa8e85.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698833.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/H56_ozmOgTip_-ZDVPK4_aLTZKA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2007930589543b88abd9bf4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698965.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EzrMPSMnBV_MF1UYgKsjaEjsaW0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_772292525543b895d68bad.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752276.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3g_DkaYKHko7L2z-6QIODfiye40=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10827330955443d461c411e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755762.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4amXy65FuXA0aGQ2p5pVERBPp8Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4360133845443fff89e947.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377332.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HY2W98xWmr5sKLPZlE9QwCoP9rE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4424347376244343009c53.jpgThe eye scales of a peacock butterfly (Nymphalis io) captured under low power on a mciroscope and stacked, The eye scales of a peacock butterfly (Nymphalis io) captured under low power on a mciroscope and stacked, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755805.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1EwiKYtR1GgeB442aLOqDmNDCB0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15046555665444005a62b23.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759354.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qwkCeJjINPMohaLhp6IMh4Pi6K4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_71979956354443a8a2343d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751193.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/58RRtmsi8QX3qGl2_-4Kf0eRPOc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15921200015443c48543554.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755742.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xNXY6apxT4Spz7os7ztdgpy9mys=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16123065355443ffc33a092.jpg 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https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759266.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cs2_x_sfnmUd5ybputi8bqn2_Ts=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_183216622854443a36797cc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751194.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-cTNl463txO2kYL1O4nIEMYQKQM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21244222175443c48915424.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752135.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5iXAyOAN6dTS85aJb2pHubTgOdk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20040538355443d2bba4d8e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751178.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-Hb08mbmwmRpjkAitKnhPx7hp2A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7214230235443c44a00491.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751217.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NfKxeF8Ys_ZMtrd0fu8peC-nmU8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20316589635443c4eddfcf4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377721.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YgRVMysMOrUpClECXSW0USxIxhQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1120861664624481f0b8766.jpgNeapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus Neapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus but following a review of the species in 2014 it was decided that several distinct species existed . High in the Apennines on the Campo Imperatore (2000m +) an incredible display of spring croups occurs just after the snows melt. The timing of this can vary by a month or more. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981400.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/v7ORxjTjI6gWo3Zff-0jgoJ2HZw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12728117885465d03f69edd.jpgTongue Orchid (Serapias lingua) Tongue Orchid (Serapias lingua) a widespread S. European species.Mt Argentario, Tuscany, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974215.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dB710eQKkH86i_FDFICyTIIOzZo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_208077059546374e6c254b.jpgfly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) fly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) one of the most convincing of the Ophrys genus of insect mimics complete to the tiny &#039;antennae&#039; formed by the petals. It is an orchid of woodland margins on limestone. Benano. nr Orvieot, Umbria Italy May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/man-and-monkey-orchid-hybrid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5xHAAX_EpKO2eQXHqh8fCEwGd8E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1827716093624481f533543.jpgMan and Monkey Orchid Hybrid. Orchis x bergonii = Orchis anthropophorum x Orchis.simia. Man and Monkey Orchid Hybrid. Orchis x bergonii = Orchis anthropophorum x Orchis.simia. hybrid perhaps the most dramatic of all the natural hybrids O.anthropophorum forms: the lips of the flowers are reminiscent of O.anthrophorum but color and 'tails' on the figures are distinctly O.simia. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974213.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CprVi3EY0ouqMfuLT8yVJ-7FTwg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_688639546546374d9ce0ce.jpgCalliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha) Calliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha), a rare Sicilian Endemic that probaly arouse from hybrids of O. candica with O, oxyrrynchos .Ferla, Sicily April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679374.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DG9z7hQHNEV5N1Z5779bJWgjoHc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_150624152354394a4e82452.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974221.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Sj3FwlPcSGAblVxFOkG4H6CE1II=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1349692255463755471b9d.jpgBee Orchid yellow variety (Ophrys apifera var chlorantha) Bee Orchid yellow variety (Ophrys apifera var chlorantha) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679387.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hk638rVLmI9eYppM-Ti-GuYGF1E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19923933154394f0a51a2f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385904.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rc-s_qJ7hdnd2g05s5DNzqb7gVg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7252456116248605e642e3.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). nr Monteleone di Spoleto, Orvieto, Italy June 2015 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111004-009 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BHdBcdeSUV5-V6-ocUYLqn_pGtk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19256040025253e336c16bd.jpgITA_PHD_20111004-009 common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) MYN a species widespread in continental Europe but very rare in the UK. Garden, Orvieto, Italy. 10/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687363.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/W237y3NBGnpzT6Ay2HAxiXyOOeQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_320223399543a61ad9c3a1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lime-hawk-mimas-tiliae https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kMcw2S0M585KCYnaziYjOtaUe_o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_115565880262485f895b30e.jpgLime hawk (Mimas tiliae) Lime hawk (Mimas tiliae) whose larvae feeds on lime (Tilia) and poplar. One of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. June 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/meadow-brown-maniola-jurtina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HjPrXpuHJQUz4FTSEs6lkjTcSX4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_771567521624543809bbe8.jpgMeadow brown (Maniola jurtina) Meadow brown (Maniola jurtina) a widespread and common species in Europe and the Paleacrtci region in general. The larvae feed on various grass species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy May 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704700.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RSRQGJkZorYt0H9pifA6eWy5_Pw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1179002661543bc5cd935f7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755796.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XIYiyNU7c5or0-jn6gM6vne0kp4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10943952365444004731f1c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/longicorn-beetles-stenurella-bifasciata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tzsk1g98hW_tYDA56ycwNpW0fq0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1075398591543a540800b5b.jpgLongicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) Longicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755784.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ebk_H2L9XExF6pW95O3nxiWnC2g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2082436585444002aa578b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/french-vetch-narbon-vetch-vicia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/36K0jEMd-srQcnnd0rQcquWC14U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_153638276962453e0b1d616.jpgFrench vetch , Narbon vetch (Vicia narbonensis) French vetch , Narbon vetch (Vicia narbonensis) is Vicia narbonensis is an annual growing to 1 m . Found in S Europe. Viterbo, Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704694.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JqpovBa8fXwJ-3UAf53E5IKFjNw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_137610003543bc5c4ca139.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751157.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/q-ozywIIi-2eFMnEzoMIFDsSkvU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3927573125443c3f3ac248.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699006.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lH4wvFPNjpMswDQc20vQlH6j9PE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1119231564543b8996384c9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/praying-mantis-adult-mantis-religiosa https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lC2fngxYeL6lmk-R6-Ph8i9-okE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_163031868624479a8b01a8.jpgPraying Mantis adult ♀(Mantis religiosa) Praying Mantis adult ♀(Mantis religiosa) adult appears and is still on the wing in late autumn. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/forester-moths-adscita-statices https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AOsMTsmTXDG4z5qAqceoVtPUkIw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14328069346248605b3b219.jpgForester moths (Adscita statices) Forester moths (Adscita statices) a distinctive metallic green dayflying species in the Burnet moth family (Zygaenidae) frequent through out the Mediterranean in grasslands on hillsides . Sibillini, Umbria, Italy. May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-skipper-ochlodes-sylvanus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7mWONchMR-idbL-PyVciaJJoqOg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2218466624879c05d96d.jpgLarge Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanus) ♂︎ Large Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanus) ♂︎ the image shows a male with a distinctive black sex brand on the forewings. Widepread in Europe with numerous grass species as the larval foodplant. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy June 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/great-green-bush-cricket-tettigonia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T9zoQdDJiiqJO8UGCutiS-oFcv8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_50357076662447eaa8beeb.jpgGreat green bush cricket (Tettigonia viridissiam) nymph Great green bush cricket (Tettigonia viridissiam) nymph. The wings are not fully develeoped at this stage but the ovipositior is. Mt Pegila, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hairy-scolid-wasp-scolia-hirta https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Mh9dJNB3JZ0dUlcL9bQgv5ysbYk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_225257082624479987b753.jpgHairy Scolid wasp (Scolia hirta) Hairy Scolid wasp (Scolia hirta) posseses two continouous yellw abdominal bands and wings a smoky brown. Its eggs are laid on beetle larvae( eg Cetonia aurata) Usually found seeking nectar on flowers such as Eryngium as here. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/alpine-pasque-flowers-pulsatilla-alpina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vjAUZgvlKSDOnSuSe3c1pQYSNOE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1647623822624481f6c843a.jpgAlpine Pasque flowers (Pulsatilla alpina ssp. millefoliata) Alpine Pasque flowers (Pulsatilla alpina ssp. millefoliata). Just a few days after the snow has melted in the Apennines the leaves of the white pasque flowers unfurl followed quickly by the flowers. Abeton, Emilia Romagna, Itraly, June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tropical-tent-web-spider-cyrtophora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/E373QKDhLYM92TqxmhOMtIM1B8g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1770473751624543911b60d.jpgTropical tent web spider (Cyrtophora citricola Tropical tent web spider (Cyrtophora citricola) a member of the family of orb-web spiders but it does not build such a web the structure being more of a cone. Ponza, Lazio, Italy. September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704677.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/B29WhWKOPvczsg09KlVKeK4hWgU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1815445636543bc5ad904e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/brimstone-male-gonepteryx-rhamni https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-s9po7L_7Q_0MGVrv4BMwoRl9Pg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_154023116762485f3857d4f.jpgBrimstone male (Gonepteryx rhamni) Brimstone male (Gonepteryx rhamni) in flight. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377973.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KbLWovbS9IESyyBJO8JD6J2qpRM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_42220843962453e26845f6.jpgRusty foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea) Rusty foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea) An imposing species with dramatically. coloured flowers. It grow in meadows and rocky places, wooldna edges on limestone. photographed on Terminillo, Lazio, Italy. July 20121 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/pattons-tiger-hyphoraia-testudinaria https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c2FzYDtEtMKD-la6QBJX1n_Fhu0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_133695167262443418610fa.jpgPatton's Tiger ( Hyphoraia testudinaria) ♂ Patton's Tiger ( Hyphoraia testudinaria) ♂. A southern European species from hill and mountain regions: a very rare migrant to the UK. Larval foodplants docks and plantains. Attracted by an outside porch light - Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/orange-lily-lilium-bulbiferum-var https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6gcBObl5JHMbalV-8WG4OZQZkk0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1650198411624481fb551bb.jpgOrange Lily (Lilium bulbiferum var croceum) Orange Lily (Lilium bulbiferum var croceum) variety without leaf base bulbils. Terminillo, Appennines, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/larva-of-common-swallowtail-papilio https://photos.on-this.website/wm/l4P9gzfy80yQAMrK1urZ9zr61yk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7343254566244342480f74.jpgLarva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) Larva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) penultimate instar on common rue as a foodplant, Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752243.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iigdwG22lIuwDoZ4PfKz7hgz6UY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3366848125443d3dd1b554.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/great-banded-grayling-brintesia-circe https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TcnJrzdwFI7k3DAHz-lYbS-3LuI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14953061956248605485fa6.jpgGreat banded grayling (Brintesia circe) Great banded grayling (Brintesia circe) showing underside . Podere Monetcucco, Umbria. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687456.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eBfGUBDsyvsSTYTWuH1nZ1Uav-8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_240877117543a6482d6b39.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-red-deadnettle-lamium-garganicum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WxN7uXK9WSTUvCh4hNhoBUr7TFQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_61226897562453e04ab507.jpgLarge red deadnettle (Lamium garganicum Large red deadnettle (Lamium garganicum) a common weed in S Europe. Podere Montecucc, Orvieot, Umbria Italy April 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bears-ear-primrose-primula-auricula https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jmKrxjEA2QiYTg0pS7qqYFI5CQU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_138286891262453e110d4bd.jpgBear's Ear Primrose (Primula auricula) Bear's Ear Primrose (Primula auricula) an alpine species of grassy places and damp crevices up to 2900m Campo Imperatore, Gran Sasso, Abruzzo, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/amelanchier-amelanchier-ovalis-fruits https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yBzfrEvCThJ69MJ1KMv0wg5IKec=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_194810758862453e223fdfd.jpgAmelanchier (Amelanchier ovalis) fruits Amelanchier (Amelanchier ovalis) fruits - the species grows as a shrub up to 3m in height in open woods and rocky places up to 2400m. Campo Imperatore, Gran Sasso, Abruzzo, Italy, 6 June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675239.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/v-ZRyGNgs2-1gA1y1Q8VeWXGWjY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_225541285543803fb08df0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/privet-hawk-moth-sphinx-ligustris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xczIhvCKQ2gTU3-DEph6dRjothU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_139797131462486062709a7.jpgPrivet hawk moth. (Sphinx ligustris) Privet hawk moth. (Sphinx ligustris) a large member of the hawkmoth family (Sphingidae) whose larvae feed on Privet and lila amongst other species (Sphingidae). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lesser-fiery-copper-lycaena-thersamon https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cDe1HrbVuPyCIiYRL2hWl24VPxs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10600807926244799fab0a7.jpgLesser fiery copper (Lycaena thersamon) ♀︎ Lesser fiery copper (Lycaena thersamon) ♀︎) A very local species from E & SES Europe. It occurs in scattered sites in central Italy. The adults visit nedtar rich species in mountian meadows whilst larva e feed on knotweed. Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy August 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704668.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zymjrVkkdSRFEWdkJnpUp1anGOU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1472407571543bc59fea638.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/castor-oil-plant-ricinus-communis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jjSva7mpa4lzcztmvbxt3MCWWlg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_95630995962453e32eddfd.jpgCastor oil plant (Ricinus communis) also called the the castor bean Castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) also called the the castor bean is a species of perennial flowering plant in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) The image shows the ripening fruit and dried 'bean'., the layer a source of both castor oil and the poison ricin. Ponza, Lazio, Italy. September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377480.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hrlUe3XcUoNC5EWziINLsxep4OA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93453521162446773296f0.jpgCreeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) Creeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) . An uncommon orchid in Europe. The name ladies tresses derives from the twisted flower stems that carry the tiny glandual flowers. The stems thread mossy cushions in pine woods,usually at high altitude, hence the ame creeping, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 20020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974024.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KhskvepiNW0TfaDF56oHXTlNsF8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1513105332546369a287a27.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano penisula,found nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2004 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377624.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5by0BOW3_pTrSy5uJsofxEAdotM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_186548321962447bb3f0d6a.jpgArgiope bruennichi (orb web spider) ♀ Argiope bruennichi (orb web spider) ♀guarding its egg coccoon. Sometimes called the Wasp Spider due to its colouring. Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sept 2014 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377939.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wACqI9XqIqjRNEc9GHqz8J7i5P0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19910169562453e12747ad.jpgMezereon (Daphne mezereon) Mezereon (Daphne mezereon). A rare species,endangered in the UK. Pink flowers appear before the leaves early in the year: berries are highly poisonous. A plant of mountain woodlands and pastures always on limestone. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752157.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Mph9HNcWAnEdJhuIfv5YGgh5Lzk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10669376725443d302f19ab.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377958.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Gtx78GYiGfevwutTgtf_JuTUge8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_58491380862453e1e46039.jpgRose-bay willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium) Rose-bay willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium) found in montane regions in light woodland, at roadsides and on river banks., Gran Sasso, Abruzzo. Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ragged-robin-lychnis-flos-cuculi https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J9R8tg-UcBNun1pjw63NsvfN8aE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_124180659562453e184ae6c.jpgRagged robin (Lychnis flos-cuculi) Ragged robin (Lychnis flos-cuculi) a widespread species in damp meadows and marshy places to 2500m on limestone. Terminillo, Lazio, Italy June 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689256.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-chZWCWCxBcn85EUa8m9wvI0byc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_793491763543aa230ed2f8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752170.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Pq88fyyrBHj4w7CCenEoGXnhPSs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13073735465443d322e16f0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377478.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/j1wyFvnbf0oJKH8iOmLvvzCnZwY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21179283362446771bf10d.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704722.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Elei60xPBs3wcmWpFd9Tr_GqHqs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1861211384543bc5e9c365f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377735.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ofu9hzPDZWyuNKZhOZQdk0EnS6w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_344824342624481fda0945.jpgRose-bay willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium) Rose-bay willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium) found in montane regions in light woodland, at roadsides and on river banks., Gran Sasso, Abruzzo. Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377909.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aj796Al99ndsFIXDCCKw1eaIi2E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_78788964462453dfc4f246.jpgSicilian iris (Iris pseudopumila) Sicilian iris (Iris pseudopumila) a dwarf iris species and one of two iris species that colour the limestone pavements of Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/checkered-beetle-trichodes-alvearius-with https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FHcCZsUlJMbuQtPOioonrYabM3o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20095748896244798fa087e.jpgCheckered beetle (Trichodes alvearius) with honey bee (Apis mellifera) Checkered beetle (Trichodes alvearius) with honey bee (Apis mellifera)seeking nectar on an Eryngium campestre flower . Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/alpine-colchicum-colchicum-alpinum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DgprIUxB9Z8dT7l7zuqxLmeKzuk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1335763756624473ad16bfc.jpgAlpine colchicum (Colchicum alpinum) Alpine colchicum (Colchicum alpinum) an autumn crocus (Colchicum sp) found in the higher parts of the Apennines. Mt Terminillo, Rieit, Lazio, August 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687482.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YOTc0Fj3_OMd1IiuIeCfnjhL2YI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_222248250543a65b5284df.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377871.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OHsD27LPD-VhD-cDUm3EN_XZMq0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_199545367562453bf22f2b7.jpgOphrys sphegodes ssp majellensis (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) Ophrys sphegodes ssp majellensis (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) an orchid endemic in various parts of central Italy growing on limestone https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377848.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wds77ne41GXEOFEgx_ZE73BLCdY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_197780500162453be3ab8f5.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated.. Umbria Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704702.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iEIiT710htl65LxMYbOO6tqeb1Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_881708022543bc5cf808d8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377482.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MFq7N4sg_IzO6W3LBLSVm1xSKhE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_182266586962446774a7392.jpgDark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens) Dark red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens) growing at 1800m on Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy. July 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377310.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FJvZPwYj5s8HrEMYiW4PwAhoyQU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10232255876244341ead571.jpgCalifornia poppy variety (Eschscholzia californica) used for tests utilising the MicroMak 25mm proble lens https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377647.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hRn8emnBnjnR_52jNI8PQvMgafs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_204727825762447e97f15a1.jpgHoary Rosette lichen (Physcia aipolia) Hoary Rosette lichen (Physcia aipolia) lichen on fallen cherry. Widespread on the bark of deciduous trees (elder in this case) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687446.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bWCE-nG1ciTW55R1pHbSA5ETs3I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_945310371543a643670bd7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974234.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PRpbyVBMTm0OiZGcZSNyHZduhmA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1339257445546375e33a493.jpgOphrys apifera (Bee Orchid) var bicolor Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) an uncommon variety where the pattern on the lip is suppressed. nr Carsulae, terni, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377898.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K7RmgZqYJa3Q5hHlNBhM_uZ5Xzc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_152539808862453df5329cc.jpgSnowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) photographed near the stream Podere Monetcucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377914.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J18rRgS-Hf1T-UUhQNEzDvFA4_w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_189073179662453e00807f4.jpgSnakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) Snakeshead fitillary ( Fritillaria meleagris) is a plant of damp grasslands and river flood meadows up to 800m altitidue. It is widespread in Europe with some spectacular sites in the UK and in floodplains in continental Europe. It has numerous common names including 'leper lily' for the resemblance to the cup once carried by lepers. mekleagris means spotted like a guinea fowl . Garden origin, Umbria,, Italy Mar 20102 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bertolonis-orchid-ophrys-bertolonii https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yMHCsIS-TSR-waSYh-K2gHrjo5w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21806062762453be2bc273.jpgBertoloni's orchid (Ophrys bertolonii) Bertoloni's orchid (Ophrys bertolonii) a widespread species throughout Italy. nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686960.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zIfRSye0soxvklYevUos4sdHLm4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_488105154543a540c52640.jpgLongicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) Longicorn Beetles (Stenurella bifasciata) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/forester-moths-mating-adscita-statices https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9n2rKGVDbt0mNLl_HkWwDF2yJd8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1035657407624879c137b7d.jpgForester moths mating (Adscita statices) Forester moths mating (Adscita statices) a distinctive metally green dayflying species in the Burnet moth family (Zygaenidae) frequent through out the Mediterranean in grasslands on hillsides . Sibillini, Umbria, Italy. May 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/spring-gentian-gentiana-verna https://photos.on-this.website/wm/83zmypb7HFhVRmcAc1BNywM_cY0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_152821277862453e0d76e5d.jpgSpring gentian (Gentiana verna) Spring gentian (Gentiana verna) a familiar sight in alpine regions of Europe just after the snow melts Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704627.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/P1efgeP7Gf4MFh2xv8dBsEuqCxU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_22086881543bc54203d19.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111106-031 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wbhQA_RjWRiIaHaajwtHuLsj3lQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120205850652541346e3537.jpgITA_PHD_20111106-031 Praying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) appeared to be a pair post-copulation but it seems these are two females. Orvieto, Italy. 11/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/red-hemp-nettle-galeopisis-angustifolium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xuG0c9tk8V0OkMJl0HNAPa-5i2w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_71377684354396fd945884.jpgRed Hemp Nettle (Galeopisis angustifolium) Red Hemp Nettle (Galeopisis angustifolium) on the moraine of Mt Terminillo nr Terni,Italy 09/2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679300.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VgF75RekCW2nwGxlfhaiRaUOszU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_329957744543948975db33.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751176.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b6rVrzXY3ruU1bB-r8igupFAzMc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16178339625443c44320a8d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674894.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/X5nXyJDFgnsOLXHbox-dDQmyEis=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7027887045437e8d569670.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/goat039s-rue-galega-officinalis-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fXvebpT8Jee_uWZHFf900FUSmec=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_203068019954396f8492112.jpgGoat&#039;s Rue (Galega officinalis) MYN Goat&#039;s Rue (Galega officinalis) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751184.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FSeeY1LTJTcJhr2tBnpKUqCWT3E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17175978955443c4635e0ef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698948.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tApt3FZWFaooplvIYdqIfoAGRcw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1885413363543b89446c6d8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755728.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ySr7pFtT7odywAiP6B7JpMW18DQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20846476225443ff919df80.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751169.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UptQqZdebfwmCZzb0y2T_hP5qJw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10257942195443c429451ad.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-yellow-variety-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/06YValvkOcOQHxZnX54mT3zZGFU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11905614235463754850d84.jpgBee Orchid yellow variety (Ophrys apifera var chlorantha) Bee Orchid yellow variety (Ophrys apifera var chlorantha) Torrealfina nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755874.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/n0kwsm9i0xspKVG65qW503y2gDI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1581738146544403637fc57.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704446.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/emrXkzXYg-gqWdogS9PfVz1kOJc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_966827202543bbecae067b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/chicory-cichorium-intybus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jvdm6BpM9xEI9Sst9psJgUJ-Z3o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209958864854396f73b8ffc.jpgChicory (Cichorium intybus) Chicory (Cichorium intybus) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco.Orvieto, Umbria Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377534.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/k2d6YByNwdrBBALn6_ujCeCNeqs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_599073634624479945d8a6.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686993.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LaADlHgSEWSKSXKi8pK0Z373y-M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1636552883543a549f69499.jpgEuropean hornet (Vespa crabro) MYN European hornet (Vespa crabro) a large wasp common in S. Europe where it builds a colonial nest in holes in walls and trees. Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria. MYN Oct 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974232.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vac4YjCHzMBvof0hP6BiIK9CX4w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_911210148546375c1b215c.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) showing opportunistic spider ready to trap insect visitors Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Sibillini, nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755723.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/M5epsnSSPuQsrAoI-tG1RV5qRRg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15438938665443ff84c3b1c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/sperm-transfer-in-mating-slugs https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NNNPYrrKDVZQOLTUKKhcuTKVt6I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1178124764624543964514c.jpgSperm transfer in mating slugs Sperm transfer in mating slugs https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679333.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gnhvF7aRIoxcH5OsQmqRahGvwis=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_915150492543949b1ac438.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679308.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-Dk8-IWoOqp7OrBR6SZfpLhk08A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_777126603543948ba2c18a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687341.