butterflies and moths of the Causeway Coast and Glens

An introduction tobutterflies and moths of theCauseway Coast and Glens

Butterflies and moths can be found everywhere fromthe tops of our mountains to the seashore, in our parks,gardens, fields and woodland. This guide will introduceyou to the butterflies and some of the moths that youwill find as you explore the Causeway Coast and Glens,and provide information on some of the best and mosteasily accessible places for you to see them.

CausewayCausewayCoastCoast

Area Area ofofOutstandingOutstandingNatural BeautyNatural Beauty

CausewayCoast

Area ofOutstandingNatural Beauty

It also provides information on flight times, foodplants and habitats so you’ll know what to look outfor as you explore. Some of the most popular sitesin the Causeway Coast and Glens are profiled byhabitat to help you plan your visits.

Most importantly there is information on how tofeed back to us on what you see. Your sightings ofbutterflies and moths are really important in helpingto conserve them now and in the future.

This booklet provides a briefintroduction to some of thebutterflies and moths you arelikely to see as you explore the Causeway Coast and Glens.

How to use this bookletOur common or ‘Wider Countryside’ speciesare shown at the beginning of this booklet. Theyare the creatures you are most likely to encounterwhen you visit the Causeway Coast and Glens.

Our rarer or ‘Specialist’ butterflies and mothsare shown at the back. These are specieswhich are much more restricted to a specifictype of landscape or foodplant.

In the middle you will find a selection of siteswithin the Causeway Coast and Glens AONBs,all of which are publically accessible throughoutthe year.

Sites are divided into two main categories:Family Friendly sites have lots offacilities and are often easy to find

Off-road sites are more basic andoften a bit more off the beaten track.

The location of sites is shown on the fold-outmap at the end of the booklet.

Allofourbutterfliesandmothsarelinkedtoparticular

typesoflandscapeorhabitat.Theseareveryvaried,

buthavebeenbasicallydescribedas;

•Peatland - bogs, moors and fens

•Grassland - meadows, grassy rides and glades

•Woodland - forests, scrub and hedgerows

•Rocky - sand dunes, sea cliffs and stony outcrops

•Urban - parks, gardens and farmland

Each site description gives a rough idea of thedifferent landscapes you will encounter and whatcreatures you may come across while you are there.

Tell us what you see!At the back of the booklet find out how to recordyour sightings online, along with lots of links tofurther information.

Your sightings are really important for helping ButterflyConservation and the Causeway Coast and GlensHeritage Trust conserve these special creatures.

Dark Green Fritillary

Common Blue

Stretching from Belfast Lough to Lough Foyle the Causeway Coast andGlens comprises 3 AONBs, designated as landscapes of national importance.

Designated in 1989, the Antrim Coast & GlensAONB encompasses the famous ‘9 Glens ofAntrim’, the coastal area between Larne andBallycastle and Rathlin Island. Travelling thebreathtaking Antrim Coast Road, the landscapeis characterised by a series of striking headlandsand sheltered bays. The upland areas providea contrast to the gentle rolling green glens, withthe Garron Plateau forming the most extensivearea of upland bog in Northern Ireland.

The Causeway Coast AONB was designated in1989, extending 30km from Portrush to Ballycastle,characterised by a dramatic, complex coastlineand including the Giants Causeway World HeritageSite. Contrasting with this wild coastal scenery ofsteep headlands and rocky bays is the Bush Valleylandscape characterised by mixed farmland andpockets of woodland.

Binevenagh AONB was designated in 2006. Thisis a re-designation and extension of the North DerryAONB, originally designated in 1966. This AONBincludes some of the finest beaches and dunesystems on an international scale. The flat alluvialplain near Lough Foyle is important for arablefarming overlooked by the dramatic headland ofBinevenagh Mountain with its rich blanket bog.

The Causeway Coast and Glens are extremelyimportant areas for butterflies and moths inNorthern Ireland. Designated for their dramaticlandscapes they contain a wide variety of importantand specialised habitats including wildflower-richmeadows, woodlands, bogs, wetlands and cliffs.These in turn provide homes for some of NorthernIreland’s most important and iconic species, someof which can only be seen at the sites mentionedin this booklet and nowhere else.

Spotting butterflies and mothsGo looking on warm sunny dayswhen there’s not much wind.

They love to bask on bare earth,fence posts and stones.

Moths and butterflies feed on nectarso check flowers heads.

Don’t forget your camera and binoculars!

Butterflies and moths are insects with shortlifecycles, most going from egg > caterpillar >chrysalis > adult in less than a year. They arewidely recognised as a good indicator of the healthof the environment as lots of different types ofbutterflies and moths in good numbers impliesa healthy ecosystem for lots of different plantsand animals. Telling us what you see helps usto better conserve our habitats and landscapesfor butterflies, moths and all biodiversity.

Causeway Coast and Glens

Orange Tip (Male and underwing)Distribution Everywhere.Flight season Early April to mid-July;peak sightings late April to late May.Caterpillar food plant Cuckooflower.NB Female Orange Tips don’t have orangemarkings, but both have mottled green outer wings.

