National Status

Occurs throughout the UK but declining in central and eastern England. Population trend 10 years +18%; since 1976 + 186%.

West Midlands Status

Very local, range possibly decreasing but under-recorded.

Habitat

Flower-rich meadows, hills and open moorland with grass and bracken mosaic.

Flight Period

Mid-June to mid-August.

Hotspots

Shropshire Hills, Staffordshire Moorlands, Wardlow Quarry in Staffordshire. Llanymynech Rocks, Wyre Forest

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplants are Common Dog-violet (Viola riviniana), Hairy Violet (Viola hirta) and Marsh Violet (Viola palustris).