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[Lincs Yellowbelly]

Hi all,

Just seen a huge butterfly in the garden, didn't get a great view but it was large, certainly bigger than anything i've seen in the UK, probably around 100mm wingspan, it was Black with what seemed like a white stripe going vertically down each wing It was in the garden for a few seconds before leaving, it was a very strong flyer.

Can anybody help?

[Lincs Yellowbelly]

Oh and shape wise it was a similar shape to the Admiral type shape

[GuyF]

I'm not sure whether they would be in your area, and both are a bit smaller than the size you mention, but White Admiral and Purple Emperor would both match the description. Otherwise it may be an escape from a butterfly house
Guy

[ChrisJB]

My first thought was white admiral too, though like Guy said, smaller than you describe. They are found in south Lincs for sure, in the Bardney Limewoods area and are a species moving north. Chambers Farm Wood is a good site for them (and for many other great butterfly species). They are lovely graceful flyers, with good glides.

Regards, Chris

[Lincs Yellowbelly]

I'm 100% sure it was neither a White Admiral or Purple Emperor as the white was much more defined. I'm now thinking due to the size it was either an escapee from a collection or more likely a Camberwell Beauty which do pop up on the east coast each year, and i'm right on the coast