Green-veined WhiteDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMarch to October.Caterpillar food plantLeaves of small crucifersincluding Cuckooflower.

Cinnabar (MOTH)Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonMay to August.Caterpillar food plantCommon Ragwort.

Small WhiteDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMarch to October.Caterpillar food plantCabbage plant family.

Large WhiteDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonApril to September.Caterpillar food plantCabbage plant family.

Six-spot Burnet (MOTH)Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonLate May to early September.Caterpillar food plantBird’s-foot Trefoil.

Clouded Yellow (MIGRANT)Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonMay to November; peaksightings August to September.Caterpillar food plantClovers and other membersof the Pea family.

Yellow Shell (MOTH)Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonJune to early-September.Caterpillar food plantHerbaceous plants includingdocks, bedstraws andchickweeds.

Wider Countryside Butterflies and MothsWider Countryside butterflies and moths are found right across the countryside,gardens and wild places throughout Northern Ireland. As caterpillars, they eat a widevariety of different plants, or eat very common and widespread plants like nettles.They are mobile and can easily fly from one patch of habitat to another.

RingletDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMid-June to mid-August.Caterpillar food plant.Grasses.

Meadow BrownDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMay to late October.Caterpillar food plantGrasses.

Speckled WoodDistribution Everywhere.Flight season March to earlyNovember; peak sightingsAugust to September.Caterpillar food plantGrasses at the edgeof woodland.

Small CopperDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMid-April to mid-October.Caterpillar food plantSheep’s Sorrel andCommon Sorrel.

Small HeathDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonLate April to mid-October; peaksightings mid-May to late June.Caterpillar food plantFine-leaved grasses.

Common Heath (MOTH)Distribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMid-April to early August.Caterpillar food plantVarious heathers.

•Peatland •Rocky •Urban

•Grassland •Woodland

Northern Eggar (MOTH)Distribution Widespread.Flight season May to August.Caterpillar food plant Heather, Birch, Willow, Hawthorn.NB Look out for caterpillars basking on vegetationin the autumn and spring before they pupate.

Emperor (MOTH)Distribution Everywhere.Flight season Late March to mid-June;peak sightings mid-April.Caterpillar food plant Heath, Meadowsweet,Bog Myrtle and Willow. NB Look out for caterpillarsbasking on vegetation in August and September

Elephant Hawk-mothDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMid-May to late July; peak sightings mid-June.Caterpillars are most often seen from July-Sept.Caterpillar food plantVarious wIllowherbs and Fuchsia.

Small TortoiseshellDistributionEverywhere.Flight seasonAll year round; peak sightingsJuly to September.Caterpillar food plantCommon Nettle.

Comma (MIGRANT)Distribution Rare, sightingsrestricted to the east coast.Flight season July to August. Caterpillar food plantCommon Nettle,sometimes Hops.

Painted Lady (MIGRANT)Distribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMarch to November; peaksightings August to September.Caterpillar food plantSpecies of thistle.

Humming-bird Hawk-moth(MIGRANT)Distribution Widespread. Flight season April to October.Caterpillar food plantBedstraws, but very unlikelyto successfully breed in NI.

Red Admiral (MIGRANT)Distribution Everywhere.Flight seasonAll year round; peak sightingsAugust to September.Caterpillar food plantCommon Nettle.

PeacockDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonAll year round; peaksightings in August.Caterpillar food plantCommon Nettle.

Wider Countryside Butterflies and MothsWider Countryside butterflies and moths are found right across the countryside,gardens and wild places throughout Northern Ireland. As caterpillars, they eat a widevariety of different plants, or eat very common and widespread plants like nettles.They are mobile and can easily fly from one patch of habitat to another.

Garden Tiger (MOTH)Distribution Everywhere.Flight season Mid-June to early September.Caterpillar food plantA wide variety of herbaceous plants.NB Caterpillars are well known as ‘granny greybeards’and often found in gardens from July to September.

Antler (MOTH)Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonJuly to mid-September.Caterpillar food plantVarious coarse flowers grasses.NB Often seen nectaringon flower heads.

Poplar Hawk-mothDistribution Everywhere.Flight seasonMay to mid-September. Caterpillar food plantPoplars and willows.

Early Thorn (MOTH)Distribution Everywhere.Flight seasonLate February to earlySeptember.Caterpillar food plantA variety of trees includingHawthorn, Blackthorn and Hazel.

Burnished Brass (MOTH)Distribution Widespread. Flight seasonEarly June to early October.Caterpillar food plantNettle and Marjoram.

Fox Moth (Caterpillar)DistributionWidespread.Flight seasonMid-May to early July.Caterpillar food plantBilberry, Meadowsweetand Bramble.NB Adults are nocturnaland not seen by day

Silver Y (MIGRANT, MOTH)Distribution Everywhere.Flight season Mid-April toNovember; peak sightingsJune to late-August.Caterpillar food plantBedstraws, Common Nettleand clovers.



