Butterfly Conservation
saving butterflies, moths and our environment
Our events are a great way to see butterflies, learn about them, and visit some wonderful places and see many different habitats across Sussex. >We've got another excellent selection of butterfly field events lined up for you this year, all run by volunteers who are passionate about the wonderful butterflies that Sussex has to offer.
Most of our events are free and open to all, although there is a suggested donation of £2 to help us with our work if you are not a member of Butterfly Conservation. Please check the details carefully as some events are exclusively for members or require pre-booking. For further information, please contact Helen Corrigan at events@sussex-butterflies.org.uk.
Please wear stout footwear to outdoor events and appropriate clothes for the weather conditions.
- Events that are suitable for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.
- Events that are suitable to bring dogs along to, but they must be on a lead.
Transport: If you need or can offer a lift to any of our events please email the field trip organiser who will attempt to put you in touch with each other to reduce our carbon footprint! Public transport may be available to some events – try www.travelinesoutheast.org.uk for information.
Future field trips: If you have any ideas for future trips or would like to lead one to your favourite site the field trip organiser would like to hear from you!
Saturday, 11th May 10:00 to 13:00
Suitable for: 
Leader: Colin Gibbs 07540 492851 sxbctreasurer@outlook.com
Location: Hargate Forest
Grid Reference: TQ 57131 37611
Distance: 2.5km
Meeting place: Broadwater Down, Tunbridge Wells. Just off the A26 Eridge Road at the entrance to the forest next to the Woodland Trust sign (about 60m up the road from the A26 junction)
Terrain: Gently undulating woodland, heath and grassland paths. Most tracks are wide and fairly easy going for all
Target species: Grizzled Skipper & Dingy Skipper
Open to all – beginners welcome. Children and families especially welcome. Dogs on leads. We hope to encounter a good range of springtime species during a leisurely walk through this lovely forest near the Kent border. Hargate Forest is a Woodland Trust reserve and is a strong-hold of the Grizzled Skipper and Dingy Skipper - both high priority species for conservation
Nearby bus stops for buses 228, 229, 28, 29, 29X, U19, 786 (all within 100m). Nearest train station is Tunbridge Wells (2km away). Parking on roadside on Broadwater Down
Friday, 17th May 9:00pm to 11:30pm
Suitable for: 
Leader: Jonathan Crawford & Michael Blencowe 07799068570 jc@jcrawford.uk
Location: Deep Dene, Wilmington
Grid Reference: TQ 54129 03037
Distance: 0 miles
Meeting place: Meet at Wilmington by the Giants Rest. Transport will available to Deep Dene (BN26 5SQ, TQ 54633 04786)
Terrain: Uneven ground. Steep hillside. Limited visibility.
Target species: Grayling
The chalk Grayling is arguably Sussex' rarest butterfly. In recent years its numbers have declined and now it appears to be close to extinction. In 2019 we are planning an extensive study of Deep Dene to find out why the Grayling has hung on there and nowhere else. This will begin with a caterpillar survey. We are looking to recruit a dozen or more volunteers to take help us find out where the nocturnal Grayling caterpillars are and what they are feeding on. We will be returning to the site the following day to study the soil and botanical properties of the places where caterpillars were found and compare them to areas where they were not. You don't need any special skills, just a torch and the desire to do something that matters.
This event is weather dependent and may be moved to a different date if rain is forecast. Please register here if you would like to attend.
Saturday, 18th May 10:30 to 14:30
Suitable for:
Leader: Colin Gibbs 07540 492851 sxbctreasurer@outlook.com
Location: Malling Down, Lewes
Grid Reference: TQ 42311 10604
Distance: 1.5km (Part 1) - 3km (Parts 1 & 2)
Meeting place: Entrance to Wheatsheaf Gardens, just off Malling Street (A26) Lewes. Down from Pets Corner and almost opposite the petrol station
Terrain: Part 1 is a relatively steady walk suitable for most (but not wheelchair accessible). Part 2 has very steep slopes on rough, uneven ground and is not suitable for those with mobility restrictions.
Target species: Adonis Blue, Wall Brown, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Small Copper, Small Heath
Open to all – beginners welcome. Children and families especially welcome but please note that in part 2, the terrain is a little tricky in places and it's a reasonably strenuous walk. Dogs on leads due to grazing sheep on the reserve. We are aiming to see the Magnificent Seven but with luck and some enthusiasm we may see a few more! For the last couple of years, we’ve been very lucky with the weather and have managed to see loads more butterflies along the route and a magnificent view of a substantial part of Sussex from the top of the down, however it may be worth shoving a waterproof in the bottom of the bag – just in case… This year we have decided to run the Magnificent Seven walk in two parts. Please feel free to attend for just part 1 or for parts 1 & 2 if you prefer. Part 1 is a pretty relaxed amble along the valley bottom. We should see most species during this part of the walk, so it’s an easy way to see quite a lot in a short space of time. For those more adventurous souls, we will then continue to part 2, which involves a very steep climb up to the top of Malling Down, a tour around the chalk quarries, then a steep descent back to the start point. We’ve calculated that the total walk burns around 400-500 calories, so either enjoy butterflies and weight loss or butterflies and a couple of mars bars – take your pick! In previous years we have found quite a few nettles and brambles – shorts / skirts only for the brave! Also, as this is an area grazed by sheep, there is a risk of ticks.
