The Warnham Butterfly Fields are an informal 20-acre butterfly reserve managed by a local community conservation group - Wild About Warnham, led by David Bridges (a BC Sussex branch member and former BC employee). The fields are located on the edge of Warnham Village, a couple of miles to the northwest of Horsham. This interesting site was once farmland but with some sensitive conservation management, it now offers a mix of open wildflower-rich grassland, scrub and regenerating Sallow - not unlike a mini-Knepp in some ways.
The butterfly list is extensive with 33 species having been recorded in recent years, but it is primarily important for Grizzled Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Brown Hairstreak, Silver-washed Fritillary and a large population of Purple Emperor. White Admiral and White-letter Hairstreak also turn up occasionally.
It is good for birds with breeding Yellowhammer, Garden Warbler and Nightingale.
Local volunteers undertake regular habitat management, and a programme of work parties has been arranged for 2026. The sessions are 10am to 1pm, or as much time as you can give.
January
17th (Saturday) and 26th (Monday)
February
1st (Sunday), 9th (Monday) and 21st (Saturday)
16th (Monday) 'Wilder Horsham' volunteers are coming for an all-day session (10am to 3pm), everyone is welcome. Anyone planning to stay for the whole day should bring some lunch and a drink.
March
2nd (Monday), 14th (Saturday) and 23rd (Monday)
Please do come along to some of these if you can as we want to keep improving the habitat for butterflies (and other wildlife) in Warnham and we need your help! The work parties are generally great fun (even in the rain - honest!) and we can usually guarantee, good company, some banter, fresh air and a piece of cake (and it is cheaper/better/more fun than going to the gym).
Sussex Butterfly Conservation branch members would be most welcome!
Please let the organisers know in advance if you plan to attend so they can ensure they have enough tools and cake. Further details, meeting place, etc are sent out nearer the time of each work party.
Contact: David Bridges email butterfly0@btinternet.com and mobile 078408 71755
