"A few butterflies are on the wing, among them the seldom-seen brown hairstreak. And to my delight we encountered one, my first ever, down low on some bramble. A rare sight indeed."

Some have been quick to take aim at nature restoration for causing this summer's wildfires, but where should we really be placing the blame?

The hot summer has seen lots of invertebrates on the wing, but what is the impact of heatwaves and drought?

"One lucky worker, with just the right aroma, found himself with three-quarters of a Purple Emperor in his hand. This beautiful beast was spotted a couple of weeks later, clearly managing…

Take a closer look this month for a chance to spot insects in disguise, baby birds, and the dragonfly other dragonflies fear!

"The fences are stronger, the paths tidier, and the streams a little better understood. Each volunteer has played their part, bringing their own skills and enthusiasm to the task."

With over 80 nature reserves across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire to choose from, which are the best to visit this month?

In the heat of summer, spend time in woodland shade looking out for butterflies, spot vivid wildflowers among the grassland, and enjoy the sound of swifts in our streets.

With over 80 nature reserves across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire to choose from, which are the best to visit this month?

As the year warms up, look out for summer butterflies and beetles on the wing, vibrant wildflower meadows, and our more elusive nocturnal wildlife…