The butterfly, which is a Large Skipper, has made itself a nest within the derelict Belleisle House in Ayr. Noted for its distinctive rustic orange wing-colouring, the butterfly was first sighted by experts taking part in a nature trail, and it marks a very unexpected occurrence – as Large Skippers are usually to be seen in more southern parts of the UK.
Speaking to the Daily Record, Butterfly Conservation member Scott Donaldson – who first spotted it – said that:
“I was very surprised and excited to get a glance of it so far north. It was behind the fenced off area of the house, which would provide ideal living conditions as the grass is long and undisturbed.”
He went on to state that the species is one of the smallest types of butterfly, despite its name, being roughly one inch. He added that it was the first time a butterfly of this type had ever been seen at Belleisle.
Local people who are interested in getting a look have time to do so, as Large Skippers are generally visible until the middle of August.
Local conservation groups can always use flyer printing to help them recruit new people.