Wednesday, 15 February 2012
Gatekeeper Butterfly
Scientific Name:
Pyronia tithonus
Also Known As:
Hedge brown
Wingspan (mm):
Male 37-43mm, female 42-48mm Description
The upperwings are predominantly orange in colour with a wide border of brown along the side of the wing that becomes narrower, but still very noticeable along the leading edge. There is also a single large black eye-spot with two small white dots on the forewing.
Distribution
The Gatekeeper is typically found throughout much of England and Wales, especially within the southern counties. It is widespread in southern Britain and its range has extended northwards in recent years. Its range is far more localized in southern Ireland.
Habitat
Known to favour shrubs as their main habitat, the Gatekeeper can also typically be seen in scrub, woods and glades.
Diet
Various grasses are used, with a preference for fine grasses such as bents, fescues, and meadow-grasses. Common Couch is also used. The full range of other species used is not known.
Status
UK Biodiversity Action Plan: not listed Butterfly Conservation priority: low European threat status: not threatened
Did You Know?
The Gatekeeper tends to show preference for yellow flowers, Ragwort being one of its favourites. Its flight is more hopping than smooth.