Good for public transport (buses 122,125,132,143,A5,29). Nearest parking – Harveys Way (TQ 42061 10320), 5 – 10 minute walk away but crossing a busy road so please take care and leave a bit of extra time to arrive
Saturday, 8th June 20:30 to 09:00 Sunday
Suitable for:
Leader: Bob Foreman 07769652528 bobforeman@sussexwt.org.uk
Location: Rowland Wood
Grid Reference: TQ515147
Distance: n/a
Meeting place: Reserve main gate
Terrain: Uneven and possibly muddy depending on weather conditions. Waterproof footwear necessary for participation in torch-searches of ponds.
Target species: All moth species
Due to unforeseen circumstances (and the terrible weather) this event has had to be postponed. It will take place at some future date to be arranged. In partnership with the Sussex Amphibian and Reptile Group with Fiona Baker - County Recorder for Herpetofauna. Join Bob and Fiona torching for Great Crested Newts and setting the moth trap on Saturday evening followed by opening the traps and checking for reptiles on Sunday morning.
Saturday, 15th June 14.30 to 16.30
Suitable for:
Leader: David Cook & Jamie Burston 07974 212150 david.cook23@live.com
Location: Ditchling Common Country Park
Grid Reference: TQ 337180
Distance: <1 km
Meeting place: Meet in the main Car Park
Terrain: Flat with accessible paths
Target species: Black Hairstreak but also possible: Purple Hairstreak, Silver-washed Fritillary, White Admiral, Purple Emperor, Dark Green Fritillary and other common species.
A new event for Sussex. This colony first found in late June 2017 has proven to be well established and widespread around the Ditchling Common Country Park with exceptional numbers seen in 2018. If you've not seen them before, then here's your chance. To avoid congestion please email me to book your choice of event time.
Saturday, 15th June 10.30 to 12.30
Suitable for:
Leader: David Cook & Jamie Burston 07974 212150 david.cook23@live.com
Location: Ditchling Common Country Park
Grid Reference: TQ 337180
Distance: <1 km
Meeting place: Meet in the main Car Park
Terrain: Flat with accessible paths
Target species: Black Hairstreak but also possible: Purple Hairstreak, Silver-washed Fritillary, White Admiral, Purple Emperor, Dark Green Fritillary and other common species.
A new event for Sussex. This colony first found in late June 2017 has proven to be well established and widespread around the Ditchling Common Country Park with exceptional numbers seen in 2018. If you've not seen them before, then here's your chance. To avoid congestion please email me to book your choice of event time.
Sunday, 16th June 14.30 to 16.30
Suitable for:
Leader: David Cook & Jamie Burston 07974 212150 david.cook23@live.com
Location: Ditchling Common Country Park
Grid Reference: TQ 337180
Distance: <1 km
Meeting place: Meet in the main Car Park
Terrain: Flat with accessible paths
Target species: Black Hairstreak but also possible: Purple Hairstreak, Silver-washed Fritillary, White Admiral, Purple Emperor, Dark Green Fritillary and other common species.
A new event for Sussex. This colony first found in late June 2017 has proven to be well established and widespread around the Ditchling Common Country Park with exceptional numbers seen in 2018. If you've not seen them before, then here's your chance. To avoid congestion please email me to book your choice of event time.
Sunday, 16th June 10.30 to 12.30
Suitable for:
Leader: David Cook & Jamie Burston 07974 212150 david.cook23@live.com
Location: Ditchling Common Country Park
Grid Reference: TQ 337180
Distance: <1 km
Meeting place: Meet in the main Car Park
Terrain: Flat with accessible paths
Target species: Black Hairstreak but also possible: Purple Hairstreak, Silver-washed Fritillary, White Admiral, Purple Emperor, Dark Green Fritillary and other common species.
A new event for Sussex. This colony first found in late June 2017 has proven to be well established and widespread around the Ditchling Common Country Park with exceptional numbers seen in 2018. If you've not seen them before, then here's your chance. To avoid congestion please email me to book your choice of event time.
Saturday, 29th June 10:30 to 13:30
Suitable for:
Leader: Colin Knight 07704 830104 knightct@yahoo.com
Location: Iping and Stedham Commons
Grid Reference: SU85222200
Distance: <2.7 miles
Meeting place: Meet at the Car park at SU85222200. Directions: 2.7 miles west from Midhurst on A272, turn left (south) on to Elsted Road. Car park is 250m on the right. Distance: 4km (2.75 mile) walk.
Terrain: Mostly flat and easy going.
Target species: Silver-studded Blue and Common Heath moth
Additional info about the commons: https://sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/visit/iping-stedham-commons
Find out about these heathland butterflies and moths on this walk around these two special Sussex lowland heath nature reserve sites. All are welcome and do bring a picnic lunch.
