Join us for a walk on Tuesday 4th August at Magdalen Hill Down near Winchester, guided by reserves officer Fiona Scully. Enjoy a leisurely amble (about 1 mile) over chalk downland that is managed by Butterfly Conservation. We anticipate seeing wildflowers and butterflies including the stunning Adonis Blue which breed on Horseshoe Vetch. Some of the paths are steep and uneven in a few places so sturdy footwear is recommended and close focus binoculars are handy.

Meet 10am up the track past the stone masons, off Alresford Road, Winchester, nearest postcode SO21 1HE. What3words///flask.truffles.hint.

What did we see?  The 46-hectare chalk downland reserve boasts an amazing 34 species of butterflies recorded there, making it a flagship site. We relished spotting the numerous Adonis Blue and Chalkhill Blue butterflies that shimmered with the sunlight in flight, although few settled for a closer viewing. Also seen were Small Heath, Common Blue, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Green-veined white, Small white, Clouded Yellow, Painted Lady, Holly Blue and Treble-bar moth. Overhead there were Kestral and Red Kite, whilst some noticed Grass snake and Common Lizard before they vanished into the vegetation. A lovely walk in nature with enthusiastic Fiona.