Butterfly Conservation - saving butterflies, moths and the environment
Butterfly Conservation
40 years of saving butterflies, moths and our environment
   Cambridgeshire and Essex Branch

SIGHTINGS 2024

Please send us your butterfly sightings for inclusion on this page.

Other years' Sightings:

2024  2023  2022  2021  2020  2019  2018  2017  2016  2015  2014  2013  2012  2011  2010  2009  2008  2007  2006  

First Sightings 2024

 Red Admiral 21st Jan Peacock 22nd Jan
 Brimstone 25th Jan Small Tortoiseshell 2nd Feb
 Comma 12th Feb Small White 14th Mar
 Speckled Wood 14th Mar Orange-Tip 17th Mar
 Green-veined White 24th Mar Large White 26th Mar
 Holly Blue 2nd Apr Painted Lady 8th Apr
 Green Hairstreak 11th Apr Wall 13th Apr
 Grizzled Skipper 30th Apr Small Copper 30th Apr
 Dingy Skipper 5th May Small Heath 5th May
 Brown Argus 8th May Common Blue 12th May
 Small Blue 17th May Adonis Blue 19th May
 Large Skipper 19th May Meadow Brown 26th May
 Black Hairstreak 29th May Heath Fritillary 3rd Jun
 Marbled White 5th Jun Clouded Yellow 6th Jun
 White-letter Hairstreak 7th Jun Ringlet 13th Jun
 White Admiral 13th Jun Silver-washed Fritillary 17th Jun
 Dark Green Fritillary 19th Jun Essex Skipper 21st Jun
 Small Skipper 22nd Jun Purple Hairstreak 23rd Jun
 Purple Emperor 24th Jun Gatekeeper 30th Jun
 Chalk Hill Blue 4th Jul Brown Hairstreak 14th Jul

To best view photos on this page, JavaScript should be enabled. See also the complete gallery of photos for 2024

We do not post Hummingbird hawkmoth (or other moths) records on this sightings page. Butterfly Conservation UK records sightings of migrant moths centrally at migrant watch

