Male. Taken at Aston, Oxon., on July 8th 2023. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f13)

Male underside. Taken at Ashdown Wood, Oxon., on July 6th 2023. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f11)

Female. Taken at Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon., on July 25th 2023. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f13)

Female underside. Taken at Aston, Oxon., on August 1st 2023. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f11)

Mating pair. Taken at Aston Rowant NNR, Oxon on July 21st 2019. (© David Hastings)
(1/200th sec at f14)

Description

Family: Satyrinae

Wing span: 33-36 mm

The Gatekeeper is also known as the Hedge Brown. The male has a dark brown sex-brand on its upper forewing. The female has orange upper surfaces. The wings of both sexes have broad brown borders.

It is found throughout most of England, Wales and the south of Ireland, being common in the south of its range, becoming scarcer further north.

It can be found anywhere where tall grasses grow close to hedges trees or scrub, especially along hedgerows and woodland rides where there is a plentiful nectar source.

There is one generation each year, with adults emerging in July, peaking in early August, with only a few adults remaining until the end of the month.

The main foodplants are various Bents, Fescues and Meadow-grasses. Common Couch is also used.

Bramble, Ragwort and Marjoram are favourite nectar sources, but it will feed on other flowers.

This butterfly spends much of its time basking with wings open. Males set up small territories, often centered on a particular shrub or bush, and will fly up from their perch to investigate passing butterflies in the hope of finding a mate.

Least Concern

Earliest UK sighting: 25th June ; Latest UK sighting: 5th September

Sightings