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

SIGHTINGS 2025

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

Other years' Sightings:

2025  2024  2023  2022  2021  2020  2019  2018  2017  2016  2015  2014  2013  2012  2011  2010  2009  2008  2007  2006  

First Sightings 2025

 Red Admiral 30th Jan Brimstone 25th Feb
 Small Tortoiseshell 28th Feb Comma 3rd Mar
 Peacock 3rd Mar Small White 18th Mar
 Green-veined White 24th Mar Speckled Wood 24th Mar
 Large White 25th Mar Orange-Tip 30th Mar
 Holly Blue 2nd Apr Small Copper 3rd Apr
 Wall 4th Apr Grizzled Skipper 6th Apr
 Green Hairstreak 7th Apr Painted Lady 12th Apr
 Dingy Skipper 14th Apr Small Heath 17th Apr
 Brown Argus 20th Apr Common Blue 27th Apr
 Adonis Blue 28th Apr Small Blue 1st May
 Heath Fritillary 8th May Large Skipper 12th May
 Meadow Brown 21st May Black Hairstreak 24th May
 Marbled White 29th May Essex Skipper 30th May
 Dark Green Fritillary 30th May Small Skipper 30th May
 White Admiral 4th Jun Silver-washed Fritillary 9th Jun
 Purple Hairstreak 9th Jun White-letter Hairstreak 10th Jun
 Ringlet 12th Jun Purple Emperor 15th Jun
 Gatekeeper 15th Jun Clouded Yellow 17th Jun
 Chalk Hill Blue 30th Jun

To best view photos on this page, JavaScript should be enabled. See also the complete gallery of photos for 2025

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 2025
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription

