Country diary: Bright and bohemian, this moth could be a David Hockney | Paul Evans

Scarlet tiger moths were observed on the wing at an allotment in The Marches, Shropshire, taking advantage of sunny days and human activity. The scene described evokes a sense of continuity with the past, with jackdaws and rooks shadowing Soay/Hebridean crossbreed sheep grazing on the Old Oswestry hillfort, also known as Hen Ddinas. These sheep are noted to be similar to those farmed by the Iron Age Cornovii tribe, suggesting a historical echo of agricultural practices on this elevated landscape. The description highlights the visual contrast of black birds and sheep against green grass, underscoring the enduring presence of nature and historical land use in the area. The presence of these moths and the described natural and historical elements contribute to a rich tapestry of the local environment.