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
July 2024
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
24thTerling (TL769142)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex SkipperDavid LazarusFirst Painted Lady seen since 11th April, nectaring on Knapweed Centaura nigra - only my 3rd of the year.
24thHatfield Forest (TL5321)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondSingle male on territory mid afternoon.
24thHatfield Forest (TL5319)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondSingle males on territory at Lodge cottage and Central.
21stRamsey Marsh (TL944060)Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Green-veined White, Wall, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Brown Argus, Small CopperRob Smithgreat transect - Small Skipper 5, Essex Skipper 4, S/E Skipper 29, Small White 27, Green-veined White 15, Small Copper 2, Brown Argus 2, Red Admiral 2, Peacock 8, Wall Brown 6 (2f, 4m), Marbled White 34, Gatekeeper 104, Meadow Brown 44, Small Heath 6. moths: 6-spot Burnet 2, Silver Y 5
21stPaxton Pits (TL195629)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Large White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve BindingPaxton Pits Dragonfly and Butterfly Day.
Route B. (50+)Gate, inc pair in cop.(5)PCock.
(6)RedAD. (30+) MedBrn.(30+)Sm Skip, inc two pairs in cop.(1) Essex Skip.(3)LrgWht inc pair in cop.
(3)Comma.(4)BrnArg.(1m+1fm)ComBlue.(4)Ringlet.
(1)SpecW. Over the two routes there were lots of UN ID Whites (30+) at leased.
21stPaxton Pits (TL195629)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Large White, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Purple HairstreakSteve BindingPaxton Pits Dragonfly and Butterfly
Day. Route A. (6)PCock.(5)RedAD.
(10+)Gate inc pair in cop.(2)Sm Skip.
(4/5)MedBrn.(4)Comma.(6)GVWht.
(2/3)Ringlet.(3)PurpHS.(LrgWht)
inc pair in cop. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
21stManor Farm Wood, Rampton (TL433068)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Large White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Purple HairstreakDavid BradleyBeen checking this site each year since I discovered Purple and White-letter Hairstreak here in 2022. Not seen WLHS this year, but finally picked up a handful of Purples on an oak overlooking the Cottenham Lode, about 50m from the Rampton road bridge.
21stHoughton Meadows (TL293717)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakJeremy MilneSmall Skipper 5, Essex Skipper 1, Brimstone 1, Large White 5, Green-veined White 9, Purple Hairstreak 1, Red Admiral 8, Peacock 8, Comma 4, Marbled White 3, Gatekeeper 22, Meadow Brown 60, Small Heath 3, Ringlet 4
21stHatfield Forest (TL5318)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondSingle male at a secondary territory near the southern Sallows mid afternoon.
21stDitton Park Wood (TL666571)Comma, Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Gatekeeper, Large SkipperNeil DickinsonSingle purple emperor (male?) seen about 4pm flying from tall oak tree across the open area diagonally across from the “shed” three quarters of the way up the main track that leads from the road and parking area.
21stCM75XT (TL757325)Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large WhiteDuncan Seymour-FaireyFirst sighting of a Silver Washed Fritilary in this location.
21stBelfairs/great hadleigh wooComma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Purple HairstreakSteve Day
20thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, GatekeeperAnthony HareMarbled white 3,Gatekeeper 34,Silver-washed Fritillary 1(flew over a small area of meadow to get from one copse to another) Large white 3,Small Heath 2,Meadow brown 61. Plus 18 of the golden skippers i suspect a mix of Essex & Small but were on the wing constantly.
20thLitlington, South Cambs (TL311428)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Meadow Brown, GatekeeperPhillip HastingsMarked uptick in garden sightings over last 2-3 days after only seeing a few L & S Whites over last couple of months but species/overall numbers still well down on this time last year.
3-4 x Meadow Brown, mainly feeding on Wild Marjoram (photo)
2-3 x Large White
2-3 x Small White
2 x Peacock (photo)
2 x Red Admiral (photo)
1 x Gatekeeper
1 x Comma
Also 1 Small Tortoiseshell seen yesterday but not today. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
20thLangdon Hills (EWT Willow Park & Mark's Hill & LinComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex Skipper, Holly BlueAndrew Cox
20thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)Comma, Small White, Large White, GatekeeperAnthony HareGatekeeper 8,Comma 1,Small white 3,Large white 3.
20thHatfield Forest (TL5218)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondA single male on territory over large Ash trees at the west end of Wall wood.
20thFriday WoodComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperAndy GoodeyA peculiarly quiet day for butterfly numbers and none of the’big boys’ save for a single Silver-washed Fritillary. Grass species in low numbers
20thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Holly Blue, Common BlueBrian GoodeyC3, P1, RA4, LW2, GW3, SWd21, MB6, G5, HB6, CB2.
19thHatfield Forest (TL529207)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakDavid Lazarus1 female Purple Emperor puddling for over 20 minutes Hangman's Coppice Western Boundary ride nr. gate 13; another female north end of ride through Collin's Coppice; with another possible fly past same ride, plus 4 other possible sightings Nobby's Ride; good numbers of Silver-washed Fritillary throughout all rides [43]; ride composition Ringlet 300+, Meadow Brown 150+, Gatekeeper 100+; Large Skipper 50+; Marbled White 30+; Green-veined White 30+; Large white 20+ with 20+ of Essex/Small skipper & 3 low flying Purple Hairstreak (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
19thHadleigh Great WoodComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Purple HairstreakDJ Sullivan10:30-15:45 (hot, clear after early haze): 4-5 White Admiral (inc. single descending to puddle edge); 2 Brimstone (m & f); 4 Purple Hairstreak (inc. singles in low vegetation and grassy bank along main butterfly ride).
1 Skipper (Small or Essex) in flight.
1 probable Silver-washed Fritillary in distant flight.
19thHOME GARDEN WITHAMRingletRobin NortonFEMALE NEVER SEEN ONE BEFORE IN MY GARDEN.
19thCircular coastal walk from Tollesbury Square.Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Holly BlueRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.2,Marbled White, 3,Red Admiral, 1,Comma, 1,Peacock, 4,Holly Blue, 20+,Large White, 15+,Small White, 1,Green-veined White, 80+,Meadow Brown, 130+,GateKeeper, 6,Speckled Wood, 120+,Essex and Small Skippers, 2,Small Heath.
19thBarnack Hills and HolesComma, Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Chalk Hill BlueAlan Day, Sara Day
18thconnaught Lake, Epping Forest (TQ4095)Comma, Peacock, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Ringlet, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small SkipperAnthony HareGatekeeper 2,Small skipper 2,Comma 2,Silver-washed Fritillary 1,Small white 3,Ringlet 11,Peacock 2,Large white 1,Large skipper 1.Also 5 more golden skippers that wouldn't settle allowing me to identify them.
18thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Small White, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperAnthony HareMarbled white 8,Gatekeeper 24,Small skipper 1,Small white 5,Essex Skipper 1,Large white 3, Small heath 7,Meadow brown 76.Also 12 more of the golden Skippers but they wouldn't settle for me to identify them.
18thStour Wood, Wrabness (TM192314)Comma, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex Skipper, Holly BlueBrian Goodeyc.12 fritillaries and a single white admiral. Plenty of ringlets and some stunning large whites.
18thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex Skipper, Holly BlueAndrew CoxAt least 12 peacocks.
At least eight marbled white.
Female brimstone.
18thHardwick Garden (TL372594)Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Marbled WhiteTrevor SawyerOnly one of each species came through the garden during my 15 minute Big Butterfly Count this afternoon, but one was a male Marbled White - a first for the garden. The others were all female and were desperately looking for somewhere to lay eggs - apart from the Brimstone which was presumably looking for somewhere to aestivate/hibernate among the bushes.
18thHadleigh Great WoodComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueDJ Sullivan10:30-14:30 (very warm; clear; still): 1 White Admiral; 1, possibly 2, Silver-washed Fritillary (m) (Poors Lane entrance area); 5 Brimstone (m + 1f); 3 Purple Hairstreak (PLea; 2 aloft, 1 among brambles).
Also 3 Skippers in flight (1 + 2), Small and/or Essex.
18thFriday Wood, Cherry Tree Lane (TL990209)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Small CopperDavid Lazarus3 Silver-washed Fritillary & 1 White Admiral,; Purple Hairstreak lower in shrub layer; Gatekeeper most numerous - overall quiet with fewer Meadow Brown & Ringlet; single figures for everything else; 1 Small Copper & Small Heath
18thDevil's Dyke, A1304/A14. (TL610622)Peacock, Red Admiral, Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Chalk Hill BlueMartin PeersPeacock (fresh), Dark Green Fritillary 3, Brimstone 2, Large White 5, Small Heath 12, Marbled White c60,
Ringlet 4, Meadow Brown c40, Small Skipper 6, Essex Skipper 8, Chalkhill Blue c80 males, 1 female, very few in the two sections closest to A14.
18thDevil's Dyke, A 1304/A14GatekeeperMartin Peers74 Gatekeepers seen - I seem to have forgotten to
include this total on my list sent on 18th.
17thThorndon Park (south)Peacock, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex SkipperAndrew Cox
17thThaxted (TL6131)Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small SkipperStephen Dutton60 Meadow Brown 44Marbled White, 4Large White,4Small White, 1 GV White, 10 Small Skipper, 2 Large Skipper, 8 Small Heath, 1Brimstone,2 Ringlets, 1 Gatekeeper
21 degrees partial sunny, light breeze,better conditions than last week.
17thMonks Wood (TL2080)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple HairstreakAlan Day, Sara Day
17thHatfield ForestPurple EmperorLaurence DrummondA single male at the mid west territory.
17thHatfield ForestPurple EmperorLaurence DrummondA single male at the North West territory.
17thHatfield Forest (TL5421)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 Territorial males at gate 32.
17thHatfield Forest (TL5320)Peacock, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondSWF Just getting going across the site 20+ inc my first female this year and first new brood Peacock,
17thHatfield Forest (TL5319)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond3 Males at the Lodge cottage territory and a single ale at central.
17thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple HairstreakBrian GoodeyC5, P2, RA5, B4, SW2, LW9, GW1, SWd2, W1, SH2, R17, MB20, GK20, LS1, lots of Essex/small skippers - 90% of those checked were Essex; WH2, PH11. So nice (and totally unexpected) to see a Wall near the invertebrate bank.
17thAythorpe Roding Windmill to Church.Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperRosie And Bill Perkins.5,Marbled White, 2,Essex Skipper, 6,Small Skipper, 5,Red Admiral, 2,Comma, 3,Ringlet, 3,Green-veined White, 15+,Large White, 10+,Small White, 30+,Gate Keeper, 20+,Meadow Brown.
16thLangdon Hills (EWT Great Berry meadows).Comma, Small White, Large White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex SkipperAndrew CoxAt least six each of marbled white & gatekeeper.
Early morning visit.
16thHatfield Forest (TL5421)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondA quick walk across the north of the forest early afternoon in a bright spell , 4 Purple Emperors, 2 Males and a female at a new territory for me in the north east at gate 32 and a single male at North was the first I've had there for 4 years.
15thWall Wood, Hatfield ForestRed Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Large White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Purple HairstreakAndy GoodeyPE flying across main clearing, possibly a female
15thSt Peter and St Paul's Church, Hockley (TQ826934)Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Wall, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Holly BlueDavid Glover5x Meadow Brown
4x Large White
2x Small White
3x Red Admiral
2x Comma
2x Wall
1x Gatekeeper
1x Speckled Wood
1x Holly Blue
15thRSPB Rainham Marshes (TQ548788)Comma, Peacock, Small White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex Skipper, Brown HairstreakDavid LazarusSingle Brown Hairstreak; fresh Peacock [4] & Comma [2]; 30+ Gatekeeper, 10 Meadow Brown; 5 Small White & 5 Essex Skipper
14thRSPB Rainham MarshesComma, Large White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex Skipper, Brown Hairstreak, Holly BlueIan Plume (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
14thRSPB Rainham MarshesBrown HairstreakBill StallardThe Brown hairstreak was seen by me and many others at Rainham marshes where I volunteer. I don't have a camera but others did and will put them on the Facebook page.
14thPoors Piece NR & Scrubs Wood NR (TL788061)Comma, Silver-washed Fritillary, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow BrownDavid LazarusFirst Silver-washed Fritillary [2] sighting within this part of Danbury Ridge NRs; 1 Speckled Wood & Comma
14thLittle Baddow Heath (TL788064)Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst Small Copper [1] Summer brood; 140+ Meadow Brown; 40+ Ringlet & Gatekeeper; mostly Small Skipper [27] with 5 Essex Skipper; down to 1 Small Heath & a few whites (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
14thLingwood Common (TL778057)Peacock, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus13 Silver-washed Fritillary; first Holly Blue [1] & Peacock [1] summer brood; first Marbled White [1] sighting at Danbury Ridge NR; 100+ Meadow Brown; 30+ Ringlet & Gatekeeper; 22 GvW, 8 LW, 4 SW; 5 ES & 3 SS; 6 RA; 1 PH (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
14thHoughton Meadows (TL293717)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Small CopperJeremy MilneSmall Skipper 7, Essex Skipper 1, Large Skipper 1, Large White 8, Small White 1, Green-veined White 8, Purple Hairstreak 1, Small Copper 1, Red Admiral 7, Peacock 3, Comma 3, Silver-washed Fritillary 1m, Marbled White 3, Gatekeeper 4, Meadow Brown 50, Small Heath 9, Ringlet 7, Norfolk Hawker 1, White-legged Damselfly 1
14thGt Howe Wood, Finchingfield (TL6634)Comma, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple HairstreakAndy GoodeyCould not find Purple Emperor or White Admiral in wood
14thGreat Wigborough (TL9615)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 Territorial males at St Stephens churchyard early afternoon.
13thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperAnthony HareMarbled white 3,Gatekeeper 11,Small skipper 7,Essex skipper 10,Meadow brown 64.
13thWoodwalton Fen (TL230849)Peacock, Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakVince LeaMinimum two clashing males and one egg laying female Purple Emperor near Rothschilds bungalow. 20+ purple hairstreak. Visit with the Cambridge Conservation Volunteers Louise, Eleanor. David, Bronwyn, Amy, Rory, Tamsin, Chris and Will.
13thSawtry (TL164830)Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small SkipperRosalyn PayneSunny 3pm. Marbled White 14 (first time I've seen them here) Ringlet 5, Meadow Brown 7, Gatekeeper 3, Small Skipper 12
13thMartin's Farm St Osyth (TM1117)Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperSimon Cox21 Meadow Browns, 6 Small Heaths, 3 Gatekeepers, 4 Essex Skippers, single Large White, Small Skipper & Speckled Wood
13thHockley woods/gusted hall essexSmall White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex SkipperMr S Day50+ meadow brown,20+ marbled white
13thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)Small White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex SkipperAnthony HareSpeckled wood 2,Gatekeeper 2,Meadow brown 1,Essex skipper 1,Small white 4.
13thEastcliff playing field, Clacton (TM190159)Comma, Small White, Large White, Meadow Brown, Essex Skipper, Small CopperBrian GoodeyOnly our third small copper this year.
12thHatfield ForestRed Admiral, Purple Emperor, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakAndy GoodeyMy first Purple Emperor of year battling the wind in top of ash tree. Pleasing number of butterflies, including browns and skippers than of late
11thHatfield Forest (TL5421)Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond1 Sallow searching male late morning 2 SWF
11thHatfield Forest (TL5320)Silver-washed Fritillary, GatekeeperLaurence Drummond2 SWF and my first 3 Gatekeeper here this year.
11thHatfield Forest (TL5319)Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 chasing male Purple Emperors at the central territory, 2 at Central and a female around Sallow, also 1 SWF.
11thFriday Wood, Cherry Tree Lane (TL991209)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Small CopperDavid LazarusOvercast day with few sunny intervals reduced overall numbers; 1 White Admiral, 5 Silver-washed Fritillary & 2 Purple Emperor; 8 White-letter Hairstreak along Cherry Tree Lane; 9 Purple Hairstreak; high numbers of Ringlet + Meadow Brown & increasing numbers of Gatekeeper & skippers. Female Small Copper ovipositing. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
10thThaxted (TL6131)Small White, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Small SkipperStephen Dutton32 Marbled White,lower count than previous years but now more widespread. 30 Meadow Brown, 12 Small Heath, present weekly since first sighting in June. 2 Small White, 1 Large White, 1 Small Skipper, low count also.
10thLittle Haven (TQ811891)Comma, White Admiral, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Holly BlueRob Smithheathland and meadow - White Admiral 1, Marbled White 6, Gatekeeper 1, Meadow Brown 10, Ringlet 6, Small Skipper 4, Comma 2. some interesting micro-moths on the heath such as Dasycera oliviella
10thHockley Woods (TQ8391)Comma, White Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueRob Smitha female Silver-washed Fritillary, 2 last female Heath Fritillaries, White Admiral 1+, Comma 13, Meadow Brown 10, Ringlet 15, Holly Blue 1, Purple Hairstreak 4, Large White 1, Green-veined White 2. Some smaller skippers in the long grass (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
10thCottenham (TL453367)GatekeeperSimon Ingate1 Gatekeeper - newly emerged sheltering from the drizzle on a virginia creeper (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
10thCastor Hanglands NNRComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakMatthew Webb2 Purple Emperors seen this afternoon in windy conditions. One White Admiral and 2 Silver-washed Fritillaries. One Peacock and a Red Admiral. Gatekeepers on the increase since my last visit. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
8thLingwood Common (TL777058)Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakDavid Lazarus1 Purple Emperor along southern woodland edge with field - Salix caprea & cinerea + Quercus robur - viewed from field. 14 Silver-washed Fritillary; 100+ for Ringlet + Meadow Brown; single-figures for rest (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thHatfield Forest (TL5319)Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondBrief bright spells early afternoon, a male and female Emperor at Lodge cottage and 2 fighting males at Central also my first SWF here this year a pristine male.
8thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyC5, RA5, WA1, B2, SWt3, LW4, GW1, SWd1, SH3, R10, MB20, G4, LS3, SS2, ES8, WH2, PH11, HB2
8thBaddow Meads (TL718060)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakDavid LazarusMarbled White expanding range into the flood plain with 3 seen + 3 now incl. 1 female in mother colony at Meadgate Fields Open Space TL726058. 100+ Meadow Brown across the open grassland; Essex Skipper 50+ in the meadow; Small Skipper 4 confirmed; & Purple Hairstreak into double figures (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
7thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small SkipperAnthony HareMarbled white 2,Gatekeeper 1,Small skipper 3,Ringlet 2,Small heath 5,Meadow brown 21.Disappointingly due to the rain of recent days numbers of everything well down compared to a week ago, & just 1 gatekeeper!
7thWeeleyhall Wood (TM1521)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Purple HairstreakRichard GreatRexMorning, before the next set of rain. Purple Hairstreaks very active - 13 easily seen. Meadow Brown 15, Ringlet 22, Gatekeeper 6, White Admiral 6, Red Admiral 1, Comma 1, Green-veined White 1, Large White 2, Small White 1.
7thThe Naze at Walton (TM2624)Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperMartin PeersRed Admiral 2, Large White 6, Gatekeeper 1,
Ringlet 10, Small Skipper 3, Large Skipper 4.
7thPole Hill Hawkwood Epping Forest (TQ3894)Red Admiral, Ringlet, GatekeeperAnthony HareRed admiral 1,Gatekeeper 1,Ringlet 2.
7thMonks woodRed Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple HairstreakNoah Bailey And Tamsin Eddy30+ Purple Hairstreak around Hotel Ride
7thCastor Hanglands NNRComma, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakMatthew WebbJust the one Silver-washed Fritillary (male) seen during my late afternoon visit. Ringlet was most common, followed by Meadow Brown and Purple Hairstreak. 2 Gatekeepers and 2 Red Admirals seen. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
7thAversley Wood (TL162819)Comma, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple HairstreakRosalyn Payne9.30-12 sunny, 16-19 deg. Comma 5, Red Admiral 1, Silver-washed Fritillary 7, Large White 1, Green-veined White 4, Ringlet 81, Meadow Brown 13, Gatekeeper 2, Large Skipper 12, White-letter Hairstreak 5, Purple Hairstreak 8.
6thWeeleyhall Wood (TM1521)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, GatekeeperRichard GreatRexLate afternoon, after the rain.
Gatekeeper 3, Meadow Brown 20, Ringlet 5, Speckled Wood 2, Small White 2, Comma 1, Red Admiral 1, White Admiral 3
4thRowney Wood (TL5733)Red Admiral, White Admiral, Purple Emperor, Small White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakRichard Berry1 Purple Emperor
2 White Admiral
2 Red Admiral
1 Purple Hairstreak
1 Small White
1 Large White
2 Meadow Brown
Speckled Wood too numerous to count
Ringlet too numerous to count (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
4thRSPB Stour wood (TM1931)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondPleased to see 2-3 Male Purple Emperor battling it out at the territory at the eastern end lunch time, also 8 SWF and 5 White Admiral
4thNT Lingwood common Danbury (TL781059)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondJust one male on territory here today mid afternoon.
4thHockley Woods (TQ834915)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Holly BlueDavid LazarusEnd of one season, Ringlet has become most numerous woodlander [105], also at Pound Wood TQ820888 [86], & Hadleigh Great Wood TQ821877 [59]. 3 White Admiral at HGW, 1 at Pound. Meadow outside Hockley TQ8359155 had good numbers of Marbled White [32], MB [45] & Small Skipper [19] which was seen at all 3 woods.
4thHadleigh Great WoodComma, Peacock, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly BlueDJ Sullivan10:30-12:45 (warm, mainly clear; breezy): 5 White Admiral; 1 Silver-washed Fritillary (m) (Poors Lane entrance area); 1 Purple Emperor (two sorties about noon high above area fronting prior year's fallen tree by main butterfly ride); 4-5 Brimstone (inc. m and f circling together).
4thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyC9, RA4, WA2, B3, SWt1, LW2, SWd1, SH3, R13, MB30, G2, SS1*, ES5*, WH2, PH12, HB1.

