Today, our amble was at Tourmakeady Woods in County Mayo. It is a lovely woodland walk. We took the path along the River Glensaul, then followed the red walk loop that goes around the lake, past Tourmakeady Lodge.
The sun was shining and there were lots of butterflies about, but the stars were the Silver-washed fritillary, of which we saw seven. These large butterflies are often seen in deciduous woodland. The caterpillars feed on violets.
Silver-washed fritillary, hiding in the falling leaves
The woodland, was one of sixteen chosen to be part of the People’s Millennium Woods to commemorate the new century. The project involved the planting of 1.3 million native Irish trees.
Tourmakeady Woods
Not having been there before, and only reading up on the site on our return, I see that we missed what is supposed to be a lovely waterfall which was on another path than the one we took!! Never mind, something to see the next time we visit.
Peacock, determined not to show it’s beautiful colours!
Murtagh's Meadow 
As we have lots of violets, we have tons of fritillaries flitting about the gardens. Gladdens the heart to see them. 🙂 I love that they planted 1.3 million native trees – what a gift to future generations!
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How lovely to have fritillaries in your garden:)
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