June 2025
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
30thSt. Faith's Park, Brentwood (TQ585936)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common BlueBarbara Beckett12-1pm on very hot sunny day. 3 Marbled White seen for only the second time at this site. 40+ Small/Essex Skippers. 2 Common Blue. 2 Purple Hairstreak. 10+ Ringlet. 200+ Meadow Brown. Grass fields have not yet been cut which is unusual.
30thSea wall GoldhangerOther butterflyStephen MurrayPossible Bath White butterfly seen at 2.30pm today
30thMonks Wood (TL1979)Comma, 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, Purple HairstreakP Bromley R Payne R&S Orbell J Winterbottom EtcA walk around the SW corner of Monks Wood produced 17 species this morning including 10+ Silver-washed Fritillaries. The Purple Emperor was seen in the parking area at Brown's Gate.
30thLitlington, South Cambs (TL311428)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Holly BluePhillip HastingsSurge in garden sightings over last few days coinciding with buddleia and lavender coming into flower.
3-4 x Peacock
2-3 x Large White, Small White, Meadow Brown
1 x Red Admiral, Marbled White, Small Tortoiseshell, Green-veined White, Comma, Brimstone (m), Holly Blue (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
30thDevils Dyke (July Course End) (TL614161)Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Brown Argus, Small Copper, Chalk Hill BluePaul Fisher07.30-10.00 AM Visit 21-29C.
No Overall Count Done But Of Note:
x2 Chalkhill Blue Males Seen In Section 2.
x7 Dark Green Fritillary's, 4 Of Which Were Very Worn.
x3 Small Copper's.
x1 Painted Lady.
Plenty Of Gatekeepers Along The Eastern Side Of The Dyke.
Lots Of Peacocks.
29thWoodwalton Fen (TL230850)Peacock, Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Small White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Purple HairstreakDiana SpencerAt least 3 Purple Emperor around the bungalow, Purple Hairstreaks very high up. Hot but very cloudy.
29thWoodland Trust wood, Theydon Bois (TQ457979)Purple EmperorIan Watts6pm. Single territorial male.
29thSouth Essex Woods (TQ835916)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Wall, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown ArgusDavid LazarusLast 30 Heath Fritillary across all sites; second brood Wall at Hockley Woods; all 4 new brood whites in all woods & in good numbers; White Admiral & Silver-washed Fritillary in both Hadleigh Great Wood & Hockley Woods. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
29thBeachet Wood, Tawney Common (TL491012)Purple EmperorIan Watts8pm. Single seen high on north western fringe of wood.
28thWoodwalton FenComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakAlan Day
28thMonks Wood (TL198792)Comma, Peacock, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperSimon IngateComma x 3, Peacock x 2, Comma x 3, Silver Washed Fritillary x 10, Brimstone x 3, Marbled White x 6, Large Skipper - lots, Meadow Brown x 10, Ringlet x 20 also Small white x 3 Green Veined White x 2, 4 x White Admirals (some video - can this be uploaded)?
28thHoughton Meadows (TL293717)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Small CopperJeremy MilneWhite-letter Hairstreak 2, Purple Hairstreak 1, Small Copper 8
28thHolme Fen (TL2089)Peacock, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large SkipperDiana Spencer6+ Silver Washed Fritillary throughout Holme Fen, mainly near Holme Fen Posts. 50+ Red Admirals.
28thHatfield Forest (TL5218)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondSingle male holding territory at the pond/cattle grid Wall wood, early afternoon.
27thWoodwalton Fen (TL230849)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakAlan Owers5 purple emperors around bungalow at one stage this afternoon including 1 that spent more than half an hour on my hand. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
27thPerry Lagoons + meadow (TL157669)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperSteve Binding11am/2.20pm sun, cloud, breezy but hot.
(12)Pcock(25)Comma.(18)RedAD.(1)PLady.
(31)LrgWht.(45)SmWht.(18)GVWht. so many UN ID
White. Lots of MedBrn + Ringlet.(11)Gatekeeper.
(4)SmCopper.(3)LrgSkip.(23)SmSkip ID.
(2)PurpHS.(1)SpecWood.(3)SilvWashFrit.
(3fm+2m)Brim.(1)ComBlue.(1)BrnArg both 2nd gen .
Good numbers thanks to masses of bramble and thistles. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
27thMonks Wood (TL488036)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter HairstreakAndrew TerrellFriday afternoon, 3pm to 4pm. Sunny intervals, 27 degrees.
27thMonks Wood (TL488036)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter HairstreakAndrew TerrellFriday afternoon, 3pm to 4pm. Sunny intervals, 27 degrees.
27thMonks Wood (TL205805)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple HairstreakAlan OwersSingle purple emperor on scat along footpath outside wood at Woodwalton end. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
27thHatfield Forest (TL5421)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 males chasing at the gate 32 territory.
27thHatfield Forest (TL5321)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond3 males at north west territory.
27thHatfield Forest (TL5320)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 males clashing at central west territory, 2 females and a male at eight wantz.
27thHatfield Forest (TL5319)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond3 males chasing at Lodge cottage and 2 at Central.
27thAbberton Reservoir & Roman River SSSI (TL962177)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Purple Emperor, 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, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid Lazarus8+ Purple Emperor at the entrance to the reserve; large numbers of Purple Hairstreak; both Meadow Brown & Large White in very good numbers at both sites; Comma doing well too. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
26thHigh Wood Gt Dunmow (TL6022)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondEarly afternoon, 1 Female along the side of the wood and 2 males chasing at the territory here.
26thHatfield Forest (TL535212)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Common BlueDavid LazarusVery large numbers of Ringlet; good numbers of Small & Large Skipper, Comma & Silver-washed Fritillary; 4 Purple Emperor with two low-flying through a ride. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
25thRowney wood (TL5733)White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond14 Purple Emperors here this morning 10.00- 12.30, 13 Sallow searching/Oak edging males and 1 female, 2 SWF, 2 White Admiral including 1 aberration with no white bands on the upper wing.
25thRoughtalleys Wood Local Nature Reserve (TL488036)Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Large White, Ringlet, Meadow BrownTom SimonPurple Emperors flying around the canopy in the NE corner of Roughtalleys Wood. Viewable from right angle bend in long boardwalk. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
25thPhyllis Currie EWT Reserve, Great Leighs (TL721182)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Small CopperGeorge BrownSunny and warm, S wind. !.40-2.20p.m. Single Small tortoisehell, Peacock, Speckled wood and Small heath. 2 Marbled whites and Small coppers. (Also Small/Essex skippers not specifically identified).
25thMonks Wood, Cambridgeshire (TL198792)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Small SkipperRichard BirchamLarge numbers of Comma and Marbled White.
25thLingwood Common (TL775059)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusMy first Purple of Emperor of 2025 at Lingwood Common; good numbers of Silver-washed Fritillary, Meadow Brown & Ringlet (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
25thGreat Staughton Meadow (TL127646)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Small CopperSteve BindingLate afternoon, overcast but warm 25c.
(10)GVWht.(3)LrgWht.(10)Smwht lots of UN ID
White.(21)MarbWht. Plenty MedBrn Some Ringlet.
(2)LrgSkip.SM/Essex Skip Lots of. (4)EssexSkip .
(2)fresh looking male Brimstone.
(1)PLady.(1)SmTort.(2)RedAD.(1)PCock.
(11)Comma.(26)SmHeath.(1)SmCopper.
Search includes top headgerow of 2nd meadow. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
25thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyC14, P2, RA3, WA8, PE3, B3, SWt5, LW3, GW2, SWd1, SH3, R13, MB21, LS2, SS14, ES2, WH6, PH5, HB1, SC2. One female and two male purple emperor. Good numbers of white admiral and comma. Our first ringlets of the year.
25thDitton Park Wood (TL666571)Purple EmperorNeil DickinsonThe Purple Emperors are out! At least half a dozen different individuals around the tops of the oaks with occasional sparring between pairs. One briefly came to the ground but only lingered long enough for a poor photo that’s not worth sharing. Visit made over a hour either side of midday. Better numbers than seen here in recent years.
25thBaddow Meads (TL728061)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusMeadow Brown in their 100s; highest number of recorded sightings of Marbled White seen in the floodplain ever & good numbers of Essex Skipper & Small Tortoiseshell (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
24thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192160)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyC5, P2, RA2, SWt13, LW4, GW1, SWd5, MB6, SS4, ES1, WH3, HB17, SC1. Second generation small and green-veined whites out in numbers, only a few checked. Small copper don't appear to have a focused first generation this year.
23rdVange Marsh RSPBComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperAndrew CoxAt least 43 marbled whites, many feeding on brambles.
Many smaller skippers.
23rdHatfield Forest (TL5421)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondSingle territorial male at the gate 32 territory.
23rdHatfield Forest (TL5321)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondSingle territorial male at the North west territory.
23rdHatfield Forest (TL5320)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 territorial males at the central west territory.
23rdHatfield Forest (TL5319)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond2 Males at the Lodge cottage territory, 2 at central and a ride side newly emerged female here.
23rdChurch Broom Wood, Little Leighs (TL719165)Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Common BlueGeorge BrownSunny and warm, fresh W wind, 3.15-4.10p.m. 4 Commas, 1 Red admiral, 6 Ringlets, 4 Marbled whites, 1 Large skipper, 1 male Common blue. (Also c.8 Small or Essex skippers).
23rdBelton Hills to Benfleet Downs (TQ785857)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusVery Large numbers of Large & Green-veined White; also, Small & Essex Skippers; 30+ White-letter Hairstreak (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
22ndSouthey WoodComma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Black HairstreakMatthew WebbMale Purple Emperor, female Black Hairstreak, 2, possibly 3 White Admirals, 6 Silver-washed Fritillaries and a aberrant Comma the highlights. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
22ndLoshes Meadow (TL871369)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small SkipperGerard Fletcher & James ElseySingles of Brimstone, Red Admiral, Marbled White & Small Tortoiseshell. 4 x Comma, 4 x Small Heath,60+ Meadow Brown. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
22ndLangdon Hills EWT Marks HillComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueAndrew CoxAt least six silver washed fritillaries, both sexes noted.
At least eight white admirals.
Two red admirals.
One marbled white.
Many ringlets & meadow browns.
22ndLangdon Hills EWT Lincewood & Great BerryComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Meadow BrownAndrew CoxTwo each of silver washed fritillary & white admiral.
At least six marbled white.
22ndHatfield Forest (TL545210)Comma, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Small CopperDavid LazarusVery good numbers of Silver-washed Fritillary; & a single Purple Emperor (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
22ndHardwick Wood (TL3557)Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Speckled Wood, Meadow BrownJames Smith
22ndGreat holland pits,Great holland essexComma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Other butterflySteve DayWent looking for purple emperor,possible sighting high in oak tree near bird hide,
22ndFowlmere RSPB (TL4045)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Common BlueAde CooperIncredible number of Marbled White on the reserve and some adjacent fields. 415 counted
22ndDevil's Dyke (July Course end) (TL615361)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperMartin PeersSmall Tortoiseshell 2 (both fresh), Dark Green
Fritillary 2, Brimstone 2, Large White 10+, Small Heath 14, Marbled White c270, Ringlet 30, Meadow
Brown 48, Large Skipper 3, Small Skipper 6, Essex Skipper 2
22ndConeyfield wood Tiptree (TL8918)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond5 Purple Emperors at the territory here early afternoon, 4 males and 1 probable female.
22ndBirch Green (TL9418)Purple EmperorLaurence Drummond1 Male at the territory Layer Breton heath.
22ndAbberton reservoir (TL9617)Purple Emperor, Purple HairstreakLaurence DrummondAt least 3 males around Oaks at the old road 12.30
22nd800 Wood (TL3959)Comma, Small White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Meadow BrownJames SmithGood numbers of whites, meadow browns and marbled whites.
21stconnaught Lake, Epping Forest (TQ4095)Comma, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperAnthony HareSpeckled Wood 2,Marbled White 2 (seen on Grassland on the lake approach) Small/Essex Skipper 3,(constantly on wing couldn't tell them apart)Comma 3,Silver-Washed Fritillary 2,Ringlet 6,Large White 2,Large Skipper 1,Meadow Brown 3,(seen on grassland on the lake approach.
21stSouth Essex Woods (TQ835916)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Holly BlueDavid LazarusEnd of season with numbers halved; Good numbers of Meadow Brown, Ringlet and Large White; Silver-washed Fritillary in all 4 woods & White Admiral seen in Hadleigh Great Wood only.
21stPaxton Pits (TL195629)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small SkipperSteve BindingFriends of Paxton Pits. Survey Dragonflies
and Butterflies. (6)MarbWht.(15+)Ringlet.
Lots of MedBrn.(7)LrgWht.(5)GVWht.(2)SmWht.
Plenty of UN ID White.(6)SmSkip.(1)LrgSkip.
(3)RedAD.(2)SpecW.(1)Plady Very fresh looking.
(1)new Peacock.(1fm)Brim(6)Comma. Very Hot conditions so only route A surveyed. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
21stLordsbridge (TL3954)BrimstoneVince LeaHaving seen a worn individual on transect earlier in the week, surprised to see a fresh male in the garden. There's usually a few weeks gap between the generations.
21stLangdon Hills EWT Plotlands.Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueAndrew CoxOne WL hairstreak
21stGiants Hill Rampton (TL432680)White-letter HairstreakChris BrownOne W-L Hairstreak after an hour searching; feeding on bramble near elms trees, viewed from within Giants Hill hay meadow (accessible to public). (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
21stEpping Forest (TQ3995)Speckled Wood, RingletAnthony HareSpeckled Wood 4,Ringlet 11.
21stCastor Hanglands NNRComma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Black HairstreakMatthew Webb2 White Admirals, a few Silver-washed Fritillaries, a tatty Black Hairstreak and a Purple Hairstreak the highlights. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
20thWoodwalton Fen (TL230849)Comma, Red Admiral, Purple Emperor, Large White, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakSteve Binding7am/10.30am hazy sunshine. Warm 17c .
(1)PurpEmp.(3/4)PurpHS.(16)LrgSkip.
(14)Ringlet.(2)LrgWht.(11)GVWht.
(3)RedAD.(3)Comma.(3)MedBrn. Plenty UN ID White. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
20thMarks Hill Wood & Northlands Wood (TQ686877)Comma, Peacock, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Holly BlueDavid Lazarus25 Silver-washed Fritillary across both woods plus a few White Admiral; v. large numbers of Meadow Brown in the rides & clearings; large numbers of Large White & Marbled White; Ringlet & Green-veined White numbers increasing; new brood Peacock (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
20thLangdon Hills EWT Willow Park.Comma, Peacock, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small CopperAndrew Cox
20thLangdon Hills EWT Marks HillComma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueAndrew CoxAt least three white admiral.
Male silver washed fritillary.
Two purple hairstreak.
20thLangdon Hills EWT Lincewood & Great Berry.Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueAndrew Cox
20thHighwoods Country Park, Northern Woodlands (ColcheComma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex SkipperOle Wiedenmannat least 7 White Admirals, 2 Silver Washed Fritillaries, many Meadow Brown and Skippers (difficult to quantify) (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
20thHawkwood allotment. (TQ3795)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, RingletAnthony HareSmall Tortoiseshell 1,Red Admiral 1,Speckled Wood 3,Small White 12,Ringlet 5,Large White 3.
20thBarrington (TL4150)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Painted Lady, Large White, Clouded Yellow, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow BrownPaddy GroveLovely to see a Clouded Yellow flying in the evening sunshine
19thThaxted (TL6131)Small Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Small White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Common BlueStephen Dutton10:00 -11:00 25 deg
70 Meadow Brown,60 Marbled White, 12 Small Heath, 8 Small White, 2Small Skipper, 1x Brimstone,Small Tortoishell,Common Blue
19thRoman River SSSI - Friday Wood (TL990209)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple HairstreakDavid LazarusWhite-letter Hairstreak all along Cherry Tree Lane; all 3 premier woodlanders inside Friday Wood with good numbers seen of SWF & White Admiral; single male Purple Emperor (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
19thMeadgate Park (TL722059)White-letter HairstreakDavid LazarusFirst White-letter Hairstreak in my local recreational park/urban green space - 3 meta-colonies found
19thBrampton Wood (TL184698)Comma, White Admiral, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Purple HairstreakSteve Bindingearly morning sunny 17c.
(6)WhtAD.(5)SpecW.(27)LrgSkip.
(23)Ringlet.(41)MedBrn.(4)SmSkip.
(1)PurpHS.(3)GVWht.(1)SmWht.
(6)Comma. SEV UN ID White.
18thDuck End Green, Rayne (TL721230)White-letter HairstreakAndy Goodeyc.10 tussling above elms in traditional site for species
17thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Comma, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Common Blue, Small CopperAnthony Harespeckled Wood 3 (on the woodland edge) Marbled White 21, Small & Essex skippers 10 (unable to break that number down as they were constantly on wing) Comma 1, Ringlet 1, Common Blue 3, Small Heath 39, Meadow Brown 63, Large Skipper 2, Small Copper 1.
17thMagog Down (TL4953)Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Common Blue, Small BlueDuncan McNiven4 x Small Blue inc pr in cop (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
17thHatfield Forest (TL529207)Comma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Silver-washed Fritillary, Purple Emperor, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst Purple Emperor of 2025; ~250 Meadow Brown; Good numbers of new brood whites [all 4] & Comma; also good numbers and increasing Silver-washed Fritillary, Large Skipper & Ringlet. [woodland rides only - 479 butterflies] (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
17thBury (TL281825)Clouded YellowJohn TemprellAn unexpected sighting while walking mid day in hot sun. Very skittish and hard to photograph as not geared up for shots of butterflies. On a footpath between crop fields. A worn individual. Flew off east across field. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
16thStour Wood (TM193311)Comma, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueDavid LazarusGood numbers of Silver-washed Fritillary and a couple of White Admiral; also, new brood Comma (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
16thShadwell Wood (TL5741)Comma, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Meadow BrownJohn Landels4 SWF in the Wood and 1 Marbled White at entrance to Wood.
16thMonks Wood (TL2080)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, White-letter HairstreakRosalyn Payne & Karen SandersonSunny, 21 Deg, 9.45-11.45. Comma 2, Red Admiral 3, White Admiral 7, Brimstone 1, Green-veined white 2, Large Skipper 6, White-letter Hairstreak 2.
16thLangdon Hills EWT Marks HillRed Admiral, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueAndrew CoxOne white admiral.
Two silver washed fritillaries, male & female feeding on bramble together.
16thLangdon Hills EWT Lincewood & Great Berry Meadows.Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Essex Skipper, Holly Blue, Common BlueAndrew CoxOne white admiral.
Four marbled white.
16thGreat Wilbraham Common (TL534576)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow BrownChris BrownMeadow Brown 60, Small Heath 7, Small Tortoiseshell 2, Large White 2,
Green-veined White 1, Small White 4, Brimstone 1, Comma 2, Marbled White 1
16thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyST1, C6, RA4, WA5, B5, SW4, LW1, GvW1, SWd4, SH2, MB11, LS2, SS6 (checked), WlH5 HB7, SC2. Earliest we've seen w-l hairsteaks.
16thEssex University, Wivenhoe Park (TM031239)Comma, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small SkipperOle Wiedenmannfirst Gatekeeper of the year, 50-60 Meadow Browns, 4 Commas, 1 Large White, 1 Small Heath, 1 Speckled Wood, 2 Small Skipper, 2 Large Skipper (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
16thEWT Great Holland Pits (TM201193)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple HairstreakDavid LazarusGood numbers of White-letter Hairstreak & White Admiral and new brood Comma; all 4 whites new brood but few of them
16thBrampton Wood (TL184698)Comma, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Black Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve Bindingearly morning visit sunny and warm 18c.
First Butterfly of the day (1).SWFrit.
(10)WhtAD various locations some on brambles,
(5)Comma.(16)LrgSkip.(49)MedBrn.(1)LrgWht.
(5)GVWht.10 UN ID White.(1)v worn ComBlue fm.
(1)V worn BrnArg.(9)Ringlet.(6)SpecW.
(3)SmSkip.(1)MarbWht flying down from the top of the main ride.(2)BlkHS. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
16thBedford pulisComma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Black HairstreakRay ChurchCompletely different from last Tuesday when I visited,4white Admirals towards wood and south end path ..unfortunately no photos.
15thWoodwalton Marsh (TL210812)Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common BlueAndrew Terrell13:00 to 14:00, Sunny Intervals.
1 x very battered White Letter Hairstreak.
2 x very fresh Dark Green Fritillary.
1 x brimstone.
Several Small Heath.
Multiple Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper.
1 x each male and female very faded and battered Common Blue.
1 x very faded and battered Brown Argus.
15thWestley Heights, Church Lane Meadow.Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperAndrew CoxAt least six each of comma & painted lady.
One marbled white.
15thLangdon Hills EWT Lincewood & Great Berry.Comma, White Admiral, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueAndrew CoxTwo or three white admirals.
One marbled white.
15thHayley Wood (TL293527)Comma, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Large SkipperJohn Murray & Adrian SargentSunny early morning 20 degrees C. One sliver-washed fritillary seen in the open glade. Two ringlets also seen. Numerous meadow brown around woodland edge. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
15thHavering country park (TQ5093)Purple EmperorLaurence DrummondMy first of the year and my earliest ever by one day, a territorial male at 14.15.
15thHatfield forest,essexComma, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Common BlueSteve Day30+ meadow brown ,15 marbled white,1 ringlet 1SWF
15thD'Engaynes Meadow, Stow cum Quy (TL515593)Comma, Peacock, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Common BlueChris Brown48 Marbled White, 35 Meadow Brown, 12 Small Skipper, 4 Large Skipper, 2 Common Blue, one each Comma, Specked Wood, Small Heath, Peacock, Large White.
14thTiptree (TL8918)Comma, White AdmiralLaurence DrummondAt Coneyfield wood early afternoon, 3 White Admiral and 4 Comma.
14thThaxted (TL6131)Small Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Small White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Holly Blue, Common BlueStephen Dutton3 Marbled White (first here), 1 Small Tortoishell (1st at this location)
2 Brimstone,3 Common Blue,males.
1xHolly Blue, Small White. Small Heath and Meadow Brown not counted
14thHoughton Meadows (TL293717)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Small CopperJeremy MilneSmall Tortoiseshell 2, Comma 8, Peacock 1, Red Admiral 1, Brimstone 3, Small White 1, Large White 1, Green-veined White 4, Small Heath 2, Meadow Brown 50, Large Skipper 3, Brown Argus 1, Large Skipper 3
14thHoughton Grange Grasslands (TL294718)Comma, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Common BlueJeremy MilneComma 3, Green-veined White 1, Small Heath 1, Marbled White 2, Ringlet 10, Meadow Brown 20, Large Skipper 3, Small Skipper 2, Common Blue 2
14thHatfield Forest (TL5319)Comma, Red Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Brimstone, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueJohn Landels1 SWF and 3 Marbled Whites
13thLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ691871)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common BlueDavid LazarusMy first White Admiral of 2025 with White-letter Hairstreak also in Northlands Wood. New brood Brimstone, Large, Small & Green-veined White and Comma. Good numbers of Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood, & Marbled White; 250+ in total. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
13thHighwoods Country Park, Squirrels' Field (Colchest (TM0028)Small Tortoiseshell, Small White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Holly Blue, Common BlueOle Wiedenmannlarge numbers of Large Skippers and Meadow Browns (difficult to count, >50), at least one Small Skipper, 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Small White, 2 Holly Blue, 2 Common Blue (1 fresh)
13thGt Holland Pits (TM202192)Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueLiz Huxleyincluded 5 comma, 3 brimstone, 2 large skipper & my first white letter hairstreak of the year (seems quite early) (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
13thGreat Staughton river walk (TL135642)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperSteve Binding9.05/10.35am very warm but breezy.
(6)LrgSkip.(1)RedAD.(7)SmTort.
(1)very fresh looking PLady.
(4)GVWht.(6)MedBrn.(11)SmHeath.
(1)MarbWht.
13thGreat Staughton Meadow (TL127646)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve Binding10.45/12.10pm hot but breezy.
Main meadow plus 2nd meadow. Lots of MedBrn.
(62)SmHeath (8)SmSkip.(2)Brim.(3)BrnArg.
(2)MarbWht.(1)RedAD.(2)Comma.(3)sMTort.
(4m)ComBlue.
13thDevils Dyke (July Course End) (TL615361)Comma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Common BluePaul Fisher08.00-10.30AM; 20-24ºC; Sunny. East facing banking was also checked:
SECTION ONE:
Comma x1; Red Admiral x1;Dark Green Fritillary x5;Small Heath x3; Marbled White x64; Ringlet x4; Meadow Brown x11; Large Skipper x2; Small Skipper x1.
SECTION TWO:
Red Admiral x1; Painted Lady x1; Dark Green Fritillary x6; Brimstonex1; Green-Veined White x1; Unident White x2; Small Heath x7; Marbled White x127; Meadow Brown x34; Large Skipper x5; Common Blue x2.
SECTION THREE:
Dark Green Fritillary x8; Brimstonex1; Small Heath x13; Marbled White x91; Meadow Brown x49; Large Skipper x4;Small Skipper x1; Common Blue x11.
13thBrampton Wood (TL180770)Comma, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Purple HairstreakPaul FisherMidday; 25ºC; Sunny.
No counts done but of note was a Purple Hairstreak along the main ride(North), with no Black Hairstreak's seen.
13thBlackheath , Colchester (TM009286)Comma, Painted Lady, White Admiral, Meadow Brown, White-letter Hairstreak, Holly BlueSimon PatientOur first White-letter Hairstreak of the year in our garden, on the same Elder/Ivy bush used last year by combating males.
12thThaxted (TL6131)Brimstone, Small White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly Blue, Common BlueStephen Dutton20 Meadow Brown, 10 Small Heath, 4 Small White,2 Common Blue
1x Holly Blue, Large Skipper, Brimstone,
12thNorman Cross, Peterborough (TL1690)Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperJames Hanlon
12thFingringhoe Wick (TM045194)Comma, Red Admiral, White Admiral, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Holly Blue, Common BlueLiz Huxley2 white admiral by Trout Pools - earliest I've ever seen them (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
12thBelton Hills to Benfleet Downs (TQ785857)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Marbled White, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common BlueDavid LazarusThree firsts for 2025 - good numbers of Marbled White; a couple of Ringlet; & start of White-letter Hairstreak in double-figures; Also, second brood Small & Green-veined White, plus Comma. Over 250+ v. active. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
11thRoman River SSSI + Abberton Reservoir (TL973191)Comma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common BlueDavid LazarusAll 3 golden skippers; new brood Small & Green-veined White and Comma; Meadow Brown & Small Heath numbers increasing (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
11thDavy Down Park, South Ockendon, Essex (TQ591801)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly Blue, Brown ArgusPaul & Barbara BeckettWalk along the Mardyke Way in the afternoon; warm and sunny. At least 10 fresh-looking Small Tortoiseshell.
10thWoodwalton Marsh (TL210812)Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueRosalyn Payne11.45, Sunny. Brimstone 2, Large Skipper 1, Common Blue 9, Brown Argus 4, Small Heath 3, Marbled White 4, Meadow Brown 5, Dark Green Fritillary 1 (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
10thRampton (TL432467)White-letter HairstreakDavid BradleyWe've had White-letter HS on this patch since 2022. I'd not seen them there prior to that and there were no reports AFAIK. Probably half a dozen today, maybe more.

