Large Heath

National Status

Mainly found in Scotland but scattered colonies in Wales, Central and Northern England, range declining in England and Wales. Population trend 10 years to 2016 -49%; since 1976 +261%.

West Midlands Status

Shropshire, range stable. Population trend 10 years to 2016 – increasing.

Habitat

Wet bogs and damp acidic moorland

Flight Period

Late May to mid-August. One generation with numbers peaking in late June/early July.

Hotspots

Wem Moss (Shropshire) and Fenn’s, Whixall & Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve (England-Wales border)

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplant is Hare’s-tail Cottongrass (Eriophorum vaginatum). Common Cottongrass (Eriophorum angustifolium) and Jointed Rush (Juncus articulatus) are also used.