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6yVUh3m1qtPzI4DgfKx4GfS0ZBw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_189036507543a615784f27.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699118.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VKAXkL_dbOmSL4SmB2CX_UlafEA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_106624656543b8a8da030d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755719.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XzpLZqm8Mdz_e_3lvyIpmAcbnKg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20941569475443ff7b31dec.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687468.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4u30BsayNSTFjNsRZU64UNZJRG8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1048320000543a658d1e7b0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686980.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OPbw1lO-MlKyIDAIFQeAKJHpdwQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1555867426543a54646716f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751207.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AEEvew3jz0IOC4jTSbwkKBqfxGA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13797460075443c4c4c98fa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981365.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BSI8qi6QEVBtrc-0b5fnoO6Mm18=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9072095945465cf0bdb50b.jpgHeart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) Heart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) flowering in a small colony nr Rome (Colli Romani), Lazio, Italy May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751186.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BjsmKxX5uNLmjtWWeEeHB6dOnE0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12558037435443c46b85937.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-apifera-bee-orchid-var https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kCkUx7LjoJURR42SNTPwtM9kjMM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_786321919546375cf7202e.jpgOphrys apifera (Bee Orchid) var bicolor Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) an uncommon variety where the pattern on the lip is suppressed. nr Carsulae, terni, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-spider-orchid-ophrys-araneola https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a8rr75SgZm_BsDjTLl3BEXbgGQM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_146239177546368ad0839b.jpgSmall Spider Orchid (Ophrys araneola Small Spider Orchid (Ophrys araneola ssp virescens) a widespread but much smaller flowered relative of Ophrys sphegodes, Torrealfina, Orvieto, Umbria Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698921.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/98pYoDfK2Zk_aBeHopYv6TGkqiU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_930168436543b891be0c9d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687003.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6hoYjhnLn0UZY7c0AUQ8o5pv_V4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_958858997543a54ca32f4e.jpgSpurge Hawkmoth caterpillar (Hyles euphorbia) one of the most colourful Sphingid larvae shown on one of its foodplants Euphorbia myrsinites (it also eats other spurge species such as E. cyparissia). Photographed in S. Italy (Gargano) October 2013. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704482.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bOoGbZPgZYddHckQdO2oKgkfTqs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1618399754543bbf0dbf52c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686945.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Eph8o34YwGSmNeqgMkc_P_RJy5I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1545987618543a4fd282675.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704624.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hJ723YLwrK92dY1jpUStpUjChdk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_949766910543bc53a7c5aa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681210.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JZ1oAo5TQCOe58zTkbCbpmU7fhE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_72282014154396fd423826.jpgAmethyst Eryngo (Eryngium amethystinum) Amethyst Eryngo (Eryngium amethystinum) a common roadside plant in dry places. Mt terminillo, nr Terni, Italy. Sept 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wild-pea-pisum-sativum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/47DMs3o6TtvIGHXb6VasS3VWS9U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_98455902354396f695b060.jpgWild Pea (Pisum sativum) Wild Pea (Pisum sativum) also known as Fodder vetch when it is grown as a crop for animal feed. The forrunner of the gardn pea it has tiny pods with very sweet peas when ripe. Garden at Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704434.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WNDLdEX9m2P6-TrhuGIS0d9H8qY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1443478946543bbeb5cc2bb.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704291.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YXLSomXjGdD__uYD5X93CGCDce0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1534972873543bbb30692dc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751162.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YXgAincOISPv2KjsWq0NL4yKNxw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10127370375443c40731f4b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377845.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6GVU_UKVSxkm9HRoV2gU_M5_JXo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_50036160962453be1734d4.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated.. Umbria Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/yellow-wood-violet-viola-biflora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Be1I7fhwQ3xZMkmuOOR135tBCCg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93270624362453e18dd194.jpgYellow wood violet (Viola biflora) Yellow wood violet (Viola biflora) found in damp and shady places up to 2200m Abetone, Emila Romana, Italy. Julne 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377882.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/q03f_vBThF_C_F6LlmDwvX4V07I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_190901905062453bf874f58.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704658.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ctx0Yn5Q6_6_DA28MoShUBcqJ4w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_681448632543bc58b5e975.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974061.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/r28_vDgc6ZrrnVT0ek1B5KQIXas=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9268937054636b25bb0fa.jpgSmall yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula) Small yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula), Pescia Romana, Orbetello, Lazio, Italy, April2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687440.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DbYUxj1JXz0R2ZqQRnjcMOvWxdg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1736234633543a63f704559.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704721.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hx7NkLY_XWj2WAOqDj2yNbyPfLA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_498771287543bc5e74a387.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687466.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qWZIGm2f-gl-V1zXkpa0VMjEqTY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_339840217543a65890b1dc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679359.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/y5MgjWUKRBv1sgRmLSi9ZAUn8y8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_81751985454394a05ba08a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687395.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_jWaFZv3frqv1fNigAa1XldL5mQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_858241552543a62230d929.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755798.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/F5JGyeIG4QsxTfvH931mCS3xHxU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15141382685444004bda6e0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704661.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NkDEHjlreciXwBiKzB-ybJ2FBt4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1424028138543bc594e30a5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wild-cherry-prunus-avium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rWpR4Ptuu9EcHXjkUDolydSyV1E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18648014954396b4c35310.jpgWild Cherry (Prunus avium) Wild Cherry (Prunus avium) a common tree in southern Europe often a component in hedges: can grow to 20m, hedgerow nr Orvieto, Italy. 03/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/brown-argus-aricia-agestis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/48c2kofm1LJYtexU7Z9gjfqGq3A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_37662746562485be32b5d2.jpgBrown argus ( Aricia agestis Brown argus ( Aricia agestis). a small buttfly belong to the family of 'Blues" (Lycaenidae) widespread in Europe in dry grassland areas. the larvae feed on rockrose (Helanthemum) and storrks bill (Erodium) species.Podere Montecucco, Orvieoto. Sept 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686978.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XSbIyoMQDohvWaDHbo1Maf4FJ88=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1561004588543a5459b4359.jpgKnot Grass (Acronicta rumicis) Knot Grass (Acronicta rumicis) a colourful caterpillar for a rather dull moth in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crab-spider-xysticus-cristatus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lyW1zduKrcaCi4vdMeHAs-XLQRc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_683020992624879b5dc62c.jpgCrab spider (Xysticus cristatus) Crab spider (Xysticus cristatus) . The male has an unusual method of mating with the female. First grabbing hold of one of her legs and then tying her down to the ground when she stops struggiling with threads of silk. Finally crawling beneath her to mate. Common in Europe. Orvieot, Umbria, June 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/flower-of-chili-capsicum-annuum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jtcc8-NchzG_2Da4B_X-nkEUrnQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_56483849154396fb297014.jpgflower of Chili (Capsicum annuum,) flower of Chili (Capsicum annuum,) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/apulian-ophrys-ophrys-fuciflora-ssp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fH-y4o1D7oa2s6zXGOtnJTZ20vM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_156201010054636bcb806e6.jpgApulian Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. apulica) Apulian Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. apulica) a large flowered race of the Late Spider Orchid. Nr Peschici, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/thyme-broomrape-orobanche-alba https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UWzFsB-o6SigrORyKqga7-NpNvs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_23318027062453e2906b56.jpgThyme broomrape (Orobanche alba) Thyme broomrape (Orobanche alba) parasitising common thyme ( Thymus vulgaris) Terminillo, Umbria, Italy. JUly 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/yellow-ophrys-ophrys-lutea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kN9qMLp9KiBX8pUraomsULonZQI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_210325613754636be30b546.jpgYellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea) Yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea) a wideperad species throughout the Mediterranean. Nr Peschici, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704499.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5A5FjqNOctKD-o0D9lTquMtUrkE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_863034654543bbf2f92ac5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704517.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V51KLGOXDG6rAgNJQmxhvo23EQU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2120920440543bbf55a9e91.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704489.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PSdTCJCkCgGi8pMVUD6Z_W0ZT7w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2105120105543bbf1bb9c42.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/amethyst-sea-holly-eryngium-amethystinum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tXURvXq42-FBninZBh0JAQzBUZI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19620866762453e2c20a5c.jpgAmethyst sea holly, (Eryngium amethystinum) or the amethyst eryngo,Italian eryngo Amethyst sea holly, (Eryngium amethystinum) or the amethyst eryngo,Italian eryngo is a clump-forming, perennial, tap-rooted herb. Its stem is 30 to 50 cm long and is light blue to purple in colour. The plant is native to the eastern Mediterranean and prefers dry places and soils that are rich in calcium.flowering on Mt Vettore, Umbria, Italy September, 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-passionis-ssp-virescens-ogarganica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZinRNYxfsTj_mr6fcnJhwBBmru0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5193164285463746debc7b.jpgOphrys passionis ssp virescens (O.garganica ssp virescens) Ophrys passionis ssp virescens (O.garganica ssp virescens) a race of the Garagano Ophrys (o. passionis) with a yellow-edged lip. nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/marsh-gentian-gentiana-pneumonanthe https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T1Fd-lDwh8J-xNdABk1VcARs_rM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_74440234962453e30eb514.jpgMarsh gentian (Gentiana pneumonanthe Marsh gentian (Gentiana pneumonanthe) is an uncommon species of acidic bogs and wet heathlands whose bright blue, trumpet-shaped flowers appear from July to October, contrasting with the pinks and purples of the heath species that often grow with it. Tuscany, Italy September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/sand-crocus-romulea-bulbocodium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PywOUvrmQ082nK-FfTkeieCAzh0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_79415059662453df453fb4.jpgSand Crocus (Romulea bulbocodium) Sand Crocus (Romulea bulbocodium) an early flowering bulb whose flowers open in sunlight. They are members of the Iris family, like crocus but have eveolved separately from them, Gargano, Italy April 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687459.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ql_TliKD5S-4eVjGX051KwlHFNA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1933983411543a64956180d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698864.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EB2-tavfkDpZUiC2eYu5FFDyZYU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6008677543b88d3cdc76.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/blackberry-or-bramble-rubus-fruticosus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1y6x8MYeITctkEAn5oL578kRQwI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_76701398954396a39d192d.jpgBlackberry or Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) MYN Blackberry or Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) highly edible fruits a species with thousands of identified microspecies.. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/marsh-marigold-or-kingcup-caltha https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iU7mRvKlasLrxxNi_g3hszDtpGY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_178713996662453e1cec6ee.jpgMarsh marigold or Kingcup (Caltha palustris) Marsh marigold or Kingcup (Caltha palustris) is found in marshes, bogs and wet pastures up to 2500m. Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704639.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/31jt95BmI8dkG8JWKc8RLQZCjOI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1661000776543bc56118f97.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385897.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WHlzMAeCBvnV24NSunne1UBlTIU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19643957756248605821a39.jpgSpotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) Spotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) widespread in mailand Europe in diverses warm habitats such as dry and rocky meadows and hillsides, steppes, field edges and fallow land. Foodplants various members of Palnatgo, Linaria, Veronica and Antirrihnum species. Sibillini, Umbira, May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686955.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iGmuVc9Sd8icMJGbo4DGjg1pQNo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_285725472543a53f5f0307.jpgjumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN jumping spider (Philaeus chrysops) MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/goatsbeard-tragopogon-pratensis-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MR3mr1KVxV99AJhv8kAh1EVsK-0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_121832325854396f70deb16.jpgGoatsbeard (Tragopogon pratensis) MYN Goatsbeard (Tragopogon pratensis) also called &quot;jack-go-to-bed-at noon&quot; since it closes by midday. MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/moss-and-lichen-community-on https://photos.on-this.website/wm/osogHfN53WG8E9ACr34fDYX1xGc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_96592208462447e9a19e7c.jpgMoss and lichen community on volcanic rocks with yellow lichen (Xantheria aureola) and green cushions of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare) Moss and lichen community on volcanic rocks with yellow lichen (Xantheria aureola) and green cushions of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy, February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689274.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5PI_kiSD5Hn0TdTuwOEFqaabJyU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_178805317543aa28cb4eb1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-sphegodes-ssp-majellensis-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yR1g5gOPX4wr-fJkX88vK3ziZ40=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7180835785463762735c7f.jpgOphrys sphegodes ssp majellensis (Ophrys passionis ssp majellensis) . Mt Amiata, Tuscany, Italy. June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687475.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MdRYlQ_bO2vt9xqREdp1CwNYPd0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1496003694543a659e22de8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704645.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J7A6grbytS9UxSOWRl-VQ4qdqgc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1442992519543bc56e0ec04.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679145.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pP0kIlZvBuocsnm1jTxmLP0-IRI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_147213932454393b54db145.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704459.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ay8AZcyM0AZcfoIURC4yZ-jyrCk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_716282433543bbee199ca4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759357.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-90fLT9GLnqmlv75_5B4vBnKkG0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_107154311854443a8e19cfa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687428.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pz7aqhoyA4WrwBjFCe5Hol-AlII=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11106952543a635e0a13c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-hornet-vespa-crabro-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ikQzeHCGwnPS-plmYROI_FiPbAc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_874402871543a5499d862f.jpgEuropean hornet (Vespa crabro) MYN European hornet (Vespa crabro) a large wasp common in S. Europe where it builds a colonial nest in holes in walls and trees. Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria. MYN Oct 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo19486463.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Dn_ALzJw2jLmj_K1qLbxghNatDM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1660945930524fcd761f97b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/buff-tip-phalera-bucephala https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vzk3C3xHADoRoDuKmMKgDoOkUcs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_115975680662447997440ab.jpgBuff tip ( Phalera bucephala) Buff tip ( Phalera bucephala) larvae feeds on a variety of deciduous trees. The larvae are gregarious when in early stages. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385826.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tYzSpo4YSRlzwelYaO8po6xDnS0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_136054363362485e27f1975.jpgConehead mantis (Empusa pennata) Conehead mantis (Empusa pennata) a remarkable looking insect found in S. Europe. They live in areas that are warm and dry: cryptic colouring of greens, pinks and various shades of brown provides effective camouflage. Females up to 10 cm in length; males shorter and slimmer. Male antennae feathered providing greater area for nocturnal pheromone detection. Only living prey is selected only takes notice of moving prey. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388193.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rHRcZtKuqLTpORWzOJXh8e5ejfs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1948101243624879c2bc7df.jpgBlack-veined white (Aporia crategi) Black-veined white (Aporia crategi) Canyon on Campo Imperatore, Gran Sasso, Appennines, Abruzzo, Italy May 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/high-brown-fritillary-argynnis-adippe https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WI320FKy7twtv6IrSGQBKqW_LsY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_94233582462447bae99e64.jpgHigh brown fritillary (Argynnis adippe f. cleodoxa). High brown fritillary (Argynnis adippe f. cleodoxa). A widespread species in Europe but rare and diminishing in the UK. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385894.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/znHzjMuCnAvPM_VS_wlLrJBVa-w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_87811090362486056d4d5b.jpgQueen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ Queen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ widespread in the Mediterranead region and characterised by large silver patches on its underwings. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759414.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gaMv3D-Q3dZ73LCsOvpNJqZIZxw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_176623672354443abea91ef.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686999.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wdXf4bzMu0pk0LHfFnIU4xq5nWg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_97828187543a54b860575.jpgsouthern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€ southern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€a large dragonfly frequent in S Europe. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687002.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/k-x8f0FPB_rjCFdWq_Ut6zGdIcM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_970568183543a54c439807.jpgSpurge Hawkmoth caterpillar (Hyles euphorbia) one of the most colourful Sphingid larvae shown on one of its foodplants Euphorbia myrsinites (it also eats other spurge species such as E. cyparissia). Photographed in S. Italy (Gargano) October 2013. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704480.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t6c5JJfx_pt02ocSg8QJKoRQuY4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2076683805543bbf0919b13.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689289.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T0733saN6zPJ97uiXS3YmfTO80U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13303527543aa2cc7ce40.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704549.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SLn_SaK7TWQXyE-VjJBI9NnO2s0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1423164303543bbf9294a3e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689285.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YcILjjGh6u5pE7a1kllTqaw4cvI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1526552369543aa2b8f2c15.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704484.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZeFAgYVDsXiMVdroJAUFOkTDZw4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1664131729543bbf1146529.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704637.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eBqaWvPzIgG1eZeurdKDtcsGTeI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1222938904543bc55725b20.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699019.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iOwIJKP8LTZ7AlAFgEx3dPQcVos=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_804453637543b89a6b17fa.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699016.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/unt1xe4_sS3PIfi4KJ7FLE-OdZg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1890713440543b89a313cfc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/montpellier-maple-acer-monspessulanum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UJqf3gDd1Ti78L6WFCPxMhEy9CM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_43461241462447ad8c816d.jpgMontpellier maple (Acer monspessulanum) Montpellier maple (Acer monspessulanum) Acer monspessulanum is a medium-sized deciduous tree or densely branched shrub that grows to a height of 10–15 m . It is native to the Mediterranean region from Morocco and Portugal in the west, to Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel in the east, and north to the Jura . Bagno Vignoni, Toscana, Italy Oct 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/cross-gentian-gentiana-cruciata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Glqp2w3189E-m3Xxycr0OfsgfXo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_617858529624473a8d1c44.jpgCross Gentian (Gentiana cruciata) Cross Gentian (Gentiana cruciata) a scarce species and the foodplant of the early stages of one of the myrmycophilic Alcon Blue butterfly.. Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377703.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FVojCPLEybvkKRSnB24mNTj8G-Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_157332167762447ec44effd.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/stinking-hellebore-helleborus-foetidus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/j352Jvm8hbzrvxhTMh2-g-nVm1A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_44278595862453df33598e.jpgStinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus), Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus), known variously as stinking hellebore, dungwort, setterwort and bear's foot, is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe and Asia Minor. It is found wild in many parts of England, especially on limestone soil. Il Sasseto, Torrealfina, Lazio, Italy. March2015 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699162.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/I4ZkSAnX3PjVJ8AtexKSis02YZo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2147364408543b8b03e63e4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/austrian-yellow-cress-rorippa-austrica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GbdNIc_Rk9xHqfjGYGhY8uxeGHw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_94917868362453e165ab05.jpgAustrian yellow-cress (Rorippa austrica) Austrian yellow-cress (Rorippa austrica) distinguihsed from the similar R. amphibia by its leaves that are not totthed at the edges. Lago di Ventina, Rieti, Umbria, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/shepherds-fritillary-boloria-pales-the https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QjbUOh5G5OdH6QAHd4JC1I8ZiWM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_40290582062447bae72b6d.jpgShepherd's fritillary (Boloria pales) The Apennine form Shepherd's fritillary (Boloria pales) The Apennine form of a variable species with a number of different races. It is a butterfly of stony alpine and subalpine meadows often above the treeline between 2000 and 2400m. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/thorn-apple-datura-stramonium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/m4LqfivhvWpivVJ-lkUX5bV1nCU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_186020267254396fdf83be0.jpgThorn-apple (Datura stramonium) Thorn-apple (Datura stramonium) a weed of cultivation and waste places on bare ground. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Sept 2013. MYN https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752166.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BjXhY0JqtQts_Tktvz-DNkrQchk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14528680185443d3189f223.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755875.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oQuDlG17gn9EAcAmTCU_EFCB0SE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19106673055444036671701.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687402.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aACS0kDFEsgVfPe4jQXetnAAhZc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_243475766543a6237be772.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/marsh-helleborine-epipactis-palustris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u09rTyTTrDMYvJX4G3CHlbnEF_c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4014781526244677021826.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687412.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kr3hTy57DTBMMeR6THNJ9Aw7KOM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2121259642543a62e83e513.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385913.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pOl18UvyGkvFJg7e2dwmZB6b8_U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13306153186248606510637.jpgConehead mantis (Empusa pennata) Conehead mantis (Empusa pennata) a remarkable looking insect found in S. Europe. They live in areas that are warm and dry: cryptic colouring of greens, pinks and various shades of brown provides effective camouflage. Females up to 10 cm in length; males shorter and slimmer. Male antennae feathered providing greater area for nocturnal pheromone detection. Only living prey is selected only takes notice of moving prey. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698903.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1p0qNtXK2mENXWEV3c_wcmRxIes=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1760896829543b8901ac4e7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377683.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Sdz13QreeBS0zkjUJxCUVECbbrk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_148762924262447eb4f2cd3.jpgBuff tip ( Phalera bucephala) Buff tip ( Phalera bucephala) larvae feeds on a variety of deciduous trees. The larvae are gregarious when in early stages. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377714.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/chxgl1__SPfoNfA122mrvX9p5Uw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_190819164624481e82cb5b.jpgHybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Hybrid Orchis - Orchis x colemanii ( Orchis mascula x O. pauciflora) This is a natural hybrid between Early purple orchid (O. mascula) and few flowered orchid (O. pauciflora). Here the plants are growng above Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759325.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wN8VQ7B6V8uPD64uNJuEPVsnBBo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_142316881854443a6f6d749.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680669.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dfMS1VI1LaiCeIwM4iUazwofR4U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_130648999454396a3c4c16d.jpgSpindle, European spindle, common spindle (Euonymus europaeus) the wood is very hard and has been made in the past to make spindles for weaving (the source of the common name in several languages). The berries are poisonous containing terpenes, caffeine and theobromine. Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieot, Umbria, Italy October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681204.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/maaNH1hvN6LwrGJkOG5NMsXJx8k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_69299916954396fc8c32f7.jpgDodonaeus&#039; willow herb (Epilobium dodonae) Dodonaeus&#039; willow herb (Epilobium dodonae) growing on Mt Terminillo nr Terni, Italy 09/2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377654.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/f4rFezd1oN8J1QKG3ECwosevPLY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_112402650162447e9d5bd7a.jpgButterfly egg- Orange-tip (Anthocaris cardamines) Butterfly egg- Orange-tip (Anthocaris cardamines) laid on the lraval foodplant Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) The image shows the egg just after being deposited by the female insect. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674911.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a4kOXy0o_q3OBBpl_h3M5z2hZIM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20828455095437e96130034.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680673.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5-ChH5UKO5Ef5lQi3EUr6kGmyYQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_106289823254396a4400935.jpgStrawberry Tree (Arbutus andrachne) a common shrub/ small tree of the Mediterranean maquis and aslso the foodplant of the larvae of the Two-tailed Pasha butterfly (Charaxes jasius). The berries are edible but rather insipid. Photographed nr Orvieto, Italy ,October 2013. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674917.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cM3jUASdXYZUiQPQV0C1B9J3s1g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4750179065437e9b447bb4.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/peach-blossom-prunus-persica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-HXK9pcyc50v8oTlt0c1ixY17lE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_71571709154396b54c0889.jpgpeach blossom (Prunus persica peach blossom (Prunus persica) a variety of small peach local to Umbria that has become naturalised. nr Orvieto. Italy. MYN. 03/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-beteewn-sawfly-and-mirror https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KyIGLIfuZnjwqfoYJafWnuT5FPI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_206493222854636230c9b06.jpgHybrid beteewn Sawfly and mirror orchids artificially produced (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O. speculum = Ophrys x heraultii) Hybrid beteewn Sawfly and mirror orchids artificially produced (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O. speculum = Ophrys x heraultii) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698997.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6OTurOzmZ_I_ZAaoFpcMk2kTtVQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_979003798543b898a6c56c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-bee-orchid-x-late https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T-7u8Yc1UJf9M18N7_1gpsKt0FU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_183463536254637589653a2.jpg(Hybrid Bee orchid x late spider orchid (Ophrys apifera X O.fuciflora = O.x albertiana) (Hybrid Bee orchid x late spider orchid (Ophrys apifera X O.fuciflora = O.x albertiana) Sibillini, nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/field-dodder-cuscuta-campestris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WjZ3TPhUP-FHQUaKVLMeZA-5xVQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1585915542624479ab7248e.jpgField Dodder (Cuscuta campestris) Field Dodder (Cuscuta campestris) a parasitic plant that forms a twining mass of stems on Triflium (Clover) species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy Nove 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377691.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PoBtYQDIsVraku_mw24Bcczd9RI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_951282062447eba00317.jpgThe Oak Spider (Aculepeira ceropegia) The Oak Spider (Aculepeira ceropegia) presents a marked sexual dimorphism. These spiders can reach a length of 6–8 millimetres (0.24–0.31 in) in males, of 15–17 millimetres (0.59–0.67 in) in females. They are easy to identify due to their unique abdominal marking in the form of an oak leaf. The head is covered by a grayish-brown hairs, chelicerae are light brown and legs are dark ringed. The abdomen is elongated and oval-shaped) Tolfa hills, Lazio, Italy June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377963.