Saturday, 20th July 10:am to 3:30pm
Suitable for:
Leader: Jonathan Crawford 07799068570 jc@jcrawford.uk
Location: Deep Dene, Wilmington
Grid Reference: TQ 54129 03037
Distance: 0 miles
Meeting place: Make your own way to Deep Dene. Limited parking TQ 53193 03269.
Terrain: Uneven ground. Steep hillside.
Target species: Grayling
The chalk Grayling is arguably Sussex' rarest butterfly. In recent years its numbers have declined and now it appears to be close to extinction. In 2019 we are planning an extensive study of Deep Dene to find out why the Grayling has hung on there and nowhere else. In July we will be recruiting volunteers to help take part in what is hoped will be the most extensive study of a site ever undertaken by the branch. Potential volunteers are invited to come along to the Training day where they will be shown how to locate Grayling, distinguish between Male and Female Grayling, take ground temperatures, collect soil samples, record wind speeds and identify the commonest local flora.
This is a drop in event, so arrive at a time that suits you. Please register here if you wish to attend this event.
Sunday, 21st July 10.30am to 12.30pm
Suitable for:
Leader: Brig Clay and Geoff Stevens 01273 603892 dbsgms@gmail.com
Location: Bevendean Down Local Nature Reserve
Grid Reference: TQ33918 06524
Distance: 1 1/2 miles
Meeting place: Corner of Heath Hill Avenue and Norwich Drive, Lower Bevendean, Brighton. Half hourly bus service 48 stops at Bevendean School just near meeting place.
Terrain: Chalk grassland, some steep slopes.
Target species: Chalkhill blue, small blue, common blue, skippers, marbled white, dark green fritillary and day flying moths.
Ancient chalk grassland site rich in flowers and butterflies. A south facing valley easily accessible at the north east edge of Brighton.
Dogs on leads please.
Saturday, 27th July 10.00 to 14.00
Suitable for:
Leader: Steve Teale / Dave Harris 01273 516716 / 01273 515762 clicka15@ymail.com / d.harris8@btinternet.com
Location: Glynde Village
Grid Reference: TQ45660899
Distance: 4 to 5 miles
Meeting place: Outside Glynde Village Stores and Post Office at Ranscombe Lane / Lacy`s Hill.
Terrain: Steep and often rough underfoot. Sturdy shoes required.
Target species: Exploring for summer moths and butterflies
Bring lunch and something to drink.
Saturday, 24th August 10.00 a.m to 2.00 p.m ( or as you feel fit )
Suitable for:
Leader: Richard Roebuck 07973751001 richard@roebuckonline.co.uk
Location: Rifle Range Steyning , West Sussex
Grid Reference: TQ17331129
Distance: about 2KM
Meeting place: Meet at Steyning Bowling Green , on the junction of Charlton Street and Mill Road in Steyning BN44 3LN
Terrain: Gentle Grassland Slopes some styles in to the fenced protected area for the more adventurous
Target species: Brown Hairstreak
Primarily to see the Female Brown Hairstreak Learn about the Life cycle and where to find the eggs to help you locate them near you
Brown Hairstreak activity is best with Sunny warm and wind free conditions . Should you wish to attend and especially if planning your visit whilst travelling a long distance please check the weather forecast !!! One season it rained all day - we saw nothing but we had a good laugh nevertheless ,so in August the weather can be unpredictable
Sunday, 25th August 10.30 to 12.30
Suitable for:
Leader: Jamie Burston 07858072547 storm_of_elements@hotmail.com
Location: Green Ridge (Brighton & Hove)
Grid Reference: TQ2862508070
Distance: Approx. 2 km
Meeting place: Meeting at (TQ2862508070) ~ on the green near the Hill Top café at the top of Dyke Road Avenue. Parking: Green Ridge/Millcroft/Windmill Drive/Mill Rise. Bus: No. 27 – direction Westdene - stop Tongdean Lane. Pedestrian access to the Ridge is from: Dyke Road Avenue or Green Ridge via a twitten between Nos.41&43 or at the junction at Windmill Drive/Mill Rise.
Terrain: Flat and gently sloping, grass cut paths.
Target species: A general selection of late summer species which is likely to include: Common Blue, Small Copper, Brown Argus, Small Heath, Wall, Brown Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Speckled Wood and other grassland species.
Green Ridge, runs from the top of Dyke Road Avenue along Mill Road through Coney Wood beyond Patcham Windmill down to Patcham Place. A mixture of open grassland, hedgerow and woodland. www.keeptheridgegreen.com
Pre-walk health and safety advice: The site is fairly open with limited shade, please bring refreshments with you, wearing a hat and sun cream/skin protection wouldn't go a miss either. There is the risk of ticks, long trousers would be advised.
Saturday, 23rd November 1.30 to 4.30
Suitable for:
Leader: Jess Price chairsussexbc@outlook.com
Location: Cyprus Hall, Cyprus Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 8DX
Meeting place: There is a public car park just behind the building (Cyprus Road Car Park) or the hall is a 5 minute walk from Burgess Hill station.
Guest speaker is Peter Eeles, author of Life Cycles of British & Irish Butterflies. Peter will have copies of his newly publish books available to sell at the pre-publication price and will be followed by Michael Blencowe.
There will be a raffle.
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