Overview

Nothing can be done in the UK towards conserving this species as it is a migrant from Southern Europe and North Africa. Its status in the UK is that of a migrant but in most years it does appear and can be seen in Cumbria about every two years more than likely in low numbers. In some years it arrives in Cumbria in good numbers and is a pleasure to have with us usually at the tail end of Summer. It is a strong flier, it has to be bearing in mind how far it has come, and will fly past you at a rate of knots but when it does settle it is very approachable. It is a duller but stronger yellow than the male Brimstone, our only other completely yellow butterfly but never opens its wings whilst at rest.

Where to look

In a very good year it can appear anywhere but in other years it is more probable on the coast in the Furness area through RSPB Hodbarrow reserve at Millom SD 181 782, Eskmeals Nature reserve SD 087 943, Drigg Dunes ASD 050 985, Beckermet to Sellafield cycleway NY 015 057 and the coast at Workington is a very likely place.

When to look

August or September