*Other skippers seen but not examined closely
4thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyC7, RA2, SWt2, LW3, SWd1, MB7, ES5, WH2, HB15
4thDevils DykeRed Admiral, Small White, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Chalk Hill BlueMike RavenChalkhill blue (2 males), Marbled White (85)
1stMonks Wood (TL2080)Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple HairstreakP Bromley R Payne R&S Orbell J Winterbottom Etc2 purple emperors seen towards the northern end of the Hotel Ride during a short spell of sunshine at 11am.
1stHatfield Forest (TL5420)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 ,Male and a newly emerged female in the north section
1stHatfield Forest (TL5319)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 Territorial males ,1 at the Lodge cottage territory and 1 at Central.
1stCM75XT (TL752252)Comma, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, GatekeeperDuncan Seymour-Fairey20+ Marbled White butterflies.
Habitat: unimproved grassland tall sward.
In the last 20 years this is the first time I have seen Marbled White butterflies in Bocking
1stBerechurch, Colchester, near cherry tree laneComma, White Admiral, Silver-washed FritillarySimon PatientMy first Valezina Silver-washed Fritillary for our garden today brought me much joy.
1stBaddow Meads (TL726058)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakDavid LazarusFirst Gatekeeper [1] sighting in Chelmsford for 2024; new broods of Green-veined White [14] and Small Tortoiseshell [2] out; 100 Meadow Brown, 21 Essex Skipper & a further 49 unidentified [likely to be 46 ES to 3 SS]; a few of each of the others. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )

June 2024
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
30thRowney Wood (TL5733)Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Large SkipperRichard BerrySingle male emperor flying low in the oaks and occasionally skimming the ground, but did not land
30thQuy Fen (TL5162)Red Admiral, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Small SkipperSimon Ingate3 x Large White, c10 Small Heath, 20+ Meadow Brown, 20+ Marbled White, 5 Ringlet, 6 Small Skipper, 3 Red Admiral Walk across Quy Fen between Horningsea and Anglesey Abbey - Damp and overcast initially (about 11.15) the sunny periods and cloud. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
30thMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL726058)Comma, Large White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperDavid LazarusFirst Marbled White [1] of the year at the meadow, plus good numbers of Essex Skipper [29] & 4 Small Skipper one of which was ovipositing (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
30thHawkwood Epping forest (TQ3895)Ringlet, Large SkipperAnthony HareRinglet 6,Large skipper 1.
30thGreen Holland Pits (TM203191)GatekeeperJulian SidneyFirst Gatekeeper seen on path from the car park (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
30thGreat Staughton Old Cemetery (TL123647)Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small SkipperSteve BindingQuick late afternoon visit warm 25c.
(16)Ringlet. (15)MedBrn. (8)Marb.
(3)SmSkip.(4)LrgSkip. (2)LrgSkip.
(1)Brim. (1)SmHeath.(1)Gatekeeper.
!st of the year here.
29thconnaught Lake, Epping Forest (TQ4095)Comma, Ringlet, Large SkipperAnthony HareComma 1,Ringlet 22,Large skipper 2
29thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Holly Blue, Common BlueAnthony HareBrimstone 1,Marbled white 33,Common Blue 1,Holly blue 1 (seen on a huge hedgerow adjacent to the meadow) Small heath 24,Meadow brown 102. Also 3 of the golden skippers but was unable to to determine whether Essex or Small during their flight.
29thTrumpington Meadows (TL4354)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Brown ArgusOllie King1+ White-letter Hairstreak seen on elm. Good numbers of Marbled White across the meadows on site.
29thTer Valley (TL6918)Red Admiral, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow BrownGeorge BrownSunny, late a.m. 1 Red admiral, ! Marbled white, several Meadow browns, 2 Ringlets.
29thRaveley Wood (TL244818)Comma, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, White-letter HairstreakRosalyn Payne13.00, Sunny. Comma 2, Speckled Wood 3, Meadow Brown 14 White-letter hairstreak 1 (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
29thHoughton Meadows (TL293717)Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueJeremy MilneLarge Skipper 4, Large White 2, Small White 2, Green-veined White 1, White-letter Hairstreak 4, Holly Blue 2, Red Admiral 3, Comma 3, Meadow Brown 100, Small Heath 1, Ringlet 5, Norfolk Hawker 5
29thHoughton Grange grasslands (TL294718)Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small SkipperJeremy MilneMarbled White 25, Norfolk Hawker 1
29thFridaywoods, cherry tree lane, ColchesterComma, White Admiral, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple HairstreakSimon PatientMy first local Marbled White was a nice surprise for me. Also 2 White-letter Hairstreaks still combating in my garden near Cherry tree lane.
29thBrownes' Piece and Waresley Wood (TL2554)Comma, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperDavid BradleyA reasonable number of Marbled Whites on the Piece, nothing else showing, no blues, no moths there. A handful of Silver-washed Fritillary in the Wood and a solitary Scarlet Tiger.

