An Early Sighting

Earliest and latest sightings of butterflies are always recorded at the reserve however, none have ever been recorded as early as this one; a beautiful Peacock butterfly was found fluttering amongst the frozen leaves on the ground close to the wetland only yesterday! The adults of this species hibernate over winter, usually in dark spaces like inside sheds and holes in trees. Folding their wings up to reveal the dull side allows them to blend in with their surroundings and rest undisturbed. 

The earliest record of one at Foxglove prior to this was on the 6th February 2009. However, in 1998, on the 30th January one was recorded on the Catterick Training Area. Butterflies make a good “indicator species” because they are very sensitive to change so very quickly show when something has altered to do with their habitat or the weather, often before other more adaptable species react. To find out more about how to get involved with butterfly recording visit the Butterfly Conservation website.