White-letter Hairstreak

National Status

Scattered colonies throughout England and Wales. Suffered major range contraction with Dutch Elm disease. Population trend 10 years to 2016 -77%; since 1976 -96%.

West Midlands Status

Isolated colonies throughout the region with the greatest concentration in north-west Staffordshire. Range contracting. Population trend 10 years to 2016 – decreasing but under-recorded

Habitat

Elm trees (Ulmus spp.) in all suitable habitats, such as woodland edges, hedges and even solitary large elms in gardens. Elms, with an open, sunny, southern aspect are preferred.

Flight Period

Late June to mid-August.

Hotspots

Haugh Wood (Herefordshire), North Hill Malvern (Worcestershire-Herefordshire border), Upton Warren and Burlish Meadows in Stourport (Worcestershire), Stafford Castle and Baggeridge Country Park (Staffordshire), and  Woodgate Valley (Birmingham and the Black Country).

Caterpillar Food Plant

Elms