White-letter Hairstreaks at Boilton Wood, Preston

August 25-30. 2013:

In contrast to last year, White-letter Hairstreaks (Satyrium w-album) have been seen frequently in at least two places in these woods. Individual colonies are likely to be small but there are probably several of them scattered over the area.

 



 

The butterflies are most visible when they come down from the trees above (elms being the food plant) for nectar on flowers below; thistles and brambles seem to be their preferred choice. Often when feeding, they will stay on a single flower for a long time and become engrossed. They can then be approached closely.