What's with the flies?

Lots of the flying basterds on my ride yesterday being all kamikaze on my person especially my face.
Also I don’t ever remember them being such an issue before.
Peaks top of Ringinglow/Burbage area for the entomologists.

Went for a crap yesterday and there was a massive bluebottle buzzing around the bathroom. Most disconcerting.

Yep it’s almost like we’ve got a swarm thing going on near the river I ride along. THink it’s probably to do with the recent rain etc.

Funny though as I spotted the lack of nettles and the ferns seem to be receading too.
Bit odd this early in the season, normally I’m getting stung right up until Nov down here.

it hasn’t rained properly for ages.

lots of thirsty sheep – among other things.

some dead sheep – among other things…

flies.

(it’s a bit of a guess, but i’ve seen loads of dead sheep recently)