At Gamlingay, several SW Frits and lots of Ringlet. No sign of Purple Hairstreak nor Purple Emperor, as I'd hoped for and not White Admiral.
28thHadleigh Great Wood + Dodds Grove (TQ818878)Comma, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueDavid LazarusQuiet. Numbers reduced across the South Essex woods, apart from good numbers of Ringlet [20] + 43 at Pound Wood TQ821888 (with 11 Small Skipper) + 31 at Hockley Woods TQ834916; no sightings of premium woodlanders - 3 oaks with Purple Hairstreak colonies in flight at Hockley (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
27thWoodwalton Fen (TL230849)Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakPhil Bromley & Rosalyn Payne1 purple emperor seen flying around the Rothschild bungalow.
27thHatfield Forest (TL5320)Red Admiral, Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 low flying Males up the western side on grounded for seconds, no sign of Silver Washed Fritillary's , first time in 10 years I've seen the Emperor first.
27thFridaywoods, cherry tree lane , ColchesterComma, White Admiral, Purple EmperorSimon Patient3 Purple Emperors, including 2 males clashing in usual territory NE of crater. My FFY here
26thRowney Wood (TL5733)Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakRichard Berry3X White Admiral - very flighty
1X Purple Hairstreak
3X Large Skipper
1X Red Admiral
1X Brimstone
Good numbers of Speckled Wood, Ringlet & Meadow Brown (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
26thMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL725059)Comma, Red Admiral, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Essex Skipper, Purple HairstreakDavid Lazarus6-6.30 pm First Purple Hairstreak in Chelmsford for 2024 on 3 different oaks [5]. First Ringlet in the meadow [2] and healthy numbers of Essex Skipper [19], Meadow Brown [15]. 3 each of Comma and Red Admiral.
26thHavering country park (TQ5093)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 males chasing at the territory here mid afternoon.
26thHatfield Forest (TL537195)Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Holly BlueDavid LazarusFirst sighting of Purple Emperor in 2024 for me; open grasslands dominated by Meadow Brown [350+], with the start of the Marbled White [25], & Small Skipper [3], & diminished numbers of Small Heath [21].150+ Ringlet in the rides with 20+ Large Skipper, but no white Admiral or Silver-washed Fritillary sightings. Few of anything else. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
26thGarden shoeburynessRed Admiral, Small White, Meadow Brown, Common BlueSteve Day
26thEWT Great Berry.Red Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Essex SkipperAndrew Cox
25thSawtry Brook (TL170849)Small Tortoiseshell, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow BrownRosalyn Payne2.15 - 3.00, 27 deg, sunny, Fi NE. From the industrial estate to A1. I only saw 5 meadow brown until I got right to the end where I found small tortoiseshell 1, small heath 1, marbled white 3, ringlet 2
25thPhyllis Currie EWT Reserve (TL7218)Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow BrownGeorge BrownSunny and very warm, 11.30 - 12 noon. l Speckled wood, 1 Marbled white at flower meadow, 2 Ringlet, numerous Meadow browns.
25thOne Tree Hill (TQ697860)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus400+ Meadow Brown across the whole site; 100+ Marbled White & Small Heath; with 40+ Essex/Small Skipper & Ringlet. Also, 1 female White-letter Hairstreak ovipositing in Northlands Wood TQ692855 & a few HB, SpW & LW. 2 fresh Comma & a 5th instar Peacock larva (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
25thMonks Wood (TL2080)Comma, White Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple HairstreakPhil Bromley & Rosalyn PayneWhite-letter hairstreak (6+) & purple hairstreak (4) along eastern section of the main ride.
Also, white admiral in good numbers throughout the wood (10+).
25thFairlop Waters (TQ4589)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small SkipperStuart Sams300+ small skipper, 50+ large skipper. Healthy amount of small heath. Too early for large numbers of meadow brown but looks promising.
25thConeyfield wood Tiptree (TL8918)Comma, White AdmiralLaurence DrummondNo sign of the Emperor here yet but 3 White Admirals were my first this year also 2 Comma.
25thAbberton reservoir (TL9167)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2, one over Sallows opposite the Layer-de-la-Haye causeway car park late morning and 1 on territory over Oaks at the EWT entrance gate 13.05.
24thStour Wood, Wrabness (TM193312)Silver-washed FritillaryJulian Michael Sidney5 seen
Recorded on IRecord Butterflies (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
24thStour Wood (TM193311)Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus2 male Silver-washed Fritillary doing arial battle during the morning - a third sighting in the afternoon but probably one of morning two; 1 White Admiral; meadow embankment TM198315 had 4 Large Skipper and 6 Small Skipper; another Silver-washed Fritillary in Copperas Wood TM201314; Meadow Brown, Ringlet and Large White throughout. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
24thHarold Court Woods (TQ559912)Comma, Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueColin Jupp2m Purple Emperors clashing at territory 2pm-2.20pm. Also over site: 1 Marbled White, 16 Ringlet, 40 Meadow Brown, 4 Small Heath, 2 Speckled Wood, 4 Sm Skpr, 3 Lg Skpr, 2 White-letter Hairstreak, 1 Holly Blue, 2 Comma, 1 Red Admiral, 1m Brimstone
24thHadleigh Great WoodComma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Holly BlueDJ Sullivan14:30-16:15 (HGW) and 17:00-17:45 (Belfairs Park, adjoining) (very warm, clear): 4 White Admiral; 6(+) Heath Fritillary.
24thFolkes WoodSilver-washed Fritillary, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Holly BlueZayed AhmedCouple of whites as well. Numerous of all species listed except silver-washed fritillary (1).
24thEpping Forest (TQ4094)Purple Emperor, Marbled White, Purple HairstreakLaurence Drummond2 male Purple Emperors chasing over the main territory here but not a lot of activity given the perfect weather, also 1 ffy Purple Hairstreak and one first for site Marbled White.
24thD'Engaynes Meadow, Stow cum Quy (TL512593)Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Small SkipperChris BrownWarm and sunny. On a 1km /1 hour walk was amazed to count 120 Marbled Whites, plus 25 Meadow Browns, 4 Ringlet, 4 Small Skipper, 2 Small Heath.
23rdWoodwalton Marsh (TL212813)Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Grizzled Skipper, Large Skipper, Black HairstreakPaul Fisher08:50-10:10; 19ºC, Mostly Sunny. Small Heath x3; Marbled White x19; Ringlet x1; Meadow Brown x52; Grizzled Skipper x1; Large Skipper x4; Black Hairstreak x4-5, Unident White x1
23rdVange Marsh.Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Essex Skipper, Common BlueAndrew Cox
23rdNewney green writtlePurple HairstreakAlisonSpotted this beautiful butterfly just going over a hedge on edge of field there are some really big oak trees just a little further on.
23rdMonks wood (TL2080)Silver-washed FritillaryGraham AlmondPerfect! Lots of pictures on my camera.
23rdMonks Wood (TL201803)White Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperPaul Fisher10:30-12:00; 22-24ºC, Intermittent Sun. White Admiral x7; Small White x1[1st Brood];Speckled Wood x2; Small Heath x1; Marbled White x2; Ringlet x27; Meadow Brown x10; Large Skipper x19; + Another Unident White.
23rdMaldon Wick NR (TL841054)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, White-letter HairstreakDavid Lazarus4 White-letter Hairstreak in embankment, otherwise quiet with 39 Meadow Brown, 2 Ringlet and 3 Small Heath
23rdLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly BlueAndrew CoxTwo white admiral.
Male brimstone.
23rdHoughton Meadows (TL293717)Comma, Brimstone, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, White-letter HairstreakJeremy MilneBrimstone 1, White-letter Hairstreak 2, Comma 3, Meadow Brown 50, Small Heath 2, Ringlet 2, Small Eggar larval tent 1, Norfolk Hawker 2
23rdHadleigh Great Wood (TQ816878)Heath Fritillary, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueDoug And Tina Holden10.15 - 11.15 Sunny intervals
Along path east of main track from Poors Lane
7 Heath Fritillary, 1 Marbled White
23rdGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, White Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common BlueBrian GoodeyC3, WA6, B5, SW2, SH4, R5, MB10, LS1, SS1, WH5, HB5, CB1. Our first small skipper of the year. Two of the five white-letter hairstreaks flying around and resting in an oak tree! Decent amount of white admirals: 'arboreal' species appear to be doing well this year but 'meadow' species less so.
23rdDevil's Dyke between A1304 & A14 (TL610622)Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Adonis BlueMartin PeersDark Green Fritillary (pristine), Brimstone, Small Heath 22, Marbled White c550, Ringlet 18, Meadow Brown 30, Large Skipper 12, Adonis Blue 7 (4 males).
22ndMonks Wood (TL2080)Red Admiral, White Admiral, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Black HairstreakJeremy MilneWalton Gate to Hotel Ride: Small Skipper 1, Large Skipper 7, Green-veined White 1, White-letter Hairstreak 2, Black Hairstreak 3, White Admiral 5, Red Admiral 1, Speckled Wood 4, Meadow Brown 3, Ringlet 10
22ndMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL726058)Comma, Red Admiral, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Holly BlueDavid LazarusFirst sighting of Small Skipper - one day after Essex Skipper emerged (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
22ndHockley wood Essex (TQ8391)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Large White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly BlueJanet Edmunds And David JonesOn a very humid cloudy with sunny spells afternoon we went to Hockley wood in search of heath fritillary. We went to a site we saw them a few years ago and it was very overgrown but managed to see 7 then we went to return to our car and someone told us of hundreds of them at a different site not far away so on we went and was not disappointed as there was hundreds in flight when the sun came out. We also saw at least 50 dragonflies over head a one point in our walk. Tried to add photos but won’t let me as using IPad!
22ndGreat Holland Pits NR (TM201192)Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus3 White-letter Hairstreak; 3 White Admiral; & a Silver-washed Fritillary [although no photo to confirm 100 %] Also 50+ Meadow Brown, 3 Large Skipper, a female Brimstone, 1 Small Heath and a few Speckled Wood & Holly Blue + single Red Admiral (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
22ndDevil's Dyke (TL590639)Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperScott BoydWalk from Burwell carpark to the A14. sunny. Saw 16 small heath, 1 brimstone, 15 meadow brown and 16 marbled white.
22ndCastor Hanglands NNRComma, White Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Black HairstreakMatthew WebbOne Black Hairstreak, 2 White Admirals and a Marbled White were the highlights. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
21stisleham nature reserve (TL644733)Small White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperScott Boyd2km circuit of the reserve. sunny. 40 meadow brown, 11 small heath, 4 large skipper and 1 small white seen
21stWoodwalton Marsh (TL212813)Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Brown ArgusStephen Binding + Paul FisherMid Afternoon Sunny 26c. (35+) MedBrn.
(13+)MarbWht.(10+)Ringlet. (7)SmHeath.
(2m+2fm)Brim.(1)worn BrnArg.(1)LrgSkip.
21stMonks Wood (TL201803)Comma, White Admiral, Large White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Black HairstreakStephen Binding + Paul FisherLate afternoon, Sun/Cloud, 26c Breezy.
Looking mainly for White Admiral.
(10) seen in total , three together on one ride.
One on the ground seeking minerals on bird droppings. Also (1) worn BlkHS .(6)MedBrn.
(1) worn Comma. (10)LrgSkip. (5)Ringlet.
(1)SpecW. (1)LrgWht. 1 UN ID White. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
21stMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL726058)Large White, Meadow Brown, Essex Skipper, Holly BlueDavid LazarusFirst sighting of Essex Skipper [2] plus 2 at Baddow Meads TL717060 (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
21stEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyB2, SW7, MB2, WH7, HB35. White-letter hairstreaks in fair numbers and earlier than usual here.
20thdevil's dyke racecourse end (TL0438)Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Brown Argus, Common BlueTrevor Goodfellowfrom 1st to 2nd steps on dyke 87 MW, next section opposite grandstand 1 x DGF and 187 MW and 100+ MW beyond for 300m. several mating pairs of MW but mostly males searching for females (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
20thThaxted (TL606930)Comma, Brimstone, Small White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueRichard BerryTwo White-letter hairstreak seen feeding on hogweed and thistle (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
20thMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL726058)Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow BrownDavid LazarusFirst sighting of Ringlet [2] plus 1 each of Meadow Brown and Speckled Wood; And Baddow Meads TL721061 29 Meadow Brown & 9 Small Heath
20thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Brimstone, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly BlueAndrew CoxTwo marbled whites.
Female brimstone.
20thCottenham (TL464675)Small Tortoiseshell, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly BlueSimon Ingate1 x Small Tortoiseshell, 3 x small heath, 1 x large skipper, 8 Meadow Browns including a pairing couple, 3 x Ringlet, 3 or 4 Holly Blues.
19thDevil's Dyke, July racecourseDark Green Fritillary, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Adonis BlueRob And Kerry ReeveA warm and sunny day and good numbers of Marbled Whites, 3 Ringlets, 3 Adonis Blue, and a single Dark Green Fritillary
19thBarringtonSmall Heath, Common BluePaddy Grove
18thFridaywoods, ColchesterWhite Admiral, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueSimon PatientMy first White Admiral of the year here, also my first White letter Hairstreaks of the year with 3 combating in Elms along Cherry tree lane. 100yds south of the large white metal gate.
17thcottenham (TL457674)Silver-washed FritillarySimon IngateFirst Silver Washed Fritillary I have ever seen in the village (Near wooded housing area Long Drove). Very surprised to see.
17thHadleigh Great Wood (TQ818878)White Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueDavid LazarusFirst sighting of White Admiral, plus 5 fresh male Brimstone, 4 Holly Blue, 2 Meadow Brown and a Speckled Wood
17thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)White-letter HairstreakBrian GoodeyThree seen on elm near hide.
17thCastor Hangerlands (TF1101)White Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Black HairstreakGerard Fletcher & James ElseyOvercast conditions, singles except Meadow Brown x 2 and Speckled Wood x 7 (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
16thMonks WoodRed Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Black HairstreakRoger OrbellAt least 7 W A seen around the wood (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
15thCastor Hanglands NNRGreen-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Black HairstreakMatthew WebbA single Marbled White was my first here this year. 3 or 4 Black Hairstreaks seen. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
14thWoodwalton Marsh (TL212812)Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Grizzled Skipper, Large Skipper, Common BlueAlan Owers9:30-10:30. Mainly cloudy but brief sunny intervals. Blustery. At least 3 grizzled skippers still on the wing. 2 common blue, 2 large skipper, 3 small heath, approx 12 meadow brown. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
13thMonks Wood (TL2080)Red Admiral, White Admiral, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Black HairstreakPhil Bromley & Rosalyn PayneOur first white admiral of the year during a brief period of sunshine.
13thJermains Wood/ Tylers Common (TQ5690)Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperRob Smith10.20-11.10 transect. Sunny intervals despite the cloud cover. Ringlet 2, Meadow Brown 5, Speckled Wood 2, Large Skipper 1
13thHatfield Forest (TL534210)Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Brown Argus, Common BlueDavid LazarusQuiet. 1F + 2M Brown Argus; 2 Common Blue; 3F + 4M Speckled Wood; 8M Meadow Brown; 8 Small Heath; + 1M Green-veined White on Flitch Way TL583211 (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
13thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Large White, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueBrian GoodeySW3, MB1, LW1, HB59. Best conditions for a while, though that's not saying much. Still good holly blue numbers.
11thChelmsford (TL688081)Comma, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueDavid LazarusTwo freshly emerged Commas - first sighting (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
9thHockley Woods (TQ832916)Red Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueDavid LazarusDespite the weather, 190 sightings of Heath Fritillary. Also, 1 RA; 2 LW; 4 SpW; 4 SH; 14 MB; 12 HB
8thPound Wood (TQ822890)Red Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid LazarusSedentary due to overcast conditions - 101 fresh Heath Fritillary morning count. Not much else, 1 each of RA; SpW; & HB (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thHadleigh Great Wood + Dodds Grove (TQ818878)Heath FritillaryDavid LazarusQuiet afternoon 3 Heath Fritillary and nothing else. Zero HF in Dodds Grove. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
7thHarold Hill/A12 (TQ553915)White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueColin Jupp4 White-letter Hairstreaks clashing on Elm on central reservation. Also 4 Holly Blue
6thOne Tree Hill (TQ697860)Brimstone, Small White, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly Blue, Common BlueDavid LazarusQuiet. First Large Skipper for 2024. Small Heath in cop. Common Blue ovipositing. 1 female Brimstone. 1 SmW; 4 SpW; 1 male Wall; 69 SmH; 15 Meadow Brown all male; 1 LS; 3 HB; 2 CB both female. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
6thFleam Dyke (TL5553)Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Brown ArgusVince LeaSingle Marbled White and Painted Lady were my first of the year. Most recorded on transect but the Meadow Brown, Red Admiral and Painted Lady were on the walk in or back.
6thBeaumont Quay, Essex (TM189240)Clouded YellowJulian Sidney1 seen flying about the quay, sadly i didn't have a camera. Recorded on IRecord Butterflies
5thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Red Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Holly Blue, Common BlueBrian GoodeyFive meadow browns, our first for the year, and three brimstones. No small heath or brown argus. RA3, B3, SW5, SH24, MB5, HB20, CB5.
5thDevil's Dyke - Newmarket Racecourse (TL6161)Small Heath, Marbled White, Dingy Skipper, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Adonis BlueRichard Berry1 Marbled White
23 Adonis Blue (6 female / 17 male)
4 Common Blue
2 Dingy Skipper
9 Large Skipper
3 Brown Argus
Large numbers of small heath
5thBrampton Wood (TL184698)Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Black Hairstreak, Common BlueStephen Binding +Roger OrbellBlack Hairstreak Survey. Cloudy with
sunny intervals.17c breezy.
Site 1 (53).Site 2 (59). Site 3 (51).
Site 4 (4). Site 5 (23). Total 190.
Others seen along the way (5).
Also (7)SpecWood. (1)RedAD. (1)MedBrn.
(1fm)ComBlue.(1)LrgSkip. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
3rdHockley Wood (TQ833918)Heath FritillaryDavid Preston60+ Fresh Heath Fritillaries at the lower end of Hockley Woods
2ndYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Small Heath, Common BlueAnthony HareCommon Blue 2,Small heath 40,plus 1 white, wasn't able to see if it was a small or large.
2ndWoodwalton Marsh (TL212813)Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Grizzled Skipper, Common BlueSteve BindingQuick visit 4.30/5.15pm .
(3m+1fm)Brim. (8)SmHeath.(4m+2fm)Com
Blue incs pair in cop.(2)MedBrn.
(1m)OrgTip. (2)Grizz Skip ,one worn
one okay possible 3rd ?.
2ndWood Walton meadow (TL212813)Brimstone, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Common BlueTim Knight3.15-4.15pm Hot, sunny, v light breeze. 2 Grizzled Skipper. 3+ Small Heath. 3 Common Blue (1m2f). 3 Brimstone (incl. mating pair) (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
2ndThrift Wood NR (TL790017)Peacock, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus6 fresh Speckled Wood within the wood; Also, 2 LW; 3 GvW; 7 HB & a worn Peacock all nectaring on a field of Alfafa along one woodland edge
2ndTL430684Small HeathSimon Ingate3 x Small Heath - 1 Small white and several Holly Blues
2ndSawtryPeacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Grizzled Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueJeremy MilnePeacock 1, Brimstone 2, Large White 1, Green-veined White 4, Orange Tip 1, Meadow Brown 1, Small Heath 4, Grizzled Skipper 1, Brown Argus 9, Common Blue 8
2ndMonks Wood (TL2080)Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Black Hairstreak, Holly BlueTim Knight10-3. Hot, sunny. 9+ Black Hairstreak. 1 Holly Blue. 1 Large Skipper. 1 Small Heath. 1 Large White. 1 Comma. 3 Red Admiral. 2 Brimstone. 5+ Speckled Wood.
2ndMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL726059)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusA very tatty Comma remaining; Plus a Peacock; meadow full of 20 Burnet Companion, single Common Blue & Small Copper. Also, Silver Y, Latticed Heath & Cinnabar
2ndHawkwood Epping forest (TQ3895)Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueAnthony HareRed admiral 1,Speckled wood 6,Holly blue 2.
2ndDanbury Common (TL782043)Brimstone, Small HeathDavid LazarusOnly 1 Female Brimstone and 14 Small Heath, plus a Speckled Yellow and a few Green Oak Tortrix
2ndCastor Hanglands NNRBrimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Black HairstreakMatthew Webb15 Black Hairstreaks seen across the thorn thickets at the northern end. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
2ndBarnack hills &Holes (TF077044)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve Binding + Paul Fisher2.40/4pm.sunny hot but breezy.
(8)Brim.(1m+1fm)OrgTip. (1)GVWht.
(2)SpecWood.(1)LrgSkip.(6)BrnArg.
(5)SmHeath. (1m)ComBlue.(1)GrnHS.
poor numbers for this time of year.
1stEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Red Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueBrian Goodey63 holly blues, despite blustery conditions and cloudy spells.

