Some species feel more special not because they are flamboyant, but because of where — and how rarely — they can be found. Scotch Argus is one such butterfly, and it was the reason I spent an afternoon at Smardale Gill, joined by Jenna and my mum.
For England, the Scotch Argus is a genuine scarcity. This site lies at the southern limit of the species’ natural range, with only two populations known south of the Scottish border. To see it here is to witness a species living right on the edge of its comfort zone.
We set off along the disused railway line, now softened by time and reclaimed by wildflowers. It didn’t take long. One of the first wildflower verges we passed held our reward — a Scotch Argus, settled quietly among the vegetation.
Scotch Argus
As we continued, more followed. Despite the overcast conditions and cool temperature, which kept activity levels subdued, we eventually counted at least five individuals along the route. They were never numerous, never conspicuous — appearing briefly before dropping back into the grass — but that only added to the satisfaction of finding them.
Other butterflies added a splash of contrast to the muted afternoon, including Red Admiral and Green-veined White, while the landscape itself did much of the talking: limestone scars, steep valley sides, and the sense of history embedded in the old railway line.
Red Admiral
Green-Veined White
The walk was unhurried and thoroughly enjoyable, made all the better by good company. As the afternoon drew to a close, we capped it off in the best possible way — pub grub before the journey home.
Some trips are about spectacle. Others are about subtle victories, quiet places, and ticking off a long-held ambition. Smardale Gill delivered all three.
Smardale Gill Viaduct
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