During a butterfly survey at Clifton Backies a few years ago, it was observed that Brimstone butterflies were present in local places away from the site and some were seen flying over the site.  However, none were seen settling when in flight.

It was suggested that one way to attract more Brimstones would be to provide more of the butterfly's foodplant - Buckthorn.  A planting session was arranged, and small shrubs were planted in an area near to the Woodland Chase entrance.

A few years further on, the Buckthorn has grown well and has reached two metres in height.  Furthermore, when attending the Spring Event in April 2011 a Brimstone butterfly was seen to fly over and land on the Buckthorn, preceding to la eggs on the fresh growth tips of the shrub.  A photo was taken:

This was a very exciting find as it proves that the maintenance of habitats on Nature Reserves such as Clifton Backies really makes a big difference.

A few weeks later, there was more good news - checking back at the Buckthorn a large number of small to fully grown Brimstone caterpillars were found.  Let's hope that they all made the successful metamorphosis to Butterflies!