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Writer's pictureJennifer J

Purple Butterfly Has Been Recorded In Lanarkshire For The First Time In 175 Years!


Male Purple Hairstreak Butterfly

A purple butterfly has been recorded in Lanarkshire for the first time in 175 years. This purple butterfly is known as the 'purple hairstreak' butterfly.


What Is The Purple Hairstreak Butterfly?


The purple hairstreak butterfly is a species of butterfly which is found throughout a few continents.


These beautiful animals are found in continents such as Europe and Africa.


They are widespread across Europe.


The purple hairstreak butterfly is a species of butterfly which is found on the British Isles too. The butterflies are mostly found in England and Wales, but they have also been seen in central Scotland - which is where this recent sighting of the purple hairstreak butterfly took place.


Where Was The Butterfly Spotted?


The purple hairstreak butterfly was spotted in South Lanarkshire, in central Scotland. This has been the first time that this beautiful animal has been recorded there since 1845.


According to the wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation, there have been increased sightings of the purple hairstreak butterfly in Scotland.



Female Purple Hairstreak Butterfly

What Is The Habitat Of This Butterfly?


Purple hairstreak butterflies are found where there are oak trees: these beautiful animals rely on oak trees for their existence.


They are also found within woods and hedgerows.


Other areas that these can be found in, include urban areas and parks.


What Is Their Conservation Status?


Thankfully, these gorgeous butterflies are a common species.


Therefore, they do not seem to be threatened with extinction today.


Male & Females


The male and female purple hairstreak butterfly look different.


The males are purple and black.


Whereas, the females are white and have some red dots on their wings.


When Can You See Them?


You can see these beautiful butterflies in the Summer months and early Autumn - they can be seen from June to September every year.

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