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6AJWwkx7gJ3XS-gHy04us25_PQM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120854004962453e21abfde.jpgAlpine poppy (Papaver alpina ) Alpine poppy (Papaver alpina ). There are various subspecies of P.alpinum and this plant from Gran Saccso is sometimes known as P. alpinum ssp ernesti-mayeri also P. judicum) . Grows in gravels and other well-drained areas. Gran Sasso, Appennines, Abruzzo, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704629.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EDVEx_t5YMsN1WpuWgJ7SEAbFGI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1747086089543bc54629e14.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377708.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Q_eoW6uMzVuSZpuPV6toWvqI398=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2095019969624481dfe65e9.jpgNature takes over...The remains of the first Hydroelectric power plant, Officine Netti, Orvieto - dating from 1893 Nature takes over...The remains of the first Hydroelectric power plant, Officine Netti, Orvieto - dating from 1893 built and designed by Aldebrando Netti. The first building to be lit by electricity in Orvieto was the Mancinelli Theatre. The town lighting followed later. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy UK February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-oak-quercus-robur https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eYWzjQLT8L_vlMHNCpm6oXaNTwM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13233328062447ae3575f8.jpgCommon Oak (Quercus robur). Common Oak (Quercus robur). Quercus robur, commonly known as common oak, pedunculate oak, European oak or English oak, is a species of flowering plant in the beech and oak family, Fagaceae. It is native to most of Europe west of the Caucasus. The tree is widely cultivated in temperate regions and has escaped into the wild in scattered parts of China and North America. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. November 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/leaflets-of-false-acacia-ia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b63JvrKgyuquTEdhQWvjaC6cZqo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_83797515962447ae5637ad.jpgLeaflets of false acacia (ia pseudacacia) that had gathered in a pool is an slow flowing stream Leaflets of false acacia (ia pseudacacia) that had gathered in a pool is an slow flowing stream. Pitigliano, Tuscany, Italy October 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704618.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HpaVSacoFI3OTmpifcwyNk2r2v8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1188596797543bc52f9e1c9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973845.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bJlD6lB5fwSH2EDJCp-NFpcRi6o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1831801913546361c45c94e.jpgBee Orchid aberrant (Ophrys apifera) an unusual form lacking a lip Bee Orchid aberrant (Ophrys apifera) an unusual form lacking a lip which has been replaced by one of the lateral petals ( a semipeloric form) MYN nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377961.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Os37uLFfrd8ULA-MjPM2scfgBwQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_44379489262453e205c8f8.jpgAlpine poppy (Papaver alpina ) Alpine poppy (Papaver alpina ). There are various subspecies of P.alpinum and this plant from Gran Saccso is sometimes known as P. alpinum ssp ernesti-mayeri also P. judicum) . Grows in gravels and other well-drained areas. Gran Sasso, Appennines, Abruzzo, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/italian-wall-lizard-podarcis-siculus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pf1zlNZzA8hqJhe2jIfFWJFOYVI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_34734884162447e9db4b33.jpgItalian Wall lizard♀︎ (Podarcis siculus) Italian Wall lizard♀︎ (Podarcis siculus) the commonest of lizards found in central and southern Italy. They feed on insects and succulent fruit. In summer females lay 4-8 eggs with hatchlkings appearing after 4-5 weeks. Photographed: Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy Septemeber 2014 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974069.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TngYc3ZUgQGaZ9XHPZZFqWNIHUw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_56121364754636b57bc94e.jpgHornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) Hornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) an endemic species restricted to the west coast of central Italy including the islands. Porto St Stefano, Argentario, Tuscany, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-hornet-x-early-spider https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YSQ2gl53icbVRumyIFuSwqN5eF8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_141863703154636b0742dcc.jpghybrid hornet x early spider ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera x O.spegodes = O. x Camusii) hybrid hornet x early spider ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera x O.spegodes = O. x Camusii) found in western Italy. Piediluco , Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/sicilian-iris-iris-pseudopumila https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cmr0IG9or3LCRN_hzYNSrv17IPI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_57288582554396b5d14aa6.jpgSicilian iris (Iris pseudopumila) Sicilian iris (Iris pseudopumila) a dwarf iris species and one of two iris species that colour the limestone pavements of Gargano, Puglia, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751168.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cU3sCsdJnKs6_39MtXTlTAMLZts=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20353564655443c424eff50.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hairy-footed-flower-bee-anthophora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HBfpuaDbMs8Ez2swxjoAbKOtc7c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_579491574624479ab84b4f.jpgHairy-footed flower bee ( Anthophora plumipes ♂︎ ) Hairy-footed flower bee ( Anthophora plumipes ♂︎ ) A large, bumblebee sized species characterised by long hairs on its middle legs. It often nests in the soft mortar and exposed material of old walls. Occasionally it will nest in the ground, preferring bare compacted clay soils. Villalba, Allerona, Umbria, Italy June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385863.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9wNouV53Uwp1kRIjM1AdPRGLOV0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_66185832662485f8ce7ff2.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/cardinal-fritillary-argynnis-pandora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5fDopDIX5pO1kzHHIQtbJ-S_0_Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_784038226624860600003b.jpgCardinal fritillary (Argynnis pandora) Cardinal fritillary (Argynnis pandora) This is the largest of the Eruoepan fritillaries and essentially S. European species where it is more freuqqnt than the similar silver-washed fritillay (Argynnis paphia)...the latter has 'splashes of reflective silver on its lower underwings but lacks the well-defined row of white spots on A. pandora. Locally common in flowery meadows up to 1200m. Gran Sasso, Abruzzo, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698930.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/S8gQ9t4FSWsxb-O5aFUB42EPTsA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_465979238543b8926a06f9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377886.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tJAFgAEA9k_1Snw-zOaagcf6ZNw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_66610893462453bfa88e5f.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Lago di Ventina, Terni, Umbria, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973794.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zEcevkBSbVYf6P8DuOJx0cco4Aw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17706840745463615a60884.jpgOphrys fusca (lucifera) Dull Ophrys (Ophrys fusca) a widespread ophrys in the Mediterranean region.Nr Mattinata, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/narrow-leaf-water-plantain-alisma https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RtZ0bp6FUWBtC2U6U8earaxYhZY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1848150378624473a1e7c2e.jpgNarrow-leaf water-plantain (Alisma lanceolatum) Narrow-leaf water-plantain (Alisma lanceolatum). is a species of aquatic plant in the water plantain family known by the common names lanceleaf water plantain and narrow-leaved water plantain. It is widespread across Europe, North Africa and temperate Asia. Lago di Ventina, Termni, Umbria, Italy. July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974040.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qCyv66yBo67vMMbq3DCHIiU92Xk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_131040496654636a621ab9d.jpgEarly Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) Early Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) a variable and widley distributed species of S England (Kent, Dorset) and europe. Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bilberry-vaccinium-myrtillus-also-european https://photos.on-this.website/wm/l57xAumhaSegvpQDVockd0JIQz8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8027521406244820128e89.jpgBilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), also European blueberry Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), also European blueberry. Shown in autumn this is a species of shrub with edible fruit of blue color, known by the common names bilberry, blaeberry, wimberry, and whortleberry. It has much in common with the American blueberry.Here it is shown growing from 1500-2500m in the Sibillini on Mte Vettore, Umbria, Septembr 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981383.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2nPvOKGSX1i7f18lyli3vE9kOLk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13560463895465cfbc3c4bd.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/purple-mountain-lettuce-prenanthes-purpurea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6SNJ917bP7SeyG3IC-7dK5r7Ug8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_268381482624473a137a90.jpgPurple mountain lettuce (Prenanthes purpurea) Purple mountain lettuce (Prenanthes purpurea). Is widespread in Europe and belongs to the Daisy (Asteraceae) family. It is distinguished by its pendent purple-red flowers with reflexed petals and protrudinf stamens. Mt Amiata, Tuscay July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-lacaitae-lacaita039s-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4c-dV-nJU1btWpqt34dR-z5qID8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1803313284546369b647919.jpgOphrys lacaitae (Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys) Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys (Ophrys lacaitae) a rare, rather late flowering species endemic to Sicily and parts of the S. Italian mainland also regarded as a subespecies of O. fuciflora, Ferla, Sicily, May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/red-bartsia-odontites-verna https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BH-eF2iMN0BqSUTG7gLUSh4zQQc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_107079095754396fe2c1689.jpgRed Bartsia (Odontites verna) Red Bartsia (Odontites verna) Terminillo, nr Terni, Umbria, MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377884.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/O9YY7x_3Vw7UGlqWygn3raVhgwA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_150359039262453bf97ea38.jpgCoralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) Coralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) so called because of the shape of its rhizome and one of four species of European orchid considered to be predominantly saprophytic The others are Neottia nidus-avis, Epipogium aphyllum and Limodorum abortivum). It is a species of woodlands of pine and Spruce but is also found on dune land in Scotland in damper areas. The species is rare in the UK and has a circumboreal distribution in woodland mountain areas in in mainland Europe. Terminillo, Umbria Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388168.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YJeyiIV036lqDu0CNdsWJW3hzKE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1879812699624879b303ad6.jpgLarge Bee fly (Bombylius major) Large Bee fly (Bombylius major). All species in the genus share a similarity with the unrelated bees and bumblebees, which they mimic, possessing a thick coat of fur, with a colour ranging from yellow to orange. They can, however, be told apart from tbumblebees by the long, stiff proboscis used to probe for nectar as they fly with a rapid and darting flight, Larvae are parasitic and infest the nests of solitary bees (and possibly wasps consuming their grubs. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687458.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RZogoY-gAwYYNwssoRtp4klOl48=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_565653767543a648e6c97c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704617.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2PsUcX7ToqwlXUI4cr5Is96jYkQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_496695194543bc52dcd710.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-lutea-ssp-phryganae https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oZVoPZ9thD8Y95p4UPQ1e15u5iU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_877362384546367279300b.jpgOphrys lutea ssp phryganae Ophrys lutea ssp phryganae a variety of O.lutea ssp minor foundin S. Italy and the islands nr Vieste, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385861.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LcGhPLiKb99S2BckuLgpgaoCwSw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_161454749062485f89b8503.jpgQueen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ Queen of Spain fritillary (Isoria lathonia) ♀ widespread in the Mediterranead region and characterised by large silver patches on its underwings. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/pale-birthwort-aristolochia-pallida https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FTusl_YR_Dt0Fi1iV7DV5-KlHcY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_204231817562453e060dfc2.jpgPale Birthwort (Aristolochia pallida) Pale Birthwort (Aristolochia pallida). A species both of warm, light woodland and meadows: an important foodpalnt for the caterpillars of festoon butterflies (Zerynthia sp) Foresta Umbra, Gargano, Puglia, Italy, April 2019 nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687362.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RLYRnVNKY7w4D2jpqJz5rbkgZOc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14511112543a61aa45491.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973996.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ora2TpOWusb3bFsoVnpkrVILuPo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_50780551754636787dc1cf.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698990.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XkH29NJMf6npDJYHPheH0r0VtLE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_635635552543b898113685.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699011.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MIyikq5JEdShzVkBG2k-4lk9AXg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_325415174543b899d52955.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/yellow-flag-iris-iris-pseudacorus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-Kia_FRYQIGjEwRhhEr-qL0XN64=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4743249262453e1496ab5.jpgYellow flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus) Yellow flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus) grows best in very wet conditions, and is common in wetlands, where it tolerates submersion, low pH, and anoxic soils. The plant spreads quickly, by both rhizome and water-dispersed seed. Piediluco, Umbria, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698993.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vmvDKF5V-jbzrHq3QCO3UaRPMi0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_702430468543b8984ce236.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699191.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/szZLZDVxc_IQ94sQSkepYsuM_H0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_391601250543b8b5739de2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752219.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aeOLNjBUOH9pGUu3jOay8fhdf7A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4900228655443d38c4256d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981406.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dAePRggWS7YaJmpGtdPCI8hhXhw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8786518595465d065aa025.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species, Preci nr Norcia, Umbria Italy. May 2008. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-elephant-hawk-deilephilia-elpenor https://photos.on-this.website/wm/A6XnqwGJZkMBG_RqhDCFi4qBmPg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_161163188062454380aaadb.jpgLarge elephant hawk (Deilephilia elpenor) Large elephant hawk (Deilephilia elpenor) a strikingly coloured species whose larva feed on various species of willowherb and several other species including cultivated species such as fuchsia. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/green-winged-orchid-anacamptis-morio https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2u4BslD0s4EOKSUvA46q04rcOeA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_82761058362453bdf2bd47.jpgGreen Winged orchid (Anacamptis morio var alba) syn Orchis morio var alba) Green Winged orchid (Anacamptis morio var alba) syn Orchis morio var alba) A widespread species in Europe with occasional white variety such as illustrated . The name'Green-winged_ derives from the veining inside the hood made from sepals and two petals. Gargano, Puglia April 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973989.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IJliXPvEmb_fKBK_dKEQ4JYTn2M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5313272645463671487655.jpgArchipelago Orchid (Ophrys archipelagi Archipelago Orchid (Ophrys archipelagi synonymous with O.x arachnitiformis, one of a group of similar &#039;species&#039; in the Mediterranean region. this is endemic to Gargano. above Lago di Varano, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751213.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sZVCkBZ4WnycyD2BxJaYCA5ZDa0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6945358015443c4ddc42f9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/great-peacock-moth-saturnia-pyri https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u4XBFwIRyW0_iadeQT0LRkXT8hk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_58584624262447eac4544a.jpgGreat peacock moth (Saturnia pyri) Great peacock moth (Saturnia pyri) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755743.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/G9rqnwXsF4ic2glU5n9qosD-xu0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7704345325443ffc6b8f7a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-white-pieris-brassicae-also https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mJ_EYuyKRN7kv2VQGD02Px8O1E4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_166466181662447eb31db3d.jpgLarge white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎. Also known as the cabbage white. Large white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎. Also known as the cabbage white. The female is distinguished from the male by the presence of 2 black spots, together with a black dash, on the forewing upperside. This is one of the most widespread species found in: Europe This species is also known to migrate to the British Isles from continental Eruope, augmenting the resident population in the process.. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755864.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3qaK75Cdexdauh8o4XxJOaQ4I5k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_543687028544403479a317.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/violet-carpenter-bee-xylocopa-violacea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YBo1Czw7BLdtefa9xkPdsqwI0Qw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_22606788062454388255e2.jpgViolet Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa violacea) Violet Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa violacea). Nests in wood on which its larvae feed. Non-aggressive but can sting. Adults are on the wing in summer and autumnthroughout southern Europe and again in spring after hibernation even emerging on warm winter days. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria August 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-fusca-lucifera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MDLfK1cxoi_dXfu-qXIBNgAjsrg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198101868054636177c42b0.jpgOphrys fusca (lucifera) Dull Ophrys (Ophrys fusca) a widespread ophrys in the Mediterranean region.Nr Mattinata, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751204.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/d97f9kuF8KKnev9ZFl4N6oEhoM4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9576515525443c4b8233ff.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704301.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IX8bVEqIZbsQMJkgb-5VWkBMUrg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1794224420543bbb4125f1a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755756.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kTPa982K-IwGn5kStxyxVZ6ZX38=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13692919745443ffe86571a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/dodonaeus039-willow-herb-epilobium-dodonae https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mc6MMa63VgBzl5vZE1CLxiHn-pQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_89776740554396fc5f2bd2.jpgDodonaeus&#039; willow herb (Epilobium dodonae) Dodonaeus&#039; willow herb (Epilobium dodonae) growing on Mt Terminillo nr Terni, Italy 09/2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377971.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pPmjXUH4MlcAtZDekJq1ZwTZn7w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_174447384362453e25505ff.jpgOrange Lily (Lilium bulbiferum var croceum) Orange Lily (Lilium bulbiferum var croceum) variety without leaf base bulbils. Terminillo, Appennines, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675277.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/f7NylzTZ1ARAQ_VaMklmWWQFXKc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16854746195438046db8087.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377864.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NFrDGtWvgCy33DsDh0q0rNpJqM0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_139106773862453bee70e7f.jpgBee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var fulvofusca). Bee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var fulvofusca). Arare variant...alsmost certainly no more than an occasiopnal and thus a 'forma' rather than a 'var'. It lacks the distincive bib pattern characteristic of Ophrys apifera and the name 'fulvofusca means yellowish-brown. Ophrys apifera is consisnstently self-pollinated unlike all other members of the genus that are pollinated by small hymenopterans (bees and wasps). Thus there is no selection by visula or olfacotyr means and a considerable number of variations manage to occur. Treviso, Veneto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974028.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RO1u8hMEA1yD5iN2AhfV_Y03C1w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_498304939546369cdbdc96.jpgOphrys lacaitae (Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys) Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys (Ophrys lacaitae) a rare, rather late flowering species endemic to Sicily and parts of the S. Italian mainland also regarded as a subespecies of O. fuciflora, Ferla, Sicily, May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679337.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dp_zXkF7tah5tdWxKRewhWloaW4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_816136231543949c33d132.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675407.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/G3Q6erzcuMr61hNNCv1XhYDErcc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_202932094454380778caf59.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687404.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gJuxOT-0jCpsvstIFIlffNyYN1w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_745913506543a623e8ff70.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675418.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Co1ZHBeStZgWjAybNLsfn7NGdW8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1797022509543807a58f4a2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/downy-safflower-carthamnus-lanatus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wwppAayslsVf-Ckvk2ldoc9o5mk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1056461259624473a4bfc76.jpgDowny Safflower ( Carthamnus lanatus) Downy Safflower ( Carthamnus lanatus). Carthamus lanatus is a species of thistle known as woolly distaff thistle, downy safflower or saffron thistle. It is a spiny, glandular, woolly plant, closely related to safflower, which is in the same genus. This annual plant is a native of the Mediterranean Basin, but it is familiar in other places where it was introduced and has become an invasive weed, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755720.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jBv5UGl9fUnxf2B0fghVocxAit8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1392060665443ff7d9aa17.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/long-horned-beetle-aegosoma-scabricorne https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Nc9LVi5YNYxIsJw3Q3DubafIY_A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17174068076245437e44c72.jpgLong-horned beetle (Aegosoma scabricorne) Long-horned beetle (Aegosoma scabricorne). This species can reach a length of 25–52 millimetres (0.98–2.05 in).[5] It is one of the biggest long-horned beetles in Europe. Body is elongated, finely pubescent, of a reddish yellow color. Head is narrowed behind the eyes. Antennae are composed by 11 segments, rough in the male. Prothorax is narrowed forward, Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/brown-mountain-grasshoppers-podisma-pedestris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RRGpBS7QkzO3R_ho5c6W4y0tyII=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1398385570543a5471881f7.jpgBrown Mountain Grasshoppers (Podisma pedestris) Brown Mountain Grasshoppers (Podisma pedestris) an abundant species in the high mountain zones of the Apennines. Terminillo, nr Terni, Lazio. Italy. September 2013. MYN https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/basil-ocimum-basilicum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yHQNH--bfunWuqmG4FP38aGw9uc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_122978376154396fb5d5354.jpgBasil (Ocimum basilicum) Basil (Ocimum basilicum) a fragrant culinary herb that goes wonderfully well with tomato.MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Aug 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/alpine-poppy-papaver-alpina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3ZVSyzXSkzBJFuY14Ka2ZzP2PjI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_48070699562453e1fefa9c.jpgAlpine poppy (Papaver alpina ) Alpine poppy (Papaver alpina ). There are various subspecies of P.alpinum and this plant from Gran Saccso is sometimes known as P. alpinum ssp ernesti-mayeri also P. judicum) . Grows in gravels and other well-drained areas. Gran Sasso, Appennines, Abruzzo, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377657.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yp42UkyK1WNepNRM9KznMXOozGI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_189057383062447e9ecdb34.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy JAug 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/harvestman-metaphalangium-cirtanum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/95A7_BvYh-dSw2Q3s2jzdj2zbeY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9206150762443425eef32.jpgHarvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum) Harvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum). Sometimes called "daddy long-legs spiders they are not true spiders. Commonly found sitting in wait on flowers. Podere Montecucco,nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sepetember 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/green-underside-blue-glaucopsyche-alexis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eDUbeospqQ9AKVAdWbYv5mWMHVg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_111549798262486057b5b67.jpgGreen-underside blue (Glaucopsyche alexis) Green-underside blue (Glaucopsyche alexis)A widespread species in Europe (absent fro UK) on sunny hillsides an open areas up to 1200m. The blue-gren base of the wings is characteristic and a distinguishing feature. Larval foodplants are various members of the pea family (Leguminosae). nr Precis, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981372.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/62E6mawg2rP51nf2i3iztXZeyfM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10070588775465cf30029cf.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981374.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IdznKm5pQxSJT8rw9eSmDOKcMDY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3038085695465cf4113df8.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385901.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fEo1hoO3139H70kyKXvmlTKLBkE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18439402076248605b54123.jpgSpotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) Spotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) widespread in mailand Europe in diverses warm habitats such as dry and rocky meadows and hillsides, steppes, field edges and fallow land. Foodplants various members of Palnatgo, Linaria, Veronica and Antirrihnum species. Sibillini, Umbira, May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/butterfly-eggs-large-white-pieris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/G3F_OQtxkVCpgx6SlyaqErdwXnU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6876737226248606263f41.jpgButterfly eggs Large white (Pieris brassicae) at high magnification Butterfly eggs Large white (Pieris brassicae) at high magnification to show surface detail on the fklask-like eggs. The tiny 'hole' where the larva will emerge (micropile) is visible at the free end of each egg. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/samphire-sarcocornia-fruticosa-also-known https://photos.on-this.website/wm/M3UM-kQhBCgV7I2YIAurOcySPmk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7193622956244820205a3d.jpgSamphire (Sarcocornia fruticosa) also known as glasswort and saltwort Samphire (Sarcocornia fruticosa) also known as glasswort and saltwort belongs to the family Amarathaceae. Sarcocornia is distributed worldwide, especially in warm-temperate regions with mediterranean climate, Older stems are woody with this halophytic species (salt loving/tolerant) and it is a common species of saltmarshes. Coastal lagoons, Circeo, nr San Felice in Circeo. Lazio. Italy Septe 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/pyramidal-bugle-ajuga-pyramidalis-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CXgECsc3hSuXtJ_B2FWUyh4VcKc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_40464641554396f57139c5.jpgPyramidal Bugle (Ajuga pyramidalis). MYN Pyramidal Bugle (Ajuga pyramidalis).MYN nr Torrealfina, Lazio, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/assorted-species-of-blue-lycaenid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7asZdGwIbqYMj5tvlpGgvjFZ8Oc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_62159207624879acade8f.jpgAssorted species of blue (Lycaenid) butterflies including Mazarine blue (Cyaniris semiargus) and Small blue (Cupido minimus) Assorted species of blue (Lycaenid) butterflies including Mazarine blue (Cyaniris semiargus) and Small blue (Cupido minimus) which looks like a miniature version of it on the undersides feeding on wet manure near a spring used for drinking by animals. Nr Castelluccio di Norcia, Sibillini, Umbria, Jul7 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-eye-scales-of-a https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WtOQJXVKalmgicIFeuQIwxO9kuc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18008167336244342e39dab.jpgThe eye scales of a peacock butterfly (Nymphalis io) captured under low power on a mciroscope and stacked, The eye scales of a peacock butterfly (Nymphalis io) captured under low power on a mciroscope and stacked, https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974227.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-7ARXTURWvquP7kfumXkKqblOac=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_73158571154637599cd985.jpgOphrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) Ophrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) locally frequent on limestone grassland in S. Europe. this form is found in the Sibillini. nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/beautiful-demoiselle-calopteryx-virgo https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MhcRZR55ixPuaprCTr4GACVvVRs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_324235002624879a925cbb.jpgBeautiful demoiselle ( Calopteryx virgo) Beautiful demoiselle ( Calopteryx virgo) a widspread species...female here illustrated with metallic greenish bronze body, brownihs wing and white tip.Widespread near streams and running water, often shaded where insect settles on leaves. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy June 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681123.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WiGNFAnaIOm_d02skvqTKmeZ29w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_94028493754396f5401c18.jpgForking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) Forking Larkspur (Consolida regalis) a late-flowering cornfield weed photgraphed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 06/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686994.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V4RuTCkfOj5JxmzVlwfHGoEoYlU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1861044220543a54a407376.jpgEuropean hornet (Vespa crabro) MYN European hornet (Vespa crabro) a large wasp common in S. Europe where it builds a colonial nest in holes in walls and trees. Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria. MYN Oct 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698906.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DWadea_3Pcj1d80aoqdXc3wwAvc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_97246688543b89057ca84.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377313.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/-vp5MlNC8fLfvRlEYNn7dYmUHTY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21088147516244342181f07.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. The pollen bundles, pollinia, are shown descniding towards the stigmatic surface. Umrbai, Italy, May 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981367.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dfmMs1_T1-N52t8uOvrUAkSYuwg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16860469405465cf162db07.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698844.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YrlJ-zmJr2J6ojCLjKsp-foQAoI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1859969880543b88b8012d1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675408.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CE04R1olwSJx2E16-rekF4PUspw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4850364965438077bea88b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/jumping-spider-philaeus-chrysops https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a7mrC7UM2L30fstHKEDmAg8M64k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209800438462486057258c0.jpgJumping Spider (Philaeus chrysops) Jumping Spider (Philaeus chrysops) an active and colourful jumping spider frequent in dry meadows and on bushes in early summer, S. Italy. Here, photographed waiting for pollinating insects as putative prey in a flower of a toothed orchid (Neotinea tridentata). https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751163.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Z8O5yxrbQNIYWJLOtKuxlmo7RjI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2744127545443c40cc318c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680781.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/D0HCxcDfr9EkFlC1YuTKeAFtY9E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9991450854396b7f81c1c.