There have Purple HS here too, also since 2022. Will check the site again for them and report in if they're showing. It's possible there were some today, but I didn't get photos as I had with the WLs.

Trees on Lode edge about 60m from the Rampton Road bridge
10thPaines Brook, Harold Wood (TQ551912)Comma, Red Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Hairstreak, Holly BlueColin Jupp21 White-letter Hairstreaks with frequent clashing male activity in particular over ash trees early-mid pm. My highest count here. Also 3 Large Skipper, 1 Small White, 3 Holly Blue, 5 Comma, 2 Red Admiral, 5 Speckled Wood, 5 Meadow Brown and on evening return visit 5 Purple Hairstreaks 8pm. nearby, Harold Hill, Petersfield Avenue: 2 White-letter Hairstreak over elm near A12 bus stop, 1 Purple Hairstreak, 2 Holly Blue. Harold Hill/A12: 7 White-letter Hairstreak central reservation elms, 2 Holly Blue
9thWestley Heights C. Park.Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueAndrew Cox
9thMeadgate Park (TL720058)Purple HairstreakDavid LazarusFirst Purple Hairstreak of 2025 in the local park
9thHayley Wood (TL293527)Silver-washed FritillaryAdrian SargeantCentral along the main ride within the woods, the SWF was feeding on dogwood flower. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
9thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common BlueBrian GoodeyST1, RA5, SWt1, SWd4, SH5, MB18, LS3, SS1, GH1, HB2, CB5. Our first small skipper and meadow browns of the year.
9thAlconbury Flower Bank (TL190761)Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Small SkipperSteve BindingMid afternoon sun, cloud ,very breezy.
(25+)MarbWht + the same amount in the
private area beyond the gate. (10)MedBrn.(3)SmWht. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thGreat Staughton river walk (TL135642)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Small White, Green-veined WhiteSteve Binding3.55pm/4.45pm odd sun ,cloudy breezy,
Not ideal even so (12)SmTort found on the field edges on the bare earth and along the pathways.
Possibly more. Also (1)very fresh Comma.
(1)GVWht.(1)SmWht.
8thBurwell Cuuting (TL575465)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Common BlueLorraine Mathews16°C mostly overcast. 25+ Marbled Whites, 2 Large Skippers, 2 Brimstones (f), 15 Meadow Browns, 3 Common Blues, 1 Comma, 3 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Green veined White,2 Red Admirals
8thBrampton Wood (TL184698)Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Black HairstreakJohn MurrayDamp and breezy morning, 07:30 - 11. Very little activity. Numerous speckled woods and 2 x red admiral. 4 black hairstreaks seen on the main ride opposite site 1.
6thWoodwalton Marsh (TL212813)Small Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Large White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Grizzled Skipper, Large Skipper, Black Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common BlueStephen Binding + Paul FisherMidday odd sun, cloud 16c.
(1)MarbWht.(7m+3fm)ComBlue.(4)SmHeath.
(1)SmTort.(6)MedBrn.(1)LrgSkip.(3)BrnArg.
(1m+1fm)Brim.(3)BlackHS. (1)LrgWht.
(1)Grizzled.
6thWoodwalton Green Lane (TL209813)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Black Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperStephen Binding + Paul FisherMid afternoon Sun ,cloud 16c.
(1m+1fm)Brim.(2)LrgWht.(6)SmWht. Plenty UN ID White.
(2)LrgSkip.(1)SmSkip.(2)Comma).
(3)BrnArg.(8m+2fm)ComBlue.(7)SmTort.
(3)SmHeath.(9)MedBrn.(1)SmCopp.
(8)Black HS low on Blackthorn near the railway
bridge . The most seen here. Of which there were at least 2/3 females egg laying.
6thMonks Wood (TL201803)Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Large Skipper, Black HairstreakStephen Binding + Paul FisherSun + cloud still warm Late afternoon.
(4)RedAD.(17)SpecWood. (11)BlkHS.
(1)GVWht.(4)LrgSkip.(1m)OrgTip.
6thHighwoods Country Park, Squirrels' Field (Colchest (TM0028)Small White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperOle Wiedenmannaround 2 pm, changing between sunshine and clouds: 1 Small White, 1 Small Heath, 5 Meadow Brown, 8 Large Skipper, 1 Brown Argus, 1 Common Blue, 1 Small Copper (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
6thFoxearth Meadows and adjacent disused railway tracSmall Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Meadow BrownLawrence Garside5 Small tortoiseshell, 1 Red Admiral, 2 Small white, 1 GV White, 2 Speckled wood, 1 Meadow brown
4thWoodwalton MarshSmall Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Grizzled Skipper, Large Skipper, Black Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve Binding11am/12.40 sun/cloud 17c.
(4)MedBrn.(7m+3fm)ComBlue.(3)BrnArg.
(7)SmHeath.(1)LrgSkip.(2)fresh SmTort.
(2)GVWht.(1)LrgWht.(1)Brim.(5)BlkHS on
privet flowers.(2)Grizz one very worn
and damaged one fair. No marb white yet. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
4thBrampton Wood (TL184698)White AdmiralSteve Binding Reporting For Roger Orbellone White Ad seen at the top main ride.
4thBlackheath. Colchester (TM009286)White AdmiralSimon PatientOne inside our conservatory this evening was a bit of a surprise, my earliest sighting.
4thBaddow Meads & Meadgate (TL721060)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Small Skipper, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusAt last signs of a recovery with healthy numbers of Small Tortoiseshell having emerged - so far, 30+ across half of the floodplain; Also, first Small Skipper in Meadgate Fields of 2025 (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
2ndThames Chase Forest Centre (TQ584864)Small Tortoiseshell, Small White, Meadow Brown, Green Hairstreak, Common BlueRob SmithGreen Hairstreak 1, Common Blue 2 (m+f), Small Tortoiseshell 2, Meadow Brown 5, Small White 1. (9.45-10.15am) (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
2ndPerry Lagoons (TL157669)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve Binding1pm/3pm Sun + Cloud, breezy 17c.
(4)SpecW. (2)LrgWht. (3)GVWht. (2)SmWht.
(1m)OrgTip. (3)Brim. (6m+1fm)ComBlue.
(2)RedAD. (1)SmTort. (1)fresh Comma.
(1)BrnArg. (5)SmHeath.(8)MedBrn.
2ndHigh Ongar to Paslows Common, a circular walk.Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large SkipperRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.1,Wall, 1,Large Skipper, 4,Meadow Brown, 1,Orange-tip, 1,Painted Lady, 1,Red Admiral, 15,Small Heath, 4,Speckled Wood, 15,Green -veined White, 12,Small White, 5,Large White.
2ndFields adjacent to St Peter and St Paul’s Church (TQ828934)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Large White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueDavid Glover5x Large White
3x Small Tortoiseshell
3x Small Heath
2x Comma
2x Meadow Brown
1x Holly Blue
1x Painted Lady
1x Red Admiral

