FSW Wildlife

Orange Butterflies and Moths

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

The painted lady is a migrant to the UK during the summer. Sometimes it arrives here in enormous numbers. The adults are nectar feeders and are known to visit over 100 different flowers. Their caterpillars feed on Dwarf Thistles, Mallows and Viper’s Bugloss, all of which we are providing for them on the bank.

First sighting 14 July 2024

Also seen 20 May and 5 July 2025

Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris)

Adult small skippers consume nectar from various flowers but especially Knapweeds and Thistles, which are growing in profusion on the bank. The larvae primarily feed on grasses.

First sighting 5 July 2025