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) a Gargano endemic, usually blue but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation. nr Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/deilephila-porcellus-small-elephant-hawk https://photos.on-this.website/wm/znjGj5fupsnNGttWZxdf_r-i84I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_286439809624879bd0bb4b.jpgDeilephila porcellus (Small Elephant Hawk) Deilephila porcellus (Small Elephant Hawk) attracted to porch light https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/eastern-dappled-white-euchloe-ausonia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iLGc0yLlhR4uV6-TWTgB1OdmMTw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_209458996062447ea24de62.jpg Eastern dappled white (Euchloe ausonia) Eastern dappled white (Euchloe ausonia) Very similar to the Westren dappled white (E. crameri) widespread and common in S.E Europe through peninsular Italy and estwards. Larvae feed on a rage of cruciferous plants. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973774.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/L-AGVU5HrqvCVheTDg8S-zMQSSg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3181922585463612208ddb.jpgOphrys fusca (lucifera) Dull Ophrys (Ophrys fusca) a widespread ophrys in the Mediterranean region.Nr Mattinata, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/red-campion-silene-dioica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ewx6lfVsWv8aZCgG04CB3p6S9LQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1527225596624473a03caf8.jpgRed campion (Silene dioica) Red campion (Silene dioica) A very widespread species in the family Caryophyllaceae, native throughout central, western and northern Europe, and locally in southern Europe.Europe and commonly found in woodlands , roadsides, rocky slopes and banks and on banks. Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio. Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981371.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_vIxfS_ndP6dCoYXTslSdXb93jY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11573562735465cf2b666ac.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/scorpion-senna-hippocrepis-emerus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/01ZBQXm4vANgjaQqTQnW6XFZG0c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_179274145862453e07057ba.jpgScorpion-senna (Hippocrepis emerus) Scorpion-senna (Hippocrepis emerus) Hippocrepis emerus, the scorpion senna,] This is a species of perennial plant belonging to the genus Hippocrepis in the family Fabaceae. Hippocrepis emerus reaches on average 50–150 centimetres, with a maximum of 200 centimetres. The plant has a lignified stem with green branches bearing five to nine leaflets. This plant occurs in northeastern Spain and in central Mediterranean countries up to northern Europe and to Asia Minor. These shrubs are usually found in wooded and bushy areas, on sunny, warm and dry slopes and around forest edges. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy April 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377477.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2Vj4FtIg9Q4vXfKFLnMLwJP8-5Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_59868603624467719c2e2.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/twin-flowered-iris-iris-bicapitata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wBEt_Kx-CGCszO0IAIs17wWXM28=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20624440054396b61ee183.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) a Gargano endemic, usually blue but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation. nr Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tree-bumble-bee-bombus-hypnorum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/igI1q3e6E8AhTv1Vd37kC_ZnqNg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_80063603162443431142da.jpgTree Bumble bee (Bombus hypnorum) nectar gathering from a Borage flower Tree Bumble bee (Bombus hypnorum) nectar gathering from a Borage flower https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/clouded-yellow-coleus-croecus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nM40Ih9tJ2xS-GAbZ5va_JuC_HM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_946170736624879b860b83.jpgClouded yellow (Coleus croecus) Clouded yellow (Coleus croecus) a species belonging to the family Pieridae (the Whites) with a wide distribution and a powerful migrant. In the UK there are some years when there is a dense influx of continental insects. In Italy it is resident and migrant, Its larvae feed on a wide range of legumes. Gargano, Puglia Italy October 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704711.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hvDwIMqq5KUQ5KYWaiOGFto68fA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1180304686543bc5daeb073.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/early-spider-ophrys-sphegodes-aberrant https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xpeIdTWKiZETZ1E-AlLPtyqmGa0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_122689817454636adb910b9.jpgEarly Spider (Ophrys sphegodes). aberrant flowers no lip - replaced by sepals Early Spider (Ophrys sphegodes). aberrant flowers no lip - replaced by sepals. Piediluco , Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20110914-004 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gGk3v72aQXwXBmjPuzbWPFDh1uM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16327741545253e2b3aa3b6.jpgITA_PHD_20110914-004 Larva of common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) almost full-grown pre-pupation.MYN on fennel stem, garden,Orvieto, Italy. 09/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377626.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vWAOZv3DZZLEPBPXK7a97DvSzaQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3968065962447bb545b56.jpgArgiope bruennichi (orb web spider) ♀ Argiope bruennichi (orb web spider) ♀guarding its egg coccoon. Sometimes called the Wasp Spider due to its colouring. Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sept 2014 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/black-veined-white-aporia-crategi https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_9XDF9oaqy1PRhOKkA1W-ftrbvA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_692771107624879bb192c5.jpgBlack-veined white (Aporia crategi) Black-veined white (Aporia crategi) Canyon on Campo Imperatore, Gran Sasso, Appennines, Abruzzo, Italy May 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/alpine-squill-scilla-bifolia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8JZLuVtA-WcIEZjfvAsb61uEL-E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_205254105262453df665cac.jpgAlpine squill (Scilla bifolia) Alpine squill (Scilla bifolia) is an early plant of mountain woodlands and meadows flowering just after the snow melts often with crocus). nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/calliantha039s-orchid-ophrys-calliantha https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aHgznJobDwP5fzLM6VRYcjjUH58=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_241296555546369d658a95.jpgCalliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha) Calliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha), a rare Sicilian Endemic that probaly arouse from hybrids of O. candica with O, oxyrrynchos. Ferla, Sicily. May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974078.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZKfY5nko9UhWtTU0aKa4OxApF14=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_69181248554636ba0e4b64.jpgSmall-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) Small-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) growing in moist-woodland on a north-facing slope. Lesina, Gragnao, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680778.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e__p2e6fPVz0FHPsb8gOTuFSOXo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_155569802654396b78c747b.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) a Gargano endemic, usually blue but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation. nr Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/southern-hawker-aeshna-cyanea-acirc https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pKWOfGhFniVI87hcSwISpd2x0Ug=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_98941886543a54a8eca0d.jpgsouthern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€ southern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€a large dragonfly frequent in S Europe. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385823.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fiuA-x9t6nrsr9KwbE0Rav_SkPY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20381449662485e2559e97.jpgthe ladybird spider (Eresus kollari,) The ladybird spider (Eresus kollari,), is a spider species in the family Eresidae. It is one of the three species into which Eresus cinnaberinus or Eresus niger has been divided. Eresus kollari keep the remains of their prey stacked in the web. The females use the same burrow throughout their whole life. The prey can be large like tenebrionoid beetles, up to 32.5 mm long. Whereas males can be seen in the open on dry bare ground in daytime, the females oftn remain hidden within burrows. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755716.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LuC8wil-CsLZ6TpOG9jBQFNwfAk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8655811275443ff74861e1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759420.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NxLzpVLr-JhGPITtTOHZKaBkuUI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_62084447654443ac1b2d8e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bumble-bee-orchid-ophrys-bombyliflora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xAegjVzfZW44nUWvbdnui2TL2cg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12013067525463617f5fd4d.jpgBumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) Bumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) a small ophrys that occurs circum-Mediterranean https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974203.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1JkKucEac-Qxa9YrHyGt3DOgesM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_93647139354637492bd2f0.jpgHornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) Hornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) an endemic species restricted to the west coast of central Italy including the islands.Mt Argentario, Tuscany, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377952.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6iRbIVlTtnz5pAnwJEVyb8b9qTA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_180359080462453e1ae890c.jpgCommon dog violet (Viola riviniana) also known as Wood violet Common dog violet (Viola riviniana) also known as Wood violet. This is a species of flowering plant in the family Violaceae, native to Eurasia and Africa. It is also called wood violet and dog violet. It inhabits woodland edges, grassland and shady hedge banks. It is found in all soils except those which are acid or very wet.Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/assassin-bug-rhinocoris-iracundus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ocVu9I3r04K_VXAiXKYQvZPfz8M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7837264896245438c7e60a.jpgAssassin Bug (Rhinocoris iracundus) Assassin Bug (Rhinocoris iracundus) n insect predator that has a proboscis which is inserted into the prey. The victim is drained of its body fluids. The bug can also create a painful wound with humans: it secretes an anticoagulant that prevents healing.Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. August 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377668.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vN3Jyz2U41Jv4NorQFd5tfX-J18=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8678918862447ea79fef6.jpgCommon Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) Common Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) life-cycle from larvae saved after a cold autumn and overwintered as chrysalids. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/cucumber-cucumis-sativus-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dSd51qqPeyGweY3QAS99t4xf1FA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_126806901354396fa38f886.jpgCucumber (Cucumis sativus) MYN Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria Italy MYN July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974209.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K5PeRI373KgiFLP_Yw8xcAjXPuA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_108343807546374c33bbb6.jpgOphrys lacaitae (Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys) Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys (Ophrys lacaitae) a rare, rather late flowering species endemic to Sicily and parts of the S. Italian mainland also regarded as a subespecies of O. fuciflora, Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752246.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/i3-g-Sxk3h6bRI_KZXqiu4BEHy4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9970516405443d3e1adcc9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377940.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w4R09TBwwV9K6GJpGM4dr_uwMhE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_35893540662453e128d7e2.jpgBear's Ear Primrose (Primula auricula) Bear's Ear Primrose (Primula auricula) an alpine species of grassy places and damp crevices up to 2900m Campo Imperatore, Gran Sasso, Abruzzo, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111019-024 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_jmlCUstMqAsZa_Y_BsK9QHJlFk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_196916481252541281e970e.jpgITA_PHD_20111019-024 Pointed-nose grasshopper (Acrida ungarica) a diurnal grasshopper common in grassy places all through southern Europe. Found in autumn, Orvieto, Italy. 10/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704551.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/flbFEY7-xAehNf4q6e5VfLseuY8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_64642250543bbf96e0d38.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/nature-takes-overthe-remains-of https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zb4yfpgD7wVEgjneEduc--NvvYM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_647349994624481dfb10a9.jpgNature takes over...The remains of the first Hydroelectric power plant, Officine Netti, Orvieto - dating from 1893 Nature takes over...The remains of the first Hydroelectric power plant, Officine Netti, Orvieto - dating from 1893 built and designed by Aldebrando Netti. The first building to be lit by electricity in Orvieto was the Mancinelli Theatre. The town lighting followed later. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy UK February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ploughshare-orchid-serapias-vomeracea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pKbOLUb6RO7Tg-YVyhQOu5MMOHo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19256546175465d01515fd9.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea). Gargano nr Lago di Varano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377527.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SMocMCgoCpuY2YEt738VDyQcEQk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19342424976244798e68f7d.jpgCheckered beetle (Trichodes alvearius Checkered beetle (Trichodes alvearius) is a species of Soldier or belonging to the family Cleridae. It is is a very hairy beetle with black head and scutellum. The elongated elytra show a bright red colour with black bands. This species can easily be distinguished from Trichodes apiarius by the black stripe down the middle of the back (along the inner edge of the elytra) and the red apex, not reached by the black terminal stain.It is usually found on flower heads, feeding on pollemn and it does not fly readily, relying instead on its warning coloration to protect itself from predators. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377931.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ee0WCOgecEYeXXD8CgnLJHAzw2A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_180218847262453e0aa82c8.jpgCaterpillar of the orange tip butterfly (Anthocaris cardamines) Caterpillar of the orange tip butterfly (Anthocaris cardamines) has a rapid growth rate and is superbly camouflaged on foodplants such as Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Orvieto, Umbria Italy. April 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-ophrys-apifera-an https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FIQSfStpZQq6Uzw1271sxzKr3PY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21311538106244342022eb9.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. The pollen bundles, pollinia, are shown descniding towards the stigmatic surface. Umrbai, Italy, May 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687011.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J68h-PLiwffC2aZH-EeNljUc9uE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_651643634543a54eae39a2.jpgHornet hover Fly (Milesia crabroniformis) a large colourful hoverfly: larva develops in rotting beech https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974070.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jtMJdWmtdmXQdWXodAEfbLee2No=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_35027262054636b5f21c9c.jpgHybrid between sawfly and bumble-bee orchids (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O.bombyliflora = O. x sommieri) Hybrid between sawfly and bumble-bee orchids (Ophrys tenthredinifera x O.bombyliflora = O. x sommieri) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981389.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mxfWaTea590mq8HFMvp0opd9ZG8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1454647505465cfec74f14.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-elephant-hawk-deilephila-porcellus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MfmDu-Oha5oDJQVj90DAksi9_3w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_295072486543a5451bd3f0.jpgsmall elephant hawk (Deilephila porcellus) small elephant hawk (Deilephila porcellus) a small colourful hawk larva feed on bedstraw (Galium) species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377705.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LHlhEprAhTgLpxmt566t6Li8IG0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_99535314762447ec566c96.jpgButterfly egg- Orange-tip (Anthocaris cardamines) Butterfly egg- Orange-tip (Anthocaris cardamines) laid on the lraval foodplant Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) The image shows the egg just before hatching with larval spines visible Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/long-legged-hunting-spider-oxyopes https://photos.on-this.website/wm/JCoQsA1l1Fr29QRwCl2UtpxHncM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20409068916245438deec91.jpgLong-legged hunting spider ( Oxyopes lineatus) male Long-legged hunting spider ( Oxyopes lineatus) male. A long-legged hunting spider that is active by day. It can run rapidly on low vegetation in purusit of its prey. The eyes are arranged to form a hexagon and the leg spines are very long.. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, August 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-betwen-the-bee-orchid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HukB-QrE36DtiH6NhX_qVYpa9s0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6249446335463761020c77.jpgHybrid betwen the Bee orchid and Bertolonii&#039;s orchid (Ophrys apifera x O bertolonii = O.x vespertilio) Hybrid betwen the Bee orchid and Bertolonii&#039;s orchid (Ophrys apifera x O bertolonii = O.x vespertilio) Mt Amiata, Tuscany, Italy. June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-white-pieris-brassicae https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XUeFgaCrko316Dsh3Lr2rMyfsuA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_159799893562485f96f32be.jpgLarge white (Pieris brassicae) ♂︎ Large white (Pieris brassicae) ♂︎ a widespread and common species. whose larvae are often a pest on garden brassicas. It is easy to ignore its elegance. Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria. Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377598.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tYwm3L_A-ICyFup12edBXaBtbW0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_55746575362447add7daa3.jpgItalian Maple (Acer opalus) Italian Maple (Acer opalus) is a species of maple native to the hills and mountains of southern and western Europe, from Italy to Spain and north to southern Germany, and also in northwest Africa in Morocco and Algeria. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree growing to 20 metres (66 ft) tall, with a trunk up to 1 m diameter. Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tomato-flower-solanum-lycopersicum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cEa-Y547Rtf1-ETSG-hxU3bff8A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_131805810354396fad515da.jpgTomato flower (Solanum lycopersicum,) Tomato flower (Solanum lycopersicum,) Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/man-orchid-orchis-anthropophorum-synonymous https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EEvZScoh-ECIXnprdVEo6_-b2yI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_188112697262453bd48573c.jpgMan Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) Man Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) a widespread Mediterranean and European species. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria. Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-aberrant-ophrys-apifera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/noUMf-DkyDQvm3uLlQVEP8tMgLQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1465304618546361bd7a1cf.jpgBee Orchid aberrant (Ophrys apifera) an unusual form lacking a lip Bee Orchid aberrant (Ophrys apifera) an unusual form lacking a lip which has been replaced by one of the lateral petals ( a semipeloric form) MYN nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/caterpillar-of-the-orange-tip https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TB65Z-uUq5Wuxj5o-1KbKKOPHi8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_206914637262447ea1293ba.jpgCaterpillar of the orange tip butterfly (Anthocaris cardamines) Caterpillar of the orange tip butterfly (Anthocaris cardamines) has a rapid growth rate and is superbly camouflaged on foodplants such as Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Orvieto, Umbria Italy. April 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/false-medlar-sorbus-chamaemespilus-a https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mop8h6obVHq8HfFVYzm-8vcRP9Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_164074340754396fdc9e004.jpgFalse Medlar (Sorbus chamaemespilus) a small shrub of open woods. Nr Villalago, Piediluco, terni,Italy September 2013 False Medlar (Sorbus chamaemespilus) a small shrub of open woods. Nr Villalago, Piediluco, Terni,Italy September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/exoskeleton-of-cicada-cicada-orni https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NZlHCV52NIN9-4pviIzsZG64yfk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1757000235543a548bccffa.jpgExoskeleton of Cicada (Cicada orni) MYN Exoskeleton (exuvium) of Cicada (Cicada orni) left after emergence. Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy MYN. September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699085.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/h6XuBfldFJAFbJ0calLuvTFKabU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1090726191543b8a35280a7.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-european-green-lizard-lacerta https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IERgh2RooptQ2RAlq-WsbwHUuqU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_38282253062454387b74d5.jpgThe European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) ♂︎ The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) ♂︎ is a large lizard distributed across European midlatitudes from Slovenia and eastern Austria to as far east as the Black Sea coasts of Ukraine and Turkey. It is often seen sunning on rocks or lawns, or sheltering amongst bushes. The lizard reaches up to 15 cm (5.9 in) from the tip of the muzzle to the cloaca. The tail can be up to twice the length of the body, total length is up to 40 cm (16 in). This lizard sometimes sheds its tail (autotomy) to evade the grasp of a predator, regrowing it later. The male has a larger head and a uniform green coloring punctuated with small spots that are more pronounced upon its back. The throat is bluish in the adult male and to a lesser extent in the female. The female is more slender than the male and has a more uniform coloration, often displaying between two and four light bands bordered by black spots.Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy Aug 2021 Umbria, Italy Aug 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-solomons-seal-polygonatum-multiflorum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iCcHKkD-2arJqM6f4YWWkSWsIxs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_149793389862453e1808701.jpgCommon Solomon's seal. (Polygonatum multiflorum) Common Solomon's seal. (Polygonatum multiflorum) is a plant shady places on limestone.Other common names are: David's harp, ladder-to-heaven or Eurasian Solomon's seal,. It is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to Europe and temperate Asia. Sibillini. Umbria, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crab-spider-misumena-vatia-with https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LvYaYb_38UwVllz5eIZ5Vk8WDqI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_364962560543a543caf74c.jpgcrab spider (Misumena vatia) with prey - Queen of Spain Fritillary ((Issoria lathonia) on lavender. MYN crab spider (Misumena vatia) with prey - Queen of Spain Fritillary ((Issoria lathonia). Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/butchers-broom-ruscus-aculeatus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vypZKdo4QQ_1eiXgDoSKxwHMYcc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_89208018462453df56ed7c.jpgButcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus) Butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus) In talian it is called 'pungi topo' rat pricker - it was used where they hung cheese to mature to create barriers so that rats and mice cvould not climb down the strings that held poles and racks to which the food was tied. Sugano, Orvieot, Umbria, Italy February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377917.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EZruBOmGgEUX1wFBz1wmZp1MFwM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_160240695562453e020ce30.jpgToothwort (Lathraea squamaria) Toothwort (Lathraea squamaria) here parasitic on poplar roots but also on hazel and alder widespread in temperate regions of Europe. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377935.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mXmBoza0uU3qHn7bNE_Pw6B-TjU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_74336240362453e0f52671.jpgHepatica (Hepatica nobilis also H. triloba and Anemone hepatica) Hepatica (Hepatica nobilis also H. triloba and Anemone hepatica) a very early flowering plants in mountain woodlands and shady rocky places. Like other Ranunculaceae, fresh liverwort contains protoanemonin and is therefore slightly toxic. Medieval herbalists thought it cured Liver ailments...hence a former common name Liverwort. This arose from the "Doctrine of Signatures' where a part of a plant tat resembled a human organ was thought to be able to cure it. The leaves have a kidney sahpe. Campo Imperatore. Abruzzo, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377989.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c64qfK6Z6Op_2yYHeMbxpyGzotA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_187575398162453e31d08af.jpgMarsh gentian (Gentiana pneumonanthe Marsh gentian (Gentiana pneumonanthe) is an uncommon species of acidic bogs and wet heathlands whose bright blue, trumpet-shaped flowers appear from July to October, contrasting with the pinks and purples of the heath species that often grow with it. Tuscany, Italy September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/fly-orchid-ophrys-insectifera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eo_oYlJpSrPIaE15RbzAYWdBmkA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9434022035463625cc1423.jpgfly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) Fly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) one of the most convincing of the Ophrys genus of insect mimics complete to the tiny &#039;antennae&#039; formed by the petals. It is an orchid of woodland margins on limestone. Torrealfina nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy April 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377920.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZF-ItIKNdIEhtpPGTcSi9Mpi8i0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_88554400962453e048cae3.jpgTuberous Comfrey (Symphytum tuberosum) Tuberous Comfrey (Symphytum tuberosum) widespread in damp woods often near streams in Europe. It shares the properties of the other Comfries and has been used as a medicinal herb, possibly as a poultice - hence the name, Knitbone. ... The young leaves can be cooked as a herb, coated in a batter and made into fritters and the rootes when roasted and dried (as with dandelion roots) and then ground are said to make a ‘coffee’ substitute. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. Mar 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/scarce-serapias-serapias-neglecta https://photos.on-this.website/wm/l47l4x_F5brCa4COS07IBrnEZEI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11292514445465cf1118440.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981369.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CPGBzqci19sVEpFmmU24cB-hHYk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17714787495465cf20d3960.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974229.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Dj6eEKhkEJP1gEDT7VFE7sCusxQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1312680689546375a7f0b14.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) showing opportunistic spider ready to trap insect visitors Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Sibillini, nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377693.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Jf9DQv89KZeXhizpTSpgU05WtTk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_208128867362447ebbb9225.jpgThe Oak Spider (Aculepeira ceropegia) The Oak Spider (Aculepeira ceropegia) presents a marked sexual dimorphism. These spiders can reach a length of 6–8 millimetres (0.24–0.31 in) in males, of 15–17 millimetres (0.59–0.67 in) in females. They are easy to identify due to their unique abdominal marking in the form of an oak leaf. The head is covered by a grayish-brown hairs, chelicerae are light brown and legs are dark ringed. The abdomen is elongated and oval-shaped) Tolfa hills, Lazio, Italy June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680770.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fljxWT_lHpYuoH1wDXOUQcqT1us=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_80588392354396b6965317.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) a Gargano endemic, usually blue but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation. nr Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377680.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Qa-3MQC6tSWE6yBiwn5JMyMAgGg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_83300882962447eb1d4ac4.jpgSouthern comma (Polygonia egea). Southern comma (Polygonia egea). A butterfly of the family Nymphalidae found in southern Europe. The butterfly flies from March to September depending on the location. The larvae feed on Pellitory of the wall (Parietaria officinalis). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Umbria, Italy. June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377719.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZzK__Cu4s3pExsXR4eH8WmKdTqE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_809102453624481eea98b0.jpgElderflower Orchid (Dactylorhiza sambucina) Elderflower Orchid (Dactylorhiza sambucina) an orchid of high mountains occurring in both yellow and magenta varieties as well as intermediates. The name originates from a mistaken identity on the herbarium sheets of Reichenbach who mixed the species with Orchis pallens which has a slight elder scent. In Scandinavia the species is found at such lower levels…down to the coasts and is commonly called Adam & Eve (magenta and yellow respectively) Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo,, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tuberous-comfrey-symphytum-tuberosum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wP0EQ8iydwFCP-JMv7OSqaHP604=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10640646762453e034e9f5.jpgTuberous Comfrey (Symphytum tuberosum) Tuberous Comfrey (Symphytum tuberosum) widespread in damp woods often near streams in Europe. It shares the properties of the other Comfries and has been used as a medicinal herb, possibly as a poultice - hence the name, Knitbone. ... The young leaves can be cooked as a herb, coated in a batter and made into fritters and the rootes when roasted and dried (as with dandelion roots) and then ground are said to make a ‘coffee’ substitute. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto. Mar 2017 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704643.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Gr6G3fsty78TuaNDAtpSeywPIoo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_106100333543bc56955f8e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/green-shield-bug-palomena-prasina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4Vbuj6-Q44MNJ91ZSnsI3IcT-k8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_676139324543a5448d6bad.jpgGreen shield bug, ( Palomena prasina) mating pair Green shield bug, ( Palomena prasina) mating pair. Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. MYN July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973885.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MwrX-KmpR2xwnpBUE8u33qXlfX8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13003809515463620c63ce2.jpgHybrid early spider and mirror orchids (Ophrys sphegodes x O. speculum = O. x macchiatii) Hybrid early spider and mirror orchids (Ophrys sphegodes x O. speculum = O. x macchiatii) Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686983.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/A2HgmWHQvTmuLMElyEQhmXgniKc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2107689448543a54763d4b0.jpgBrown Mountain Grasshoppers (Podisma pedestris) Brown Mountain Grasshoppers (Podisma pedestris) an abundant species in the high mountain zones of the Apennines. Terminillo, nr Terni, Lazio. Italy. September 2013. MYN https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385920.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5jD9FkjTWYX3gTZmtQR71xB-MrM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6074455576248606a03f97.jpgLarge white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎ Large white (Pieris brassicae) ♀︎ a widespread and common species. whose larvae are often a pest on garden brassicas. It is easy to ignore its elegance. Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria. Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/italian-maple-acer-opalus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vjdznplQGoTG5iOS86CsgKAuIGY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_124607605662447adbbf0ff.jpgItalian Maple (Acer opalus) Italian Maple (Acer opalus) is a species of maple native to the hills and mountains of southern and western Europe, from Italy to Spain and north to southern Germany, and also in northwest Africa in Morocco and Algeria. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree growing to 20 metres (66 ft) tall, with a trunk up to 1 m diameter. Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. November 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/sawfly-ophrys-ophrys-tenthredinifera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DVECPL5gvTylLgdO7Ucaj0VR-tk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11286009595463722ce2611.jpgSawfly Ophrys (Ophrys tenthredinifera) Sawfly Ophrys (Ophrys tenthredinifera) a widepread and colourful orchid species on limestone grassland in the Mediterranean region.nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981384.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QIWrCURYEenVCzXKVqEXhqJZ5FU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8162906395465cfc244ba6.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680800.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/51fXSsmhnofMUMgoXSBa7VU-VHk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_183052686154396ba0cae9b.jpgBellardia (Bellardia trixago Bellardia (Bellardia trixago) an annual,semi-parasitic annual on grasses: two colour forms white/purple and yellow. Photo in grassland nr Ferla, Sicily. