Brimstone

National Status

Common throughout much of England with range expanding. Population trend 10 years to 2016 -1%: since 1976 +1%

West Midlands Status

Widespread apart from the upland, western part of the area, range stable. Population trend 10 years to 2016 – increasing.

Habitat

Woodland margins, hedges, scrubby areas, thickets and gardens where the foodplant is present.

Flight Period

One brood emerging in mid to late July. Hibernates over winter to re-emerge the following spring. One of the first butterflies seen each year and one of the longest living, up to one year. It may be seen in any month but April, May and August are the best.

Hotspots

Brotheridge Green and Wyre Forest, Whixall Moss in Shropshire.

Caterpillar Food Plant

Mainly Alder Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) in the West Midlands; Buckthorn (Rhamnus catharticus) on calcareous sites.