Swallow

I thought I knew what a swallow looks like, particularly when swooping low in summer to catch midges or flying high overhead, these two motions often being taken to forecast the weather. Yet I never realised what an amazing red patch it has and wonder how much else I am missing in the common sights around us every day.

Cyril Centipede solves his commuting problem

No more travelling on a crowded tube for Cyril.

AUTUMN INSTINCT

 

As soon as the weather turns colder I start hoarding not nuts or acorns but jams, chutneys - and socks. There is nothing so comforting as a drawer full of new fluffy socks when winter looms and threatens.

LADYBIRD

From the back a ladybird looks pretty and harmless but from the front ...

it is a terrifying monster, enough to make any aphid's little green knees tremble with fear.

...

GREAT TIT

When I told my partner I had painted this particular bird an expression of bewilderment passed over his face.

Heartsease

 

This simple flower has a choice of names: the Latin Viola tricolor as well as the more endearing Cats'-faces and Love in Idleness. I wonder why the folk terms are so varied and whether or not they say something about different localities. Perhaps, somewhere, love is perceived as being possible only in leisure moments! Somewhere else people feel the need for solace after an unhappy affair whereas others are more concerned with their pets.

Happiness for all

There are not many news items that can - and perhaps should - make everyone feel cheerful. Yet here is one that does just that. The weather this year has been particularly favourable for butterflies and there is a large increase in their numbers. The gorgeous Red Admiral is now plentiful and lifts the heart with its colour and lively flight.