Common Blue (Upper-wing and under-wing)Distribution Everywhere.Flight season May to October.Caterpillar food plantBirds’-foot Trefoil.NB Mostly observed flying near the groundand especially noticeable at the coast.

Holly Blue (Upper-wing and under-wing)Distribution Scarce.Flight seasonApril to June, and August to September.Caterpillar food plantHolly in spring, ivy in autumn.NB Mostly observed flying around treesand hedgerows.

Magilligan NationalNature ReserveC 660 390Postcode BT49 0LPDark Green Fritillary,Wood Tiger, Small Eggar

FacilitiesOff-road, Car Park,Interpretation Panels

Situated at the most north-western tip of the north coast,Magilligan is just the beginningof an extensive sand dunesystem that runs all the wayto Portstewart. The valleysbetween the dunes providewarm, sheltered havens forbutterflies and moths evenon breezy days.

AccessBy Road: Follow signs toMagilligan ferry down the B202Point Road, off the main A2Seacoast Road.By Bus: Ulsterbus 134 servicefollows the Seacoast Road andstops at Magilligan Crossroads,but there is no direct bus to thereserve which is a 4 mile walkfrom the main road.

Owned by the Military of Defenceand Managed by [email protected] Manager Tel: 028 7776 3982

Benone StrandC 712 357Postcode BT49 0LQCommon Blue, Ringlet,Six Spot Burnet

Facilities Family Friendly,Car Park, Toilets,

Visitor Centre, Restaurant,Access for All

Benone is one of the northcoast’s best loved beaches,but explore the extensive dunegrasslands at Benone Strandto find a wealth of wildlifeincluding the delicate and strikingCommon Blue butterfly.

AccessBy Road: Benone TouristComplex and Strand lies 12miles north of Limavady and10 miles north west of Colerineand is well signposted off theA2 Seacoast Road.By Bus: Ulsterbus 134 servicefollows the A2 and stops atthe entrance to the complexon request.

Owned and Managed byLimavady Borough Council [email protected]: 028 7775 0555

Downhill DemesneC 757 357Postcode BT51 4RPMeadow Brown,Speckled Wood,Figure of Eight

FacilitiesFamily Friendly, CarPark*, Toilets, Cafe**,

Access for All, InterpretationPanels, Site Guides

Downhill Demesne andMussendun Temple is one of themost iconic sites in NorthernIreland. The extensive grasslandsand garden provide importanthabitat for many of our widercountryside species, while thewooded reservoir providesimportant habitat for the Figureof Eight moth.

AccessBy Road: Located 5 miles westof Coleraine, Downhill Demesneis clearly signposted off theA2 Seacoast Road.By Bus: Ulsterbus 134 servicewill drop off at request at the site.

Owned and Managed byThe National Trustwww.nationaltrust.org.ukdownhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.ukTel: 028 7084 8728

*Car Parking charges may applyto non-National Trust members**Check website for opening times

Dunes and Grassland

www.ccght.org www.bcni.org.uk

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The Moors,CastlerockC 764 361Postcode BT51 4RHRinglet, Cinnabar,Figure of Eight

FacilitiesOff-road,Car Park

The Moors offers wonderfulviews of the surrounding areawith the deep, sheltered valleybetween Castlerock and Downhillpresenting a real butterfly haveneven in windy weather. You canalso explore the dune systemalong the strand to encountersome slightly different habitats.

AccessBy Road: Castlerock is one mileeast of Coleraine, well signpostedoff the main A2 Seacoast Road.Head over the railway line thenturn left at the crossroads alongMain Street. Follow signs forthe Black Glen Car Park.By Bus: Ulsterbus 134 servicestops in Castlerock from wherethere is just a short walk up tothe site.

Owned and Managed byColeraine Borough Council [email protected]: 028 7034 7034

Portstewart StrandC 811 366Postcode BT55 7PGDark Green Fritillary,Scarce Crimson and Gold,Yellow Shell

FacilitiesFamily Friendly, Car Park*,Toilets, Visitor Centre**,

Interpretation Panels

Portstewart Strand is an extremelyimportant site for butterflies andmoths with 2 miles of goldensand to explore as well as anextensive dune system. This isthe very best site in the UK forthe tiny Scarce Crimson and Goldmoth which you may spot flyingover areas of bare sand withinthe dunes.

AccessBy Road: Portstewart Strand is 4miles north of Coleraine along theA2, follow signs for The Strand.By Bus: Ulsterbus 140 service,the nearest bus stop is locatedjust up from the strand.

Owned and Managed byThe National [email protected]: 028 7083 6396


White Park BayD 013 437Postcode BT54 6NHCryptic Wood White,Dark Green Fritillary,Six Spot Burnet


Butterfly monitoring at WhitePark Bay has recently confirmedthis is one of the few knownsites on the north coast for theCryptic Wood White. This site isslightly off the beaten track soyou are guaranteed a peacefulwalk through the dunes or alongthe sands.