May 2024
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
30thBrampton wood (TL184698)Speckled Wood, Black HairstreakRoger Orbell17 seen between 2 and 4pm from 4 non surveyed sites between the showers
29thThaxted (TL613315)Painted Lady, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common BlueRichard Berry4 Common Blue - 3 male / 1 female
8 Holly Blue - 6 female (egg laying) / 2 male
2 Brimstone
1 Green-veined White
1 Painted Lady
>20 Small Heath (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
29thGarden on Chignal Road (TL688081)Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueDavid LazarusAdmirals Park LNR TL698068
First sighting of Meadow Brown. Also, 1 RA; 1 Br; 1 LW; 2 GvW; 1 SpW; 7 HB. Plus, 3 Silver Y (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
29thBrampton Wood Site 2Black HairstreakRoger Orbell, Steve Binding And Tim FryerSunny intervals, about 17 degrees
29thBrampton Wood (TL184698)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Black Hairstreak, Holly BlueSteve Binding + Roger Orbell+ Tim FryerFollow on from Tim fryers report.10.30am/12.30
Sun/cloud 17c .Be aware this site is very wet and
muddy. (6)SpecW.(1)GVWht.(1)HollyB.
(2m+1fm)Brim. And 10+ Black Hairstreak from Site 2
to the pond area.
27thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Common Blue, Small CopperAnthony HareSpeckled wood (flying in & out from adjacent woodland)1, Common blue 3,Small Copper 1,Small heath 22.
27thTrumpington Meadows (TL4354)Peacock, Red Admiral, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Common Blue, Small BlueRosalyn Payne & Phil Bromley4 Small Blue, 5 Small Heath, singles of others
27thPole Hill Hawkwood Epping Forest (TQ3894)Speckled Wood, Holly BlueAnthony HareSpeckled wood 2,Holly blue 1.
26thOne Tree Hill, Johnson's Meadows (TQ699863)Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Common BlueRob Smitha very skittish Meadow Brown at the top of the meadow. Also Wall 1m, Small Heath 22, Speckled Wood 1, Common Blue 5m. Moths: Mother Shipton, Burnet Companion, Silver Y
26thMagog DownSmall BlueAlex Petter3 Small Blues seen early evening after a day of rain showers. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
26thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Speckled Wood, Holly BlueBrian Goodey104 holly blues along a 0.4 mile footpath, the most we've ever seen in one visit. An incredible sight. Also 23 speckled woods, again a high number.
25thLangdon Hills (Dunton Plotlands)Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly BlueAndrew CoxFour male brimstones.
Two male, one female orange tip.
Three red admiral, three comma.
Many holly blues.
25thHardwick wood (TL3557)Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Large SkipperVince LeaSingle Large Skipper spotted by Tamsin Walker while I was showing her the transect route! Earliest one I have seen.
24thHockley Woods (TQ839916)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common BlueDavid LazarusQuiet. Pe 1; Br 1F; SmW 1F + 2M; LW 5: GvW 1F + 3M; SpW 5M; Wa 1; SH 3; HB 1F + 2M; CB 1 Plus species of several grassland day-flying moths (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
24thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyOur first large skipper of the year.
24thBowers MarshPeacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Holly BlueDJ Sullivan11:30-18:00 (warm, clear): 1 Peacock; 1 Red Admiral; 2 Small White; 3 Speckled Wood (Old Church Road); 1 Wall (m, newly emerged); 8-10 Small Heath; 2 Holly Blue.
23rdColchester, Castle Park (TL997254)Painted Lady, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyA fine, large painted lady. Several holly blues.
23rdBaddow Meads (TL716061)Red Admiral, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Small CopperDavid Lazarus+ Meadgate Fields Open Space TL727058
First Brown Argus of the year in Chelmsford, plus 2 fresh male Small Copper & 6 fresh male Speckled Wood. Also 1 RA, 1 SmW, 1 GvW, 1 female OT, 1 SH & 6 HB. Plus 1 Latticed Heath & a Silver Y (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
20thTrumpington Meadows (TL4354)Peacock, Brimstone, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Small BlueJohn MurraySingle small blue seen perched at approx. 6pm in similar location to previous years. Weather warm, but slightly breezy. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
20thPheasanthouse Farm (TL786068)Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Small CopperDavid Lazarus+ Little Baddow Heath TLTL789064 & Lingwood Common TL774061 First Wall Brown in Chelmsford possibly for some time; 1 RA; 6 Br; 1 SmW; 2 GvW; 1 OT; 2 SpW; 4 SH; 2 HB; 1 SC. Also, numerous Speckled Yellow, Silver Y, Treble Bar, and Brown Silver-line (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
20thPaxton Pits (TL195629)Peacock, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve Binding12.50/3.05pm sun/cloud v warm but
windy.(3)Grizz main area. (2fm +1m)OrgTip.
(1)PCock. (1)HollyB.(1)PLady.
(4)SmHeath.(3m+2fm)Brim.(1m)ComBlue.
(13)BrnArgus. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
20thMagog Down, CambridgePainted Lady, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Small Blue, Holly BlueNeil DickinsonA hour visit about 2:30pm. Very many small blues in virtually all locations on the down. Lots of holly blues and brimstones. Good numbers of small heath. Didn't see any green hairstreaks although there were some a few days ago. Several silver-y and one cinnabar moth seen also.
20thHolland Haven (TM216170)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Common Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyC1, P1, RA1, SWt7, GvW2, LW2, OT4, SWd2, SH24, GH3, CB5, SC2. Nice to see so many small heaths. Also, loads of silver ys.
20thDevil's Dyke July Racecourse (TL6161)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Adonis BlueAlex PetterSunny afternoon and SW-facing bank sheltered from gentle NE-erly winds. Lycaenidae out in force. Adonis blues plentiful including a freshly emerged abberant male still pumping its wings up. Brown argus, common blue, green hairstreaks, dingy skippers, burnet companion moths and a silver Y moth. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
20thBaddow Meads (TL721060)Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst Common Blue sighting in Chelmsford. Another Painted Lady & 14 Red Admiral. Lower Pe [1], GVW [3] & OT [1]. Also, 5 SmW; 9 HB; 4 SpW; 2 SC; & 1 SH.
Plus, first Burnet Companion for 2024; 8 Silver Y; & a Latticed Heath (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
19thconnaught Lake, Epping Forest (TQ4095)Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueAnthony Hareone of each. Also 3 whites which were either large or Small or both but they wouldn't settle allowing me to see.
19thTanholt Pits nr Peterborough (TF242016)Peacock, Red Admiral, Orange-Tip, Wall, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Holly Blue, Common BlueHoward ButlerWall x 5 and a fairly early Large Skipper (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
19thSawtryRed Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Large Skipper, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common BlueJeremy MilneLarge Skipper 1, Grizzled Skipper 3, Brimstone 3, Large White 2, Green-veined White 5, Orange Tip 5, Brown Argus 3, Common Blue 8, Holly Blue 1, Red Admiral 7, Small Heath 9, Small Eggar larval tent 4
19thLangdon Hills - Johnson's Meadow (TQ701863)Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Holly Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst sighting of a Grizzled Skipper - Johnson's Meadow West, SE corner where the bare mud is.
132 butterfly sightings in 4 hours of which 105 were Small Heath mostly in West. 3 Wall left on the bridleway at the top. Small Copper and Painted lady in Dry Street Pastures. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
19thLangdon Hills (Dunton Plotlands)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperAndrew CoxMale brimsone.
Pair of orange tips plus a second female.
One green hairstreak.
Two small copper.
19thHawkwood Epping forest (TQ3895)Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueAnthony HareRed admiral 1,Speckled wood 7,Holly blue 1.
19thBurwell cutting (TL577654)Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Adonis BlueScott BoydSunny and warm. Little wind. 2 Adonis blue, 6 common blue, 1 orange tip, 1 large white, 1 green veined white 1 green hairstreak 3 small heath, 2 holly blue, 8 brimstone
19thBowers MarshPeacock, Small White, Green-veined White, Wall, Small Heath, Green HairstreakAndrew CoxGreen hairstreak feeding on buttercups.
Female wall from footpath( from Benfleet) leading on to Bowers.
18thWood Walton meadow (TL212813)Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Grizzled SkipperScott Boyd2pm. Sun briefly breaking through. 4 brimstone, 1 green veined white, 1 red admiral, 2 small heath, 1 grizzled skipper.
18thTanholt pits nr Eye Peterborough (TF242016)Brimstone, Wall, Small Heath, Brown Argus, Common BlueHoward ButlerWall X6 along CAT'S WATER
18thPole Hill Hawkwood Epping Forest (TQ3894)Speckled WoodAnthony Hare3 Speckled wood
18thNoak Hill, RomfordPainted LadyMartin White1st one this year, feeding on Valerian
18thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)Brimstone, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueAnthony Hareone of each.
18thHawkwood Epping forest (TQ3895)Speckled WoodAnthony Hare5 Speckled wood.
18thGreat Holland Pits (TM201294)Common BlueJulian SidneyFirst view of a very attractive Common Blue possibility meeting a second. Recorded on #irecordbutterflies (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
17thWillow Tree Farm near Woodham Ferrers (TQ797992)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Holly BlueDavid ChandlerI have been asked to survey the smallholding by its new owners. It is near Home Farm Cottages in Woodham Ferrers. I found oak and sucker elm in the hedges and so will go back again in the summer to see what other butterflies are to be found (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
17thWalk from Blackmore to Mill Green.Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly BlueRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.40+, Small Heath, 4,Peacock, 1,Red Admiral, 3, Orange-tip, 2,Holly Blue, 1,Speckled Wood, 3,Green-veined White, 5,Small White, 4,Large White.
17thTrumpington Meadows (TL4354)Peacock, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Common Blue, Small BlueTrevor Sawyer
17thThaxted (TL613314)Peacock, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Holly BlueRichard BerrySmall Heath too numerous to count > 50
7 Holly Blue
5 Green-veined White
2 Small White
3 Brimstone
1 Peacock
2 Painted Lady (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
17thThaxted (TL6131)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common BlueStephen Dutton7 Small Heath inc. pair mating 3 Small White 1 G V White 1 Large White, 1 Brimstone, 1 Peacock, 1 Holly Blue, 1 Common Blue.
First sightings for Small Heath and Common Blue
17thMatching Garden (TL5112)Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Holly BlueBryan Russell4 Brimstone, 3 Holly Blue, one orange tip and unusually for here, one Small Heath (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
17thHyde HallBrimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Wall, Holly BlueAndrew CoxFemale & male brimstones.
Male wall.
Male orange tips.
17thGreat Staughton Meadow (TL127646)Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Small CopperSteve Binding09.30/10.50am hazy sunshine ,v warm
very damp. Field Hedges and paths only.
(47)SmHeath.(3m)GVWht
(1)very fresh SmCopper.
(2m)OrgTip. 6/7UN ID White.
17thBaddow Meads (TL726064)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly BlueDavid LazarusAnother Painted Lady seen today and also 14 Red Admirals sighted, plus 1 ST; 11 Pe; 1 female Br; 7 SmW; 21 GvW; 5 OT; 2 SpW; 1 SH; 14 HB
Also, 12 Silver Y, 2 Common Carpet, and a Cinnabar (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
17thAbberton Resevoir Essex.Painted LadyRon Smith (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
15thCoveney Byall Fen (TL470837)WallDuncan McNivenWall 1
15thBaddow Meads (TL719061)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus+ Meadgate TL720058 Second Painted Lady of the year - 5 1/2 weeks after the first. Finally, the mass emergence of Holly Blue - 20 in total; Also, the creamiest of Small Whites & an ovipositing Orange-tip; 1 SmT; 2 Pe; 1 Br; 2 SmW; 5 GvW; 1 OT; 5 SpW. And, 12 Silver Y (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
13thOuse Washes, Witcham Gravel (TL457826)Peacock, Orange-Tip, WallChris Brown3 Wall
12thSawtryPeacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Green HairstreakJeremy MilneGrizzled Skipper 1, Brimstone 1, Large White 3, Small White 3, Green-veined White 3, Orange Tip 14, Green Hairstreak 1, Peacock 6, Small Heath 3
12thNewland Grove Nature Reserve (TL714108)Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus+ Little Waltham Meadows NR TL714108 Highlight, 1 Green Hairstreak - first recorded sighting in Chelmsford, plus 2 Small Heath. Also, 2 Pe; 3F Br; 3 LW; 34 GvW; 1F + 9M OT;and 5 HB (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
12thLangdon Hills (Dunton Plotlands)Peacock, Speckled Wood, WallAndrew CoxFemale Wall close to the pond at Great Berry. The 1st I've recorded from this area generally for years.
Two speckled wood.
One peacock.
12thLangdon Hills (Dunton Plotlands)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly Blue, Small CopperAndrew CoxAt least seven brimstones, five males & two females. One of the latter had attracted all five males. I think one of them may have been successful..
Orange tip: five males.
Holly blue: at least three.
Small copper: one.
Red admiral: one.
12thGreat Staughton Meadow+ Meadow Trail (TL127646)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Small CopperSteve Binding10.40/12.52pm v warm sunny.
(54)SmHeath in the main Meadow +(21) along the path only trail.
Also (2)LrgWht.(10m+1fm) OrgTip.
(2m+1fm)Brim (1m+1fm)SmWht. (4)GVWht.
(2)SmCopper v fresh looking.(3)PCock.
(1) v worn SmTort. (1)hollyB.(1)SpecW.
(25+)UN ID White.
12thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyMy first small copper of the year, two weeks later than usual. Good numbers of g-v white this spring.
12thFriday Wood, ColchesterRed Admiral, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small CopperAndy Goodey2 Common Blues, my first of year. Also first Small Heaths and Small Coppers. No sign of Green Hairstreak despite a search
12thFingringhoe (TM045195)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly Blue, Small CopperRichard GreatRexAt least 15 Small Copper on sorrel rich heathland near reserve entrance. Groups of up to 4 observed chasing each other. Peacock 20, Red Admiral 1, Green-veined White 10, Holly Blue 3, Speckled Wood 2, Large White 3, Small White 4, Orange Tip 5.
12thChelmer Valley Local Nature Reserve (TL710079)Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusQuiet - 1 SmW; 14 GvW; 1F + 4M OT; 2 SpW (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
12thBarnack hills &Holes (TF077044)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown ArgusSteve Binding + Paul Fisher09.40/12pm v warm sunny 24c breezy.
(13)GrnHS. (2)Dingy.(1)BrnArg.
(2)HollyB.(1)SmWht. (3)PCock.
(5fm+1m)Brim.(5m+1fm).OrgTip.
(6)SmHeath.(1)SpecW. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
11thWoodwalton Marsh (TL212813)Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Grizzled Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperSteve Binding + Paul Fisher4pm/4.30pm Quick visit. v warm sunny.
(4)Grizz one either end + two in conflict around the middle area.(4m+1fm)Brim. (1)HollyB.
(2)SmCopp.(3)PCock. (2m)OrgTip. sev UNID white.
11thSwaddywell Pit (TF116036)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Green HairstreakSteve Binding + Paul Fisher12.15/13.15pm 25c Sunny .
(5m+2fm)OrgTip. (5)GVWht.
(4m+1fm)Brim. (1fm)GrnHS(ovi).
(1)Pcock. (8)Dingy.(2)Grizz. (1)SmHeath. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
11thRSPB Ouse Washes Purles Bridge (TL4786)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Small White, Green-veined White, Wall, Small Heath, Holly BlueRoger Orbell5 + Wall from visitor centre to Stockdale hide (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
11thLangdon Hills - Johnson's Meadow (TQ701863)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueDavid LazarusNumerous Small Heath in West Johnson's Meadow [59]; 6 Wall in same meadow - path to north - and 1 Green Hairstreak (halfway up west side East Meadow). 5 species of moth. Also, 10 Pe; 4 Br; 2 SmW; 1 LW; 17 OT; 7 SpW; 7 HB. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
11thAilsworth farmland (TL122997)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Green HairstreakMatthew WebbThe big highlight was 12+ Green Hairstreaks, which is the most I've ever seen here. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
11thAbberton Reservoir E.W.T.Peacock, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Brown ArgusRosie & Bill Perkins1,Brown Argus, 8,Small Heath, 6,Orange-tip, 2,Speckled Wood, 2,Holly Blue, 1,Peacock 5,Large White, 7,Small White.
10thMaldon Wick Nature Reserve (TL840055)Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid LazarusReasonably quiet still with Green-veined White [13] and Orange-tip [2F + 13M] the most abundant. Also, 2 Pe; 1F + 1M Br; 5 LW; 3 SpW; and 2 HB.
10thDanbury Common (TL783040)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-TipDavid LazarusLarge numbers of Brimstone, 8 females incl. ovipositing on Common Buckthorn Rhamnus carthatica, with 33 males. Also, 3 Pe; 1 SmW; 3 GvW; and 4 OT. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
9thWalton on Naze (TM264236)Peacock, Small White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyOur first small heath of the year, plus five green hairsteaks - which appear to be having a good year.
9thHampton N R (TL1694)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Holly BlueROGER ORBELLDingy 16 , Grizzled 4 , Small Heath 2
9thHadleigh DownsPeacock, Brimstone, Small White, Orange-Tip, Wall, Holly Blue, Small CopperDJ Sullivan10:15-17:45 (warm, clear): c. 30 Peacock; 1 Brimstone (m); 30+ Small White; 6 Orange-tip (m) (including trio in circling progress); 2 Wall (by railway crossing); 1 Holly Blue; 1 Small Copper (on hillside).
9thChelmer Valley Local Nature Reserve (TL710079)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Holly BlueDavid LazarusGood numbers of Green-veined White [40]; 1F + 15M Orange-tip; also, 1 ST; 2 Pe; 2 SmW; 1 LW; and 1 HB
9thBeth Chatto Gardens (TM069237)Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueRichard GreatRexGreen Hairstreak 3, with a circling pair in the dry garden and a single individual elsewhere. Holly blue 2, Red Admiral 3, Painted Lady 1, Peacock 1, numerous Small White, Green-veined and Large Whites and Orange Tips.
8thPaxton Pits (TL195629)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Grizzled Skipper, Brown ArgusSteve Binding11.35/12.50pm v.warm sunny.
(13)Grizzled Skip some looking very fresh.
Spread out right across the area and beyond. The best number here so far. Also the 1ST Brown Argus
of the year (1)of. Plus (3)pCock.(1m)OrgTip.
(3m)GVWht. (3m+3fm)Brim. Sev UNID White. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
8thJohnson's Meadows, Langdon HillsPeacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Orange-Tip, Small HeathDJ Sullivan15:15-17:15 (warm, clear): 4 Peacock; 2 Red Admiral; 2 or more Small White; 4 Orange Tip (m); 1 Small Heath.
(Possible Small Copper seen in flight.)
8thGreat Staughton Meadow (TL127646)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Holly BlueSteve Binding3.40/4.10pm.
warm sunny slt breeze.
(17)Small Heath numbers increasing.
(2m)OrgTip. (1)HollyB. (1)Pcock.
(1m)Brim. (1m)GVWht. Sev UNID white
Only searched the field hedges. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Peacock, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyP3, SW3, LW2, GvW1,OT11, SW10, GH3, HB20. Wonderful tight corkscrewing flight of two green hairsteaks disputing territory.
7thAdmirals Park LNR (TL690071)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Holly BlueDavid LazarusLarge numbers of Green-veined White [42]; 3F + 10M Orange-tip; 1F + 5M Brimstone; 4 Small White; 1 Large White; also, 8 Peacock, 4 Red Admiral, 1 Comma, and 5 Holly Blue (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
6thWoodwalton MarshPeacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Green HairstreakAndrew TerrellMidday, cloudy and humid.
Saw Brimstone (m&f), Orange-Tip (m&f), Peacock, Green-veined White, Green Hairstreak. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
5thSawtrySmall Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Green HairstreakJeremy Milne
5thPaxton Pits (TL1962)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Grizzled SkipperPaddy GroveJust two or three grizzled skippers seen
5thGreat Staughton Meadow (TL127646)Brimstone, Large White, Orange-Tip, Small HeathSteve Binding/ Paul FisherVery Quick Visit. Field edges only.
Still v warm, windy 2.15/2.35pm.
(1)Small Heath 1st of year here.
(1)Brim.(1)LrgWht.(1fm)OrgTip.
5thFerry Meadows, PeterboroughPeacock, Orange-Tip, Green HairstreakMatthew Webb2, probably 3 Green Hairstreaks. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
5thDevils Dyke Race course end (TL607623)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Small CopperSteve Binding/ Paul Fisher09.50/11.30am sunny warm, windy.
(6m+4fm)Brim.(4)GrnHS. (11)Dingy.
(4)PCock. (2)SmCopp poss3.(1)GVWht.
(1)SmWht.(5m)OrgTip.(1)SpecW.
(1)Comma. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
5thCanvey Wick (TQ7683)Wall, Green HairstreakLaurence Drummond1 Wall 2 Green Hairstreak.
5thBurwell Cutting CAMBSPeacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueSteve Binding/ Paul Fisher11.50/ 1.20pm sun/cloud/windy.
Very warm.
(20+)m&fm Brim.(5m+1fm)OrgTip.
(10+)m+fm HollyB.(2)PCock.(5)GrnHS.
(2)SmWht.(2)GVWht.(5)UN ID Wht.
(1)SpecWood.
4thThe Greenway, Beckton (TQ437820)Comma, Peacock, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Green HairstreakRob Smith6 Green Hairstreaks at the east end of The Greenway on low 'weeds' on stretch excavated last year. Also 3 Small White, 2 Green-veined White, 2 Peacock, 1 Comma, 2 Speckled Wood. 3 Silver Y moths (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
4thThaxted (TL6131)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Holly BlueStephen Dutton3 Or Tip, 2 Holly Blue, 1 Red Admiral, 1Peacock, 1Brimstone

