Flower of Scotland

Just seen a fabulous race with Hannah Miley winning the gold in the swimming medley and we've more exciting swimming and events to come. I do nt know how the Brownlea brothers managed to give such a good display of skill and strength in all that heat, amazing.

This hover fly which I think is Myathropa florea is most commonly seen in July and August. It favours' large umbel flowers' ( a cluster of flowers of nearly equal length from one stalk) and it seemed quite happy on this thistle as it shooed away smaller hoverflies.

I watched the opening of the Commonwealth Games last night. Still trying to decide what I thought of the beginning bit but the rest was very enjoyable especially Amy Macdonald and all the Scottie dogs in Harris tweed coats.

Clyde, the giant thistle, is the mascot for the games and was designed by 12 year old Beth Gilmour from Glasgow. She must be really proud to see how her original idea has turned out.

Here is the story of Clyde

A very hot and sunny day once the haar had lifted.

I'm also taking part in the #100DaysofNature by the Spring/Autumn watch site. Todays photo was a red admiral butterfly.