Flags Up

Another very warm day today, so we set out a little earlier than normal, before things got too hot, for a walk around Mapperley Reservoir.  Doing our best to avoid running in to the Hornet (Vespa crabro) which we encountered last time we ventured round the reservoir, we were rewarded with some beautiful view across the water on this still and warm morning.

A few Coots were picking their way around the lily pads and even they seemed uncharacteristically peaceful in the sunshine.

Growing and flowering in abundance around the water's edge were several large stands of Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus).  Their odd-looking flower spikes sticking out from the stems amid the grassy leaves are easy to overlook.

Heading for home after a short stop for a coffee by the reservoir, the Hogweed flowers (Heracleum sphondylium) caught my eye.  These stately plants are getting so tall in some places, that their flowers can be viewed from beneath and make a wonderful show against the blue sky.

Home again and a refreshing shower to remove the sweat, sun-cream and insect repellent!