AccessBy Road: White Park Bay is wellsignposted off the A2 WhiteparkRoad, 6 miles north-east ofBushmills 7.5 miles north-westof Ballycastle.By Bus: Ulsterbus 252 or theCauseway Rambler Ulsterbus 376both stop at WhitePark Bayif requested.

Owned and Managed byThe National [email protected]: 028 2073 3320


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BinevenaghC 706 297Post code BT49 0JGSmall Heath, MeadowBrown, Emperor


Binevenagh marks the westernend of the Antrim plateau.A walk up through the forestrywill reward you with views fromInishowen all the way along thenorth coast to Portrush, and youwill find many rare and importantplants and mosses growing onthe exposed rocks.

AccessBy Road: Located 5 miles southwest of Downhill, Castlerock,Binevenagh Forest is bestaccessed by taking BishopsRoad, opposite the Downhillcarpark. If coming from Limavady,head north east along the B201Windyhill Road, turning left ontoBishops Road. Once on BishopsRoad follow signs to BinevenaghLake and Forest, which lies onthe Leighery Road.By Bus: There is no Ulsterbusservice to Binevenagh.

Binevenagh is owned andmanaged by Forest Service www.dardni.gov.uk/[email protected]: 028 9052 4480

GarvaghForest ParkC 839 154Postcode BT51 5NHSpeckled Wood,Small Tortoiseshell

FacilitiesFamily Friendly,Car Park, Access for

All, Interpretation Panels,Toilets are available onBridge Street in Garvagh

Garvagh Forest lies to thewest of the village of Garvagh.The Forest used to be part ofthe wider Cannings Estate andthe long established woodlandsmean there is a host of nativewoodland flora here includingan impressive display of bluebellsin May.

AccessBy Road: Garvagh is 12 milessouth of Coleraine From herehead south on the A29. GarvaghForest car park is signposted onthe right hand side of the road,just before you cross the river.By Bus: Ulsterbus 116 runsthrough Garvagh and past theentrance to the Forest Park.

Owned and managed byForest Service www.dardni.gov.uk/[email protected]: 028 9052 4480

Breen Wood,ArmoyD 120 336Postcode BT53 8RZSilver-washed Fritillary,Speckled Wood

FacilitiesOff-road,Parking in Layby,


Aptly named the ‘Fairy Place’ inIrish, visiting Breen Wood NationalNature Reserve is like going backin time to the prehistoric foreststhat would have once covered thecountry. Spring brings a flush ofwoodland wildflowers includingprimroses and bluebells and youmay even catch sight of redsquirrels in the trees.

AccessBy Road: Breen Wood issignposted off the B15 GlensheskRoad, approximately 3.5 mileseast of Armoy.By Bus: Ulsterbus Service 131and 178 run from Ballycastle toArmoy past the entrance toBreen Wood. Contact Translinkfor more information.

Owned and managed by [email protected] Manager Tel: 028 7082 3600

Peatlands and Woodlands


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SlemishD 217 056Postcode BT42 4PFSmall Heath,Common Heath,Northern Eggar

FacilitiesFamily Friendly,Car Park, Toilets,

Interpretation PanelsSlemish is one of the mostcharacteristic peaks in Ireland,its isolated dome being theremains of a vent where moltenmagma once bubbled to thesurface around 55 million yearsago. The heathery slopes arehome to a wide range of plantsbirds and invertebrates althoughthe site is quite exposed.

AccessBy Road: Slemish is approximately8.5 miles east of Ballymena.Take the A42 to Broughshaneand from here head south-westalong the B94 Rathkeel Roadfollowing signage to Slemish.By Bus: There is no bus serviceto Slemish but a taxi could bearranged from Broughshane whichlies on the 128 Ulsterbus route.

Slemish is privately owned withpermissive paths giving access.

Managed byBallymena Borough [email protected]: 028 2566 4400

Vanishing Lake,LoughaveemaD 206 356Postcode BT54 5RNSmall Heath, NorthernEggar, Common Heath

FacilitiesOff-road,Parking in lay-by on

east side of Vanishing Lake

The Vanishing Lake is a famouslandmark on the Antrim Plateauwhich can be there one dayand drained away the next.This site lies on a rich peat soilcharacterised by stands ofheather and bilberry where manyspecial upland species thrive.

AccessBy Road: Located 7 miles north-west of Cushendall on the A2,just east of Ballypatrick Forest. By Bus: There is no regular busservice to the Vanishing Lake.

The Vanishing Lake is on privateland with permissive paths togive access.

[email protected]: 028 2076 2225

Straidkilly, GlenarmD 300 164Postcode BT44 0LQSilver-washed Fritillary,Speckled Wood,Six Spot Burnet

FacilitiesOff-road, Park inlay-by at roadside,

Interpretation Panels,Toilets in Glenarm village.

