After the recent spell of high temperatures, butterflies and dragonflies (Odonata) have emerged earlier than usual this year. With several species still needed to complete my British list, I spent the morning at Eyarth Rocks in North Wales with Jenna and her children, hoping to see the Pearl-bordered Fritillary butterfly.
Eyarth Rocks is part of Craig-adwy-wynt, one of the richest butterfly sites in North Wales. Of the 34 species known in the region, 32 have been recorded here, and most breed on this limestone hilltop Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Since Butterfly Conservation began managing the site in 2002, the population of Pearl-bordered Fritillaries has grown strongly. The limestone pavement flora is exceptional, and sheep are grazed across the reserve to control scrub and bracken, allowing violets—the caterpillars’ primary food plant—to flourish. The site also offers magnificent views across the surrounding landscape.
On arrival, we were fortunate to meet a couple who had already spotted a Pearl-bordered Fritillary resting on the heath. We all enjoyed superb views, and during our walk around the reserve, we observed three more butterflies of this species—a truly memorable start to the day.
After leaving Eyarth Rocks, we stopped for lunch before heading to a site near Wrexham in an industrial area, where Jenna had yet to see a Grizzled or Dingy Skipper. Unfortunately, the weather had turned windy. Despite this, one of Jenna’s sons spotted a Grizzled Skipper flying low over the vegetation. It landed briefly before the wind carried it away—a first sighting for him and a highlight of the trip. While we didn’t find any Dingy Skippers, he also spotted a Mother Shipton moth, a day-flying species I had never seen before.
Grizzled skipper
Our next stop was near Chester, by the River Dee, a reliable site for Common Clubtail dragonflies at this time of year. Barely out of the car, I was amazed as a Common Clubtail flew past and landed on a hawthorn bush—my first-ever sighting of this species. Walking along the river, we also recorded Azure Damselfly and Large Red Damselfly.
Common Clubtail
Walking along the river, we also recorded Azure Damselfly and Large Red Damselfly.
Azure Damselfly
Large Red Damselfly
Finally, we visited a nearby site in Holt to check on Beautiful Demoiselle dragonflies. After walking along the river, we were pleased to spot two resting on overhanging vegetation—a perfect addition to the Odonata list for the day.
By the end of our adventure, we had seen almost all our target species, only missing the Dingy Skipper. It had been an exceptionally rewarding day, with outstanding views of both butterflies and dragonflies, and several firsts for both Jenna’s family and me.
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