This small, rare butterfly is a UK BAP (Biodiversity Action Plan) Priority Species. Its greatest threat is loss of its heathland habitat. The males have blue upperwings, while the females have bronze upperwings, and both have pale, spotty underwings, usually with a couple of silver spots at the trailing edge of the underwing. The caterpillars eat young heather and have an extraordinary relationship with Lasius black ants, which protect the caterpillars in their nests in exchange for a form of honeydew exuded by the caterpillar.
We have a small colony of Silver-studded Blues on the heathland on our SSSI. This colony was believed to have been lost, but was rediscovered in July 2020. These butterflies only fly around 20-50m from their birthplace during their lifetime, so if their nest-site deteriorates, the colony often struggles to recolonise anywhere else. Thanks to the hard work of the Welly Gardens and Countryside team and pupils, our heathland is managed in such a way that allows Lasius black ants to flourish and young heather to sprout.
This damselfly is usually the first to be seen in spring, in April or even late March. Males are mostly red, with black tails. Females are also red and black, with varying amounts of black, but always more than the males.
his beautiful fritillary is one of Britain’s largest butterflies. Like many species, it declined during the twentieth century, but it is now making some encouraging recovery, particularly in southern England.
These stunning jewel-like beetles are members of the scarab family. The adults feed on pollen and nectar, and sometimes petals, particularly from roses, hence their name.
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.
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.