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377686.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZCv-JFWEX19_aJSxlIGha2zU-P4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_200096433662447eb66214e.jpgHoverfly (Falennia fasciata) Hoverfly (Falennia fasciata) This is a nemestrinid fly which looks similar to Bombylidae. The wing venation is differene t and the proboscis points downwards. Their larvae feed on the larvae of other insects.They are insects of southern Europe found in grasslands hovering around and feeding upon nectar.-rich flowers. Podere Montecucco, Localita canonica 7, Orvieto, Italy June 2021. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385892.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7Y9Yk7aopq-pNjS2Q823Y2Ibl5c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_56492253562486054ead3f.jpgHarvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum) Harvestman (Metaphalangium cirtanum). Sometimes called "daddy long-legs spiders they are not true spiders. Commonly found sitting in wait on flowers. Podere Montecucco,nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sepetember 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/female-crab-spider-misumena-vatia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RbCu_Olqo2rbqxyHoyh1zJI2WUs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16131078716244799ae254d.jpgFemale crab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender. Female crab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender. on lavender during lockdown at Podere Montecucco Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo19486461.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dv1peWlPVdF3lvbVRYVz07rNxx8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2113373591524fcd442dc1c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/red-pea-lathyrus-cicera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sp93vKhmks4kXpZIn1G7uK7xqn0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_80471796162453e0a3930d.jpgRed pea (Lathyrus cicera) Red pea (Lathyrus cicera) one of a number of highly-coloured pea flowers in the Mediterranean region. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974014.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kc9aB8F6Xx1dWjn1Q7vmjqXNTV4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_848155248546368e6198ae.jpgFly Orchid (Ophrys insectifera) Fly Orchid (Ophrys insectifera) an incosnipucous orchid of woodland marins on limestone throughout Europe. Torrealfina, Orvieto, Umbria Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/black-eyed-vetch-vicia-melanops https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vFfcj8OFtzBscfucx3oCh4-YkRw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_210751383654396b96c99a0.jpgBlack-eyed vetch (Vicia melanops) Black-eyed vetch (Vicia melanops) a striking member of the pea family found in the S Mediterranean area nr San Giovani Rotondo, Gargano, Italy. MYN. 04/2012 (Paul HD)/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/beech-nuts-fagus-sylvatica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hEMnCr2PQRE7TrM9Mpt-K1Gd1DY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_67399795162447ad190d3e.jpgBeech nuts (Fagus sylvatica) Beech nuts (Fagus sylvatica). The fruits of the beech tree (The nuts) are edible, though bitter (though not nearly as bitter as acorns). They have a high tannin content, Sibillini, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759389.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qCggoo9tOBeA-ElpPAJ_QAweqB8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_86562756354443aaad2168.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752147.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/i4JdMKMzvGhWKHJqNIvM83hSWyM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_213687655443d2ee09c36.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/field-pansy-viola-arvensis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eXjvsLndmDs2tE0HaWbgPHJYVM0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_110817135654396f6bafa83.jpgField Pansy (Viola arvensis) Field Pansy (Viola arvensis) - in the wild garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/adenostyles-adenostyles-glabra https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jSIuyNSQFkhlqriHYCqwDDe_o7Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_104162345754396fcbc6d38.jpgAdenostyles (Adenostyles glabra) Adenostyles (Adenostyles glabra) n imposing species of the high mountains - atarctive to butterflies, hoverflies etc. Mt terminillo, Terni, Italy. Sept 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377330.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ABwTk5T-df2-crSm6Ne_S6seRdM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5960144816244342e5c4a2.jpgCapsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare) Capsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare). This species has charcetristic red stems and bright green capsules when young, turning brown with age. It is a common species that forms cushions on tops of stone wall stops and roofs. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/italian-garlic-allium-pendulinum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_SsoXpHgEpsRPEP1oDGY7ZuV8Mo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_119432916162453e136e43f.jpgItalian Garlic (Allium pendulinum) Italian Garlic (Allium pendulinum) rather shotr in staure (less than 25cm) . Leaves wither before flowering time and the flowers droop. Each of the tepals has three prominent green veins. Mainland Italy, Sicily, Sardinia and Corsica. Flowers in woodlands. Allerona, nr Orvieto. Umbria, Italy. May 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/heart-lipped-serapias-serapias-cordigera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bm3pC7_-wMYbA9X06eg30lRcKX4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4280845085465cefcde172.jpgHeart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) Heart-lipped Serapias (Serapias cordigera) flowering in a small colony nr Rome (Colli Romani), Lazio, Italy May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973792.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/d5eMdrzAmYOx4WMWdTEIlxTeP6M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_111722475154636151ac5d9.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, Nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981388.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QwEM0nhOUEo0R1dhnbl0ZwKzaQA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_284084005465cfe54b549.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974224.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u-SsqpN83zYjqGKQB-ZwbSXnXCM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_111619515554637581ee34f.jpgOphrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) Ophrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) locally frequent on limestone grassland in S. Europe. this form is found in the Sibillini. nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385898.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/A4R6yCpZvTmxoAtBNwPSdBFgpbw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_203685635962486059787bc.jpgApennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica). Apennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica). Plants found in the Central Apennines and als in Piemonte are characterised by longish petals, a lip with a prominent forward pointing apex and pointed side lobes. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy June 2016 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385910.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hqd6sZ2-96ZbNTLf-7Du816V8oI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_141692977362486063c7296.jpgConehead mantis (Empusa pennata) Conehead mantis (Empusa pennata) a remarkable looking insect found in S. Europe. They live in areas that are warm and dry: cryptic colouring of greens, pinks and various shades of brown provides effective camouflage. Females up to 10 cm in length; males shorter and slimmer. Male antennae feathered providing greater area for nocturnal pheromone detection. Only living prey is selected only takes notice of moving prey. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686935.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/E5p_kv25SSSEZzKBgDkc-tpaLxc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_172951474543a4faa9760e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686990.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LXYSVJUmzh7vw7g7dX2SJLbMd9c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1042743021543a5495b1ba9.jpgExoskeleton of Cicada (Cicada orni) MYN Exoskeleton (exuvium) of Cicada (Cicada orni) left after emergence. Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy MYN. September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377611.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NnCSGnKpSZMSi_o4y_94yNqsA5g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_120430623262447ae7a2e97.jpgVirginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) - Podere Montecucco autumn colour in the garden Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) - Podere Montecucco autumn colour in the garden. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October, 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111002-006 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hE8fmffdFPCfw-l6-cRtjyEybNI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13547466015253e2e03ede9.jpgITA_PHD_20111002-006 Eyed Mantis (Iris oratoria) &acirc;™€ a small European Mantis fond of warm places that has a defensive display with eyespots on its hind wings. Pescia Romana, nr Orbetello, Lazio, Italy. MYN. 10/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mint-moth-pyrausta-aurata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cjz944tMeMa47hwLczSQ8r9rXCs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13500478746245438c59232.jpgMint moth (Pyrausta aurata) Mint moth (Pyrausta aurata )flies both at day and at night. It often uses mint (Mentha spicata. Mentha rotundifolia) as a food plant but it can also be found on other species such as marjoram, Salvia pratensis, Melissa officinalis, Nepeta cataria and Calamintha. Poder Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy, Aug 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974056.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4vy16ViuZM1ZnornJ5V3d63ihAs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_153183231854636afec2377.jpgHornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) Hornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) an endemic species restricted to the west coast of central Italy including the islands. Piediluco , Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20110913-003 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/o3fMFqEZxnmiCGeCAh6MB96DGK8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9008345395253e29fa9f11.jpgITA_PHD_20110913-003 Larva of common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) almost full-grown pre-pupation.MYN on fennel stem, garden,Orvieto, Italy. 09/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/cherleria-capillacea-also-minuartia-capillacea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/I3yKvYvi6vvScxs255oxbSwG5t4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1516631501624481fe2b64e.jpgCherleria capillacea (also Minuartia capillacea) Cherleria capillacea (also Minuartia capillacea) . A member of the Caryophyllaceae (pink and campion family) growing on limestone high on Mt Terminillo, Lazio, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hoverfly-falennia-fasciata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/X_wg0mLEIuIELACVMpCukhQyROk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_109559076662447eb64b421.jpgHoverfly (Falennia fasciata) Hoverfly (Falennia fasciata) This is a nemestrinid fly which looks similar to Bombylidae. The wing venation is differene t and the proboscis points downwards. Their larvae feed on the larvae of other insects.They are insects of southern Europe found in grasslands hovering around and feeding upon nectar.-rich flowers. Podere Montecucco, Localita canonica 7, Orvieto, Italy June 2021. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377892.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/E_gLkT4sICDBd5Y9ckRfIykGx1k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_73107720662453bfd4c3ad.jpgSlender helleborine (Epipactis exilis syn E. gracilis) Slender helleborine (Epipactis exilis syn E. gracilis) A rare and local species with slightly pendent flowers, not opening widled with a heart-shaped epichile and two marked pinkish tinged bosses at its base, The hypochile inner surface if brownish. Found in Italy and local and rare in beechowwds in the Apennines. Mt Amiata beechwoods, Aquapendente, Umbria, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377331.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/K4WJiq0ubL5kNhJai88d_lnXqgk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20458217496244342f30e27.jpgBlackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) flower details also sloe, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa. The fruits are used to make sloe gin in Britain and patxaran in the Navarre autonomous community of Spain. The wood is used to make walking sticks, including the Irish shillelagh. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy March 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-early-spider-and-mirror https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DjF05bdzM-eB85Uk_4fXXSD3mwQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_771995528546361a80ad88.jpgHybrid early spider and mirror orchids (Ophrys sphegodes x O. speculum = O. x macchiatii) Hybrid early spider and mirror orchids (Ophrys sphegodes x O. speculum = O. x macchiatii) on the Via Appia Antiha, Rome, Italy. May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-incubacea-ophrys-sphegodes-ssp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/R3oNjeRtfBEx-TzZ6_M6n6Db_zU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_54508804754636b2d3288c.jpgOphrys incubacea (Ophrys sphegodes ssp atrata) a race of the early spider orchid Ophrys sphegodes Ophrys incubacea (Ophrys sphegodes ssp atrata) a race of the early spider orchid Ophrys sphegodes. Pescia Romana, Orbetello, Lazio, Italy, April2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689292.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CjlisNIl9fY44GW8npwZi_lbuIA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1805523782543aa2d52384e.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/cleopatra-gonepteryx-cleopatra https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Lg_gpRDYVY3eWT4hTlSgY2Hndhc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_161277455262447eb8df923.jpgCleopatra (Gonepteryx cleopatra) ♂ Cleopatra (Gonepteryx cleopatra) ♂ nr The Cleopatra butterfly inhabits open woodland and scrub. The flight period is from May to August in most parts of its range, except Spain, where it is double brooded and may fly almost all year. The adult hibernates in evergreen trees and shrubs. The caterpillars feed on the buckthorns Rhamnus alaternus. When the green caterpillars are prepared to pass to the pupal stage, they tie themselves through a silk belt to the host plant, on the underside of a leaf. The green chrysalis became gradually yellow and red, revealing the colors on the wings of the adult close to flutter. Tolfa Hills nr Lazio Coast, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/jumping-spider-euophrys-rufibarbis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VlMboG9-L40C6iUcQYfTG4BxmZY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_150671826362447ea70ee74.jpgJumping Spider (Euophrys rufibarbis. Jumping Spider (Euophrys rufibarbis.) A member of the family Saltidae . Female photographed on sage leaf . The male has a distinctive reddis 'beard hence the name 'rufibarbis'. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377875.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/UUdM9krr_IzXqcCEsXON41187jc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_90251478462453bf4f36cd.jpgLesser twayblade (Neottia cordata also Listera cordata) Lesser twayblade (Neottia cordata also Listera cordata) This is an orchid of acidic habitats, never very common but may be frequently overlooked because of its small size and a tendency to grow underneath heather growing rooted in sphagnum moss and also on mossy woodland floors in conifer woods. It rarely exceeds 15cm in height (with taller stems in woodlands) and has a slender creeping rhizome (heavily infected with mycorrhizal fungus which provided a large part off its nutrition). The small flowers (about 2-3mm)) which look deceptively simple in structure for an orchid, are purple-green in colour with a somewhat swollen calyx and flowers persist long after fertilisation. The flowers produce nectar and are pollinated principally by fungus gnats The single erect flower-stem is often tinged red and is clasped near the base by a pair or ovate-orbicular glossy green leaves...they are roughly heart shaped (hence the specific name ‘cordata’whereas ‘twayblade’ refers to two leaves which are remarkably like the pair of cotyledons produced by beech seeds after germination germinating. It was formerly placed in the genus Listera along with the far commoner Twayblade (Neottia ovata) but molecular phylogenetic studies have shown that Neottia nidus-avis, the Bird's-nest Orchid, evolved within the same group. It has a circumpolar distribution being found in Europe, Asia, Greenland and large parts of North America (where there are several other Neottia/Listra species) . In the United Kingdom its distribution is western and northern becoming most common in the western highlands and is also found in Snowdonia and the Lake District. In Italy it is a rare species of Mountain woodlands (often spruce). Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377614.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/16JNEsFxT4V1rNnjaUcCKbIZPp0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_137542669462447ae907624.jpgAutumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) Autumn colour with Ginko (Ginkgo biloba) A tree commonly known as ginkgo or gingko is a species native to China. It is the only living species in the order Ginkgoales, which first appeared over 290 million years ago. Fossils very similar to the living species, belonging to the genus Ginkgo, extend back to the Middle Jurassic approximately 170 million years ago. The tree was cultivated early in human history and remains commonly planted. Gingko leaf extract is commonly used as a dietary supplement, and is claimed to be a vasodilator. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, October 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699144.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/F4LWt1CLnEmbWjh2xzq4622vYuA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_587911119543b8ad33beac.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/alpine-pasque-flower-pulsatilla-alpina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/I4Ye6ewEc2K8LqyoD9m52hpF1s8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1062745855624481fad820f.jpgAlpine Pasque flower (Pulsatilla alpina subsp millefoliata) Alpine Pasque flower (Pulsatilla alpina subsp millefoliata). This species is widely distributed in the alpine regions of the Apennines, growing on open limestone areas in short turf soon after the snow melts. The name millefolia (thousnad-leaved) refers to the finely divided, feathery leaves.Mt Terminillo Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681153.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WcwW8KhKlWabdONNbP1p1yfEfps=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_192167165554396f7c89dd4.jpgItalian Bugloss (Anchusa hybrida) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Italian Bugloss (Anchusa hybrida) (MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973790.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LK1uHdN69s5yH8tKNExjzJD1hJA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_114507186554636145e83e5.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, Nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-oak-spider-aculepeira-ceropegia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ch5bbYzhGDAsgJHPK92ALpsb0G8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_34894580062447eb9196ca.jpgThe Oak Spider (Aculepeira ceropegia) The Oak Spider (Aculepeira ceropegia) presents a marked sexual dimorphism. These spiders can reach a length of 6–8 millimetres (0.24–0.31 in) in males, of 15–17 millimetres (0.59–0.67 in) in females. They are easy to identify due to their unique abdominal marking in the form of an oak leaf. The head is covered by a grayish-brown hairs, chelicerae are light brown and legs are dark ringed. The abdomen is elongated and oval-shaped) Tolfa hills, Lazio, Italy June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-patterned-ophrys-ophrys-fuciflora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PDlWPwoQj0GWvpunIyZ2JpUGpJU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6953751985463670796247.jpgsmall-patterned ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp parvimaculata) small-patterned ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp parvimaculata) a form of the late spider orchid from S. Italy. above Lago di Varano, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/chafer-beetle-protaetia-netocia-cuprea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6vn_dPTL8eXvSgtIHRIWUM9V_iU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1565763544543a542f90252.jpgChafer Beetle (Protaetia (Netocia) cuprea) MYN Chafer Beetle (Protaetia (Netocia) cuprea) MYN a highly reflective species with a coppery sheen. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/cretan-festoon-allancastria-cretica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jIKx87QH7wIB2KWnZSBD6cG5sk4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6278945854380819052ff.jpgCretan Festoon (Allancastria cretica) A butterfly endemic to the island of Crete where its larvae feed on Cretan Dutchman's Pipe (Aristolochia cretica) and endemic plant species https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mediterranean-stick-insect-bacillius-rossius https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nIT0Kdhy8lZI__juhtlHjbRTeJ8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2678451236248606c645ac.jpgMediterranean stick insect (Bacillius rossius) Mediterranean stick insect (Bacillius rossius) MYN showing the astonishing likeness to…a stick.Mainly found in coastal crub and other places where they feedupon Rubus (brambles) and other species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy, August 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-hermit-chazara-briseis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8y41FIPyt_HtTj3TZcfedLEgSzA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_19955188126245438e4c525.jpgThe hermit (Chazara briseis) The hermit (Chazara briseis), is a butterfly species belonging to the family Nymphalidae. It can be found in North Africa, southern Europe, Asia Minor, the Caucasus, Kazakhstan, Central Asia through Afghanistan, and north-western China and Tuva. It is found on steppe and in other dry grassy places between 500 and 2,500 meters. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973953.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/403gmuk1UACHh9nFvFR-PHrEedg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_60803961854636322393a2.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752193.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lfTpCWhul2vYeAkAacKPXlt64e8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20700064115443d35300ff9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/eastern-leopards-bane-doronicum-columnae https://photos.on-this.website/wm/36REDrCELsYblyoWq5BjUurM56o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_671159419624481f70a449.jpgEastern leopard's bane (Doronicum columnae) Eastern leopard's bane (Doronicum columnae) also called heart-leaved leopard's bane. Herbaceous perennial plant. Flower heads are 3-6 cm in diameter and solitary on 15-50 cm long stems. Found throughout the mountains of Central and S Italy. Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy, June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/few-flowered-orchid-orchis-pauciflora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a5LZbzqEVsKGciKAbM0fOG60zVs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1631581103624481ec71b5e.jpgFew-flowered Orchid (Orchis pauciflora) Few-flowered Orchid (Orchis pauciflora) a frequent orchid of rocky, limestone places in the Mediterranean from Sicily eastwards. Disitinguished from O provincialis by the darker yellow on the central lobe of the labellum and the comparatively few flowers in the spike. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388164.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/czmSjEFq0xt1e7c8pxW9eCreX0U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_582183586624879b07ac8f.jpgGreen-underside blue (Glaucopsyche alexis) Green-underside blue (Glaucopsyche alexis)A widespread species in Europe (absent fro UK) on sunny hillsides an open areas up to 1200m. The blue-gren base of the wings is characteristic and a distinguishing feature. Larval foodplants are various members of the pea family (Leguminosae). nr Precis, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/early-spider-orchid-subspecies-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fIQzQNWb6a7uXt4SqG9OHuRtFCg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6629108025463622985bcd.jpgEarly spider orchid subspecies (Ophrys incubacea, also O. sphegodes ssp atrata) Early spider orchid subspecies (Ophrys incubacea, also O. sphegodes ssp atrata) Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/houndstongue-cynoglossum-officinale https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ko2lYq0nsZg4PAEeJlj0A6gEHXM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4292997596244739f23008.jpgHoundstongue (Cynoglossum officinale Houndstongue (Cynoglossum officinale) Also known as houndstooth, dog's tongue, gypsy flower, and rats and mice due to its smell) is a herbaceous plant of the family Boraginaceae. It has been used in herbal remedies from a treatment for madness to urinary infections and piles. It is toxic to grazing animals. Widespread in Europe. Essentially a montane species in S Europe. Mt Terminillo, Leonessa, Umbria, Italy JUly 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687485.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SujA4A9neNiogLgGJXFeHcfPqKg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1795546519543a65be74359.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981378.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/e541Ysh9VKXJbwUSv5e-4W-hGSc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13648363385465cf755580a.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698996.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CuhvDXIDaq3bMlmEU1RvbgdlZ48=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1888714340543b89889e72d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759349.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/atbW2aF-bDTdOTsB0sM259Ltff8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_33458192054443a857eab3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377838.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ax9QiqceRPgJ_yX1FUJtN9e5Py0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_131942070662453bde00f89.jpgMan Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) Man Orchid (Orchis anthropophorum synonymous with Aceras anthrophorum) a widespread Mediterranean and European species. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria. Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681177.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/65P01OY2ib3mUE_JfO3U06CO22Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_73193838854396f9c88fe5.jpgGoatsbeard (Tragopogon pratensis) MYN Goatsbeard (Tragopogon pratensis) also called &quot;jack-go-to-bed-at noon&quot; since it closes by midday. MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704294.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cVUxTGe_nh_O81Mia1HjoFDDPak=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1969485240543bbb3632765.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704524.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FlXgBDPtZB0EygJPMnq9Fztibhk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_967246140543bbf6270554.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704728.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tnjqhnFr2gI0qm4UzIcZJbbisrI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1534409364543bc5f12ed29.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699185.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7CKktiqE6yOgpydafA2EVRML258=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_168357419543b8b49521db.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974004.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/0B_JFN4d86V3qs3E_hGhL0cRG0M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4361512545463681b3ffbc.jpgOphrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) Ophrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22699034.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/q9qfbyUoRP2jiI_DJQbeJmCx1L0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_984009131543b89bbe5230.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973981.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uxBHjHnH1qubqONh3SY4WP1zAw0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1929888987546366bd42679.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981379.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qYvv90ZKd0dUuXHGwVVBrS4LUdI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11887799885465cf8e7ab66.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751175.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eK3rG6DiSEF0xy-ImmLJzcV-SvY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18495908495443c43f7952d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-fennel-ferula-comune https://photos.on-this.website/wm/px6VQSRYEuRxugRDLSSD1Fqu744=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21151481854396fc365b3b.jpgCommon Fennel (Ferula comune) Common Fennel (Ferula comune) the flowers of this plant are dried and used to flavour potatoes, fish and cheese dishes in central Italy, Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111106-029 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_2jtfHEiQhyhEh6TBvGrb6Wrjzo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_259977235254130ae7014.jpgITA_PHD_20111106-029 Praying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) appeared to be a pair post-copulation but it seems these are two females. Orvieto, Italy. 11/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698884.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lHZdC9HFc3i6iaH2GscvGRSfi2k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1529708976543b88ebe5abc.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377992.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/BoONXEdGQZGLjxYlM0qEFzb46lM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_116948217462453e3434bcd.jpgMorning glory (Ipomea purpurea) . Morning glory (Ipomea purpurea) . This is a species in the genus Ipomoea (part of the Convolvulaceae...bindweed family) , native to Mexico and Central America. It is widespread near coasts in the Mediterranean region, often clambering over bushes, old builidngs etc as a highly colourful weed. Humans use Ipomoea spp. for their content of medical and psychoactive compounds, mainly alkaloids. Ponza, Lazio, Italy, September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974204.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MR8aZpZEacTpst7E_pGefyOSDWs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9067070685463749eb3975.jpgOphrys lacaitae (Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys) Lacaita&#039;s Ophrys (Ophrys lacaitae) a rare, rather late flowering species endemic to Sicily and parts of the S. Italian mainland also regarded as a subespecies of O. fuciflora, Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/shiny-cranesbill-geranium-lucidum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6LWIbpJ8h1x4Q30ivpTwCQJDJ28=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9826759554396f8a4bc32.jpgShiny Cranesbill (Geranium lucidum) Shiny Cranesbill (Geranium lucidum) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377625.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zzglSoqhuOF6zMSsu6Fon1PILiQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_95980802562447bb51ecf7.jpgLesser fiery copper (Lycaena thersamon)♂︎ Lesser fiery copper (Lycaena thersamon)♂︎ A very local species from E & SE Europe. It occurs in scattered sites in central Italy. The adults visit nedtar rich species in mountian meadows whilst larva e feed on knotweed. Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy August 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-sedum-sedum-maximum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Cp4cHk5N_KhxldPHOD6Zlj_pZhQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_140750466054396fd6a1651.jpgLarge Sedum (Sedum maximum) Large Sedum (Sedum maximum) a mountain plants with succulent leaves. Mt Terminillo, nr Terni, Italy Sept 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mezereon-daphne-mezereon https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5m9jq2k59EJ4yDk6hUVY0X2Q0TQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2936013862453e10da6d4.jpgMezereon (Daphne mezereon) Mezereon (Daphne mezereon). A rare species,endangered in the UK. Pink flowers appear before the leaves early in the year: berries are highly poisonous. A plant of mountain woodlands and pastures always on limestone. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377927.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Qz9By6pPwqFrV4z8sTZu-Jqa1B0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_138497687062453e082bbc3.jpgSpanish broom, (Spartium junceum) Spanish broom, (Spartium junceum) is a fragrant-flowered species in the family Fabaceae, closely related to the other brooms (in the genera Cytisus and Genista). Its leaves polay little part in photosynthesis which takes place mainly in green-shoots a water-conserving stratgy foir dry places. Orvieot, Umbria April 202i https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973863.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zZAeqRf_ILwlFrmk_90ILlxOmAw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_172673701546361e5644c8.jpgBee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var friburgensis) Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var friburgensis) a rare variety which has wider, longer petals than the species aqnd a lip with edges that do not curve giving it a flat appearance. Monterale, Nr Montegabbione, Umbria, Italy. June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974228.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ErTnikB-WNH9seywsu807NtuloM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1031076295546375a048959.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) showing opportunistic spider ready to trap insect visitors Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated Sibillini, nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377851.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9Ivl1OhuKP_4bCMfwmAyB9j1VWA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_149029199762453be57a8ea.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species. The specific name Vomeracea is the latin for a ploughsare (blade) which recalls the shape of the lip. Most Seraias species are bo pollinated and can, towards evening be found with bee inside the 'tube' made my three sepals and two petals other than the lip. The plants are thought to produce a susbstance that is soporific for bees...and whent hey leave they do so carrying off the pollinia (pollen bundles). Mte Amiata, Toscana, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974080.