Straidkilly is a wildlife haven justnorth of Glenarm on a steepsided slope. The lower parts ofthe woodland are predominatedby hazel which gives way to moremixed deciduous woodland asyou climb higher. Sunny, openglades provide nectaring plantsfor a host of insects.

AccessBy Road: 11 miles north of Larnealong the A2 coast road is thevillage of Glenarm. Heading northout of the village, follow signageto Straidilly.By Bus: Ulsterbus 162 from Larneand 128 from Ballymena bothserve Glenarm. It’s approximatelya 1 mile walk from here to theentrance to the nature reserve.

Owned and Managed by theUlster Wildlife [email protected]: 028 4483 0282


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Cliffs and Islands


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Giant’s CausewayC 944 439Postcode BT57 8SUGrayling, Six SpotBurnet, Common Blue

FacilitiesFamily Friendly, CarPark*, Toilets, Visitor

Centre**, Access for All,Interpretation Panels

The Giant’s Causeway is on everyvisitor’s must-see list. The rockyshoreline provides perfect habitatfor basking butterflies, especiallythe elusive Grayling which isfound here in large numbers.

AccessBy Road: The Causeway islocated 11 miles north-east ofColeraine on the B146 CausewayRoad and is well signpostedfrom the main A2 coast road.By Bus: Ulsterbus 252, the AntrimCoaster, calls at the Causewaytwice a day throughout the year.Ulsterbus 402, the CausewayRambler, is a seasonal servicethat runs more frequently.

Owned and Managed byThe National Trustwww.nationaltrust.org.ukgiantscauseway@nationaltrust.org.ukTel: 028 2073 1855


Murlough BayD 191 425Poscode BT54 6RGGrayling, Speckled Wood,Yellow-ringed Carpet


Murlough Bay is an extremelysteep sided cove facing out overthe Irish Sea towards the Mullof Kintyre, with permissive pathsallowing access to the woodsand grasslands. The rocky,shaded slopes are the onlyknown home in Northern Irelandto the Yellow-ringed Carpet moth.This site is best visited in themorning as it is shaded bythe afternoon.

AccessBy Road: Murlough Bay issignposted off the A2 CoastRoad, 6 miles east of Ballycastle.By Bus: There is no bus serviceto Murlough Bay, but a taxi couldbe arranged from Ballycastle.

Murlough Bay is privatelyowned but permissive footpathsgive access.

[email protected]: 028 2076 2225

Portmuck,IslandmageeD 459 023Postcode BT40 3TPCommon Blue, SmallCopper, Cinnabar


Islandmagee lies off the beatentrack north of Whitehead andthe peninsula forms the eastside of Larne Lough. The areais well known for its bird life,but the coastal cliff paths arealso home to butterflies andother invertebrates.

AccessBy Road: Lying 23 miles north ofBelfast, Islandmagee can only beaccessed at the south end of thepeninsula. From the A2 CoastRoad north of Whitehead, followsigns for Portmuck on the B90.By Bus: There is no dedicatedbus to Portmuck except forUlsterbus 169 school servicewhich runs during the week.A taxi can be arranged fromnearby Whitehead which lieson the Belfast to Colerainetrain line. Contact Translinkfor further details.

Owned and Managed byThe National [email protected]: 02890 647787


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Rathlin IslandSmall Tortoiseshell,Small Copper,Six Spot Burnet

Rathlin Island is not thebest place for butterfliesas it is very exposed, butis a very important site forsome of Northern Ireland’srare moths. No trip to thenorth coast would becomplete without visitingthe island. The two mainattractions are describedhere, but ask locally forother places to visit.

There is a minibus service totransport people from the ferryaround the island in the summerseason and bicycles can also behired from the hostel.Tel: 028 207 63954

Visitor facilities including toiletsand refreshments can be foundaround the harbour and at theRSPB Seabird Centre.

For information see theRathlin Community [email protected]: 028 207 60079

RSPB Seabird Centre

FacilitiesFamily Friendly, Car Park,Toilets, Visitor Centre*,


At the west side of the islandapproximately 4 miles from theharbour you will find the newRSPB Seabird Centre, accesseddown 85 steep steps. The centreis staffed throughout the yearand provides binoculars andtelescopes through which to viewbreeding birds such as puffins.Butterflies and moths can befound on the grassy slopeseither side of the steps as wellas around the small car park.

*Check with the RSPB for openingtimes as this is a seasonal attractionalthough the walk out can be doneat any time of year.Tel: 028 2076 0062

Roonivoolin

FacilitiesOff-road,Interpretation Panels

From the harbour, take a walkaround the southern tip of theisland following the waymarked trail,approximately 4 miles. There arenumerous small sheltered hollowswhere invertebrates will thrive out ofthe wind and a host of wildflowers.The extremely privileged may evenspot rare Choughs who use thehigh cliffs for their nest sites.

