July 2020 Wildlife Survey on Edinburgh's Allotments

Click here to download the table of sightings

July was notable in that there seemed to be many fewer birds about, both in terms of species reported and their frequency. In all, 29 species were spotted (see table at link above). Many birds moult after breeding, so they could be hiding away, or perhaps there's a certain amount of dispersal after the nesting season. But Inverleith again had the most unusual sighting – a Long-eared Owl being mobbed by crows on the 16th. It is interesting that Oystercatchers were spotted over Craigentinny, Lady Road and Inverleith in July. Its not unknown to see these birds inland, but I've certainly noticed them myself over Lady Road much more frequently this year than in previous years. Where are they heading and where are they coming from??

As in April, 7 species of butterfly were recorded last month. But Orange Tips and Painted Lady were absent, while Meadow Brown and Speckled Wood made their appearance. Craigentinny also recorded Common Carder bees, White-tailed and Red-tailed bumblebees, hoverflies, common wasps, 7-Spot Ladybirds, Black ants and a possible Brimstone moth.

Thanks to Mike Anderson and Stewart Henderson for their reports – and a special mention to Fi Strathdee at Saughton Mains for some lovely insect photos – we sometimes forget that things like moths and flies are also important pollinators as well as being fascinating in their own right.

We are aiming to repeat the survey again in November, to get a picture of seasonal changes.

Chris McKinnell (Lady Road)

                                                  Marmalade Hover Fly

                                                  Plume Moth

                                                   Red Admiral                                 photos: Fi Strathdee