Since the good sized field margins were established - now full of Oxeye Daisey and Birds-foot Trefoil - this is now developing into a rather profitable site for many common butterflies.
2ndEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown, Holly BlueBrian Goodey12 speckled woods—good number for this time of year; 26 holly blues, well down compared to early June last year. A single meadow brown is our first for the year.
2ndDevils Dyke racecourseDark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Common Blue, Adonis BlueHoward ButlerAdonis Blue x2 DARK-GREEN FRITILLARY x 7. Some very early sightings.
2ndDevil's Dyke July Racecourse (TL617616)Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Small White, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueJohn MurrayEvening visit, warm and sunny 20°C. 2 dark green fritillaries seen feeding on privet flowers. Numerous marbled whites, along with common blue, some of which are now quite worn. Several brown argus also seen. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
2ndBrampton Wood (TL184698)Comma, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Black HairstreakSteve Binding + Roger Orbell9.30am/12.30 Sun, Cloud ,Breezy
but warm. A general walk around
the wood.
Black HS (30/35) main ride opp site 1.
(2) car park.
(10) west ride.
(2) glade area.
Others (27)SpecWood.(2)LrgWht.(1) LrgSkip.
((4)RedAD.(2)SmHeath.(1)Brim.(1)Comma.
1stnr St Osyth (TM144159)Peacock, Painted Lady, Holly BlueSimon CoxSingle Holly Blue, Painted Lady and Peacock, latter two on flowering pyracantha, all in our garden

May 2025
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
31stThe NazePainted LadyLiz Huxley4 painted lady
31stSawtrySmall Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueJeremy Milne1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Brimstone, 3 Green-veined White, 2 Small White, 1 Orange-Tip, 1 Large White, 7 Small Heath, 1 Grizzled Skipper, 3 Large Skipper, 2 Brown Argus, 5 Common Blue
31stMonks Wood (TL2080)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Black Hairstreak, Common BluePhil Bromley & Rosalyn PayneBlack Hairstreak survey for Natural England produced 120 individuals.
Bottom Ride 12, Stocking Close Ride 33, Barrow Ride 17, Main Ride 27, Hotel Ride 13, East & West Fields 18.
31stLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ699864)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst Large Skipper in 2025; Over 250 butterflies with half Common Blue; 20+ Meadow Brown; First Small Tortoiseshell in Johnson's Meadows for 5 years (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
31stGreat Clacton (TM1717)Painted LadySimon CoxPainted Lady in flight in suburban garden noted during Breeding Bird Survey
31stCastor Hanglands NNRBrimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Black HairstreakMatthew Webb100+ Black Hairstreaks seen in the northern end of the site - clearly a good year for them. Many spots had five or six on view at the same time. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
31stBrampton woodRed Admiral, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Black Hairstreak, Holly BlueROGER ORBELLcarried out the Black Hairstreak timed count survey
site 1 89
site 2 80
site 3 118
site 4 19
site 5 46
Lots showing on Main Ride opposite Site 1 entrance
30thOne Tree Hill, Johnsons East (TQ702864)Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Small Skipper, Holly Blue, Common BlueRob SmithSmall Skipper 1, Orange-tip 1m, Small Heath 7, Common Blue 5, Holly Blue 1 (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
30thMagog Down (TL846532)Common Blue, Small BlueJohn MurrayBrief visit at approx 5:30pm. Warm, but breezy and partly cloudy. Roughly a dozen small blue in a small area of grass just inside the entrance gate. Several common blue also seen. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
30thHolland Haven NR (TM216170)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Brown Argus, Common BlueBrian GoodeyAn unexpected small tortoiseshell and our first brown argus of the year. Five or six painted ladies.
30thDevils Dyke Race course end (TL617616)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Dark Green Fritillary, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Dingy Skipper, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small Copper, Adonis BlueSteve Binding/ Paul Fisher11.20/2pm sunny but breezy 22c .
(41)ComBlue.(12)MarbWht.(3m)OrgTip.
(6m+1fm)Adonis.(17)BrnArg. (1)SmCopp.
(16)Brim. (2)GVWht. (8)DGFrit.(21)SmHeath.
(5)HollyB. (11)LrgSkip.(5)MedBrn.(3)SmTort.
(2)RedAD.(1)fresh looking DingySkip.
(1)GrnHS worn. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
30thBurnham-on-Crouch (TQ975953)Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Small Heath, Essex Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueDavid LazarusFirst Essex Skipper of the year; good numbers of Small Heath & Common Blue; also Small White surprisingly; singles of the rest (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
30thBrampton Wood (TL184698)Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Black HairstreakSteve Binding/ Paul Fisher8.40/10.30 18c very breezy sun/cloud.
(15)SpecWood.(1)Brim. (1)OrgTip male.
(13)BlkHS main ride near site 1.
(9)BlkHS Site 1.
(35+)BlkHS Site 2 to pond.
(2)BlkHS Elsewhere. Total 59+.
30thAythorpe Roding to Great Canfield.Small Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Large Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.1,Large Skipper, 1,Meadow Brown, 5,Small Tortoiseshell, 10,Speckled Wood, 2,Common Blue, 1,Brown Argus, 16,Small Heath, 11,Green-veined White, 10,Small White, 3,Large White, 6,Brimstone.
29thSea wall just beyond North Fambridge marina, Essex (TQ842973)Small HeathJulia OsborneDry partial cloud, about 14:15 hrs, just flitting around and landing on grass (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
29thHockley Woods (TQ835916)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Heath Fritillary, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Wall, Holly BlueDavid Glover40+ Heath Fritillary - not the best day for them, given the rather breezy conditions and intermittent spells of sunshine, but still some decent numbers around.
3x Speckled Wood
2x Holly Blue
2x Small Tortoiseshell
1x Red Admiral

1x Wall, 2x Comma, another Small Tortoiseshell and 2x Large White near Gustedhall Wood at TQ840908
29thDevils Dyke, Newmarket race courseRed Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Marbled White, Green Hairstreak, Adonis BlueGraham HerseyFirst 2 Marbled White at the bottom of the Dyke out of the wind, 20 plus Adonis Blue,
Plus green Hairstreak
28thGreat Staughton river walk (TL135642)Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Holly BlueStephen Binding4pm/5.30pm sun, cloud, breezy 18c.
(1)PLady (1)RedAD. (3)very fresh SmTort.
(2m)OrgTip.(4)GVWht.(2)SmWht. (2)LrgWht.
(2)Brim.(1)HollyB.(1)SmHeath. (1) very
fresh LrgSkip+ sev UN ID White. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
28thGreat Staughton Meadow (TL127646)Small Heath, Brown Argus, Common BlueStephen Binding11/12pm Breezy sun, cloud
not ideal still.(31)SmHeath
(1)ComBlue male
(1)Brown Arg.
28thFingringhoe WickPainted Lady, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly Blue, Common BlueLiz Huxleymy first painted lady of the year - a rather worn individual (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
26thMeadgate & Baddow Meads (TL722058)Peacock, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst sighting of a Meadow Brown in 2025; Whites finished apart from 1 tatty Orange-tip; numbers of Common & Holly Blues increasing; first Peacock emergent (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
25thMonks Wood (TL2080)Speckled Wood, Black HairstreakPhil Bromley & Rosalyn PayneA female black hairstreak was seen today. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
25thHavering Country ParkRed Admiral, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common BlueZayed Ahmed1 Large Skipper, 1 Green Hairstreak, 1 Green-veined White, 1 Red Admiral, 2 Speckled Wood, 2 Holly Blue, 5+ Common Blue, 10+ Small Heath, 12+ Six-spot Burnet moth
25thCommunity Garden on the Old Heath Recreation Groun (TM0124)Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Holly Blue, Common BlueOle Wiedenmannat least 9 but most likely more Holly Blue, 5 Speckled Wood, 2 Small White, 2 Common Blue, 1 Brimstone, 1 Large White
25thBrampton Wood (TL184698)Black HairstreakSteve Binding Reporting For Roger Orbell10 Black HS seen between the main
ride and Wayne Pond.
24thMundon, Essex (TL872013)Speckled WoodJulia OsborneDry warmish, slightly cloudy around 15:50 (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
24thMonks Wood (TL200803)Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Black HairstreakRosalyn Payne & Phil Bromley2pm A brief sunny period, 2 Black Hairstreak tussling high in the Blackthorne. A few Speckled Wood, and a Small Heath in West Field which is no longer locked.
23rdWalk from Doddinghurst to Mountnessing windmill.Peacock, Painted Lady, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Brown Argus, Common BlueRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.2,Painted Lady, 3,Orange-tip, 1,Brown Argus, 2,Common Blue, 9,Small Heath, 1,Large White, 3,Small White, 4,Green-veined White, 2,Peacock.
23rdRoman Road, Babraham (TL526520)Small BlueKeith Edkins (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
23rdHighwoods Country Park, Southern Fields (Colcheste (TM0027)Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common BlueOle WiedenmannCommon Blue the most numerous species (~ 30), ~15 Small Heaths, 1 Brimstone, 1 Small White, 1 Green-veined White, 2 Speckled Wood, 1 Brown Argus, 1 Holly Blue (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
23rdHadleigh Great Wood (TQ818878)Heath Fritillary, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusFirst sighting of Heath Fritillary at HGW in 2025
Withheld for conservation reasons (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
23rdFleam Dyke, Fulbourn (TL543546)Green Hairstreak, Small BlueKeith Edkins (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
21stWandlebury, Cambridge (TL4953)Brimstone, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Common Blue, Small BlueLorraine MathewsNewly emerged Meadow Brown on lower grass. 1 Holly Blue, 8+Common Blue, 6+Small Blue, 5 Brimstones, 3 Small White, 1 Speckled wood, 6 Small Heath
20thThaxted (TL6131)Small White, Small Heath, Common BlueStephen Dutton6 Small Heath, disappointingly down on last week.
6 Common Blue males, nice increase on last week.
1 Small White. Weather 18 deg,sunny, Northerly breeze.
20thMiddlewick Ranges, Colchester (TM0122)Small Heath, Common Blue, Small CopperOle WiedenmannNorth Eastern grassland part of the Wick, 50+ Small Heath, 30+ Small Copper, 4 Common Blue
20thHatfield Forest (TL533187)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common BlueDavid LazarusQuiet in the rides with mostly Speckled Wood now. Common Blue numbers increasing in the grasslands; and a few Painted Lady and spring brood Comma (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
20thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyA single large skipper is our first of the year.
19thOld Hall Marshes (TL9612)Wall, Small Heath, Common Blue, Small CopperLiz Huxley1 wall brown; 12+ small heath; 10+ common blue; 5 small copper
19thBaddow Meads (TL718062)Small TortoiseshellDavid LazarusFirst Small Tortoiseshell 2025 emergent (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
18thNew Decoy/Holme Fen (TL2288)Painted LadyDiana Spencer3 Painted Lady along the Dragonfly Trail from New Decoy
18thMagog Down (TL486532)Common Blue, Small BlueHoward ButlerA count of approximately 60 Small Blues were noted throughout the reserve (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
18thCountry Park, Ely (TL5480)Speckled WoodJulie Wakefield2 speckled wood. Flying in wooded area. Sunny.
17thWoodwalton Marsh (TL211812)Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common BlueDiana Spencer1 Green Hairstreak and 2 Grizzled Skipper still at Woodwalton Marsh (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
17thVange MarshPeacock, Red Admiral, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Common BlueAndrew Gox
17thTrumpington Meadows (TL4354)Peacock, Brimstone, Small Heath, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small Copper, Small BluePaddy GroveSmall Blues in north and south meadows, and very good numbers of Common Blue. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
17thLittle Belhus CP and Havering CPComma, Large White, Orange-Tip, Wall, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperZayed Ahmed1 GH, 1 Wall Brown, 1 Small Copper, 1 Orange-tip, 1 Orange-tip larva, 2 Holly Blue, 3 Brown Argus, many Common Blue at Little Belhus Country Park

