Ringlet

National Status

Found over large parts of England, Scotland and Wales, range expanding. Population trend 10 years to 2016 +72%; since 1976 +381%.

West Midlands Status

Throughout the region, second most recorded butterfly in the West Midlands, range expanding. Population trend 10 years to 2016 – increasing.

Habitat

Damp meadows, woodland rides, scrubby areas and hedgerows.

Flight Period

Late June to mid-August.

Hotspots

Any rough grassy area, preferably damp.

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplants are Cock’s-foot (Dactylis glomerata), Common Couch (Elytrigia repens), False Brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum), Meadow-grasses (various) (Poa spp.) and Tufted Hair-grass (Deschampsia cespitosa).

Refer to the Gardening for butterflies website by Joseph Shaffery for more details about caterpillar food plants and nectar sources.