If you have your own mothtrap the RSPB warden canadvise on the best places torun it and help arrange access.Tel: 028 2076 0062

Anderson Park,ColeraineC 849 325Postcode BT52 1PYSmall Tortoiseshell,Peacock

FacilitiesFamily Friendly, Accessfor All, Parking on street

In the heart of Coleraine town,Anderson Park offers a greenoasis to escape to. The councilare currently refurbishing the parkand increasing its biodiversityvalue and you will find manypollinating insects feeding on theplants in the flower displays.

AccessBy Road: Anderson Park liesin the middle of Coleraine,just north of the town centre.Circular Road cuts through themiddle of the site and car parkingis available on the roadside.By Bus: Coleraine is served bymany bus services including the178 from Ballycastle and the 134 from Limavady.

Owned and Managed byColeraine Borough [email protected]: 028 7034 7034

Roe ValleyCountry ParkC 678 202Postcode BT49 9NNSilver-washed Fritillary,Speckled Wood, Cinnabar

FacilitiesFamily Friendly, CarPark, Toilets, Visitor

Centre and Cafe*, Accessfor All, Interpretation Panels

Roe Valley Country Park coversthree miles of river bank on eitherside of the River Roe just southof Limavady. Walks take visitorsalong the river and through thewoodland, and there are also somesunny glades which provide foodand shelter for invertebrates.

AccessBy Road: Roe Valley CountryPark lies two miles south ofLimavady and is well signpostedoff both the B192 and B68.By Bus: Although Goldline 246runs regularly between Dungivenand Limavady, Roe Valley Parkis not a scheduled stop. A taxito the site could be easilyarranged from Limavady.

Owned and Managed by [email protected]: 028 7772 2074

*Check with NIEA for opening times

Ecos,BallymenaD 117 034Postcode BT43 7QAPeacock, Speckled Wood,Six Spot Burnet


Visitor Centre*, Access forAll, Interpretation Panels

Ecos lies just east of bustlingBallymena town centre, but is anoasis for wildlife with meadows,woodlands, streams and pondsto explore. This is one of thevery few sites in Northern Irelandwhere the rare Irish Lady’s Tressesorchid can be found, as well asa proliferation of butterflies andmoths on sunny days.

AccessBy Road: Ecos is well signpostedfrom Junction 11 of the M2.By Bus: Ulsterbus 128 servicetakes you past the entrance tothe park with the bus stop justa hundred metres away.

Owned and Managed byBallymena Borough Councilwww.ballymena.gov.uk/[email protected]: 028 2566 4400

Parks, Gardens and Farms


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Watertop FarmD 191 381Postcode BT54 6RNSmall Heath, Emperor,Speckled Wood


Centre, Access for All,Interpretation Panels

In the heart of the Glens,Watertop offers a wide rangeof activities for the family, butalso some wonderful walksthrough many different habitatsand with waterfalls and riverstoo. There is an admissioncharge at Watertop, see thewebsite for more information.

AccessBy Road: 5 miles east ofBallycastle, Watertop Farmis well signposted of the A2Cushendall Road.By Bus: Ulsterbus 252 service,the Antrim Coaster, passesthe entrance to the site andwill stop on request.

Watertop Farm is privatelyowned and opened seasonallyto the [email protected]: 028 2076 2576

Glenarm CastleD 306 152Postcode BT44 0BQPeacock, SmallTortoiseshell, Silver Y


Centre, Access for All,Interpretation Panels

Glenarm Castle, ancestralhome of the Earls of Antrim,opens to the public from Mayto September. The sheltered,sunny walled gardens with theirhuge range of plants attractmany nectaring insects includingbutterflies and moths.

AccessBy Road: Glenarm is 12 milesnorth of Larne and the castleis well signposted from theA2 coast road.By Bus: Ulsterbus 162 fromLarne and the128 from Ballymenaboth bring you to Glenarm.The castle is a short walk fromthe centre of town.

Glenarm Castle is privatelyowned and opened seasonallyto the [email protected]: 028 2884 1203

CarnfunnockCountry ParkD 383 068Postcode BT40 2QGSmall Tortoiseshell,Speckled Wood, Ringlet


Visitor Centre, Access forAll, Interpretation Panels

Situated just north of Larne,Carnfunnock Country Parkhas almost 200 hectares ofwoodland, meadows andgardens to explore as well aswonderful views across theIrish Sea to Scotland.

AccessBy Road: Carnfunnock issignposted off the A2 CoastRoad, approximately halfa mile north of Larne.By Bus: Ulsterbus 162 servicefollows the Coast Road, thenearest bus stop is locatedjust outside the entrance tothe Park. Contact Translinkfor more information.

Owned and Managed byLarne County [email protected]: 028 2827 0541


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Specialist Butterflies and MothsSpecialists are only found in very particular places throughout the Causeway Coast andGlens. As caterpillars, they can only eat one or two very specific plants which might onlyoccur in special, often isolated habitats. They are unlikely to fly very far and so rely onthe areas where they are found being managed in a responsible and sympathetic way,or else they will decline, and even become extinct.