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XUQotVIWDputVAmHPftq9-L5Dd8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_26356673454636baa2d893.jpgSmall-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) Small-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) growing in moist-woodland on a north-facing slope. Lesina, Gragnao, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/field-bindweed-convolvulus-arvensis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hrlyRkXhL4F3qk4eiPn6dAjlCcg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_192602627354396f81bb5eb.jpgField Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lesser-twayblade-neottia-cordata-also https://photos.on-this.website/wm/y4Pzmamji9mMH0GvYpbm90Ms8Vk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_158044503262453bf349432.jpgLesser twayblade (Neottia cordata also Listera cordata) Lesser twayblade (Neottia cordata also Listera cordata) This is an orchid of acidic habitats, never very common but may be frequently overlooked because of its small size and a tendency to grow underneath heather growing rooted in sphagnum moss and also on mossy woodland floors in conifer woods. It rarely exceeds 15cm in height (with taller stems in woodlands) and has a slender creeping rhizome (heavily infected with mycorrhizal fungus which provided a large part off its nutrition). The small flowers (about 2-3mm)) which look deceptively simple in structure for an orchid, are purple-green in colour with a somewhat swollen calyx and flowers persist long after fertilisation. The flowers produce nectar and are pollinated principally by fungus gnats The single erect flower-stem is often tinged red and is clasped near the base by a pair or ovate-orbicular glossy green leaves...they are roughly heart shaped (hence the specific name ‘cordata’whereas ‘twayblade’ refers to two leaves which are remarkably like the pair of cotyledons produced by beech seeds after germination germinating. It was formerly placed in the genus Listera along with the far commoner Twayblade (Neottia ovata) but molecular phylogenetic studies have shown that Neottia nidus-avis, the Bird's-nest Orchid, evolved within the same group. It has a circumpolar distribution being found in Europe, Asia, Greenland and large parts of North America (where there are several other Neottia/Listra species) . In the United Kingdom its distribution is western and northern becoming most common in the western highlands and is also found in Snowdonia and the Lake District. In Italy it is a rare species of Mountain woodlands (often spruce). Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111105-025 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qVVStpdBycQCHWsiVbXmJAV2Joc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1053365177525412980dfaf.jpgITA_PHD_20111105-025 Spanish Stick Insect (Leptynia hispanica) MYN showing the astonishing likeness to&acirc;€&brvbar;a stick. Fopund on vine stem, Orvieto, Italy. 11/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/capsules-of-capillary-thread-moss https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b_DICZHiUEp6LxdAKADHgoZdBRg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4289585386244342bb9ff2.jpgCapsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare) Capsules of Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare). This species has charcetristic red stems and bright green capsules when young, turning brown with age. It is a common species that forms cushions on tops of stone wall stops and roofs. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, January 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704672.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9A-hgAsIQ9w7vU6B4KlpusYQUQI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_589500992543bc5a60a824.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377859.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QMVJSAPB--Inv0PExjyKvhIMU78=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9130104662453beb0ca3c.jpgMan and Monkey Orchid Hybrid. Orchis x bergonii = Orchis anthropophorum x Orchis.simia. Man and Monkey Orchid Hybrid. Orchis x bergonii = Orchis anthropophorum x Orchis.simia. hybrid perhaps the most dramatic of all the natural hybrids O.anthropophorum forms: the lips of the flowers are reminiscent of O.anthrophorum but color and 'tails' on the figures are distinctly O.simia. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/scarlet-lily-beetle-lilioceris-lilii https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_JxYPs6G2DZiBNwh-7WhcY1NiLU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3110088716244342d607cb.jpgScarlet lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) Scarlet lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) also known as the red lily beetle, or lily leaf beetle eats the leaves, stem, buds, and flowers, of. members of the family Liliaceae ( lilies, fritillaries etc) It lays its eggs most often on Lilium and Fritillaria species: fewer eggs are laid on other genera thus reducing survival rates of eggs and larvae. The beetle is a horticultural pest in most temperate climates. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981391.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ustY7XVOQy1I4QeohT50xKJHAOk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10208197865465cff95ddae.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lake-bolsena-italian-lago-di https://photos.on-this.website/wm/pVo8kaEK4kJ0qc5CyXvIMIdussw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2132720969624481f4d3457.jpgLake Bolsena (Italian: Lago di Bolsena) of central Italy end.with field of poppies looking south Lake Bolsena (Italian: Lago di Bolsena) of central Italy end.with field of poppies looking south. The lake is of volcanic and tectonic origin. It is the largest volcanic lake in Europe. Roman historic records indicate activity of the Vulsini volcano occurred as recently as 104 BC; it has been dormant since then. The two islands in the southern part of the lake were formed by underwater eruptions following the collapse that created the depression. The lake is supplied entirely from the aquifer, rainfall and runoff, with one outlet at the southern end.with field of poppies looking south. Max. length13 km (8.1 mi)[2] Max. width11 km (6.8 mi) Surface area113.5 km2 (43.8 sq mi) Average depth81 m (266 ft) Max. depth151 m (495 ft) Water volume9.2 km3 (3.2×1011 cu ft. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377980.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YmHbiw2sYliige0DaJZQxu7nqLg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_26948447362453e2a9d3d0.jpgLevantine Pokeweed ( Phytolacca pruinosa) Levantine Pokeweed ( Phytolacca pruinosa) also known as. Indian ink plant has spread widely throughout S. Europe. The more famous Phytolacca americana (American pokeweed, pokeweed, poke) is used as a folk medicine and as food, although all parts of it must be considered toxic unless properly prepared. The root is never eaten but Poke salad ('poke salat') is considered part of traditional southern U.S. cuisine, where it is cooked three times in three changes of boiling water to remove some of the harmful components. Toxic constituents which have been identified include the alkaloids phytolaccine and phytolaccotoxin, as well as a glycoprotein. Blera, Lazio, Italy, September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/italian-bugloss-anchusa-hybrida-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/zM4OJIZXCF6lZ01_wjD7GfkZze0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_186471005654396f79cc8ba.jpgItalian Bugloss (Anchusa hybrida) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Italian Bugloss (Anchusa hybrida) (MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377850.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/59R4_T4ZY0w11SP3l5t1E-Z-zoQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_153392882962453be56b5d2.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species. The specific name Vomeracea is the latin for a ploughsare (blade) which recalls the shape of the lip. Most Seraias species are bo pollinated and can, towards evening be found with bee inside the 'tube' made my three sepals and two petals other than the lip. The plants are thought to produce a susbstance that is soporific for bees...and whent hey leave they do so carrying off the pollinia (pollen bundles). Mte Amiata, Toscana, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675383.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/75iiKCCIOcTkRfmvqyy81a0jz5c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_22088881154380673b18e6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687379.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bPizUwohFEVaI8NGRaQ6cOKzbbs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2040897169543a61e48ef98.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687437.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/haWdjC7RE3agSa5gRieZXZToNAY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_667587256543a63d579f75.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981368.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rRYqMpLuZtXq9jPDY_KWmG-I1wA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_431059165465cf1d1a5b9.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755736.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1b6JSVbvx8HDb1cgEwVCqvOBsag=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_513447855443ffad3f02c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974235.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9AkjUj0FBV7TSbV5myYIpsP08QM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_723549160546375f11ef6d.jpgOphrys apifera (Bee Orchid) var bicolor Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) an uncommon variety where the pattern on the lip is suppressed. nr Carsulae, terni, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973976.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/OYVc2Dasyh47Ukcq33jrJHNO5es=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6068503545463669360c62.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo19486459.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LOWcNEpXwwp7oT2Yu5EObOsgB8U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_527424098524fcd1f6b38f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/courgette-flower-cucurbita-pepo-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mB5ZsJr2QUcJAMIFhZ6Km5IeP7Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13407246154396fb893aba.jpgCourgette flower (Cucurbita pepo) MYN Courgette flower (Cucurbita pepo) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN August 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973880.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YWbILftxWUIcCwEATFyG2msX10c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_85848172754636203d8ebd.jpgBee orchid Fly orchid hybrid (Ophrys apifera x O. insectifera) O. x pietschii Bee orchid Fly orchid hybrid (Ophrys apifera x O. insectifera) O. x pietschii, A arere hyvrid found just off the A303, Wiltshire UK. June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704755.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MQvYhpaO4Lubx5NTRaHg0BC0YgU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_845750904543bc6138ba98.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689425.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZCOpt5QvfuOKwy-FPZkr7qQ_QNM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1747738651543aaaaa898df.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/spotted-fritillary-melitaea-didyma https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CVoMBBXV3IOfuFDqcKjUSIGLeJo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1833813634624479988d51d.jpgSpotted Fritillary (Melitaea didyma,) ♂︎ Spotted Fritillary (Melitaea didyma,) ♂︎ a butterfly common in southern Europe. The larvae feed on a number of different genera of plants such as Plantago, Linaria. Veronica, Antirrhinum, Stachys... Photographed on lavender during lock down at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Umbria. August 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/monkeyorchid-orchis-simia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/w9jfE8b6pKNHzq8UIMkslygfEI0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_200357811962453bd33343a.jpgMonkey_Orchid (Orchis simia) Monkey Orchid (Orchis simia) a very rare species in the UK but frequent in southern and central Europe on limestone. It is one of a number of orchis species where the lableuulm (lip) is divided to resemble 'arms and legs'. Torre Alfina, Lazio, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698932.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sxZ26rzhNeFXfdWsChEQ4UM73GU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1051622561543b892ea5de5.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/widders-vanilla-orchid-nigritella-widderi https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2Q7L2PjPMUAAiw2o0VGvqI0Av8E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2874967366244676b6a50c.jpgWidder's Vanilla orchid (Nigritella widderi syn Gymnadenia widderi) Widder's Vanilla orchid (Nigritella widderi syn Gymnadenia widderi) Named after an Austrian botanist who first noted its finding, this is an extremely rare and local species of short calcareous grassland. It is found in a few sites in Austria and in the Apennines at around 2000m. This photograph was taken on Mt Terminill, nr Rieti, Lazio, Italy 04/07/2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385915.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fuIQzjBf0w4UJjJVrQyuI018wvc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198004282862486066e1c85.jpgBroad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) A day-flying species feeding on nectar rich flowers such as honeysuckle (the larval foodplant). When freshly emerged from the pupal stage the wings have a light covering of olive-green scales but these are quickly lost after the first flight rendering the wings transpaerent. Found in woodland rides and open grassland it is easily overlooked since its rapid flight makes it looks like a large bee or hummingbird hawk-moth. Scarce in the UK but locally frequent in the rest of Europe. Photographed nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/royal-fern-osmunda-regalis-in https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hw6K8frnKSHhrxNbOZxag9EBzYs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_111631195362447ae5112e9.jpgRoyal fern (Osmunda regalis) in autumn. Royal fern (Osmunda regalis) in autumn. This is a species of deciduous fern, native to Europe, Africa and Asia, growing in woodland bogs and on the banks of streams. The species is sometimes known as flowering fern due to the appearance of its fertile fronds. Jurassic fossils have been found showing little change. Tuscany, Italy September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/wood-anemone-anemonoides-nemorosa-syn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t20ZXFD2iM9Q9zhiDEn3BZmzrNQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18897797262453e1b41bc5.jpgWood anemone (Anemonoides nemorosa syn. Anemone nemorosa), Wood anemone (Anemonoides nemorosa syn. Anemone nemorosa),This is an early-spring flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to Europe. Other common names include windflower, thimbleweed, and smell fox, an allusion to the musky smell of the leaves. It is a perennial herbaceous plant growing 5–15 cm (2–6 in) tall. Widespread in light woodland in the UK, it is a montane species in S Europe.(Abetone. Emilia Roagna, Italy, June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/chalkhill-blue-lysandra-coridon https://photos.on-this.website/wm/W1pBPeo1T9TdVpsKigMSHVWhP0g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_107222083862447bb6086e5.jpgChalkhill blue (Lysandra coridon) ♂︎ Chalkhill blue (Lysandra coridon) ♂︎ is a butterfly in the family Lycaenidae. It is a small butterfly that can be found throughout the Palearctic realm, where it occurs primarily in grasslands rich in chalk. Males have a pale blue colour, while females are dark brown. Both have chequered fringes around their wings. Mt Terminillo< Rieti, Lazio, Italy August 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/apennine-hairy-lungwort-pulmonaria-hirta https://photos.on-this.website/wm/s__0C8uqSc6DJunrdpNhhw3npHQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_171816190262453df6711b2.jpgApennine Hairy lungwort (Pulmonaria hirta ssp apennina Apennine Hairy lungwort (Pulmonaria hirta ssp apennina) A species in the Borage family (Boraginacea) the taxonomy of pulmonaria is confused and the number of 'sepecies' is open to question. P. hirta ssp apennina is widespread throughout penisnualr Italy south of the alps. Orvieto. Umbria, Italy February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974052.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GRhTVtQuwEMoO_TtSsFyV7DzofU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_185750135354636ac800f8d.jpgMirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) Mirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) an intriguingly coloured insect mimic distributed throughout the Mediterranean. Nr Grotte di Castro, Lazio, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/fringed-pink-dianthus-monspessulanus-also https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oAy_-s4-7uCpUalfDa7MHy-RSAI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2037657547624473a727ade.jpgFringed pink (Dianthus monspessulanus also D. hyssopifolius) Fringed pink (Dianthus monspessulanus also D. hyssopifolius) This plant grows in arid grasslands, woodlands and heathlands, at up to 2,200 m+. It prefers rich and well drained soils in sunny places. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680224.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IKKF1Rzr1Cj3Aly_MpXcgy1kCO8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_158888654054395f90d8ce6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-sphegodes-ssp-garganica-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4IYPzUU5ITYxJ2ZVKoEYhsaBsrM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2142301889546376313cf71.jpgOphrys sphegodes ssp garganica (Ophrys passionis ssp passionis) Ophrys sphegodes ssp garganica (Ophrys passionis ssp passionis) an orchid widespread in various parts of central Italy growing on limestone. Mt Amiata, Tuscany, Italy. June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/dull-ophrys-ophrys-fusca https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_UA2420Gc0sEfhkdZxjWDJDYZS0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_689581013546374de0270d.jpgDull Ophrys (Ophrys fusca) Dull Ophrys (Ophrys fusca) a widespread orchid that has been subdivied into a number of &#039;species&#039;. Torrealfina, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377479.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PkCFQbO7oD_5hltcrofwDBler7c=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1685399900624467730ae39.jpgCreeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) Creeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) . An uncommon orchid in Europe. The name ladies tresses derives from the twisted flower stems that carry the tiny glandual flowers. The stems thread mossy cushions in pine woods,usually at high altitude, hence the ame creeping, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 20020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-swallowtail-papilio-machaon https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rDtmQf-mXZNUdNR5F-2EKgbBGVg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_207537089662447ea56033c.jpgCommon Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) Common Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) life-cycle from larvae saved after a cold autumn and overwintered as chrysalids. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/morning-glory-ipomea-purpurea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6AFXiQxcSE76t7HRzAiRjdg_vOw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_151720299562453e33408e8.jpgMorning glory (Ipomea purpurea) . Morning glory (Ipomea purpurea) . This is a species in the genus Ipomoea (part of the Convolvulaceae...bindweed family) , native to Mexico and Central America. It is widespread near coasts in the Mediterranean region, often clambering over bushes, old builidngs etc as a highly colourful weed. Humans use Ipomoea spp. for their content of medical and psychoactive compounds, mainly alkaloids. Ponza, Lazio, Italy, September 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-variety-ophrys-apifera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rwr7F-U6oWrncttxbqgoSi-rPIk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1602164569546361cd172cf.jpgBee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var chlorantha) Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var chlorantha) a slightly darker, more highly marked version of the yellow variety (var chlorantha) of the Bee orchid.roadside on Monterale nr Montegabbione. Umbria, Italy. June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974051.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ax7zQfzPOKmaEnbMdhRX9kyZHr8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_104046350154636abce9933.jpgMirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) Mirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) an intriguingly coloured insect mimic distributed throughout the Mediterranean. Nr Grotte di Castro, Lazio, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-carline-theory-carlina-vulgaris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EKbEBLZOCb6skq0wDA_1V5i4SP4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_138929389754396fce6a4b0.jpgCommon Carline Theory (Carlina vulgaris) Common Carline Theory (Carlina vulgaris) common in dry places, Mt terminillo, nr Terni, Italy. Sept 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377855.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c2qzx0qZSvEU3P0S8nC9HS2caVI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_70307544262453be7e8aed.jpgLesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) with spider Lesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) Lesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) often (but not exclusively) found on slightly acid soils in contrast to P. Chlorantha. It differs from the latter in having parallel pollina close togther: in P. chlorantha they are divergent towards their based where the viscidum lies. Sibillini, Umbria, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/coralroot-corallorhiza-trifida https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aCFAy1wYX_C3ajkWwjl_6wlcJJk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18189114156244676c7b6cc.jpgCoralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) Coralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) so called because of the shape of its rhizome and one of four species of European orchid considered to be predominantly saprophytic The others are Neottia nidus-avis, Epipogium aphyllum and Limodorum abortivum). It is a species of woodlands of pine and Spruce but is also found on dune land in Scotland in damper areas. The species is rare in the UK and has a circumboreal distribution in woodland mountain areas in in mainland Europe. Terminillo, Umbria Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377656.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tqc6jnGTDkDLIMex52lKEZSsAVo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_43991234662447e9e951d3.jpgScarlet lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) Scarlet lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) also known as the red lily beetle, or lily leaf beetle eats the leaves, stem, buds, and flowers, of. members of the family Liliaceae ( lilies, fritillaries etc) It lays its eggs most often on Lilium and Fritillaria species: fewer eggs are laid on other genera thus reducing survival rates of eggs and larvae. The beetle is a horticultural pest in most temperate climates. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/aubergine-egg-plant-solanum-melongena https://photos.on-this.website/wm/7tpgU2MpeeJ0SOIYgzqBP2Obw_8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_160757709454396fa6cb9ca.jpgAubergine, Egg Plant (Solanum melongena) MYN Aubergine, Egg Plant (Solanum melongena) flower. MYN species of Solanaceae commonly known in British English as aubergine and also known as brinjal, brinjal eggplant, melongene, garden egg, or guinea squash. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-passionis-formelry-known-as https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FurCbx0-wl3_SaeDg7SG4iACVtY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8130140875463624eabce5.jpgOphrys passionis (formelry known as O sphegodes ssp garganica) Ophrys passionis (formelry known as O sphegodes ssp garganica) Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377628.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yw8JIOa1fITUGVf9xncC3WXUfkw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_187736211362447bb656113.jpgLesser fiery copper (Lycaena thersamon) ♀︎ Lesser fiery copper (Lycaena thersamon) ♀︎) A very local species from E & SES Europe. It occurs in scattered sites in central Italy. The adults visit nedtar rich species in mountian meadows whilst larva e feed on knotweed. Mt Terminillo, Rieti, Lazio, Italy August 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/rusty-foxglove-digitalis-ferruginea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cXjrdPxqLHHnlAsrdo6nZBIvILg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_806063110624473a88bc68.jpgRusty foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea) Rusty foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea) An imposing species with dramatically. coloured flowers. It grow in meadows and rocky places, wooldna edges on limestone. photographed on Terminillo, Lazio, Italy. July 20121 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/green-hairstreak-callophrys-rubi-green https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sLeHIXncBOptVW9O_TLU2Q53D-g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_180723313462447ea01a89f.jpgGreen hairstreak (Callophrys rubi) Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi) Green hairstreak (Callophrys rubi) Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi) one of the very few green butterflies in Europe.The iridescence is due to diffraction due to the grooved structure of wingscales at a microscopic level. There is a wide range of larval food plants such as rockrose and numerous vetchs and brooms. Orvieto Italy. April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/pheasants-eye-adonis-annua-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GW6W1dDOu02AVommCb3ISJ-yFOg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_32577656154396f607ed58.jpgPheasant;s Eye, (Adonis annua) MYN Pheasant;s Eye, (Adonis annua) a weed of cornfields and rough meadows MYN nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy May 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/glanville-fritillary-melitaea-cinxia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V5HJz3zju9KwKhBhSYHVLrmlaXU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_720138206624543768f936.jpgGlanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) Glanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) feeding on nectar from Adenostylis austarlis, a butterfly magnet in alpine regions. M. cinxia isfrequent in S and C Europe (very rare in the UK and restricted to the cliffs of the Isle Of Wight). The common name honours Mrs Eleanor Glanville, an 18th century lepidoterist. Her will was contested on the basis that nobody of sound mind, especially female, would have such a hobby. Larvae found on ribwort plantain. Gran Sasso, Abruzzo, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-chequered-skipper-heteropterus-morpheus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VKfOftFoowiQ0b1y3R7FXAaKd84=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18749412862447baf9270a.jpgLarge chequered skipper (Heteropterus morpheus) Large chequered skipper (Heteropterus morpheus) is a butterfly of the family Hesperiidae. The species has a very distinctive and attractive underside but a drab upperside ( arely seen, as it often settles with wings closed) Larval foodplant various grass species. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/fedia-fedia-cornucopiae-fruits-a https://photos.on-this.website/wm/M3fu7V423atJ__m6FDbrSbuA4dU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_60348454254396baeec894.jpgFedia (Fedia cornucopiae) fruits - a member of the Valerian fami Fedia (Fedia cornucopiae) fruits - a member of the Valerian family found in dry places in the Mediterranean.Photo in grassland nr Ferla, Sicily.05/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377841.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a_6t_RoHRbsDpXtXUj1Padys60k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_44778560762453bdf7b13a.jpgApennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica and O. holoserica ssp dinarica). Apennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys Apennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica and O. holoserica ssp dinarica). . Plants found in the Central Apennines and als in Piemonte are characterised by longish petals, a lip with a prominent forward pointing apex and pointed side lobes. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/seven-spot-ladybird-coccinella-septempunctata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uzhGF0szwETfu-2iYoo-xJqczvk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_49538712962447ea334cb4.jpgSeven spot Ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata also Coccinelle 7-punctata) Larval stage. Seven spot Ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata also Coccinelle 7-punctata) Larval stage. adybird larvae are ferocious predators of aphids and greenfly. ... The larvae will feed for up to three weeks before developing into adults, at which point they will continue to prey on aphids. Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377902.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VWOCRBBw2OcDcIkX6HIoCItOXKY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3257988962453df7b8d47.jpgGreen hellebore (Helleborus viridis) Green hellebore (Helleborus viridis) a very early flowering woodland species throughout much of Europe. Villa Cahen, Allerona, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy February 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/marbled-white-melanargia-galathea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZrGmcdKVQijbyOrMyeqYvso5oHU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_158083763662447eb7e90c3.jpgMarbled white (Melanargia galathea) Marbled white (Melanargia galathea) Marbled white ( Melanargia galathea) on knapweed (Centaurea sp) is a butterfly of rough grasslands, often on limestone. The larvale food plants are various species of grass.Photographed: Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2014 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22674905.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kq5Dq4SLFG6jTJebFs1vOJURCDY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6332367005437e942c70f9.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698950.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cdCQYBTKr4C2Gm7Dxj32RYr7wv4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1885610180543b8946a7d52.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686957.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mc3ek9hUD9D-KD5sRHizykM83Lc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1574859529543a53fe84d0d.jpgCrab spider (Synaema globosum) crab spider (Synaema globosum) a colourful spider. MYN garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698866.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xd2_LxCnXzjzk5VjMSc3SBlpMj8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_857335876543b88d64f071.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/woodland-grasshopper-omocestus-rufipes https://photos.on-this.website/wm/L99CH136sYEdFmwbuFRFRdF8iRU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2991554126248606b6fc9a.jpgWoodland grasshopper (Omocestus rufipes) Woodland grasshopper (Omocestus rufipes) found friom july through into autumn in barren places abnd scrub. . Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, August 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377629.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wIltTm29tqOJ1xd6L_0BN1Hkb70=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_169576005462447bb6c9d20.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy JAug 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759331.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kmksn5aHTNGdoWfT7II-W_CCgtI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6332458054443a7547798.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974075.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/45QW13--fUwccENLGVv-aA_BhVo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_99835914454636b7a4d43b.jpgSmall-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) Small-patterned Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. parvimaculata) growing in moist-woodland on a north-facing slope. Gargano nr Lago di Varano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698856.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9u7U5BUj6ECGAG76UqRHYBKgPq4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1923240034543b88c94a853.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-ophrys-apifera-aberrant https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4G8XtzgnmjHNuYHAFPC1bMEtU3M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_248884852546369dda40df.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) aberrant form close to var trollii Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) aberrant form close to var trollii. Ferla, Sicily. May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22689272.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/s-glz8iqECmJMCpkAjz7jfQLSu8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1195790964543aa28395a53.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/spotted-orchid-dactylorhiza-maculata-ssp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Y6C6nWY4W-azrDDSoO7fNsfPMjk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6364126166244676f0ae49.jpgSpotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata ssp saccifera) Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata ssp saccifera). D. maculata is a widespread species with a number of well-define subspecies (and some not so well separated) that is found on chalk and limestone soilds throyughout Europe. Roadsides nr Leonessa. Umbria. Italy. July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/early-marsh-orchid-dactylorhiza-incarnata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t7Wt24CEES3UJaDCG6KaTmtKkzU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_63869999962453bf5df87f.jpgEarly Marsh Orchid (Dactylorhiza incarnata). Early Marsh Orchid (Dactylorhiza incarnata). An orchid of fens and other slightly alkaline wetlands occuring throughout Europe . Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675387.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IzvBKWySa8Z745ECNth-V_AsMcU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13671160275438068297bc3.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675433.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WOZVQuMh44s7nOfgWdUrbvBJ0FE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2061204680543807e418aec.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751158.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/llYk02M3AAtRqZpZDskMDvsuGG4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198100005443c3f816879.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/common-mallow-malva-sylvestris-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RPdR2Ch-qVqZro8ryZXaDkSVg9w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_51781377154396f76c299a.jpgCommon Mallow (Malva sylvestris) .MYN Common Mallow (Malva sylvestris) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tomato-solanum-lycopersicum-with-shield https://photos.on-this.website/wm/loJsNcISH-8C_ThH15M5udx1qWA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_73060614354396fbb5e253.jpgTomato (Solanum lycopersicum) with Shield Bug (Nezarla viridula) Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) with Shield Bug (Nezarla viridula) a pest that attacks the crop. Podere Montecucco. nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 10/09/2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/promontory-orchid-ophrys-promontori https://photos.on-this.website/wm/fXvpwt1oJQO2iwcEquVwyLv9gyA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_995981652546361de28a7d.jpgPromontory Orchid (Ophrys promontori) Promontory Orchid (Ophrys promontori) a species endmic to Gargano and a limited region of S. Italy.Nr Mt St Angelo, Gargano, Puglia, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377724.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3xUoyz9hA--ENbwyHlzzf3cTeok=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1279845370624481f30f8a7.jpgNeapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus ) with Alpine squill (Scilla bifolia) Neapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus ) with Alpine squill (Scilla bifolia) on the Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy. High in the Apennines on the Campo Imperatore (2000m +) an incredible display of spring croups occurs just after the snows melt. The timing of this can vary by a month or more. