In Nature Notes last week I expressed concern over the negative effect that the wettest April on record could have on bird's nesting seasons with insects scarce and waders nests being washed away in the floods.

What a complete contrast to last year's benign spring when fledglings got off to a flying start.

Plenty of warm sunshine is even more crucial for the welfare of spring butterflies that require bright days to fly,mate and lay eggs.

Being cold-blooded they cannot perform in cool sunless weather. For non-hibernated species including orange-tips, holly blues(pictured) and whites, individual life spans only last for a maximum of two weeks so available opportunities are limited when they are non-active for days at a time.

Species that hibernated, such as brimstones, tortoiseshells, peacocks, commas and red admirals live longer so can cope better.

For example, the brimstone, our longest-lived species at almost a year will be on the wing again from March until June so there should be ample time available to find a mate and lay eggs.

The 'old wives tale' that believes butterflies only live for a day is a myth.

Walking in a bluebell wood on May 1, the afternoon was initially dull following another night of heavy rain.

Then suddenly, the sun blazed forth and within five minutes birdsong increased and orange-tip and holly blue butterflies, having absorbed welcome warmth, appeared to flirt among the bluebells and make the most of a rare sunny interval.