Wood Tiger (MOTH)This unmistakeable, brightlycoloured moth can be seenflying by day and can bedisturbed from vegetationeven on dull days.DistributionScarce.Flight seasonJune to early July.Caterpillar food plantA variey of herbaceous plants.

GraylingThis butterfly is a masterof disguise, sitting perfectlystill on bare rocks andimmediately blending intoits environment. Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonLate June to late September;peak sightings in August.Caterpillar food plantFine-leaved grasses.

Wall BrownThis butterfly has becomeincreasingly rare, nowconfined to a small numberof sites on the coastline.Distribution Rare.Flight seasonLate April to late October;peak sightings late May toJune, and in August.Caterpillar food plantFine-leaved grasses.

Cryptic Wood WhiteLook out for pairs of CrypticWood White courting in May.This butterfly has a weakerflight than the larger, morecommon whites describedearlier.Distribution Widespread.Flight season April tomid-September; peaksightings May to June.Caterpillar food plantMeadow Vetchling andBird’s-foot Trefoil.

Green HairstreakHard to see as it spends alot of time sitting stationaryon vegetation, try shakingsilver birch on warm sunnydays to see if you disturb itfrom its roost.Distribution Everywherebut very under recorded.Flight seasonEarly April to early July.Caterpillar food plantGorse and Bilberry.

Purple HairstreakThis butterfly spends nearly all of its time roosting in thecanopy of large oak trees,and is almost impossibleto see without binoculars.Under recorded throughoutNorthern Ireland. Distribution Rare, only knownfrom Fermanagh and Derry.Flight seasonMid-July to early September.Caterpillar food plantOak.

Silver-washed FritillaryOur largest butterfly, mostcommonly found feeding onbramble and honeysucklein sunny glades andwoodland rides.Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonMid-June to mid-September.Caterpillar food plantWoodland species of violet.

Dark Green FritillaryThe Dark Green Fritillarycan be found around thecoastal edges of NorthernIreland, and sometimesstrays inland to meadowsand woodland edges.Distribution Widespread.Flight seasonMid-June to September.Caterpillar food plantSpecies of violets suchas Marsh Violet.

Yellow-ringed Carpet (MOTH)This moth is only knownfrom one site in NorthernIreland at Murlough Bayalthough it is possibly under recorded.Distribution Rare.Flight seasonAugust.Caterpillar food plantMossy Saxifrage.

Small Eggar (MOTH)It is very unlikely you will seethe Small Eggar moth, but itscaterpillars form large websthat can easily be seen in Mayand June on their foodplants.Distribution Rare.Flight seasonLate February to early April.Caterpillar food plantBlackthorn, Birch and Hawthorn.NB Look out for webs inscrubby bushes on ourdune systems.



Narrow-borderedBee Hawk-mothThis peculiar moth is a beemimic with clear, see-throughwings. It flies at about eyeheight and can be observedflying swiftly about huntingfor nectar during the day.Distribution Scarce.Flight seasonMid-May to mid-June;peak sightings early June.Caterpillar food plantDevil’s-bit Scabious.

Scarce Crimson and Gold(MOTH)One of our smaller ‘micro’moths (inset shows actualsize), the Scarce Crimsonand Gold is now restrictedto a small number of sitesalong the north coast, itsstronghold in the UK.Distribution Rare.Flight seasonLate May to early July.Caterpillar food plantWild Thyme.

Figure of Eight (MOTH)Recently discovered atCastlerock, this moth loveswoodland on the banks ofwell established lakes andponds and is probablyunder-recorded as it flieslate in the year.Distribution Scarce.Flight season October.Caterpillar food plantBlackthorn and Hawthorn.

Small Elephant Hawk-mothA smaller and even morebrightly coloured relative of theElephant Hawk-moth, thiscreature can be found in goodnumbers on coastal grasslands.DistributionLocally common.Flight seasonEarly June to mid-July.Caterpillar food plantBedstraws.

Clouded Magpie (MOTH)This unremarkable looking moth basks by dayon low growing vegetation, resembling a birddropping. Caterpillars can be spotted munchingon elm together in September.Distribution Scarce.Flight seasonMid-May to late August.Caterpillar food plantWuch elm and English elm.NB Caterpillars can do alot of damage so look forareas of well nibbled elm leaves in September.

Specialist Butterflies and MothsSpecialists are only found in very particular places throughout the Causeway Coast andGlens. As caterpillars, they can only eat one or two very specific plants which might onlyoccur in special, often isolated habitats. They are unlikely to fly very far and so rely onthe areas where they are found being managed in a responsible and sympathetic way,or else they will decline, and even become extinct.

Marsh FritillaryMarsh Fritillaries used to be common on thenorth coast but have all but disappeared in recentyears. Don’t just look for the adult butterflies,caterpillars can be found from August to October& February to March in thick webs or ‘spinnings’on the leaves of their foodplant.Distribution Scarce.Flight seasonMid-May to mid-July; peak sightings early-June.Caterpillar food plantDevil’s-bit Scabious.