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/heavenly-blue-morning-glory-ipomoea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Vw_UmjZtZ7A8ItFO7mQ6tYMeqFU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_540213780624479a4167e5.jpgHeavenly-blue morning-glory (Ipomoea tricolor ) Heavenly-blue morning-glory (Ipomoea tricolor )Heavenly-blue morning-glory I(pomoea tricolor ) morning glory, is a species of flowering plant in the family Convolvulaceae, native to the New World tropics, and widely cultivated and naturalised elsewhere. It is an herbaceous annual or perennial twining liana growing to 2–4 m tall. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria,Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974231.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ny0DHZSWLO7NfTvbsVUK6IFNSoU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_757642495546375b10bd95.jpgOphrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) Ophrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) locally frequent on limestone grassland in S. Europe. this form is found in the Sibillini , nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974027.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iAgOTloxLlr8Pp4llLBGKzywAkw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_25520822546369be53dd5.jpgMirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) Mirror Orchid (Ophrys ciliata syn. Ophrys speculum) an intriguingly coloured insect mimic distributed throughout the Mediterranean, Ferla, Sicily. May 2007 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377678.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PI-FKgL4aW1vXW0ZHsea77qs5eg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1492506262447eb063e74.jpgCrab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎ Crab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎ often found on plants where bees visit where they sit waiting. The colour can vary from white (with additional areas of reddish tones and even blue) to plain bright yellow. Here the female sits in wait on a fragrant orcvhid (Gymnadenia conopsea) The common name, crab spider, derives from the way the animla hols its ront legs ready to grasp an unwary pollinator..Mte Amiata, Toscana, Italy. June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/safflower-skipper-pyrgus-carthami https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dc852HQvZyvghr7FXC_9o-booRk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1426986325436895c820c4.jpgSafflower Skipper (Pyrgus carthami) Safflower Skipper (Pyrgus carthami) - larvae feed on mallow. locally common in S Europe in meadows and on hilsides https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/mediterranean-stick-insect-bacillius-rossius https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yqGEsZ3kRD3po7Oxe7Cm64mjvbs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12473874126248606c645b3.jpgMediterranean stick insect (Bacillius rossius) Mediterranean stick insect (Bacillius rossius) MYN showing the astonishing likeness to…a stick.Mainly found in coastal crub and other places where they feedupon Rubus (brambles) and other species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy, August 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680226.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vZXOnBLlndZfrfvvIl6RVAUpz3U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_146044663754395f93df985.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-ophrys-apifera https://photos.on-this.website/wm/c06OS7K5M5P1grvTih-M9QfOfgI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4019973762453bf318da8.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus Ophrys that is self-pollinated. Widespread throughout Europe on calcareous soils. Mte Amiata, Toscana, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973977.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Jk_B4h8Zm6MbyLWkbK5Szcxlipw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1998603205463669ac8b16.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/military-orchid-orchis-militaris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/6hR848kpEZPS_eOSCo3UiBrzcUQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_79553531362453be6a56d5.jpgMilitary Orchid (Orchis militaris) Military Orchid (Orchis militaris) A very rare species in the UK but widespread in Europe on limestone in mountain meadows and light woodland. It is one of a number of species that possess 'figures' due tothe lobing of the labellum to provide arms, legs and sometimes a 'tail'Nr Leonessa, Umbria, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-flowered-tongue-orchid-serapias https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MB_Fzwce5mGu_HiufxZGvfRTqo0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2872966245465d02419ef5.jpgSmall-flowered Tongue Orchid (Serapias parviflora) Small-flowered Tongue Orchid (Serapias parviflora) widespread in the Mediterranean region and also reported from the UK. Gargano nr Lago di Varano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/scarce-swallowtail-iphiclides-podalirius https://photos.on-this.website/wm/t9EVBPzC-GlDSgcFkRxAOtxRFyQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17097154866244799fd54b1.jpgScarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)a common butterfly of Mediterranean region. Larva feed on blackthorn (Prunus). Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Italy JAug 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/white-helleborine-cephalanthera-damasonium https://photos.on-this.website/wm/peSiAH-Sy0SFOh8TPyEuPY7ZPkU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_125562825662453e1740aaa.jpgWhite helleborine (Cephalanthera damasonium) White helleborine (Cephalanthera damasonium) a widespread species often in beechwoods on calcareous soils in mountain regions of Italy. Monteleaone di Soleto, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/eastern-bath-white-pontia-edusa https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ymaPgYm3K-3qmGLU4Zg5fplkxak=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_151957120862447ebd29e02.jpgEastern Bath white ( Pontia edusa) The Eastern Bath white (Pontia edusa) and Bath white (Pontia daplidice)are very difficult to tell apart but considered as separate 'species' having well defined ranges of distributuion. Both species are fast fliers with females often searching for plants of Reseda (Mignonette) for their egg laying) in rough grasslands, often on limestone. Photographed: Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-bertoloniiformis-syn-o-bertoloni https://photos.on-this.website/wm/p5zWJYzhkNaL4ltGsZuOTQfB8Po=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15100269965463674115c34.jpgOphrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) Ophrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981381.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/AYGXSlkky6C9eP3uqO0WkkK6jO4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17769521815465cfae4f252.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bee-orchid-ophrys-apifera-showing https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oGqzxWi_YxqfC_U_23h41knUJIk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6363348615463751194877.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) showing opportunistic spider ready to trap insect visitors Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated. Preci nr Norcia, Umbria Italy. May 2008. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/early-spider-orchid-ophrys-sphegodes https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_LdC_sI8IAnBjFrr9L4Ii9fpHgU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1670981298546363b049915.jpgearly spider orchid (Ophrys sphegodes) Early spider orchid (Ophrys sphegodes) a widely distributed, early flowering species above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy, April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-arachnitiformis-also-o-exaltata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aVbkcHw6NcnkLeYH-IkHIt-pHnw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_150135686854636215f0f9d.jpgOphrys arachnitiformis (also O. exaltata subsp arachnitiformis) Ophrys arachnitiformis (also O. exaltata subsp arachnitiformis) - a very variable ophrys species one of a number of very closly realted species giving rise to considerable confusion. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751159.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Q9w-50SAHP-su3C4PajV8iAlyrg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_9817788325443c3fc978b1.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111007-020 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iPUTywe65n_CRqjmyWWmdfeJq4Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4303907465253f7d6b5c31.jpgITA_PHD_20111007-020 Praying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) mating pair in garden, Orvieto, Italy. MYN. 10/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680774.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J-mWBQ4W9G-_viblZPfQH6GmYRQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_151902910854396b731edfc.jpgTwin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) Twin-flowered Iris (Iris bicapitata) a Gargano endemic, usually blue but also in yellow, white and lilac, Found above 600m elevation. nr Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377741.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Mbgl7OX-kz7aWFGYP5Is6YZYxZA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_48327319362448202e9682.jpgSamphire (Sarcocornia fruticosa) also known as glasswort and saltwort Samphire (Sarcocornia fruticosa) also known as glasswort and saltwort belongs to the family Amarathaceae. Sarcocornia is distributed worldwide, especially in warm-temperate regions with mediterranean climate, Older stems are woody with this halophytic species (salt loving/tolerant) and it is a common species of saltmarshes. Coastal lagoons, Circeo, nr San Felice in Circeo. Lazio. Italy Septe 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385888.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ppRIg1SU3NBw6e7nvLE4xibah8g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17416589886248605294d39.jpgEuropean bee eater (Merops apiaster) European bee eater (Merops apiaster) The European bee-eater is one of the more colourful of the twenty seven different species of bee-eaters found worldwide.Bee-eaters are insectivorous and as well as feeding off bees also take many other insects including wasps, dragon flies and locusts. They tend to catch their food on the wing by swooping down from above and grasping their prey in their strong slim bills which they then take back to their perch. Prior to consuming bees and wasps in particular the bee-eater strikes or rubs its prey against a branch in order to remove the insects sting before consumption. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377545.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3vWHdXlmj7vtxXK5R-d67BxCPOI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14139953016244799b38eae.jpgFemale crab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender. Female crab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender. on lavender during lockdown at Podere Montecucco Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704634.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bE2fracuTrDW6jcDVGy6Rtxl2c0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_276801475543bc550da296.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704512.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a1OXZhinUwzUTY0wTuL6kHBCcbM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1139121639543bbf4baff8a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704654.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2_-i2XY5aAMrf9mgTT_xFmkdFuY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_857090098543bc582bfea0.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377557.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TdjQjYbDQJ-1K84HD5VHMw2pxmU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1733696615624479a28b5bf.jpgPraying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) gravid female devouring another gravid female Praying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) gravid female devouring another gravid female - the batt;e was to the death when one became the protein source for the other. The dominant female managed to bit the part of the torax closest to the abdomen which seemed vulnerable to the powers pincer-like mandibles and was devouring the other alive. Eventuall he thorax and head of the victim were severed from the abdoment. Photographed in a garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Sept 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/green-hellebore-helleborus-viridis https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VV-YU9YaE3MF6tjnbG_g7jPqiSY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_121111763454396b5096434.jpgGreen Hellebore (Helleborus viridis) Green Hellebore (Helleborus viridis) a woodland plant flowering very early in the year. The &#039;flowers&#039; seem to persist for a long time but closer eamination shos that it is the sepals and seed capsules. Il Sasseto nr Orvieto, Italy. 03/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/tyrhennian-ophrys-ophrys-tyrrhena https://photos.on-this.website/wm/bI2v_XCNw9PGnjLbzEseXPJDAEE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_431591167546362bd55b3c.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crescent-ophrys-ophrys-lunulata-a https://photos.on-this.website/wm/KCS8V7DxFWblFdbFcDRxQb65PoU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1108078014546374d138ad5.jpgCrescent Ophrys (Ophrys lunulata) -a Sicilian endemic Crescent Ophrys (Ophrys lunulata) -a Sicilian endemic, Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704764.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EWOTKfmXNcjuHvD1BtWUMDOpw-I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_523445461543bc62220040.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/creeping-ladies-tresses-goodyera-repens https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZTsYk1Dns8Xeke1WsIXacvXtdEo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5988522666244342336417.jpgCreeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) Creeping Ladies Tresses (Goodyera repens) . An uncommon orchid in Europe. The name ladies tresses derives from the twisted flower stems that carry the tiny glandual flowers. The stems thread mossy cushions in pine woods,usually at high altitude, hence the ame creeping, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 20020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680747.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/oZ3UDOG25gO33ve0LetZ4VsVjBw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_208722287354396b4110e38.jpgStrawberry Tree (Arbutus andrachne) a common shrub/ small tree of the Mediterranean maquis and aslso the foodplant of the larvae of the Two-tailed Pasha butterfly (Charaxes jasius). The berries are edible but rather insipid. Photographed nr Orvieto, Italy ,October 2013. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377880.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rTyUKZ2btD7vEFXu3joRV1IXPDE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_206688624162453bf78d32b.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974066.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/4Dy9FUIevMfgka9VWPT1iXEkOow=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_147517654954636b461f116.jpgSmall yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula) Small yellow Ophrys (Ophrys lutea ssp galilea also called Ophrys sicula) Pescia Romana, Orbetello, Lazio, Italy, April2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/stinking-iris-iris-foetidissima https://photos.on-this.website/wm/W-ilJULjXsMrTvH5hG249bwyGKc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_174776524454396f4a931b9.jpgStinking Iris (Iris foetidissima ) Stinking Iris (Iris foetidissima ) also called Gladdon. A woodland plant on limestone and neutral soils: photo Podere Montecucco, nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. 05/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377962.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cI-FVbY1uRUASOrRvJVi-BqF-hY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_75698889062453e213eaa9.jpgAlpine poppy (Papaver alpina ) Alpine poppy (Papaver alpina ). There are various subspecies of P.alpinum and this plant from Gran Saccso is sometimes known as P. alpinum ssp ernesti-mayeri also P. judicum) . Grows in gravels and other well-drained areas. Gran Sasso, Appennines, Abruzzo, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755813.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8c_nI6gzDKJS58qTBoaWR3bFvSo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6758938775444006a6c442.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973997.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IbPaDuBpFry7ggFNv6AOKFs6uEg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7355864895463679c7e059.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973993.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/n10reioNca8lWUHd8GoJTizgXpg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7428473954636753c0301.jpgOphrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) Ophrys bertoloniiformis (syn. O. bertoloni ssp bertoloniiformis) nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974226.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QROM0j-sHxOyEL1IqRo6oh-nsyQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_514490455463758fc980d.jpgBee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) showing opportunistic spider ready to trap insect visitors Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) an insect mimic and the only one of the genus that is self-pollinated here with a spider waiting for prey. Sibillini, nr Spoleto, Umbria. Italy June 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/fiery-clearwing-pyropteron-chrysidiforme https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FlD6h72FwEV_44yvLwQocPJGqSM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_79140755962447eb352246.jpg Fiery clearwing (Pyropteron chrysidiforme) Fiery clearwing (Pyropteron chrysidiforme) One of the intriguing clearwing moths that can, at first sigh,t be mistaken for a bee or wasp..These day flying moths belong to the family Sesiidae and can be found seeking nectar on flowers such as the Eryngium shown. This species is extremely rare in the UK but locally frequent in S Europe. The larval foodplants include roots of dock and sorrel. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo19486462.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VXDz-PAjxmi8ISpvJ2WXd0YowJI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1179346986524fcd63a3a7c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/european-dwarf-mantis-ameles-spallanzania https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Azo_VMIMCHhsoHoVigNwI9Bo88E=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_263796227624879add5e02.jpgEuropean dwarf mantis ( Ameles spallanzania European dwarf mantis ( Ameles spallanzania) a small species: abdomen in is often held upwards in female. Found in sparse, low vegetation. Nr Allerona, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681175.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/HJyI6nJ_0iuCMZZRTNf54YmwX9Y=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_86609127354396f99167e6.jpgScarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Scarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698927.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xwQQt0iNFYiACnWqSErQQfm4Bq8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_886994723543b892322275.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686973.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/NYjSKyhLBPdaqRto_NThha_F7ao=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1200526173543a5444e3872.jpgcrab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender. MYN crab spider (Misumena vatia) on lavender MYN. Nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/horned-ophrys-ophrys-cornuta-o https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vcgOjZybOdBFR-V-cWZaANNJjhA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_92776342854636737ed8fd.jpgHorned Ophrys (Ophrys cornuta = O. oestrifera) Horned Ophrys (Ophrys cornuta = O. oestrifera) widespread in Greece but very rare in Italy nr Peschici, Gargano, Puglia Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385912.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jXgdrsQdb_EsyQj1KBCAyEhTGTw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7230844096248606471dd3.jpgConehead mantis (Empusa pennata) Conehead mantis (Empusa pennata) a remarkable looking insect found in S. Europe. They live in areas that are warm and dry: cryptic colouring of greens, pinks and various shades of brown provides effective camouflage. Females up to 10 cm in length; males shorter and slimmer. Male antennae feathered providing greater area for nocturnal pheromone detection. Only living prey is selected only takes notice of moving prey. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377687.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QmyRLK_xVbxatpVnUFw8OKCYsqY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_26332119762447eb7c94fd.jpgHoverfly (Falennia fasciata) Hoverfly (Falennia fasciata) This is a nemestrinid fly which looks similar to Bombylidae. The wing venation is differene t and the proboscis points downwards. Their larvae feed on the larvae of other insects.They are insects of southern Europe found in grasslands hovering around and feeding upon nectar.-rich flowers. Podere Montecucco, Localita canonica 7, Orvieto, Italy June 2021. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111004-014 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/T_sSSlVc0TRAIGAzds0gR1LgG2A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7377726955253f3fed2e38.jpgITA_PHD_20111004-014 common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) MYN a species widespread in continental Europe but very rare in the UK. Garden, Orvieto, Italy. 10/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377669.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mRQXg7gqN_BO7A5lGQqpWkVw2u4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_73468343562447ea84251a.jpgCommon Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) Common Swallowtail, (Papilio machaon) life-cycle from larvae saved after a cold autumn and overwintered as chrysalids. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686977.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/m1liKChfIbLMKCGEAkE0W_blEuY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1144391595543a5455d5343.jpgsmall elephant hawk (Deilephila porcellus) small elephant hawk (Deilephila porcellus) a small colourful hawk larva feed on bedstraw (Galium) species. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981386.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lAWotj_HjYwFyITA9BLyTfMpkw4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10101985465cfcda4c85.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704714.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PSX5F8Z24OQKJTIE4LksxzeiDOc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1885420580543bc5de76de8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377865.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DenxcnEJTb0Ov2djAuG778KgKaU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_182082879462453bee97906.jpgBee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var fulvofusca). Bee Orchid Variation (Ophrys apifera var fulvofusca). Arare variant...alsmost certainly no more than an occasiopnal and thus a 'forma' rather than a 'var'. It lacks the distincive bib pattern characteristic of Ophrys apifera and the name 'fulvofusca means yellowish-brown. Ophrys apifera is consisnstently self-pollinated unlike all other members of the genus that are pollinated by small hymenopterans (bees and wasps). Thus there is no selection by visula or olfacotyr means and a considerable number of variations manage to occur. Treviso, Veneto, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377472.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DpxIMOXNi6OnHddt9gKC64tF-qs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6139141776244676daea2f.jpgRed Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) Red Helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) an orchid growing on limestone, protected everywhere in Europe and Red Data Book listed. It is extremely rare in the UK where it is on the edged of its range and has just a handful of sites it grows in light dry woodland...beechwoods, under oak and at the margins of pine and spruce forests. If leaf cover above it becomes too dense then the species reverts to a vegetative growth and stops flowering whilst being dependent upon the mycorrhizal fungi in its roots. Mte Sirente, Abruzzo, Italy. June 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687407.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2eUyrWjzt5PHs0O5_ChTPvsPESs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1109107744543a62d76be9c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751210.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hVP_jAq_25qh407IbYK3O2Q5Nu0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3820814815443c4d1e5366.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974047.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xh5U-EnZBmkA7RjVnS9lXr1EU8A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_198636248954636a9ad6242.jpgTyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) Tyrhennian Ophrys (Ophrys tyrrhena) one of a complex of similar orchids once grouped under the Ophrys arachnitiformis umbrella also called Ophrys exaltata ssp tyrrhena and Ophrys monte-leonis.Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698967.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/qzboM8XRS8pq-0WWWJWduVkwUhk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_18507316543b89613f7d8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/pale-flowered-orchid-orchis-pallens https://photos.on-this.website/wm/R3WvDU9y6ZALC5ZtwPEscXyrc44=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12790817762453bf63594b.jpgPale-flowered Orchid (Orchis pallens) Pale-flowered Orchid (Orchis pallens) . A local species of high mountain pasture in the alpine and sub alpine zones on limestone in continental Europe. Abetone, Emilia Romagna, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-argentaria-syn-oaraneola-ssp https://photos.on-this.website/wm/wFRAIuKBPbiZn3-Inf4H9Ieqy_s=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3815385454636243d0e61.jpgOphrys argentaria (syn O.araneola ssp argentario) Ophrys argentaria (syn O.araneola ssp argentario) an endemic subspecies in the Ophrys phegodes group with a very limited range in W. Italy Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759374.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/5sf44lHgtLunB_0bc-QWCRnYx70=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_11306910954443a9d84cd8.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973796.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ldsqTcC9BslPjIrjhQIGQ06SNXI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_135808109454636161a172e.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, Nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974018.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b1XqpZiTkoSoy0zxo-QmvtqzQhg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14187076985463693e7354f.jpgConrad&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys conradiae) Conrad&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys conradiae) also known as Ophrys scolopax ssp, conradiae. This is a very rare orchid taxon found in Sardinia and in a few stations in Gargano, Puglia. nr Apricena, Gargano, Puglia, Italy May 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974087.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/eO3rJDgvVcG2yHsTsdWxsHpTofg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_16934036554636bde20cef.jpgApulian Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. apulica) Apulian Ophrys (Ophrys fuciflora ssp. apulica) a large flowered race of the Late Spider Orchid. Nr Peschici, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/archipelago-orchid-ophrys-archipelagi https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tga5-IsP1QljjEcyKRn6Ga-syyw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_188195538254636184b16f2.jpgArchipelago Orchid (Ophrys archipelagi Archipelago Orchid (Ophrys archipelagi synonymous with O.x arachnitiformis, one of a group of similar &#039;species&#039; in the Mediterranean region. this is endemic to Gargano. Lago di Varano, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377564.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mJCgEIVj0KDPiCgKunAJ1MoDu5g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_2143013390624479a795b5e.jpgLarva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) Larva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) penultimate instar on common rue as a foodplant, Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/poplar-hawk-laothoe-populae-a https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VHq3l9U8B0TgbEVo_fXC0fLGh24=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_245854377624879ade0183.jpgPoplar hawk (Laothoe populae) a very well camouflaged hawkmoth when on bark Poplar hawk (Laothoe populae) a very well camouflaged hawkmoth when on bark. It holds its wings in a distinct position compared with many other European species https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378007.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/8rUUkPTF90vqfE122_qIOeHRNLs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1884793536245437a98078.jpgApollo or mountain Apollo (Parnassius apollo), Apollo or mountain Apollo (Parnassius apollo), is a butterfly of the family Papilionidae (Swallowtail) a typically mountain species that prefers hills and flowery alpine meadows and pastures of the continental European mountains, in Spain, Scandinavia and Central Europe, in the Balkans up to northern Greece and in the Alps between Italy and France. There are numerous distinct local races and these have attracted the attentions of ruthless collectors over the years. This species is protected everywhere throughout Europe and is an endangered species. Mt Terminillo, Lazio, Itakly July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/bi-coloured-bee-orchid-variety https://photos.on-this.website/wm/EJHwYLUTah7El4c1YsV-IC3bRQQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_97261053562453be1719a7.jpgBi-coloured Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) Bi-coloured Bee Orchid variety (Ophrys apifera var bicolor) more correctly named O. apifera forma bicolor) an uncommon variant where the pattern on the lip is suppressed and coloration divided with lower part of lip brownish and basal part light yellowish cream. Villalba, Orvieto, Umbria, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/centrocoris-variegatus-a-conspicuously-shaped https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1HBChiX5P919KbE-Rvq7_IawG3I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3325781916244798e414b7.jpgCentrocoris variegatus A conspicuously shaped bug Centrocoris variegatus A conspicuously shaped bug with a variable mottled patter in browns through to black. Occurs in much of EuropePodere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377307.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iJzlBQmehkvSQyhOWYNAKUBb16o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15615162816244341d41731.jpgBorage (Borago officinalis) Borage (Borago officinalis) used as a culinary herb and for medicinal use. The seeds contain borage seed oil, of which 17–28% is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), the richest known source. The flowers added to salads are edible. They also produce copious nectar which is used by honeybees to make a light and delicate honey. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. April 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981398.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VA5sI5jLViwKGRHcsXl5j8hSEB4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17296232825465d035542b5.jpgPloughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) Ploughshare orchid (Serapias vomeracea) a widespread S. European species. Gargano nr Lago di Varano, Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377881.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/esrWULMzFqZ9Ymaeo30pTvNvwaw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_183449781762453bf85106a.jpgMarsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) an orchid of marshes and fens that, in close up, looks like a tropical species. It has a hinged lip to facilitate pollination and bring the head of a pollinator in contact with the pollen bundles beneath the rostellum. Locally abundant in the UK. Sibillini, Le Marche, Italy July 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111004-018 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Ikneo6s71mcwE3xBSmd6hXrqypg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_4178189165253f7776e03d.jpgITA_PHD_20111004-018 common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) MYN a species widespread in continental Europe but very rare in the UK. Garden, Orvieto, Italy. 10/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/widow-iris-hermodactylus-tuberosus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/gcTJb-PM2LV5cn4fizBWEB4RvMM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_99395136554396b91a6e5e.jpgWidow Iris (Hermodactylus tuberosus) Widow Iris (Hermodactylus tuberosus) a very attractive species with dark velvety &#039;falls&#039; found twidely throughout the Mediterranean in dry areas. photo nr Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687354.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/R7p1OQEoW29ttxSGIdv7SFfvxRw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1291924364543a618c2ed67.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704442.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/spfQigpMXeneZPHJYgeB3MR4Ra8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_929310829543bbec3d1517.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974205.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vFesF9Hryk7k4VIg7RbPdmaqixE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_826147310546374ac4f184.jpgCalliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha) Calliantha&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys calliantha), a rare Sicilian Endemic that probaly arouse from hybrids of O. candica with O, oxyrrynchos .Ferla, Sicily April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973802.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lHhYQs020_3HZeCTcsPu-ti2djU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10648941225463617193d4b.jpgSiponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemci to the Gargano penisula, Siponto Ophrys (Ophrys sipontensis) an orchid endemic to the Gargano peninsula, unusual green form. Nr Manfredonia, Gargano, Puglia March 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/o-x-sommieri-an-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/aMkghCTsebFklbcCfqUEeE8AJK0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_112282850554636843709a3.jpgO. X sommieri - an Ophrys hybrid from Gargano between O. tenthredinifera X O. bombyliflora (?) Ophrys hybrid from Gargano O. tenthredinifera X O. passionis (garganica). One of many hybdirds in Gargano a region in which the density of orchid plants and pollinators seems to favour hybrid formation. Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy April 2012 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377967.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2TbqwHXtaquD9N1591V5KejV7Sk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_51421319362453e239fb82.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680666.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_uZuN9H-ZjS8_OWJX8eFBrzgCbw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_20082889054396a34585b2.jpgSowbread (Cyclamen hederifolium) Sowbread (Cyclamen hederifolium) an autumn flowering species. Feral pigs reputedly fed on the tubers (hence the name &quot;sowbread&#039; and the ivy-like leaves with highly variable marbling appear after the flowers (hederifolium = ivy-leaved). Photographed nr the Etruscan tombs at Norchia, nr VIterbo, Lazio, Italy - September 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20111002-005 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XXizu6N0UfTjgV5tSR18mcYaczI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_15684989125253e2c9bd7b4.jpgITA_PHD_20111002-005 Eyed Mantis (Iris oratoria) &acirc;™€ a small European Mantis fond of warm places that has a defensive display with eyespots on its hind wings. Pescia Romana, nr Orbetello, Lazio, Italy. MYN. 10/2011 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687009.