15 degrees mostly cloudy with a patch of sun
4thPaxton Pits (TL195629)Peacock, Brimstone, Grizzled SkipperSteve Binding/ Paul FisherQuick check 3.55pm onwards.
(5)Grizzled Skips
(1)PCock.
(2)Brim
4thLittle Downham (TL515859)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, WallBill Mansfield
4thLittle Downham (TL515859)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, WallBill Mansfield
4thHolme Fen (TL197895)Peacock, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Grizzled Skipper, Small CopperRosalyn Payne & Phil Bromley1-2.30pm, Sunny and warm. 7 Grizzled Skipper, 8 Small Copper (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
4thDevil's Dyke (TL579648)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueJohn Murray5+ green hairstreak at the Reach end of Devil's Dyke. Good numbers of orange tips and brimstones. Several peacocks and Green-veined whites also. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
4thAilsworth farmland (TL122997)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueMatthew Webb3+ Green Hairstreaks, several Orange-tips, a mating pair of Green-veined Whites, a mating pair of Brimstones, 2 or 3 Small Tortoiseshells, 2 Peacocks and single Red Admiral, Comma, Speckled Wood and Holly Blue. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
3rdMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL727058)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid LazarusFirst sighting of a Red Admiral in 2024. Female Orange-tip [5 in total at two different sites, 2 km apart] seem to be all Anthocharis cardamines ab. decolorata - I have not seen any of the species yet in Chelmsford. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
2ndThe Naze (TM268245)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-TipDavid LazarusPe 17; RA 1; Br 1F; SmW 11; GvW 12; OT 6. Pleasing to see so many Small Whites fluttering around the rape on an earth mound at grid reference given. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
2ndShoeburyness gardenBrimstone, Wall, Holly BlueMr S Day
2ndGreat Holland Pits NR (TM201195)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid LazarusCo 4; Pe 7; RA 4; Br 28 [8F + 20M]; LW 2; GvW 29; OT 15; SpW 2; HB 1. It is quite probable that within the two hours from midday in hot, sunny conditions during which I was recording that I have seen some of the whites more than once as they go up and down the rides [sightings only]. Also 1 Latticed Heath, and 2 Silver Y. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
2ndDevil's Dyke, B1102 to Burwell Cutting (TL579648)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueAlan OwersLate morning to early afternoon. Warm, hazy sun. 10+ green hairstreak. Numerous brimstone. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
1stLangdon Hills - Johnson's Meadow (TQ700864)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, WallDavid LazarusFirst Wall (1) and Small Copper (2) Of the year, plus 1 Co; 12 Pe; 1M + 1F Br; 2 SmW; 1 LW; 12 GvW; 8M + 2F OT; and 1M + 1F (ovipositing) SpW (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
1stEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueBrian GoodeyRA2, C1, P2, GW7, SWt5, LW1, OT8, SWd11, GH1, HB15. Also a couple of hummingbird hawkmoths.
1stCanvey wick (TQ768832)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueDavid ChandlerOne tatty GH and two Wall seen near the seat by the mound. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )

