
Petley Wood, Photo: Mike Mullis
Recorded sightings in 2009: 2139
Recorded sightings in 2010: 1009
Status in Rother: Localised but common on damp and scrubby woodland rides. Widespread in Rother.
Habitat: Tall grassland is used, mainly in damp situations in partial shade on heavy soils where grasses are lush, especially in woodland rides and glades. The butterfly also occurs on commons, verges, and riverbanks, especially on clay soils. Coarser grasses are the preferred foodplants.
ID Tips: Dark brown butterfly with bright white border. The rings on the underside are unmistakable.
First sighting in Rother (2009): 11 June
Recorded by: Trevor Scott
First sighting in Rother (2010): 24 June
Recorded by: Katie Walker
UK Distribution trend: 16%
Ten year UK Population trend (1995-2004): 33%
Long term UK population trend: 373%