1 Comma, 1 Large Skipper, 1 Large White, multiple Common Blue, multiple Small Heath at Havering Country Park
17thFordham (TL922281)Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperOle WiedenmannMeadows and Hedges west of Fordham village: 25+ Small Heath, 11 Common Blue, 4 Speckled Wood, around 10 Small/Large Whites, 2 Brown Argus, 1 Small Copper, 1 Holly Blue (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
17thCircular walk around Tollesbury.Comma, Peacock, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Small CopperRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.12,Holly Blue, 20,Small Heath, 5,Speckled Wood, 1,Comma, 1,Orange-tip, 3,Small Copper, 1,Peacock, 5,Green-veined White, 3,Small White, 4,Large White.
17thBowers MarshWall, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common BlueAndrew Gox
16thWallasea Island (TQ960937)Painted Lady, Orange-Tip, Wall, Small Heath, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusVery large numbers of Common Blue & good numbers of Small Heath; a few of the rest (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
16thGreat Baddow (TL7206)Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small White, Orange-TipDavid PallashIncredible 9 painted lady on the walk.
14thWoodwalton Marsh (TL212813)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BlueSteve Binding + Paul FisherSunny 18c+ 13.10pm Quick visit.
Positive (3)GrizzSkip possible 4th.
(5)Brim.(2m)OrgTip.(1)SmWht.
(3)PCock.(2)SMHeath.(2m)ComBlue.
(1)LrgWht.(3)BrnArg. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
14thPaxton Pits (TL199626)Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Grizzled Skipper, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperSteve Binding + Paul FisherWarm but Breezy 16c+.10.10/11.50am.
(21)Grizzled main area + (1) elsewhere.
Also (1)SmCopp.(2m)ComBlue. (2)BrnArg.
(3m+1fm)OrgTip. (1m+1fm)Brim.(1)SpecW.
14thHockley Woods (TQ835916)Heath Fritillary, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusFirst sighting in 2025 of Heath Fritillary at Hockley Woods - also the first female in Essex
Withheld for conservation reasons. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
13thThaxted (TL6131)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Small Heath, Common BlueStephen Dutton10 Small Heath, 2 Common Blue males, 2xLarge and Small White,
1x Brimstone female and Peacock
12thYaxley fenRed Admiral, Painted LadyAlan Day
12thTANHOLT PITS (TF242015)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common BlueHoward Butler5 walls ,2 Painted Ladies and 2 Green hairstreaks were notable for this site
12thSilver Street, WitchamGreen HairstreakDavid HopkinsLong awaited parochial record. In my front garden on Pyrocantha. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
12thHavering Country ParkComma, Painted Lady, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Common BlueZayed Ahmed2 male Large Skipper, and 2 Hutchinsoni Comma, both firsts of the year. Also a surprise Green Hairstreak, 2 Holly Blue, 1 passing through Painted Lady, 2 Orange-tip, 2 Speckled Wood, Whites, plenty of Small Heath and Common Blue. 118 Burnet pupae counted in one small section
12thCoates, Whittlesey (TL301981)WallAndrew GardenerSingle butterfly sighted and then a second (or same Wall) 20 minutes later, sighted 400 meteres to the east at TL305982.I have been birdwatching on the site for 10 years and this is the first time I have seen Wall. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
11thconnaught Lake, Epping Forest (TQ4095)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueAnthony HareBrimstone 2,Speckled wood 3,comma 1,Small white 3,Peacock 1,Holly blue 2.
11thYaxley FenPeacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Orange-Tip, Small CopperAlan Day
11thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Red Admiral, Speckled WoodAnthony HareRed admiral 2,Speckled wood 4,(both species seen in woodland rides near the meadow)
11thWanstead Flats, NE London (TQ406866)Peacock, Red Admiral, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperIan WattsThe first branch field trip of the season took place at Wanstead Flats. The group enjoyed warm and sunny conditions, with only strong gusty winds preventing the conditions from being perfect. Whilst the wind no doubt kept butterfly numbers down, the group still saw 32 x Green Hairstreak (target species), 14 x Holly Blue, 4 x Small Copper – making it a mostly Lycaenidae day – plus 3 x Small Heath, 2 x Large White and singles of Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Peacock and a Mother Shipton moth. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
11thThames Estuary Path (TQ694781)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusLarge number of Wall [76]; first Green Hairstreak of 2025; good numbers of Common Blue & increasing (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
11thPaxton Pits (TL199626)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperSteve Binding09.15/12.45 pm very warm sunny 18c+.
target Grizzled skipper.(33) seen 29 main area,
4 at various other areas. A good 8/9 were fresh females all egg laying. Others seen were (1)SmCopp.(1m)ComBlue.(2)BrnArg. (4)SmHeath. (1)PCock. (1m+2fm)Brim. (1)RedAD. Sev UN ID White.
(1m)OrgTip.
11thLangdon Hills (Great Berry EWT).Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, WallAndrew CoxFemale orange tip.
At least three speckled wood.
10thYate's meadow Epping forest (TQ3895)Comma, Peacock, Small White, Large White, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common BlueAnthony HareComma 2,Common blue 2,Peacock 1,Large white 1,Small white 1,Small heath 30,Holly blue 1 (flying in & out of the woodland edge).
10thWoodwalton Marsh (TL212081)Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Brown Argus, Common BluePaul Fisher14.10-14.50. 24ºC. Grizzled Skipper x1; Brimstone(♂)x2; Large White x1; Orange-Tip(♂)x2; Unident White x2; Brown Argus x2; Common Blue(♂)x2; Peacock x1; Small Heath x1.
10thThaxted (TL6131)Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Holly BlueStephen Dutton8 Small Heath, 2X Large White,Small White, Orange Tip, Holly Blue and one Brimstone
10thSawtrySmall Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common BlueJeremy MilneSmall Tortoiseshell 1, Peacock 12, Brimstone 5, Green-veined White 5, Orange-tip 10, Large White 6, Small Heath 3, Grizzled Skipper 3, Brown Argus 4, Common Blue 4, Holly Blue 1
10thRiver Chelmer-Waterside Development (TL715062)WallDavid LazarusFirst recorded sighting of a Wall in Chelmsford since digital records began [1960] (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
10thMonks WoodBrimstone, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodAlan Day
10thDevils Dyke (July Course End) (TL609562)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Adonis BluePaul Fisher09.00-11.30. 17-21ºC.
Section One. Dingy Skipper x3; Brimstone(♂)x1(♀)x3; Large White x1; Small White x1; Green-Veined White x1; Orange-Tip(♂)x2; Unident White x3; Green Hairstreak x2; Holly Blue x2; Brown Argus x9; Common Blue(♂)x10; Adonis Blue(♂)x7; Peacock x1; Small Heath x1.
Section Two. Dingy Skipper x2; Brimstone(♂)x1(♀)x1; Orange-Tip(♂)x2; Unident White x1; Green Hairstreak x5; Brown Argus x4; Common Blue(♂)x8; Adonis Blue(♂)x2(♀)x1; Small Heath x3
Section Three. Brimstone (♀)x2; Orange-Tip(♂)x1; Unident White x1; Green Hairstreak x1; Brown Argus x6; Common Blue(♂)x7; Adonis Blue(♂)x2; Peacock x1; Small Heath x3.
10thCircular walk from Stock to Margaretting.Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small HeathRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.9,Orange-tip, 5,Speckled Wood, 2,Peacock, 1,Red Admiral, 7,Small Heath, 12,Large White, 5,Green Veined White, 4,Small White.
10thBurwell Cutting (TL575465)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Adonis BluePaul Fisher + Lorraine Mathews11.49-13.15. 22-24ºC. Brimstone(♂)x14(♀)x3; Large White x1; Green-Veined White x7; Orange-Tip(♂)x2; Unident White x6; Green Hairstreak x5; Holly Blue x7; Brown Argus x2; Common Blue(♂)x2; Adonis Blue(♂)x4; Red Admiral x1; Peacock x1; Speckled Wood x1; Small Heath x6.
9thTanholt Farm, Peterborough (TF242015)Peacock, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Wall, Brown Argus, Common BlueAlan OwersAt least 5 wall present, mainly in usual area along Cats Water. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
9thMagog Down (TL486531)Peacock, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small BlueAndrew Terrell
9thLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ691873)Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusVery good numbers of Common Blue across the whole site (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
8thPound Wood (TQ8288)Comma, Peacock, Heath Fritillary, Brimstone, Large White, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusFirst sighting of Heath Fritillary
[withheld for conservation reasons] (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thHornchurch Country Park (TQ5384)Peacock, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small HeathPaul & Barbara BeckettSmall Heath on the grassland in the NW part of the Park.
8thHockley Woods & Hullbridge (TQ823913)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusWall now established at Hockley Woods, and colony at Hullbridge doing well. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
6thSt. Faith's Park, Brentwood (TQ586938)Speckled Wood, Small CopperPaul & Barbara BeckettMid-afternoon on cool day. Single Small Copper on buttercup in usual place in NW corner of the Park.
5thSwaddywell Pit Nature reserveBrimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Small CopperSharon HearleTwo Grizzled Skippers and 9 Dingy in cool wind but sunny
5thArchers Wood (TL172811)Red Admiral, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodRosalyn PayneRed Admiral 5, Large White 2, Orange-tip 2, Speckled Wood 1.
4thLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ701863)Peacock, Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusGood numbers of newly emerged grassland specialists, with Small Heath & Common Blue numbers increasing significantly; Wall in double-figures for first time (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
4thEast Tilbury Sea Wall; Coalhouse Fort GrasslandsPeacock, Red Admiral, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperZayed Ahmed50+ butterflies including highlights 20 Wall Brown, Brown Argus (2), Small Copper (2), Common Blue (3), Green Hairstreak (2) and Red Admiral (1)
2ndWarley Country Park, Brentwood (TQ584926)Brimstone, Small HeathPaul & Barbara Beckett12:30-1:00pm, sunny and warm. Small Heath in grassland near pond at N edge of park.
2ndRSPB Ouse Washes (TL470859)Peacock, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Wall, Common BluePhil Bromley & Rosalyn PayneFrom Welches Dam to a little past Purls Bridge we saw Wall Brown (8), Common Blue (1), Peacock (4), Orange-tip (4), Large White (2) & G-v White (10+). (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
2ndPaxton Pits (TL198627)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Grizzled SkipperChris BonessUpto +10 Grizzled Skippers present, 1 Male Brimstone, 1 Green Veined White (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
2ndMundon Wash (TL879053)Peacock, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Wall, Small Heath, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusGood numbers of all 4 whites; 20+ Small Heath, a couple of Wall, Small Copper & Common Blue (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
2ndMaldon Wick Nature Reserve (TL840055)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Holly Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst Wall sighting at Maldon Wick; good numbers of Speckled Wood along the disused railway embankment (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
2ndChilderditch lower field, Thorndon North, Brentwoo (TQ611905)Comma, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Small CopperPaul & Barbara Beckett3-3:30pm warm, sunny and calm. Small Copper 2, Small Heath 3, Orange Tip 3 2m 1f. Others single.
1stWoodwalton MarshPeacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Small CopperDiana SpencerOne Green Hairstreak, several Grizzled Skipper
1stWillow Walk (TL5480)Orange-TipJulie Wakefield1 flying.
1stTrumpington Meadows (TL432542)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Holly Blue, Small BlueTrevor SawyerA single Small Blue seen this morning east of the Motorway. None seen to the west of the motorway... yet.
1stPerry Lagoons (TL157669)Peacock, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Grizzled Skipper, Small CopperSteve BindingQuick check 08.30/09.45am
already warm.(5)SpecW.(2)LrgWht.
(4m)OrgTip.(1)GVWht.(3)PCock.
(1)SmCopp, and (1)Grizzled Skip
worn , non seen the last 2yrs due to the site
becoming overgrown except within the lagoons itself. So this was a surprise . (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
1stGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyC2, P3, RA1, B14, SWt2, LW7, GW5, OT3, SWd13, GH1, HB2, SC2.
1stEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueBrian GoodeySpeckled wood 21, holly blue 10 and a single orange-tip.
1stDevils Dyke Newmarket Racecourse (TL6161)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Adonis BlueRichard Berry1 female Adonis Blue
Dingy Skipper, too numerous to count
Large numbers of Green Hairstreak (Photo(s) supplied: photo )