April 2024
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
30thPaxton pitsBrimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Grizzled Skipper, Holly BlueSharon Hearle
30thPaxton Pits (TL195629)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Grizzled SkipperSteve Binding09.30/11am v warm.
windy. 1ST Grizzled skips here
this year (6)for sure , possibly seven.
also (5m+1fm)OrgTip.(1)HollyB.
(3)PCock.(9)Brim.and 7 UNID White. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
30thHolme Fen (TL198896)Peacock, Green-veined White, Grizzled Skipper, Small CopperSteve Binding1.35/2.48pm .Sun/Cloudy/Very windy.
Still warm when the sun shone.
(2)Grizzled Skip.
(1)Small Copper
(5)PCock.
(7+)GVWht male and female. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
29thPerry Lagoons + meadow (TL157669)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueSteve BindingWindy. Sun/cloud but warm.12.15/3pm.
(9)PCock.(3)Comma.(1)RedAD.
(11)m OTip.(3)HollyB.(3)SpecW.
(1)LrgWht.(3)SmWht.(5m)GVWht. 4UN ID White. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
29thCanvey Wick Buglife Reserve, Canvey Island (TQ766834)Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, WallPaul & Barbara BeckettBright and breezy afternoon. 1 Wall Brown sheltering low down beside an oil tank foundation; none on the usual river wall site. 6 Peacocks feeding on a sheltered shrub in flower. Others were singles.
26thPeterborough Cathedral Grounds (TL194998)Large White, Holly BlueRosalyn Payne10 deg but sunny. Large White 1, Holly Blue 1 found in the wild flower bed at the rear of the cathedral.
26thMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL729056)Peacock, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus32 butterflies of 7 species with spring emerging species outnumbering over-wintering species for the first time - good numbers of Green-veined Whites in the wet meadow with the first sighting of a female Orange-tip in 2024 (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
26thJaywick (TM151130)Speckled Wood, Green HairstreakAdrian DolingMy first Green Hairstreak this year in my garden + regular Speckled Wood
25thWestfield Farm (TL3755)Small TortoiseshellVince LeaTwo seen in sunny moments early morning, 10 Deg C.
25thBaddow Meads (TL723063)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusDespite the weather conditions barely reaching the minimum for transects, if that, the sun came out sufficiently strong enough for some butterfly activity with 32 butterflies seen of 9 species: 3 ST; 1 Co; 9 Pe; 1 Br [female]; 5 SmW; 3 LW; 5 GvW; 4 OT [all males - no female sightings in Chelmsford yet]; 1 SpW (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
24thRiver Can (TL697068)Green-veined White, Orange-TipDavid LazarusAfter a week of seeing no more than one butterfly a day - mostly none - a brief interlude between overcast conditions brought out three orange-tip and a Green-veined White, all male. No female sightings of OT yet here in Chelmsford - week's forecast not great. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
19thThaxted (TL609311)Holly BlueRichard BerrySingle male sitting on Basil (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
19thThaxted (TL604313)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueRichard Berry6 Holly Blue (5 male, 1 female)
8 Green-veined White
4 Orange-tip (all male)
3 Speckled Wood
2 Comma
1 Small Tortoiseshell
1 Peacock (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
18thnr St Osyth (TM144159)Peacock, Green-veined WhiteSimon & Pat CoxFirst Green-veined White in our gaarden this year plus regulat Peacock
18thThaxted (TL606309)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueRichard Berry3 Small Tortoiseshell
4 Peacock
1 Brimstone
1 Small White
6 Green-veined White
2 Orange-Tip
9 Speckled Wood
3 Holly Blue (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
14thnr St Osyth (TM144159)Comma, Peacock, Small White, Orange-TipSimon & Pat CoxSingle Comma, Peacock, & Orange-Tip, 2 Small Whites in our garden
14thconnaught Lake, Epping Forest (TQ4095)Comma, PeacockAnthony HareComma 1,Peacock 3.
14thMeadgate (TL720058)Comma, Peacock, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueDavid Lazaruspopped out a few times on my local patch - early to catch an Orange-tip before they became too active; 3 Co; 5 Pe; 1 GvW; 4 OT; 3 SpW; and my first Holly Blue in Chelmsford (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
14thLangdon Hills Westley Heights.Peacock, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodAndrew CoxAt least three male orange tips.
At least six speckled wood.
Two peacock.
Two large white.
At least two small white.
Many green veined whites
14thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-TipAndrew CoxMale brimstone.
Several male orange tips.
Two each of peacock & comma.
14thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Green HairstreakBrian GoodeyOur first green hairsteak of the year and the earliest we've ever had one. GvW 15, RA1, C4, P10, SW7.
14thComberton Garden (TL387546)Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Holly BlueTony RobertsBrimstone 4. Small White 2. Large White 1.
Holly Blue 3.
14thColchester (TL964246)Orange-TipJennifer MartinMale, no photo
14thColchester (TL964246)Orange-TipJennifer MartinMale, no photo
13thLitlington, South Cambs (TL311428)Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Holly BluePhillip HastingsBusiest day for sightings in the garden so far this year. Warm but breezy.
3 x Brimstone (2m, 1f)
3 x Orange Tip (2m, 1f)
1 x Peacock
2 x Holly Blue (1 definitely f)
Also one Hummingbird Hawk Moth seen todat and several times since April 3 feedng on Honesty- the earliest ever seen here. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
13thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)Peacock, Small White, Holly BlueAnthony HareSmall white 1,Holly blue 1,Peacock 3
13thHawkwood Epping forest (TQ3895)Comma, Small White, Speckled WoodAnthony HareSpeckled wood 3,Comma 1,Small white 1.
13thDanbury Ridge Nature Reserves (TL783057)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Holly BlueDavid LazarusVisiting the bluebells at Blake's Wood mid-afternoon rather than butterflying but saw 9 Pe; 1 Co; 5 B; 3 OT; 6 GvW; and my first Holly Blue of 2024 in Lingwood Common
13thColchester (TL964246)Holly BlueJennifer MartinOne, in garden (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
13thCanvey Wick, Eastern end circuit (TQ764833)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Green HairstreakAlan Waddoups And MelanieA very productive late afternoon walk from 3.30 - 5.00 p.m. in warm sunshine at 21ºC. Numerous peacocks, 4 speckled wood, 2 wall brown, others one of each. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
13thAversley Wood (TL1682)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-TipRosalyn Payne2pm, 20 deg. small tortoiseshell 3 in the field on the way. comma 10, peacock 17, red admiral 1, Brimstone 7, green-veined white 8, orange-tip 8
12thThe Naze (TM264243)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusLate afternoon 3-4 with butterflies still active - fewer whites than mid-Essex but a Large White was sighted, plus the only Small Tortoiseshell of the day. 15 Pe; 2 Co; 1 ST; 4 SpW; 1 GvW; 2 LW (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
12thThaxted (TL610312)Holly BlueRichard BerrySingle male Holly Blue flying across garden
12thShepreth L-moor (TL3847)Peacock, Small White, Orange-Tip, Holly BluePaddy GroveSeveral orange-tips and peacocks. Just one holly blue (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
12thPaines Brook, Harold Wood (TQ551912)Comma, Peacock, Small White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodColin Jupp4m Orange Tip, 3+ Small White (sev unid'd), 9 Speckled Wood, 7 Peacock, 2 Comma
12thGreat Staughton old Cemetery (TL123647)Comma, Peacock, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodSteve Binding15.40/16.30pm.V windy, warm sunny.
Old cemetery + area near here.
(6)PCock. (4)SecW.(2m)OTip.
(4)Comma. (2)GVWht. (2)UN ID White.
12thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM203519)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusPlenty of Brimstone (20 incl. 7 females); Peacock (25); Also, 5 Co; 1 SmW; 7 SpW; 2 LW; 5 GvW. Highlight was first sightings of female Brimstone in 2024 including ovipositing on Common Buckthorn (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
12thFolkes Lane Woodland, near Upminster (TQ5789)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodPaul & Barbara BeckettBright and breezy; 11am to 12:30pm. Most seen along the woodland rides. Orange Tip male and female 5+. Peacock 4, Brimstone male 2, Large White female 1, Speckled Wood 1, Comma 1.
12thDevils Dyke Newmarket Racecourse (TL607624)Peacock, Green HairstreakRichard Berry1 Green Hairstreak flying between Hawthorne an Alder
4 Peacock (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
12thColchester, recreation ground (TM005245)Orange-TipClaire Harrington
12thBeggar Hill & Moll Green Ingatestone.Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodRosie And Bill Perkins., Linda And George Jenkins.5,Brimstone, 5,Orange-tip, 3,Speckled Wood, 2,Red Admiral,1,Peacock, 6,Small White, 1,Large White.
11thThaxted (TL6031)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueRichard Berry10 Small Tortoiseshell very fresh flying around nettle patch and sunbathing, 9 Peacock, 3, Speckled Wood, 2 Red Admiral, 2 Orange Tip (1 male & 1 female), 2 Comma, 1 Brimstone, 1 Holly Blue (female) (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
11thNevendon Washes Reserve, Old Nevendon Road, near W (TQ7391)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Orange-TipPaul & Barbara BeckettMorning guided walk with the warden. Cloudy but sheltered among the hawthorn scrub, ponds and horse grazing meadows. Orange Tip and Peacock most common; also heard Nightingale.
11thLower Castle Park, Colchester (TM997256)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Speckled WoodClaire Harrington
11thLordsbridge (TL3954)Orange-Tip, Holly BlueVince LeaOne of each tempted out by the weak sunshine in our wild garden.
11thDevil's Dyke (Ditch Farm), BurwellSmall Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Green HairstreakNick & Stella Laughton1 Green Hairstreak, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 20+ Brimstone, 12+ Peacock, 10+ Orange-Tip (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
11thBurwellGreen-veined White, Orange-Tip, Holly BlueNick & Stella Laughton2 Orange-Tip, 2 Holly Blue and 1 Green-veined White
11thBaddow Meads (TL716061)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-TipDavid LazarusFinally, Orange-tip have begun to emerge here in Baddow Meads with the first 3 males sighted. Also, a pair of Green-veined White in cop. A second confirmed sighting of a Painted Lady and possibly a third. Totals 9 Species: 11 ST; 4 Co; 20 Pe; 1 [2?] PL; 3 BS [all males, still no female sightings]; 5 SmW; 1 LW; 3 GvW; 3 OT (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
9thComberton Garden (TL387546)BrimstoneTony RobertsBrimstone 1.
8thThorndon Park (south)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodAndrew CoxTwo or three male brimstones plus one female.
Male orange tip.
8thPerry Lagoons + meadow (TL157669)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueSteve Binding11.55am/14.55pm
warm cloudy odd sun.
(21)PCock.(1)SmTort.(1)RedAD.
(4)Comma.(1)HollyB.(8)Brim.
(6)SpecW.(2)LrgWht.(2)SmWht.
(1)UNID wht.(1)OrgTip. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL726058)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusThe warmest day of the year ruined by very windy conditions but still 40 butterfly sightings for the weekend with notable numbers of Peacocks 21 and the beginning of the emergence of Speckled Woods (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thFleam Dyke (TL5454)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Holly BlueVince Lea
8thBlack Notley (TL7620)BrimstoneGeorge BrownSunny periods. 1 egg laying on Alder buckthorn, 2.20p.m. and resting on nearby shrubs. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thBaddow Hall Park (TL731805)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusA proper butterflying day today with 16C temperatures, full sun and a gentle breeze between 1 and 3 o'clock. The first sighting of a Painted Lady and Large White. 9 species with a total of 62 butterflies. This included 20 Peacocks and 14 Small Tortoiseshell. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
8thAbberton reservoir (TL9617)Small TortoiseshellLaurence DrummondOne around Dandelions near the EWT visitor center.
7thLordsbridge (TL3954)Orange-TipVince LeaMale OT in the garden.
7thCherry orchard country park,rochford essexComma, Peacock, Brimstone, Speckled WoodSteve Day
7thAlresford Grange (TM054206)Comma, Peacock, Speckled WoodRichard GreatRex4 peacocks, one Comma and one Speckled Wood in sheltered areas along the riverside footpath. Another peacock attempting to fly in strong winds.
6thThorndon Park (south)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined WhiteAndrew CoxMale brimstone from the car park.
5thMorborne HillBrimstone, Orange-TipMatthew WebbMating pair of Orange-tips and 4 male Brimstones seen on the roadside verge just to the west of the Billing Brook. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
4thGrafham Water (TL165664)Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodAlan Owers1 of each seen mid afternoon
2ndMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL726058)Comma, Peacock, Green-veined WhiteDavid LazarusFirst Green-veined White for 2024 - a newly emerged female. Also, 9 Peacocks and a couple of Commas. No activity until midday at the earliest at the moment with most around 14.00pm - 15C with sunny intervals. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
2ndEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Holly BlueBrian GoodeyOurs first holly blue of the year. I expect to see them more or continuously now at this location until the last week of October.
1stGodmanchester garden (TL250696)Comma, Peacock, Large WhiteAlan Owers2 commas, singles of peacock and large white seen whilst gardening. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )