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YfyzIKoMTxmtCyP_fun9tYGmdVM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_550285231543a54e49d36d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22680211.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yf__cQWvcX6WwtdovGB_K1jI8V0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_71629267754395f770989f.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22675432.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/s6VusmrOrCOuVgWSv3nvLBzEV48=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_180358397543807df73520.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751167.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lv6ZnMDea94-VACCDqaApwchsZM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14002615765443c420b8ca2.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/downy-oak-quercus-pubescens https://photos.on-this.website/wm/V0KjpDxreGvZLgUdg58PGZ7vrm8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_31065515962447ad90e1ea.jpgDowny oak (Quercus pubescens) Downy oak (Quercus pubescens) is a species of white oak Downy oaks typically grow in dry, lime-rich soils. It is a submediterranean species, growing from the coastline to deep in the continent. Its optimum is in the submediterranean region, characterized by hot dry summers and cool winters with little rainfall. In western and central Europe, downy oak is confined to areas with submediteranean microclimate (gorges, sandplains, steppe slopes or to coastlines of former lakes. Bagno Vignoni, Toscana, Italy Oct 2020. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687457.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LpY0Isf4QpPMNcoMzHG1dxzmz1g=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1567180881543a648837024.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crabspider-synemaglobosum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Z5rRkCXS_RcQJrixb5UJTohI7iU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_114884993554393b73680ad.jpgCrab_Spider (Synema_globosum,) Crab_Spider (Synema_globosum) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385788.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yuCOiMK4I1dC9rTcJTD_KQGSCYU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_105337883562485be34dcbd.jpgApollo or mountain Apollo (Parnassius apollo) Apollo or mountain Apollo (Parnassius apollo), is a butterfly of the family Papilionidae (Swallowtail) a typically mountain species that prefers hills and flowery alpine meadows and pastures of the continental European mountains, in Spain, Scandinavia and Central Europe, in the Balkans up to northern Greece and in the Alps between Italy and France. There are numerous distinct local races and these have attracted the attentions of ruthless collectors over the years. This species is protected everywhere throughout Europe and is an endangered species. Dolomites June 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45385918.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MKfxMGCcnethSQ_7nvW43DwZUR0=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_148038933624860691706d.jpgPine hawk (Sphinx pinastri). Pine hawk (Sphinx pinastri). .A local species found in S England and continental Europe. Larva feed on Scots pine, Maritime pine and other pine species https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377510.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/C18yceizpSHwuEsZnd6gyvqHwpk=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_870704333624473a38b1b8.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981377.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/lzbTR18z2MK1Iqv7_643Ecp1BbI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_14225709725465cf5f7eb72.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759366.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3vceWOA8fVckeo_ht8uj8JeXPHA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_64382791254443a9841675.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/itaphd20120427-036 https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Nf2bfudzdYeBIqgZNRM4sYM49ck=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_153914328352541467b796c.jpgITA_PHD_20120427-036 Southern Festoon (Zerynthia polyxena) showing the pattern on the underwings. The festoons are butterflies of southern Europe in spring where their foodplants (Aristolochia sp ) grow. MYN nr Orvieto, Umbria, Italy 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22752202.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/L51kMCs6RJ5_pJaXAH_j-qvHrxw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1113725405443d36491c3d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/crab-spider-thmoisus-onustus-with https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rCNe2DojrQb7pgaChgeuB7GtUMs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_503437862447992d4a9f.jpgCrab spider (Thmoisus onustus) with its prey, a Queen of Spain Fritillary (Issonia lathoria) Crab spider (Thomisus onustus) with its prey, a Queen of Spain Fritillary (Issonia lathoria). In early summer crab spiders will sit on flowers such as lavender that attract butterflies and other insects such as bees. The prey can be large compared with the spider whose front legs are enormously strong compared with its size and it can hold and then paralyse the insect with its bite. Podere Montecucco, Orvieot, Italy photographed during lockdown. July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/conrad039s-orchid-ophrys-conradiae https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iHj5ZtrNE7jK2m7ujL_xl5QWGpA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_6893171185463691d54d2b.jpgConrad&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys conradiae) Conrad&#039;s Orchid (Ophrys conradiae) also known as Ophrys scolopax ssp, conradiae. This is a very rare orchid taxon found in Sardinia and in a few stations in Gargano, Puglia. nr Apricena, Gargano, Puglia, Italy May 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/great-green-bush-cricket-nymph https://photos.on-this.website/wm/QY7bW7q9sjnrS2ldvktnCEPAQCg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_206346410262447eba855c1.jpgGreat green bush cricket nymph (Tettigonia viridissima Great green bush cricket nymph (Tettigonia viridissima),one of the largest crickets in Europe with a harsh,loud song and capable of giving a painful bite if handled. Tolfa Hills, Lazio, Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22973825.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/3KqETvB5NO2tO9PwJkomo28wxy4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1709208753546361a127847.jpgOphrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis Ophrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis. May 20118 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974068.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/uDoZzX6mwVgMz3hs1OaHvDsZ3P8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_84733023954636b4e0b341.jpgHornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) Hornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) an endemic species restricted to the west coast of central Italy including the islands. Porto St Stefano, Argentario, Tuscany, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974038.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ZN4OnWKlAvZxAfgtgl0koAp4Dvo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_55262631154636a3e8615a.jpgEarly Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) Early Spider Ophrys (Ophrys sphegodes.) a variable and widley distributed species of S England (Kent, Dorset) and europe. Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/glanville-fritillary-melitaea-cinxia-with https://photos.on-this.website/wm/XeSneDTsDWANS11xXPPZ7M4n-qw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_124161658762454378ee19e.jpgGlanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) with scarce copper (Lycaena virgaureae) Glanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) with scarce copper (Lycaena virgaureae) feeding on nectar from Adenostylis austarlis, a butterfly magnet in alpine regions. Gran sasso, Abruzzo, Italy, July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377484.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/x3iqWLlVvtQ13--0K3hVhNuk-Sg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_103768555662446776b3ecc.jpgWidder's Vanilla orchid (Nigritella widderi syn Gymnadenia widderi) Widder's Vanilla orchid (Nigritella widderi syn Gymnadenia widderi) Named after an Austrian botanist who first noted its finding, this is an extremely rare and local species of short calcareous grassland. It is found in a few sites in Austria and in the Apennines at around 2000m. This photograph was taken on Mt Terminill, nr Rieti, Lazio, Italy 04/07/2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/slender-helleborine-epipactis-exilis-syn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Qw_ooQj_5vcMkmfTfk_glb0r9kg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_52478972662453bfc5d666.jpgSlender helleborine (Epipactis exilis syn E. gracilis) Slender helleborine (Epipactis exilis syn E. gracilis) A rare and local species with slightly pendent flowers, not opening widled with a heart-shaped epichile and two marked pinkish tinged bosses at its base, The hypochile inner surface if brownish. Found in Italy and local and rare in beechowwds in the Apennines. Mt Amiata beechwoods, Aquapendente, Umbria, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/large-bee-fly-bombylius-major https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kwFF4rPnrKjX7I8P4-mQwqViCfY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5308627066248605c4adc4.jpgLarge Bee fly (Bombylius major) Large Bee fly (Bombylius major). All species in the genus share a similarity with the unrelated bees and bumblebees, which they mimic, possessing a thick coat of fur, with a colour ranging from yellow to orange. They can, however, be told apart from tbumblebees by the long, stiff proboscis used to probe for nectar as they fly with a rapid and darting flight, Larvae are parasitic and infest the nests of solitary bees (and possibly wasps consuming their grubs. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hornet-ophrys-ophrys-crabronifera-also https://photos.on-this.website/wm/dqeXOQBtEX2kbtmIBU4DtnMXab4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_123046139354636a0c1fc72.jpgHornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) Hornet Ophrys (Ophrys crabronifera also known as Ophrys argolica subsp crabronifera) an endemic species restricted to the west coast of central Italy including the islands. Above Cemetery, Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lesser-butterfly-orchid-platanthera-bifolia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/O26jY-KNKVsosTD_YcZom_32M0U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_39309329862453be7abf91.jpgLesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) Lesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) Lesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) often (but not exclusively) found on slightly acid soils in contrast to P. Chlorantha. It differs from the latter in having parallel pollina close togther: in P. chlorantha they are divergent towards their based where the viscidum lies. Sibillini, Umbria, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974072.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/a7ZjkyHD5q_CRC-qa2ME_ZSNzH8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_189833326854636b64a1012.jpgBumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) Bumble-bee orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) a small ophrys that occurs circum-Mediterranean. Pescia Romana, Orbetello, Lazio, Italy, April2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377936.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/F82HQds0TAffH5NqH936e7UA4G4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_176872537562453e0f84205.jpgHepatica (Hepatica nobilis also H. triloba and Anemone hepatica) Hepatica (Hepatica nobilis also H. triloba and Anemone hepatica) a very early flowering plants in mountain woodlands and shady rocky places. Like other Ranunculaceae, fresh liverwort contains protoanemonin and is therefore slightly toxic. Medieval herbalists thought it cured Liver ailments...hence a former common name Liverwort. This arose from the "Doctrine of Signatures' where a part of a plant tat resembled a human organ was thought to be able to cure it. The leaves have a kidney sahpe. Campo Imperatore. Abruzzo, Italy May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/shield-ophrys-ophrys-biscutella https://photos.on-this.website/wm/S_V5hevDV7xY9tX37oYdIFR0Hyc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7169693175463747595de5.jpgShield Ophrys (Ophrys biscutella) Shield Ophrys (Ophrys biscutella also O. crabronifera ssp biscutella) restricted to Gargano and mountain regions in S Italy.Monte St Angelo, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45378005.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/z3Rihd2xRD3l_2NYw9AVL2fN3vw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12363950596245437902d94.jpgGlanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) Glanville fritillary ( Melitaea cinxia) feeding on nectar from Adenostylis austarlis, a butterfly magnet in alpine regions. M. cinxia isfrequent in S and C Europe (very rare in the UK and restricted to the cliffs of the Isle Of Wight). The common name honours Mrs Eleanor Glanville, an 18th century lepidoterist. Her will was contested on the basis that nobody of sound mind, especially female, would have such a hobby. Larvae found on ribwort plantain. Gran Sasso, Abruzzo, Italy July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22755757.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/jsNzzRl3dhJ6MTnc3Sne1r0Ti6U=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_3676490875443ffebc5614.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377468.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yseU7yQFrTfLNkHP217LiUA2Rvg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_13093651806244676b7bad7.jpgWidder's Vanilla orchid (Nigritella widderi syn Gymnadenia widderi) Widder's Vanilla orchid (Nigritella widderi syn Gymnadenia widderi) Named after an Austrian botanist who first noted its finding, this is an extremely rare and local species of short calcareous grassland. It is found in a few sites in Austria and in the Apennines at around 2000m. This photograph was taken on Mt Terminill, nr Rieti, Lazio, Italy 04/07/2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377306.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/mWkKEC2dVAaFt1xOaBxVjhu6smQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5771156936244341bb24a6.jpgBorage (Borago officinalis) Borage (Borago officinalis) used as a culinary herb and for medicinal use. The seeds contain borage seed oil, of which 17–28% is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), the richest known source. The flowers added to salads are edible. They also produce copious nectar which is used by honeybees to make a light and delicate honey. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. April 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/spiny-rest-harrow-ononis-spinosa https://photos.on-this.website/wm/chp7ZZjunRxQsZtDu_YBUXS7KVM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_112783890624473a5c3fdc.jpgSpiny Rest-harrow, (Ononis spinosa) Spiny Rest-harrow, (Ononis spinosa) Also known as Thorny restharrow, Thorny Ononis. Spiny restharrow is found in southern temperate areas of Europe and Siberia in lime-rich but nutrient-poor grassland on chalk and heavy, calcareous soils. Sibillini, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/greater-dodder-cuscuta-europaea-also https://photos.on-this.website/wm/LtquczsvVoubUhiKZ-4zMEHXx58=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_189185963762453e293a946.jpgGreater dodder [ Cuscuta europaea) also European dodder, Greater dodder [ Cuscuta europaea) also European dodder, is a parasitic plant native to Europe, which belongs to the family Convolvulaceae, . It grows on a variety of species...Asteraceae, Cannabaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Fabaceae, Urticaceae and other herbaceous plants, including garden plants such as Coleus and Impatiens. Here it is parasiting wild raspberry. This species are used as traditional medicine to treat hepatic (liver) disease. Terminillo, Lazio, Italy, July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377536.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hlsEG2kA5OUJPuO-IlTJbYbngW4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1246172633624479957d5f6.jpgCrab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎ Crab spider (Thomisus onustus) ♀︎often found on plants where bees visit where they sit waiting..The name derives from the way the animla hols its ront legs ready to grasp an unwary pollinator.. Podere Montecucco, Umbria (Italy) July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687410.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/PLFoVmJRxxv3Uu_iuC5iOSGXv0o=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1965506865543a62e17704a.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/neapolitan-crocus-crocus-neapolitanus-formerly https://photos.on-this.website/wm/RKsdh9gi9PFPuNPA7wgI0ShQXJw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_911052682624481eee4276.jpgNeapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus Neapolitan Crocus (Crocus neapolitanus) formerly Crocus vernus but following a review of the species in 2014 it was decided that several distinct species existed . High in the Apennines on the Campo Imperatore (2000m +) an incredible display of spring croups occurs just after the snows melt. The timing of this can vary by a month or more. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377976.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/tIckZMj7tZYfgIL1aU--Oga5Zoo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_186439072462453e27e0097.jpgSouthern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis) Has flowers are born on aerial stems that rise from the mass of stems and roots below water. The finely divided leaves have bladders that can catch tiny water fleas and other microscopic creatures. The bladders operate at very high speeds (less than 4milliseconds) triggerd by external hairs and powered by hydraulic pressure. This species has a vast geographic range, being found throughout Europe, in tropical and temperate Asia and beyond. Lago di Ventina, Umbria, Italy. July 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974048.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cfx4tleUYBUgDeGMN5waqXqIIo4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_143222476554636aa863f6d.jpgfly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) fly orchid (Ophrys insectifera) one of the most convincing of the Ophrys genus of insect mimics complete to the tiny &#039;antennae&#039; formed by the petals. It is an orchid of woodland margins on limestone. Piediluco , Terni, Umbria Italy. May 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22704521.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/F3deQdNePSHSKQ6ZNEMgIkaLYtU=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1541251249543bbf5e691f6.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698963.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/cG_K1I3-r7gL5FyW36WD3ombQ_Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_232811031543b895ab3c1b.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377569.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/h-pYisFG2BvpSe_en7eLMtXOZak=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1433502588624479aa2a52d.jpgLarva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) at 22 days after 3rd moult (fourth instar)...unusual dark form Larva of Common swallowtail (Papilio machaon) at 22 days after 3rd moult (fourth instar)...unusual dark form. Feeding on common rue as a foodplant, Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy October 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22698947.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/iGIjAy-h47IXcg8sacqqCvaNCW4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_821361720543b8942b117d.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45388166.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/CajttcAZZLHkfJdPye-TXXYQon8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1335095019624879b199588.jpgSpotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) Spotted fritillary (Melitaea didyma) widespread in mailand Europe in diverses warm habitats such as dry and rocky meadows and hillsides, steppes, field edges and fallow land. Foodplants various members of Palnatgo, Linaria, Veronica and Antirrihnum species. Sibillini, Umbira, May 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22687413.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/u9oSCPVcOM6-Qr_4h7Z-S8T0MX4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_715793041543a62ee0feed.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/conehead-mantis-empusa-pennata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/FiG3hGB3kjPo9AaJj4RUzbqF3g8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_205657799362485e26c418c.jpgConehead mantis (Empusa pennata) Conehead mantis (Empusa pennata) a remarkable looking insect found in S. Europe. They live in areas that are warm and dry: cryptic colouring of greens, pinks and various shades of brown provides effective camouflage. Females up to 10 cm in length; males shorter and slimmer. Male antennae feathered providing greater area for nocturnal pheromone detection. Only living prey is selected only takes notice of moving prey. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974015.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/b64Y-YkoqO80kwJ7iwATJDorReM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1082849117546369029ac94.jpgSmall Spider Orchid (Ophrys araneola Small Spider Orchid (Ophrys araneola ssp virescens) a widespread but much smaller flowered relative of Ophrys sphegodes, Mt Peglia, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22679317.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ogt8zDDzJ8nQoxtHlwGj-FQrjgI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_622561979543948df95fff.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-lacaitae-x-ophrys-holoseria https://photos.on-this.website/wm/h-ElicUMq7KEWRShxskXIQwlebM=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_12159149215463618bcab54.jpgOphrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis Ophrys lacaitae x Ophrys holoseria ssp gracilis. one of a hybrid swarm in a small woodland area nr San Marco in Lamis May 2011 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981404.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/SGurSsc-16pb-sdPEJcZ_HIo-F8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_8304315775465d05343d8d.jpgEastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) Eastern Serapias (Serapias orientalis) closely realted to Serapias vomeracea. Ferla, Sicily. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/promontory-ophrys-ophrys-promontori https://photos.on-this.website/wm/sqDYP6NB1G1SQTvisTkF1JdVMCw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_222842919546374633eb3a.jpgPromontory Ophrys (Ophrys promontori) Promontory Ophrys (Ophrys promontorii) an orchid endemic to Garagno and a few other S.Italian sites.nr Ruggiano, Gargano, Puglia, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759345.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/il0kS4XeWxXX3jSwDy2qQc9oi1I=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_149649479154443a8350478.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/butterfly-egg-orange-tip-anthocaris https://photos.on-this.website/wm/WGKtFppYdX5ajU6wjbLSWe9re8k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_46894781062443431ad4f5.jpgButterfly egg- Orange-tip (Anthocaris cardamines) Butterfly egg- Orange-tip (Anthocaris cardamines) laid on the lraval foodplant Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) The image shows the egg just before hatching with larval spines visible Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy April 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-leaved-helleborine-epipactis-microphylla https://photos.on-this.website/wm/L0e-ypAxG4tC8Pjdo_zN-rsj-jo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_17170293846244676da26da.jpgSmall-leaved helleborine (Epipactis microphylla) Small-leaved helleborine (Epipactis microphylla) A species of mountian woodlands, especially beech in Central and S Europe. It is charcterised by its small leaves (hence the name) and flowers which have a 'crinkled appearance to the epichile of the lip. It shares this with the Dark-red helleborine (E. atrorubens). Both orchids are secnted with a noiceable 'vanilla' scent. Mt Amiata, Tusca,y Italy. June 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22974013.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9DTk9O1giQv7OPqcXkNi0YVPRys=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_681119414546368cd199ef.jpgFly Orchid (Ophrys insectifera) Fly Orchid (Ophrys insectifera) an incosnipucous orchid of woodland marins on limestone throughout Europe. Torrealfina, Orvieto, Umbria Italy April 2010 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/rocket-eruca-sativa-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YQs4MdUUhGUPQjjw_LTsVBnggN8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_154125306354396b8cacb1e.jpgRocket (Eruca sativa) MYN Rocket (Eruca sativa) often cultivated for its leaves as an additon to salads, nr Orvieto, Italy. 04/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/lady-orchid-orchis-purpurea https://photos.on-this.website/wm/DnMMciCf0pWP4Pp-UKmGckXHG-A=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_127820996762453bd8b58c9.jpgLady Orchid (Orchis purpurea) Lady Orchid (Orchis purpurea) a stately orchid widespread on limestione soils throughout Europe: rare in the UK. Preci, Umbria Italy. April 2019 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22681198.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/clWoaOB27pEYloju1-6l1wfBqkQ=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_58805814954396fc06e3d9.jpgSilene ciliata ssp graefferi Silene ciliata ssp graefferi in late summer (September )on the moraine of Mt Terminillo nr Terni,Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/apennine-late-spider-orchid-ophrys https://photos.on-this.website/wm/kUG-9HI2xaIzzS32G1RvreBm898=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_30089420562453bd30dd4a.jpgApennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica). Apennine Late Spider orchid (Ophrys dinarica also Ophrys fuciflora ssp dinarica). Plants found in the Central Apennines and als in Piemonte are characterised by longish petals, a lip with a prominent forward pointing apex and pointed side lobes. Preci, Sibillini, Umbria, Italy. May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377883.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/1AEVoHeSnw8biJPyB1ncXW3httI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_173800849362453bf94e0fb.jpgCoralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) Coralroot (Corallorhiza trifida) so called because of the shape of its rhizome and one of four species of European orchid considered to be predominantly saprophytic The others are Neottia nidus-avis, Epipogium aphyllum and Limodorum abortivum). It is a species of woodlands of pine and Spruce but is also found on dune land in Scotland in damper areas. The species is rare in the UK and has a circumboreal distribution in woodland mountain areas in in mainland Europe. Terminillo, Umbria Italy June 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/california-poppy-variety-eschscholzia-californica https://photos.on-this.website/wm/VTTg_MfVXytk9XVp4zdwZO5HzKg=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_10352851366244341d4195a.jpgCalifornia poppy variety (Eschscholzia californica) used for tests utilising the MicroMak 25mm proble lens California poppy variety (Eschscholzia californica) used for tests utilising the MicroMak 25mm proble lens which has astonishing depth of field and sharpness. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/small-leaved-elm-ulmus-minor https://photos.on-this.website/wm/xeljv6R9g3JMBvqaWc06xT54ZSo=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_213993754154396b46ec384.jpgSmall-leaved elm (Ulmus minor) Small-leaved elm (Ulmus minor) flowers appear in dense clusters before the leaves appear, hedgerow nr Orvieto, Italy.. 03/2012 (Paul HD) https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/late-spider-orchid-ophrys-fuciflora https://photos.on-this.website/wm/9yDWwN_cf3CCCukVDcA81dcGkAI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_144325933554636b3e78747.jpgLate Spider Orchid (Ophrys fuciflora) Late Spider Orchid (Ophrys fuciflora) a widespread Mediterranean species also found in Kent. nr Torrealfina, Orvieto, Umbria,, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/carrot-daucus-carota-ssp-sativus https://photos.on-this.website/wm/M5-0i7vH4dbuXgEz0TocTfdpB2k=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_163884297054396fafbcd64.jpgCarrot (Daucus carota ssp sativus) Carrot (Daucus carota ssp sativus) unusual shape&acirc;€&brvbar; Podere Montecucco. Orvieto, Umbria. Italy. August 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686998.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hw-30fSvvpiZc8YdX00RSUUBRBI=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_1520781334543a54b2b0178.jpgsouthern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€ southern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) &acirc;™€a large dragonfly frequent in S Europe. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy MYN October 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/the-nine-spotted-moth-amata https://photos.on-this.website/wm/_T3rrcwgBAduD1chdEqAmz9TeS4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_32014641262485e2a2b127.jpgThe nine-spotted moth (Amata phegea also Syntomis phegea) The nine-spotted moth (Amata phegea also Syntomis phegea) A species in the family Erebidae ("tiger moths"). chiefly found in southern Europe but also seen up to northern Germany, and in the east to Anatolia and the Caucasus,[ It does not breed in the United Kingdom, but it is a very rare immigrant. The species prefers drier areas, open ranges with shrubs and trees as well as open forests and warm, sunny slopes. Orvieto, Umbria, Italy June 2018 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/perforate-st-john039s-wort-hypericum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/GFF31AylCwpnFdSjX7B85rL7o9M=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_157812489054396f878c8bb.jpgPerforate St John&#039;s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) Perforate St John&#039;s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) MYN Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy July 2013 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/old-mans-beard-clematis-vitalba https://photos.on-this.website/wm/nowlwzIUXKGI7EiSzQ6fQn2R0v8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_166567429262447ad4ba0c2.jpgOld man's beard (Clematis vitalba) Old man's beard (Clematis vitalba) also known as traveller's joy is a climbing shrub of the family Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family) Clematis vitalba has branched, grooved stems, deciduous leaves, and scented greeny-white flowers with fluffy underlying sepals. The many fruits formed in each inflorescence have long silky appendages which, seen together, give the characteristic appearance of old man's beard. In Italy, the sprouts are harvested to make omelettes (called "vitalbini" in Tuscany, "visoni" in Veneto). Numerous moths have it as a larval food plant. Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria. September 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/pellitory-of-the-wall-parietaria https://photos.on-this.website/wm/YfqK1VljM1uFp2gQJoTe9r9AxVY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_195467927054396f9603592.jpgPellitory of the Wall (Parietaria officinalis) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Pellitory of the Wall (Parietaria officinalis) (MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22686944.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/Hz85d_aVhNW7uoYCL9_LyPoGQj4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_795423372543a4fcf01538.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22759448.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/vfM1RtF4MFC2d3wS-TMrgq-PHOs=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_113075910154443ae03340c.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981401.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hFEN4yCGgFjPY0Nm4Vx_7ZeTju8=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_5547271465465d044e1071.jpgTongue Orchid (Serapias lingua) Tongue Orchid (Serapias lingua) a widespread S. European species.Mt Argentario, Tuscany, Italy. April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/scarlet-pimpernel-anagallis-arvensis-myn https://photos.on-this.website/wm/TFHcTSiTZFqIjujpeVkJZYcEA9w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_123933874054396f8cf3a7a.jpgScarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto Scarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) MYN in the garden at Podere Montecucco, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/silver-washed-fritillary-argynnis-paphia https://photos.on-this.website/wm/ej2YL1gKs9RMED7I1ryN0fbj3FY=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_88648639762447bb27df6d.jpgSilver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia) ♀ Silver-Washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia) ♀ a large butterfly of woodland clearings,eggs are laid on violet species. Gran Sasso, Umbria, Italy July 2020 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22751195.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/MUEPFNuGoSwms-TI0FsrrIa5U7w=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_7422715485443c48c5df68.jpg https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo22981376.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/yXPKTArrZPejcQ9Fq2p8n6PgMKE=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_21466780735465cf528504a.jpgScarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) Scarce Serapias (Serapias neglecta) a species with low plants and large flowers showing considerable colour variation. Porto Ferraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy, March 2009 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/hybrid-ophrys-ophrys-passionis-x https://photos.on-this.website/wm/hmZfvvKD_F_ZXjZt7t-a_M3bK2Q=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_40833099254636bb904a1f.jpgHybrid Ophrys (Ophrys passionis x O archipelagi) Hybrid Ophrys (Ophrys passionis x O archipelagi) Monte Nero, Gargano , Puglia, Italy April 2008 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/elderflower-orchid-dactylorhiza-sambucina https://photos.on-this.website/wm/J4lCwhiiOymGKhwmy06JkYK1SrA=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_48587235624481ec95033.jpgElderflower Orchid (Dactylorhiza sambucina) Elderflower Orchid (Dactylorhiza sambucina) an orchid of high mountains occurring in both yellow and magenta varieties as well as intermediates. The name originates from a mistaken identity on the herbarium sheets of Reichenbach who mixed the species with Orchis pallens which has a slight elder scent. In Scandinavia the species is found at such lower levels…down to the coasts and is commonly called Adam & Eve (magenta and yellow respectively) Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo,, Italy, May 2021 https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/ophrys-fuciflora-late-spider-orchid https://photos.on-this.website/wm/rPZDCUoIjsWKZEAGoTg5qieKXRc=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_300502544546374f8b3010.jpgOphrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) Ophrys fuciflora (Late Spider Orchid) locally frequent on limestone grassland in S. Europe. this form is found in the Sibillini. Preci nr Norcia, Umbria Italy. May 2008. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/photo45377315.html https://photos.on-this.website/wm/2Lfgo6ImQaQEWkwdog0iyjFAzuw=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_376742282624434231eebc.jpgThe oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) The oak hawk (Marumba quercus ) shows a remarkable degree of camouflage when resting in dry oak leaves: one of a number of local hawkmoths caught using a MV light trap. Podere Montecucco, Umbria, Italy. https://www.paulharcourtdavies.com/amethyst-eryngo-eryngium-amethystinum https://photos.on-this.website/wm/IC9IhphGLuPf2GucZGGH6_qi4H4=/fwcb/1648912815/24278_149974915854396fd1093ef.jpgAmethyst Eryngo (Eryngium amethystinum) Amethyst Eryngo (Eryngium amethystinum) a common roadside plant in dry places. Mt terminillo, nr Terni, Italy. Sept 2013