April 2025
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
30thThames Estuary Path, East Tilbury (TQ693785)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, WallDavid LazarusWall numbers up to 40+, both male and female; Orange-tip & Green-veined White in very good numbers (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
30thSawtrySmall Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Green HairstreakJeremy MilneSmall Tortoiseshell 1, Peacock 6, Brimstone 3, Green-veined White 10, Small White 1, Orange-tip 6, Large White 6, Small Heath 2, Green Hairstreak 1, Lackey & Small Eggar larval tents
30thOne Tree Hill (TQ700864)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusBrown Argus, Common Blue, & Small Copper all emerged with Small Heath numbers starting to rise (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
30thMarkshall, CoggeshallPeacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Small CopperMike Grealy
30thHolland on Sea (TM1915)Green HairstreakBrian GoodeyOne sunning itself on a hawthorn hedge in my garden.
30thGreat Staughton river walk (TL135642)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Painted Lady, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small CopperSteve Binding + Paul FisherLate Afternoon 24c.
(1)worn Painted Lady
(1)SmTort.(1)PCock.(3)GVWht.
(2m+2fm)OTip, numerous UN ID Wht.
(3)SmCopper. Only a small part of the walk
checked. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
30thGreat Staughton Meadow (TL127646)Peacock, Orange-Tip, Small HeathSteve BindingA quick visit mid morning.
Warm and sunny 20c.
(21)Small Heath. Numbers increasing.
ten last visit a few days ago, they
seem to do well here. Lack of other
species (3)PCock.(3m)OTip. 2/3 UN ID WHite.
29thnr St Osyth (TM144159)Brimstone, Small White, Holly Blue, Small CopperSimon & Pat CoxSingle Small Copper and Holly Blue (both 1st in garden this year), single Brimstone, 2 Small Whites
29thWest Canvey Marshes RSPB (TQ7784)WallLaurence Drummond4 along the track to the main reservoir hide, fresh looking and flighty but I think at least 2 males clashing.
29thNoak Hill, RomfordPeacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Holly BlueMartin WhiteHighlight is Wall, very rarely seen here in last 30 years.
29thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodAndrew CoxThree brimstone (male & two females).
Many speckled woods & at least three male orange tips.
29thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Peacock, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly Blue, Small CopperBrian GoodeyThree holly blues, twenty-one speckled woods. First small coppers here and elsewhere, already better numbers than last year's first generation.
29thDevil's Dyke, July Racecourse, Newmarket (TL617616)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Common BluePaul & Barbara BeckettSunny warm calm day 12:30-2:30pm. 20+ Dingy Skipper along the West facing bank including 2 pairs mating. 10+ Brimstone males. Single Green Hairstreak and Common Blue male.
29thBarnack Hills & Holes (TF076046)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Green Hairstreak, Brown ArgusPaul Fisher11.30-12.45. 22c. Peacock x3; Brimstone x12 (x4 Females); Green-Veined White x1; Orange-Tip x6; Speckled Wood x2; Small Heath x4; Green Hairstreak x14; Brown Argus x3; Numerous unident Whites.
28thThaxted (TL6031)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodRichard BerryGood numbers of all species. Open farmland and hedgerow.
28thM25 Embankment (east), Brentwood (TQ573912)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, Small CopperColin Jupp & Rob SmithGreen Hairstreak 6 (some clashing on Field Maple after 4pm), Comma 4, Orange-tip 3 (2m,1f), Speckled Wood 3, singles others
28thJohnson’s Meadow, One Tree HillPeacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Small CopperZayed AhmedSingles/doubles of each
28thEly Country Park (TL5480)BrimstoneJulie Wakefield
28thDevil's dyke July racecoursePeacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Dingy Skipper, Adonis BlueDavid HoblynPlenty of Dingy skippers and one Adonis blue.
27thsouth east Ely (TL5480)Orange-TipJulie Wakefield
27thnr St Osyth (TM144159)Peacock, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodSimon CoxMinimum 2 each of Large and Small White plus Orange Tip; single Speckled Wood and Peacock in our garden
27thTubney Fen (TL5566)Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Green-veined White, Small HeathMartin PeersSingle Small Heath
27thThames Estuary Path (TQ693785)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small CopperDavid LazarusGood numbers of Wall [22]; Peacock, Green-veined White and Orange-tips at 40+; Small White 20+ (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
27thOne Tree Hill (TQ696859)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Wall, Small Heath, Common Blue, Small CopperDavid LazarusFirst Wall and Common Blue of 2025; also, a few Small Heath & Small Copper (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
27thHilton, Nr St IvesLarge White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Holly BlueAlan ColesVery warm & sunny day, this afternoon had a fem
Small Heath on back lawn plus at least 3 Holly Blues
These were my first of the year.
27thBurwell Fen (TL5568)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-TipMartin Peerssingle Small Tortoiseshell
27thBeckton Alps, Greenway, Armada Way (TQ4382)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueRob Smith4 Green Hairstreaks, incl 3 clashing over Field Maple. Speckled Wood 2 clashing, singles others
26thWrabness EWT reserve (TM1631)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodMartin Peers
26thSt Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hockley (TQ826093)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, WallDavid Glover3× Peacock
3× Large White
2× Wall
1× Brimstone
1× Comma
1× Red Admiral
1× Orange Tip
1× Green-veined White
26thPaxton Pits (TL195629)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Small Heath, Grizzled Skipper, Brown ArgusStephen BindingFriends of Paxton Pits first Dragonfly and Butterfly
survey. cool and overcast for Route A.
Still found (2)Grizz.(1fm) OrgTip.(1)BrnArg.
all at rest.
Route B warmer afternoon.
(2m)OrgTip.(1)SmHeath.(4)GVWht.
(3)Brim. (3)PCock. (2) Holly Blue in the carpark.
sev UN ID White.
26thFleam Dyke (TL5554)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueCameron LandelsSingle Green Hairstreak on the Dyke close to the A11 on the Balsham side.
22ndWalk from Blackmore to Mill Green.Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-TipRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.6,Orange-tip, 1,Brimstone, 8,Green-veined White, 3,Large White, 2,Small White.
22ndLittle Warley Common (TQ605906)Peacock, Small White, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Small CopperRob Smithsingles of each
22ndLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ693785)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Brown ArgusDavid LazarusFirst Brown Argus of 2025; good numbers of Large White, Green-veined White, & Orange-tip; also Peacock. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
21stSouthPeacock, BrimstoneJulie Wakefield
20thSwaddywell Pit Nature ReservePeacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Dingy SkipperMatthew Webb2 Dingy Skippers noted. More Orange-tips and Brimstones noted too. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
20thBy African Dawns Pidley-cum-Fenton (TL3381)Brown ArgusGraham AlmondBy a farm track. A perfect specimen.
19thRSPB reserve Ouse Washes (TL4785)Peacock, BrimstoneJulie WakefieldSunny but windy. 1 brimstone, 1 peacock.
19thHarrow Lodge ParkComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueZayed AhmedMany GVW, many Speckled Wood, 5 Orange-tip, 3 Small White, 3 Holly Blue, 3 Peacock, 2 Comma, 2 Large White, 1 Red Admiral
18thWWT Welney (TL5495)Small Tortoiseshell, PeacockJulie Wakefield1 peacock, 1 small tortoiseshell
18thHolme Fen (TL1989)Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Grizzled SkipperRosalyn Payne & Phil BromleyMidday, Red Admiral 1, Peacock 12, Brimstone 1, Green-veined White 10, Grizzled Skipper 1 (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
18thHarrow Lodge ParkComma, Peacock, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueZayed Ahmed1 Comma, 2 Holly Blue, 2 Large White, 2 Peacock, 3 Orange-tip, many GVW, many Speckled Wood
18thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Holly BlueBrian GoodeyTwo holly blues, first for the year but a week or two later than usual.
18thAbberton EWTGreen HairstreakDoug HoldenAt least 2 at the main entrance
17thSwaddywell Pit Nature ReserveComma, Peacock, Brimstone, Grizzled SkipperMatthew WebbOne Grizzled Skipper only. Little else with Peacock the most common butterfly. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
17thLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ691873)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Small CopperDavid LazarusGood numbers of Large & Green-veined White, and Orange-tip. First Small Copper & Small Heath sightings. Also, Latticed Heath moth (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
17thHarrow Lodge ParkSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueZayed AhmedMany GVW, many Speckled Wood, 2 Brimstone, 2 Comma, 2 Holly Blue, 2 Large White, 1 Small Tortie, handful of Peacock
17thGreat Holland Pits NR (TM202192)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodBrian GoodeyC4, P10, RA2, B6, SWt2, LW2, GW4, SWd6. A few red admirals here and elsewhere locally.
17thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Peacock, Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodBrian GoodeyP6, RA1, GW2, SWd18. Good number of speckled woods emerging during the last week.
16thEarls ColnePainted LadyMike GrealyBasking in the sun (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
14thDevil's Dyke RacecoursePeacock, Dingy SkipperSharon HearleSurprised to find 8 Dingy Skipper today on Devil's Dyke - all at the bottom of the ditch close to Dandelion or Ground Ivy. No nectar on the slopes. Also saw 14 Common Heath moths.
13thHarrow Lodge Park, East Tilbury Sea WallComma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Green Hairstreak, Holly BlueZayed AhmedAt Harrow Lodge: 2 Holly Blue, egg-laying GVW, 2 Brimstone, 2 Orange-tip, 1 GH, 1 Small White, 1 Large White, 2 Comma, 3 Peacock, good numbers of Speckled Wood

