Overview

The Gatekeeper is at the northern limit of its UK range in Cumbria and within the county it has greatly expanded its range. In the 80`s it was restricted to a few colonies on the west coast but since then it has colonised the Furness area widely and is expanding its range from here eastwards along the coast towards the head of Morecambe bay and beyond. It is found in Grassland with plenty of bushes and scrub.

Where to look

The West coast continues to hold the largest numbers and most sites, but odd individuals can appear around the Morecambe bay area as well. Good sites are North Walney at Barrow, SD 170 724, RSPB Hodbarrow reserve at Millom SD 181 782 and Drigg Dunes SD 050 985

When to look

A relatively late flying butterfly, look from late July to the end of August