The IUCN conservation status of this large fritillary has, sadly, recently been upgraded to Near Threatened, and it is scarce and declining in this region. Indeed, the specimen pictured is the only one recorded within a 10km radius in 2020. They have been seen a couple of times in the small area of meadow on our nature reserve. They prefer flower-rich grasslands with scrub, and the caterpillar eats species of violet. The Welly Gardens and Countryside team’s careful management of these areas allows plenty of flowers, including violets, to flourish.
This magnificent beetle is Britain’s largest and is, sadly, quite scarce now. The male’s huge ‘antlers’ are in fact overgrown mandibles (jaws) for courtship display and are generally too large and unwieldy for the beetle to be able to bite with them.
This stunning moth resembles the colours of its caterpillars’ favourite foodplants, willow herbs, and can sometimes be seen resting among the foliage of these plants during the day in early summer.
The demoiselles are relatively large damselflies and have a graceful flight like that of a butterfly. They are particularly sensitive to pollution, so their presence here is very encouraging.
This dragonfly prefers a habitat with water and acid peat, such as our SSSI, where they can be seen on the wing throughout the summer.
Keep up to date with the nature at Wellington. We will bring you all things species and habitats, keeping you informed on the latest about Welly’s Wildlife.
Keep up to date with the nature at Wellington. We will bring you all things species and habitats, keeping you informed on the latest about Welly’s Wildlife.
Keep up to date with the nature at Wellington. We will bring you all things species and habitats, keeping you informed on the latest about Welly’s Wildlife.