At East Tilbury: 18 Peacock, 5 GVW, 1 Orange-tip, 1 Speckled Wood
12thWanstead Flats (TQ406868)Peacock, Brimstone, Holly Blue, Speckled Wood, Painted LadyIan Watts3 x Peacock, 6 x Brimstone, 6 x Speckled Wood, 2 x Holly Blue, 1 x Painted Lady (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
12thLittle Warley Common (TQ605906)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Small CopperRob SmithSmall Copper 2, Peacock 4, Comma 2, singles others
12thHatfield Forest (TL543209)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusLarge numbers of Brimstone, Orange-tip, and Peacock
11thVange Marsh.Peacock, Small White, Green-veined WhiteAndrew Cox
11thLangdon Hills (Dunton Plotlands)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Orange-TipAndrew Cox
11thLandermere, Nr. Thorpe-le-Soken (TM195229)Comma, Peacock, Red AdmiralKas AldousSeveral of each Peacock, Comma & Red Admiral all flying around fields and across road from fields/hedgerows. Bright sun, warm and a light breeze.
11thJohn Weston Reserve, Walton (TM2624)Peacock, Brimstone, Speckled WoodSimon Cox2 Brimstone, 2 Peacock, 1 Speckled Wood
11thFingringhoeComma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.12,Brimstone, 10,Peacock, 6,Comma, 3,Speckled Wood, 14,Large White, 15,Small White, 3,Green Veined White.
11thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Comma, Peacock, Small White, Speckled WoodBrian GoodeyFive speckled woods.
11thBlack Notley (TL771204)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-TipVALERIE BLAMIREFirst Male Orange Tip seen in garden in 2025.
10thThaxtedSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodRichard BerryButterflies in good numbers in more sheltered spots across farmland
10thSt Ives (TL318723)Holly BlueNick MilneFirst garden sighting of the year
9thPaxton Pits (TL195629)Comma, Peacock, Small White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled Wood, Grizzled SkipperSteve Binding + Paul Fishermid afternoon 15c too windy really, still
saw (1)Grizz. (12)PCock. (1)SmWht.(2)GVWht.
(4m)OTip.(8)Comma. (2)SpecWood. (sev)UN ID White.
8thWoodredon Hill, Epping Forest (TQ418995)Orange-TipTom Simon1 male Orange-tip flying over road.
8thHolme Fen (TL1989)Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Small CopperPhil Bromley & Rosalyn PayneOur first Small copper of the year, plus Brimstone (1), G-V White (7) & Peacock (6) (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
8thGravel Hill Way (Estate), Dovercourt (TM234301)Comma, BrimstoneKas AldousI x Brimstone (superb, extremely bright male). Flew fast and went high over houses. 2 x Comma flitting around garden bushes. Sunny and fairly warm day although moderate to high breeze at times.
8thDevils Dyke Newmarket Racecourse (TL6062)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined White, Green HairstreakRichard Berry2 Green Hairstreak seen in the ditch of dyke. Very flighty in the midday sunshine (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
7thWestley Heights C. Park.Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Green-veined WhiteAndrew CoxTwo male brimstones.
Mating pair of G.V.White.
7thLark Rise Farm, Barton (TL4154)Peacock, Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodVince Lea
7thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, Peacock, Red AdmiralAndrew Cox
7thFarmland west of Barton (TL3955)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined WhiteVince LeaPermissive path on the edge of crop fields and a small woodland, stream & pond. 10 Peacock, 4 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Brimstone, 2 Green-veined White
7thBarnack hills &Holes (TF077044)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Green HairstreakSteve Binding + Paul FisherFrom midday sunny 16/17c.
(7)Green HS. (3)OTip m.
(2)GVWht.(sev) UN ID Wht.
(2)Comma. (2m+1fm ovi)Brim. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
6thSt Ives (TL329717)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Speckled WoodJeremy MilneScrubby grassland off Parson’s Drove: 1 Small Tortoiseshell, 3 Comma, 11 Peacock, 1 Brimstone, 8 Green-veined White, 3 Speckled Wood
6thPaxton Pits (TL198628)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Grizzled SkipperIain WhitakerTwo Grizzled Skippers seen. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
6thOuse Fen, Earith BridgeSmall Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Green-veined WhiteAlan Coles10.45 to 11.15 a.m One female Green-Veined White in grassy bank plus one Peacock & one Small Tortoiseshell.
Weather was sunny but with cool easterly breeze at times.
6thLitlington, South Cambs (TL311428)Brimstone, Green-veined White, Orange-TipPhillip Hastings2-3 Green-veined White - first sighting of this species this year and suspect a brood just hatched locally as all in the garden at the same time.
2 Orange-Tip (m). Also first time seen in garden this year.
1 Brimstone (m) - species seen every day at the moment (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
6thLawford Dale Estate, Nr. Manningtree (TM101317)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Green-veined WhiteKas Aldous1 x Green-veined White on garden plants near pathway. Butterfly condition- superb.
Plus 2 x Small Tortoiseshell and several Peacock flitting about elsewhere on the estate. Mostly bright, sunny and warm with a light breeze.
6thHoughton (TL284723)Holly BlueJohn WinterbottomOne settled briefly on garden hedge (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
5thLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ690854)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusLarge numbers of Peacock; good numbers of Comma, Green-veined & Large Whites; and the start of the Orange-tip.
4thTwo Tree Island (TQ830852)WallKathy Huntera female Wall Brown along the path on transect (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
4thDoddinghurst.Comma, Peacock, Small White, Large WhiteRosie And Bill Perkins., Linda And George Jenkins.5,Peacock, 1,Comma, 1,Large White, 1,Small White.
3rdWalthamstow Marshes Nature Reserve (TQ349877)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled WoodDavid LazarusGood numbers of Small White at both Walthamstow Marshes NR & Coppermill Fields TQ351880; low numbers of the rest - a couple of Small Tortoiseshell
3rdThaxted (TL610031)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined White, Orange-TipRichard Berry1 large white
1 Orange-tip (male)
1 Red Admiral
3 Brimstone
4 Green-veined White
5 Peacock
7 Comma
3rdNr. Meadow Millennium Green, Little Clacton (TM163192)Comma, Peacock, Small CopperKas Aldous2 x Small Copper (seemingly good condition), very flighty along hedgerow on a very sunny but not overly warm afternoon, light breeze. Plus 3 Peacock & 1 Comma.
2ndThaxted (TL610031)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, PeacockRichard Berry5 Small Tortoiseshell
2 Comma
2 Peacock
2ndPerry Lagoons + meadow (TL157669)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Orange-Tip, Speckled WoodSteve Binding1.25/3pm sunny warm 19c but breezy.
(28)PCock.(8)Comma.(1)SpecW.
(2)Brim.(1)RedAD. (1m)Orange Tip.(2)UN ID
White.
2ndHarrow Lodge Park and The Chase Local NRComma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Holly BlueZayed Ahmed18 Comma (and one egg!), 16 Peacock, 4 Speckled Wood, 3 Brimstone, at least 3 Small Whites, 1 Large White and 1 male Holly Blue in a sheltered spot at Harrow Lodge.