March 2024
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
30thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)Peacock, Brimstone, Small WhiteAnthony Hareone of each.
30thGreat Staughton Old Cemetery (TL123647)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneSteve Binding12.15/13.40pm sunny 14c
(7m + 1fm)Brimstone, mostly around the numerous
primroses and dandelions. (2) Comma always found each year in the same place.(3)PCock (1)Sm Tort
on blackthorn. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
30thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Speckled WoodBrian GoodeyST3, C2, P3, SW3. Our earliest speckled woods; never had them in March before. Another in nearby Connaught Gardens. Small tortoiseshell seems to be doing well this year.
30thConnaught Water, Epping Forest (TQ4095)CommaAnthony Harecomma 2.
30thComberton (TL388561)Speckled WoodGeoff DymottSingle butterfly along mixed hedgerow.
27thFord Wood.Bassingbourn.South Cambs (TL334434)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstonePhillip HastingsSeen in or around Ford Wood, southern edge of Bassingbourn village. Sunny but very breezy morning so most sightings resting on ground or in bushes.
2 x Peacock (photo)
1 x Male Brimstone (photo)
1 x Comma (photo)
1 x Small Tortoiseshell (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
26thShepreth (TL3947)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small WhitePaddy Grove
26thRamsey (TL2785)Large WhiteTony LackThe earliest date for this species in my garden.
26thMeadgate Park (TL719105)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusFirst Speckled Wood of 2024. Also, 5 Peacock; 2 Brimstone; 1 Comma in the local park & a Brimstone in the garden 12C full sun & light breeze (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
26thHowland's March (TM112163)PeacockRichard GreatRexAt least 5 Peacocks along the footpath along the edge of the reserve.
26thHobson's field (TL453550)Brimstone, Orange-TipScott Boyd1 Orange tip and 2 brimstone in wooded area beside Trumpington community college, opposite Hobson's field. Sunny. No wind.
26thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)PeacockAnthony Hare2 peacock.
26thFowlmere RSPB (TL4045)Peacock, BrimstonePaddy GroveLoads of Brimstones and Peacocks about. Another visitor reported a Speckled Wood but I didn't see it myself
26thChurch Lane LNR and nearby, North Weald (TL496046)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneIan WattsWarm and sunny morning. 1 x Comma, 4 x Brimstone and 2 x Peacock in the nature reserve, 2 x Small Tort and further 4 x Peacock in nearby agricultural field margin.
26thChigwell Row Wood LNR, Essex (TQ464930)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled WoodTom Simon
26thCambridge (TL4557)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Speckled WoodLouise Bacon
24thSoham (TL596720)Green-veined WhiteScott BoydSingle green veined white. 7.15 am sunny and cold
23rdRaphael Park (TQ518899)Red AdmiralZayed AhmedOne Red Admiral on nettle
21stFairlop Waters CP (TQ4590)Peacock, Orange-TipAlan BellEarliest Orange-tip at site. Also a Peacock
20thSwavesey (TL3670)Small Tortoiseshell, PeacockDavid BradleyMy first definite Small Tortoiseshell of 2024, although I may have seen a glimpse of one a couple of weeks ago in Cottenham.
20thMill Green Common (TL637013)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneRob Smith3 male Brimstone seen together, 2 Peacock clashing, 1 Small Tortoiseshell and 1 Comma. Also bumped into someone trying to photograph Orange Underwing moths that were on the wing
20thHolland on Sea, esplanade (TM202161)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Small WhiteBrian GoodeyOur earliest small white. Nectaring on red dead-nettle.
20thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)Brimstone, Small WhiteAnthony Hare1 of each.
20thBarrington, South Cambs (TL499393)PeacockPhillip HastingsOne Peacock on footpath just south of village of Barrington, South Cambs. First Peacock seen this year - in exactly the same spot as first sighting last year on March 22!
20thBaddow Meads (TL720058)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small WhiteDavid LazarusSurprisingly the sun appeared despite the poor start to the day with 16C and only a slight breeze with butterflies emerging from 11 o'clock:
15 PE; 10 BR; 3 CO; 2 ST; 1 SW (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
18thThaxted (TL610031)BrimstoneRichard BerrySingle Brimstone in flight, flying over gardens
18thBaddow Meads (TL716306)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneDavid LazarusFirst Small Tortoiseshell [4] and Comma [1] of the season with 15 Peacocks and a couple of Brimstone enjoying the midday sun 14C gentle breeze with gusts (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
17thCottenham (TL4568)Orange-TipDavid BradleyMy first Orange Tip of the year. Seems very, very early
16thRayleigh Mount, Rayleigh (TQ805909)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneGraham BaileyMidday in warm sun - 3 peacock, comma, brimstone.
16thLitlington, South Cambs (TL311428)Comma, BrimstonePhillip HastingsFirst garden sightings of the year - two within half an hour of each other on warm sunny morning.
1 x Brimstone (m)
1 x Comma
16thHarrow Lodge ParkSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Small WhiteZayed Ahmed15 Peacock, 3 Comma, 2 Small Tortoiseshells and 1 Small White
16thGarden shoeburyComma, PeacockSteve Day
16thCottenham (TL4568) (TL4568)BrimstoneSimon IngateFirst Brimstone (male) seen in garden this year.
16thBeth Chatto's Gardens (TM069237)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, BrimstoneRichard GreatRexSingles
15thSt Osyth (TM1117)Small TortoiseshellSimon CoxSingle Small Tortoiseshell along footpath to Howlands Marsh
15thRomfordCommaZayed AhmedOne Comma
15thMonks Wood (TL2080)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneRosalyn Payne & Phil Bromley12.30 - 13.45 - Sunny, 15c. Small Tortoiseshell 1, Comma 9,Peacock 5, Brimstone 7
15thCottenham (TL446673)BrimstoneDavid BradleyFirst Brimstone of the year and only the third butterfly I've seen in 2024
14thTree Top Meadow, Epping (TL453019)Small TortoiseshellTom Simon
14thRochford essexSpeckled WoodSteve Day (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
14thHill Rd Benfleet SS71HL (TQ818876)CommaDavid ChandleruSpotted by Mrs C Gardener in her garden
14thGarden on Meadgate Avenue (TL718505)Peacock, Brimstone, Small WhiteDavid LazarusFirst confirmed sighting for me of a butterfly in 2024. In fact, 3 including this fresh male Small White that looks almost pure white from a distance. Its black apex markings are only visible close up. The single forewing spot is so light as to be invisible until zooming in to the image attached. The inside edges of both forewings are a little crinkled and appear not to have completely dried out. Also, 1 PC in the local park & 1 BS flying over the garden. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
9thThaxted (TL6131)BrimstoneStephen Dutton11 deg, sunny blustery Easterly.
1male Brimstone
9thLittle Warley Common (TQ606906)Comma, Red Admiral, BrimstoneRob SmithComma 3, single Red Admiral and male Brimstone
9thHolme Fen (TL2188)Comma, PeacockRosalyn Payne & Phil BromleySunny, 13 deg Peacock 1, Middle Covert. Comma 1, New Long Drove.
9thGreen Island Gardens, Ardleigh (TM056273)Comma, PeacockRichard GreatRex4 Comma and a single Peacock
9thFolkes Lane Woodland (TQ574898)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Red Admiral, BrimstoneRob Smithsingles
9thEast Cliff, Holland on Sea (TM194156)Small TortoiseshellBrian GoodeyFive adults on a south facing section of cliff. The tamarisks have recently been cut back, exposing patches of soil and encouraging flowers.
9thComberton Garden (TL387546)BrimstoneTony RobertsBrimstone 1.
9thColchester (TL964246)Comma, PeacockJennifer MartinSunny Saturday, peacock on garden fence. Comma on hedge. Only got a photo of the comma. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
6thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Comma, Peacock, Red AdmiralBrian GoodeyPeacock x7, red admiral X4, comma X1.
4thConnaught Gardens, Clacton (TM186155)Red AdmiralBrian GoodeyOur first butterfly of the year.

February 2024
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
21stBemor Building Supplies, Waltham Abbey (TL381005)Small TortoiseshellTom Simon1 Small Tortoiseshell in Bemor's shop. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
19thRomfordRed AdmiralZayed AhmedOne Red Admiral that attempted to feed on flowers but was buffeted away by wind.
18thSt Ives (TL306724)BrimstoneJeremy MilneSingle male flying in the early afternoon.
16thThorpe-le-Soken (TM179210)Red AdmiralRichard GreatRexA single Red Admiral flying in the garden in sunshine
16thHolme Fen (TL2089)Comma, Red AdmiralRosalyn Payne & Phil BromleyRed Admiral 1, Comma 1
15thnr St Osyth (TM144159)PeacockSimon CoxSingle Peacock settled on pale matting in our garden this morning
15thgarden Eaton Socon (TL166594)Peacock, BrimstoneSteve Bindinga lone male Brimstone flying around the garden followed by a lone Peacock ,in the lovely warm sun
15thWistow Huntingdon CambsBrimstoneRon HaroldOne male along garden hedge
15thLordsbridge (TL3954)Comma, PeacockVince LeaSingle Comma and Peacock around my home at lunch time, 10th and 11th butterflies seen by me this year. Butterflies 1-9 were seen in the previous hour.
15thLeigh on Sea, private gardenBrimstoneNicholas BarnettAmazed to see my first Brimstone of the year whilst putting the washing on the line. Male.
15thHoughton (TL284723)BrimstoneJohn WinterbottomOne female and at least one male in my back garden early afternoon.
15thHaddenham Canbs.Comma, BrimstoneIan Dickerson2 brimstone 1 comma in the garden
15thGreen Island Garden, Ardleigh (TM055274)Red AdmiralClaire HarringtonOne butterfly enjoying the mild, sunny weather in the garden
15thCambridge (TL469570)BrimstoneEdward PollardSingle. First of the year for me
15thCambridge (Burrell's Walk) (TL442584)BrimstoneRob PopleMale Brimstone on the wing, c.13:05.
15thBovingdon Farm (TL7527)PeacockGeorge BrownVery mild with sunny spells. ! Peacock flying at field edge, 10.25a.m.
15thBasildon (TQ7087)BrimstoneChris Huggins
15thBarton (TL4155)Peacock, BrimstoneVince LeaOne Peacock and 8 Brimstones in Barton village and Lark Rise farmland. Very warm, but not very sunny and a bit of a breeze, nonetheless good enough to tempt out many hibernators - my first butterflies seen in flight this year.
12thSt Ives (TL306724)Small TortoiseshellBrian MilneA single Small Tortoiseshell flying in the afternoon sun.
12thCopperas Wood (TM202316)CommaRichard GreatRexA single Comma flying in the sun as we were coppicing chestnut.
11thNoak Hill, RomfordPeacockMartin Whitetwo peacocks basking in sun at 1pm
10thCottenham (TL4468)PeacockDavid BradleyMy first butterfly of the year. Peacock flying over a hedgerow on the edge of Cottenham.

Also, friend reported a Brimstone on the busway on Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, opposite Kirkwood Road, 10am
4thGarden, Barton Road CambridgeRed AdmiralJeff RileyA single specimen in the garden at midday
3rdEssex wildlife Trust, The Naze , Walton (TM264243)BrimstoneJulian SidneyMale Brimstone seen, 12c light breeze,sunny, flying along hedge. Recorded on IRecord app
2ndWeald Common, North Weald Bassett (TL498039)Red AdmiralTom Simon1 Red Admiral on northern edge of Weald Common. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
2ndGreat Staughton back yard (TL132645)Small TortoiseshellSteve Binding15.30 pm Sunny a lone Small Tortoiseshell
flying around the yard. Also saw another one
in a Eaton Socon garden in St Neots.
1stpath near Woodditton (TL673576)BrimstoneJeremy Aldred1 male

January 2024
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
29thNoak Hill, RomfordRed AdmiralMartin WhiteFeed on Mahonia, then settled on ground
28thRomfordRed AdmiralZayed AhmedOne quite small Red Admiral fluttering rapidly in the afternoon sun, 10°.
28thBarrington (TL4049)Red AdmiralPaddy GroveOne flying in cold but sunny conditions (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
26thFoxton (south) (TL417477)PeacockGuy MannersSurprisingly one Peacock heading north on east (leeward) side of hedge
25thDry Drayton, Cambs (TL381624)BrimstoneVal PerrinMale brimstone flying in garden at lunchtime. Temp 11.5 degC. Damp, mainly overcast conditions, faint sun. Could be my earliest ever year's sighting of this species.
24thHollow Pond, Leyton FlatsRed AdmiralNicholas BarnettMy first butterfly of the year bolting out of the gorse eastern borders of Hollow Pond.
24thA13 Tarpots Crossroads South Benfleet (TQ882773)Red AdmiralDavid ChandlerFlying above the traffic in a moderate breeze.
22ndSutton Gault (TL4279)PeacockRob PatridgePresent in garden during short spell of sunshine.
21stHardwick garden (TL372594)Red AdmiralTrevor SawyerRed Admiral searching around the garden for somewhere to shelter from the increasing wind. Quite active in 9C and rapidly rising temperatures even though no dull, cloudy weather. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )


 
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