Holtspur Bottom Butterfly Reserve

Introduction History Management What you might see Directions How you could help Reserve Leaflet

What you might see in July and August

March/April   May/June
Depending on the weather, July and August are probably the best months to visit the reserve, at least in terms of the sheer number of butterflies you are likely to see.
The Chalk Hill Blue is one of the success stories of the Holtspur Bottom reserve. After being absent from Holtspur Valley for many years, it re-established itself in 2011. July is the best time of year to see this beautiful butterfly.
As well as the Chalk Hill Blue, you are likely to see Skippers, Gatekeeper, Marbled White, Ringlet and Meadow Brown in profusion in our meadows. Moving from July into August, the second broods of Brimstone, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell will be putting in an appearace. August should also see the second brood of the Small Blue. You may even be lucky eough to see the elusive Purple Hairstreak (look in the Oak trees at the far end of the reserve by the footpath for these). Painted Lady and Clouded Yellow may also be seen, but as these are immigrants from the continent they are not guaranteed.
At this time of year you are likely to see all the day-flying moths that occur on the reserve. These are Mother Shipton, Six-spot Burnet, Burnet Companion, Cinnabar, Mint Moth, Brimstone Moth, Silver Y, Common Carpet, Angle Shades, Small Magpie, Treble-bar and Bloodvein.
The following butterflies are likely to be seen during July and August:
Ringlet Meadow Brown Gatekeeper Marbled White Purple Hairstreak Chalk Hill Blue