March 2025
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
31stPerry Lagoons (TL157669)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Speckled WoodSteve Binding + Paul Fishersunny 17c.
(24)Pcock. (6)Comma. (2)Brim.
(1)RedAD. (1)SmWht. (1)SpecWood,
very fresh. (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
31stPaxton Pits (TL195629)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined WhiteSteve Binding + Paul Fisher12.25/16.10pm sunny 17c. (16m+3fm)Brim
(28)PCock. (7)Comma. (1)GVWhite.
31stHare Park Six Mile Bottom. (TL582587)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Orange-TipKevin Wilson2 male Orange Tips on the wing. My first for this year. Also 4 male Brimstones, 1 Peacock and 1 Comma. 10.25 am-11 15 am.
31stBelhus Woods Country Park, Aveley, Essex (TQ565824)Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Speckled WoodPaul & Barbara Beckett11am-3pm walk on sunny and warm day. 30+ Peacocks, 10+ Brimstones, 5+ Small Whites, 1 Speckled Wood.
30thGreat Oakley (TM201280)Orange-TipJulian SidneyIn my garden (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
29thHoneypot Lane Allotments, Brentwood (TQ583935)Comma, Peacock, Small WhitePaul & Barbara BeckettSunny but breezy morning digging at the allotment. Singles only including Small White near the brassica
cage.
29thGreat Oakley (TM201280)Large WhiteJulian SidneySeen in out garden.
Recorded on IRecord (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
29thEastcliff Footpath, Holland on Sea (TM192159)Peacock, Speckled WoodBrian GoodeyOur first speckled wood of the year.
27thHatfield Forest (TL542209)Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, BrimstoneDavid LazarusGood numbers of Comma & Peacock, with Brimstone numbers down because of the morning cloud. First, and only Red Admiral seen at Hatfield Forest in 2025 so far.
27thHarrow Lodge ParkSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small White, Large WhiteZayed Ahmed20 Peacock, 10 Comma, 2 Small Tortoiseshells, 1 Large White, 1 Small White (likely more), 1 Brimstone, 1 Red Admiral
26thnr St Osyth (TM144159)Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small WhiteSimon Cox2 Commas, single Peacock, Small White & Brimstone in our garden
26thWestley Heights C. Park.Peacock, BrimstoneAndrew CoxAt least two male brimstones.
26thWestfield Farm (TL3754)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, PeacockVince Lea
26thWandlebury Orchard, CambridgeComma, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined WhiteLORRAINE MATHEWS8 Brimstones including one female, 2 Commas, 3 Peacocks and a Green Veined White
26thLittley Green.Peacock, Brimstone, Speckled WoodRosie And Bill Perkins., Linda And George Jenkins.4,Brimstone, 2,Peacock, 1,Speckled Wood.
26thLark Rise Farm (TL4155)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small WhiteVince Lea
26thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, BrimstoneAndrew CoxSix male brimstones.
Five peacocks.
Two commas.
One red admiral.
26thHolland on Sea (TM193156)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Small White, Green-veined WhiteBrian GoodeyBeautiful day and butterflies numerous: peacocks 10, red admirals 2, comma 7, small white 4, green-veined white 1, small tortoiseshell 2
26thHarrow Lodge ParkSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Small White, Large White, Speckled WoodZayed Ahmed1 mint fresh Speckled Wood. Also 3 Peacock, 3 Comma, at least 2 Small Whites, 1 Large White, 1 Brimstone, 1 Small Tortoiseshell
26thHardwick wood (TL3557)Peacock, Brimstone, Large WhiteVince Lea
26thHadleigh Castle Country Park (TL792861)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Brimstone, Large White, Green-veined WhiteDavid LazarusOver 50 Peacock seen across 4 sites at Belton Hills NR, Hadleigh Castle CP, Benfleet Downs, & Canvey Wick NR; a handful of Comma & Brimstone; first Large White of 2025 plus Green-veined White at Hadleigh Castle CP; and a Small Tortoiseshell at Canvey Wick NR. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
26thGreat Clacton, Essex (TM175179)PeacockKas AldousButterfly condition- Very fresh, colours excellent. First in garden this year. Alternate flitting around and sunning itself on top of dandelions.
25thHarrow Lodge ParkComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Large WhiteZayed Ahmed1 male Large White, 3 Comma, 1 Peacock and one Red Admiral, before the clouds rolled in.
25thHarrow Lodge ParkComma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Large WhiteZayed Ahmed1 male Large White, 3 Comma, 1 Peacock and one Red Admiral, before the clouds rolled in.
24thHolland on Sea (TM194158)Peacock, Red Admiral, Small WhiteBrian GoodeyOne red admiral, ovipositing on nettles, a single peacock and our first small white of the year.
24thFairlop Water CP (TQ4590)Speckled WoodAlan Bella single. Nothing else seen
24thBerners Roding (TL593098)Small TortoiseshellTom SimonSingle Small Tortoiseshell.
24thBaddow Meads (TL718062)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Red Admiral, Green-veined WhiteDavid LazarusFirst Red Admiral & Green-veined White of 2025; & a few Small Tortoiseshell & Comma along the riverbanks. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
20thWarley Place NR, Great Warley, Brentwood (TQ583908)Peacock, BrimstonePaul & Barbara BeckettWarm sunshine at 2pm. Brimstone 2 males 1 female; 1 Peacock.
20thNew Shardelows Farm near Fulbourn. (TL537542)Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, BrimstoneKevin Wilson4 Butterflies seen between 9.50 am -1.45 pm. 2 male Brimstones, 1 Peacock and 1 Small Tortoishell. Sunny light wind.
20thMonks Wood (TL2080)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneRosalyn Payne & Phil Bromley11am - 12.15 Sunny 17 Deg. Main, Stocking Close, Hotel rides + East Field Comma 5, Peacock 6, Brimstone 10m - 1 f.
20thLyonshall Wood, S of Great Leighs (TL7314)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneGeorge BrownSunny and warm, 11.45am-1.35pm. 1 Comma, 1 Peacock, 4 male Brimstones. (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
20thLitlington, South Cambs (TL311428)Peacock, BrimstonePhillip Hastings2 x Peacock (first sighting in the garden of this species this year), feeding on Vibernum
2 x Brimstone (m); 1 x Brimstone (f) flying around (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
20thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneAndrew CoxThree male brimstones
Four peacocks.
One comma.
20thHowland's Marsh (TM111160)PeacockRichard GreatRexMore than 10 Peacocks along the footpath past the reserve.
20thHatfield Forest (TL540208)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneDavid LazarusGood numbers of Peacock, with less Brimstone, and the same number of Comma as 2 weeks ago (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
20thBlack Notley (TL7620)BrimstoneGeorge BrownSunny and warm. 2 male Brimstones in garden, 11.25a.m.
19thTown Mead Depot, Waltham Abbey (TL379002)Small TortoiseshellTom Simon
19thSouth Cambridge city gardenBrimstoneAnne Applin1 green-yellow presumably male Brimstone flying across our garden in south Cambridge at around noon today, 19th March 2025 in bright sunshine, about 14 degrees C. Our first sighting of any butterfly this year.
19thPerry Lagoons + meadow (TL157669)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneSteve Binding+ Paul Fisher13.20/14.40pm sunny and still 15/17c.
(9)Comma. (1)Brim. (1)PCock.
19thLattersey NR (TL2896)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, BrimstoneRosalyn Payne & Phil Bromley10.30-13.00 Sunny,13 deg. Small Tortoiseshell 1, Comma 1, Peacock 2, Red Admiral 1, Brimstone 2
19thHarrow Lodge Park and Chase Local NRSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, Brimstone, Small WhiteZayed Ahmed11 Comma, 4 Peacock, 3 Brimstone, 2 Small White, 1 Red Admiral and 1 Small Tortoiseshell across both areas.
18thHarrow Lodge ParkComma, Peacock, Small WhiteZayed AhmedMy first small white of the year! Also 5 Comma and one Small Tortoiseshell.
9thWestley Heights C. Park.BrimstoneAndrew CoxMale brimstone in Hall Wood.
9thSt Ives (TL306724)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneJeremy Milne1 Small Tortoiseshell, 1 Comma, 1 Peacock, 2 Brimstone
9thRamsey (TL2785)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneTony Lack2 Comma, 3 Peacock, 2 Small Tortoiseshell on Viburnum in my garden plus 1 Brimstone in flight.
9thLitlington, South Cambs (TL311428)Comma, Red Admiral, BrimstonePhillip HastingsFirst sightings in the garden this year - and three species came along at once. All feeding on Vibernum shrub in warm sunshine.
1 x Brimstone (m); 1 x Comma; 1 x Red Admiral (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo photo )
9thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, BrimstoneAndrew CoxMale brimstone.
Three commas
Two red admirals.
One peacock.
9thHarrow Lodge ParkSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, BrimstoneZayed Ahmed8 Comma, 7 Peacock, 2 Small Tortoiseshells (male attempting to mate with female), 1 Red Admiral and 1 Brimstone
9thFingringhoe Wick (TM047194)CommaRichard And Sandy GreatRexA pair in one location and a single elsewhere.
9thBaddow Meads (TL727064)Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, PeacockDavid LazarusThe first Small Tortoiseshell [5] on the wing in the floodplain of the River Chelmer. Good numbers of Comma.
8thStanford Rivers to Greenstead Church.Comma, Red Admiral, BrimstoneRosie & Bill Perkins, Linda & George Jenkins.2,Brimstone, 2,Comma, 1,Red Admiral.
8thPerry Lagoons + meadow (TL157669)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneSteve Binding11.15/12.50pm sunny 18c
(1)PCock. (7)Comma. (14m+1fm) Brim.
8thHarrow Lodge ParkSmall Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock, Red Admiral, BrimstoneZayed AhmedA brilliant 5 species at Harrow Lodge Park in the space of one hour: 7 Comma, 3 Peacock, 1 Brimstone, 1 Red Admiral and 1 Small Tortoiseshell.

1 Comma at Havering Country Park and 1 at Hainault Forest
8thColdhams Lane Cambridge. (TL488571)BrimstoneKevin Wilson2 male Brimstones on the wing. 1 by St. Andrews church and the other in the Toyata dealership grounds.
8thArchers Wood (TL1780)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneRosalyn PayneComma 3, Peacock 1, Brimstone 4
7thWeeleyhall Wood (TM157211)CommaRichard And Sandy GreatRexA single individual on the ride.
7thHare Park Six Mile Bottom. (TL583589)BrimstoneKevin Wilson2 Brimstones seen on the wing. 1 at 11.40 am and another in a different area 11.50 am
7thEpping Upland Millennium Garden, Essex (TL437054)Red AdmiralTom Simon1 Red Admiral.
6thThe Gardens of Easton LodgeBrimstoneSteven RatcliffeTwo sighted. Sunny and warm weather, no wind.
6thSpring Pond Wood, Ongar (TL554027)BrimstoneLisa Hyde
6thMonks Wood (TL1980)Comma, BrimstoneRosalyn Payne & Phil BromleySunny, 18 Deg, No wind. Comma 1, Brimstone (m) 7.
6thLittle Warley Common (TQ605905)BrimstoneRob Smith1m
6thLangdon Hills (EWT Willow Park & Mark's Hill & LinComma, Red Admiral, BrimstoneAndrew CoxSingles of each. Brimstone was a male.
6thLangdon Hills ( EWT Lincewood & Great Berry).Red AdmiralAndrew CoxTwo red admirals tussling in a sunny glade.
6thKimbolton cemetery (TL099680)BrimstoneJon Powell2 males seen
6thHatfield Forest (TL532206)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneDavid LazarusGood numbers of Brimstone & Comma (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
6thEmpty Common Cambridge (TL454566)CommaRoger HortonI Comma butterfly flying over allotment gardens. Too fleeting for a photo.
6thDry Drayton, Cambridge (TL379622)BrimstoneVal PerrinOne male Brimstone flying across High St, Dry Drayton in warm sunshine.
6thClacton-on-Sea (TM169142)PeacockMalcolm WilsonSunning on our back fence, 200 yards from the beach
6thChigwell Row Wood LNR, Essex (TQ461928)BrimstoneTom Simon3 Brimstones (2 males, 1 female).
5thTrumpington Meadows nature reserveRed Admiral, BrimstoneLorraine MATHEWS4 Brimstones and a Red Admiral seen just over the bridge on the South side of Trumpington meadows. Blues skies and sunshine 14c
5thLangdon Hills Country Park (TQ686876)Comma, Peacock, BrimstoneDavid LazarusFirst Comma & Brimstone [male] of 2025 (Photo(s) supplied: photo photo )
5thGog Magog Down, Cambridge (TL490531)BrimstonePhillip HastingsOne male Brimstone flying along the southern edge of a wood in warm sunshine. Only my second butterlfy sighting of the year (the first was also a male Brimstone).
5thFordham (TL633689)BrimstoneNick MilneSingle male flying along hedgerow
4thTylers Common (TQ5690)CommaRob Smithin a small clearing
4thSawston (TL048638)CommaJo Sinclair1
4thSawston (TL048638)BrimstoneJo Sinclair3 males at St Mary's churchyard seen in the afternoon sunshine
4thRamsey (TL2785)PeacockAnthony LackSingle in my garden in bright sunshine & light breeze.
4thMeadgate Fields Open Space (TL729056)PeacockDavid LazarusFirst butterfly of the year (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
4thClaybury Park (TQ382615)BrimstoneZayed AhmedOne male Brimstone fluttering along woodland edge
4thAlbany Gardens, Clacton (TM185155)Red AdmiralBrian GoodeyAn early red admiral, sunning itself on grass.
3rdSt Ives (TL306724)Peacock, BrimstoneBrian MilneSingle Brimstone in flight and single Peacock nectaring from Heather.
3rdGreat Staughton Old Cemetery (TL123647)Comma, BrimstoneSteve BindingMid afternoon, nice and sunny, one
Brimstone and one Comma
3rdCherrybHinton Hall, CambridgeBrimstoneLorraine MathewsBlue skies, bright sunshine, no breeze 12°Flew out in front of me.
2ndHolland on Sea (TM190159)Small TortoiseshellBrian GoodeyOur first butterfly of the year. Last small tortoiseshell we saw here was 1 April 2024.
2ndFreshfield, Cardinal's Green (TL616584)Small TortoiseshellRosemarie Parks (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
1stHavering Country ParkRed AdmiralZayed AhmedOne fluttering and gliding along woodland edge, before climbing above treetops.

Also one seen at RSPB Rainham Marshes by a friend.

February 2025
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
28thRamsey (TL2785)Small TortoiseshellAnthony LackSingle in sushine on my Viburnum.
28thHornchurch Country ParkRed AdmiralNicholas BarnettExcited but not surprised to see my first butterfly of the year on this balmy day.
25thWhaddon, South Cambridgeshire (TL349463)BrimstonePhillip HastingsOne male Brimstone flying very strongly along a hedgerow next to main road through the village in warm sunshine. First sighting for me of any butterfly anywhere since early last October!
14thRSPB Rainham Marshes (TQ547788)Other butterflyDavid Lazarus7 Brown Hairstreak ova - 4 in the car park & 3 just inside the entrance of the reserve (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
5thClaybury Park (TQ428911)Other butterflyDavid Lazarus8 Brown Hairstreak ova in 3 separate locations, on south-facing Blackthorn suckers (Photo(s) supplied: photo )
5thBenfleet.Red AdmiralRosie And Bill Perkins., Linda And George Jenkins.1,Red Admiral.
2ndHavering Country ParkRed AdmiralZayed Ahmed2 Red Admirals flying strongly in 7° full sun, one rapidly heading south and one low over grass

January 2025
DateLocationSpeciesReporterDescription
30thWood Lane alongside Wennington Wood (TL244787)Red AdmiralJeremy Aldredone, sunning itself by roadside


 
All page content on this Web site is Copyright © 2000-2019 Butterfly Conservation unless otherwise stated
Legal Information and Cookie Policy
Butterfly Conservation is a Company limited by guarantee, registered in England (2206468)
Registered Office: Manor Yard, East Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5QP
Charity registered in England & Wales (254937) and in Scotland (SCO39268)
VAT No. 565 9070 16