Sussex Branch

Butterfly Species in Sussex

Description

Not only is this species relatively uncommon but it is also easily over-looked. Against the backdrop of a Hazel leaf the territorial male is extremely well camouflaged. It lives in small colonies in a range of habitats including sunny, sheltered, woodland rides, hedgerows, and chalk downland. Some colonies can be very substantial, and at Chantry Hill, a daily count of more than 100, may be recorded. With high densities, and Hazel bushes in short supply, the males end up very close to each other and this results in endless skirmishing, with 4-5 individuals in a single dog-fight not unusual.

The first adults emerge in the first half of April and reach a peak from mid-May to mid-June, with a few surviving into early July.

Where to find

This species stronghold is the South Downs between the Arun Valley and Eastbourne. Colonies are generally quite small, but Chantry Hill and Devils Dyke can sometimes have populations exceeding one hundred individuals.

Image gallery

Territorial male Green Hairstreak – photo by David Cook

The hairstreak is limited to the hindwing – photo by David Cook

The hairstreak is even more limited, to just two white dashes – photo by David Cook

Female nectaring on Birdsfoot Trefoil – photo by Martin Kalaher

Egg-laying on Birdsfoot Trefoil

Egg-laying on Betony

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More information

Butterfly Conservation Green Hairstreak