Mother Shipton (MOTH)So called because of thewitch-like face seen in themarkings on both wings.Often seen flying duringthe day.Distribution Scarce.Flight seasonMid-May to early July.Caterpillar food plantBird’s-foot Trefoil, cloversand coarse grasses.

Tell us what you see!

Telling us about the butterfliesand moths you see when youare out and about really iscrucial to helping us conservethem. Even our common speciesare often under recorded soplease tell us what you seewhen you are out and about.

A record is simply;• What – What species you saw• Where – Where you saw it, preferably witha grid reference or postcode and town

• When – The date you saw it• How Many• Who – Your name and contact details

Your photos can count as records too,plus we can help identify creaturesyou might not know the names of.Upload your pictures to our Flickr sitewww.flickr.com/groups/bcni

You can put your records directly ontothe Butterfly Conservation Northern Irelandbranch website, www.bcni.org.uk orcontact our volunteer Butterfly andMoth Recorders directly;

Ian Rippey: Butterfly [email protected] 3833 3927

Ted Rolston: Moth [email protected] 9258 7270

To find grid references in Northern Irelandor the Republic of Ireland visitwww.girdreference.ie, a quick and simpleway of finding where you are without a map.

Further InformationThis booklet is just a brief introductionto our butterflies and moths. To find outmore try some of the following:

Online Resourceswww.butterfly-conservation.orgID guide, species accounts, tips on encouraging butterflies (UK)

www.mothscount.orgDownloadable ID guides, ways to attractmoths and up-to-date distribution maps (UK)

www.bcni.org.ukRecent sightings, upcoming events andnews about butterflies and moths (NI)

www.habitas.org.uk/mothsA comprehensive online guide to NorthernIreland’s butterfly and moth species (NI)

www.butterflyireland.comRecent sightings, upcoming eventsand news about Ireland’s butterflies (ROI)

www.mothsireland.comDistribution maps, sightings newsand illustrations of Ireland’s moths (ROI)

Books and GuidesA Guide to the Butterflies of IrelandWith illustrations of species, flight times andcaterpillar foodplants, this laminated guideis a must have. Available through the DublinNaturalist Field Club www.dnfc.net

Pocket Guide to the Butterfliesof Great Britain and Ireland– Richard Lewington - ISBN-10: 0953139913

Concise Guide to the Moths ofGreat Britain and Ireland– Townsend, Waring and Lewington -ISBN-10: 0953139964

The Butterflies and Mothsof Northern Ireland– Robert Thompson and Brian Nelson -ISBN-10: 9780900761478

B202

B510

B69

B201

B66

B190

B64

B207

B67

B67

B62

B62

B147

B15

B14

B94

B97

B148

B100 B9

9

B59

B95

09B

B90

B16

B62B66

B17

B17

B185

B188

B64

B186

B68

A2

A37

A2

A2

A2

A2

A44

A43

A42

A36

A8 A2

A2

A8

A57

A26

A29

ANTRIMANTRIMANTRIM

LARNELARNELARNE

BELFAST

BALLYMENABALLYMENA

CARRICKFERGUS

TheTMaidens

IslandMagee

PortmuckP

Ballygallyy

Waterloo beds

TheGobbins

Whitehead

NEWTOWNABBEY

BALLYMONEYBALLYMONEYBALLYMONEYLIMAVADYLIMAVADYLIMAVADY

COLERAINECOLERAINECOLERAINE

PORTSTEWART

PORTRUSH BALLYCASTLETSTTYCALYABAAB CAS LLA A EB YBALLYCASTLE

ANTRIMANTRIMANTRIM

LOUGH NEAGH

RATHLIN ISLAND

Straidkilly,Glenarm

SlemishMountain

Scawt Hill

CarnloughCC

Garron Point

Waterfoot

Cushendall

CushendunC

Torr Head

Fair HeadHKinbane Head

Murlough Bay

Carrick-a-Rede

BallintoyBallintoyBallintoy

W

Vanishing Lake,Loughaveema

WatertopFarm

hite ParkBay

RSPB Centre

Roonivoolin

Portballintraee

Castlerockoc

PortstewartStrand

AndersonPark

Magilliga

BenoneStrand

GarvaghForest Park

Ecos

The Moors,Castlerock

DownhillDemesne

nPoint

LOUGHFOYLE

BINEVENAGHAONB

Ramore Head WhiteRocksRoc

Giant’sCausewayy

RoeValley

BannValley

GlensheskGlentaisie

GlendunGlanaan

Glenballyemon

GlenarmGlencloy

CAUSEWAY COASTAONB

ANTRIM COAST &GLENS AONB

Binevenagh

Roe ValleyCountry Park

1

8

2 3 45

613

19

10

12

21

22

11 20

15

14

16

9

17

18

Tievebulliagh

GlenarmCastle

CarnfunnockCountry Park

Breen Wood

DERRY/LONDONDERRY

7

Key

Causeway Coastal Route

Additional Scenic Routes

Roads

AONBs (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)

Car Park

Tourist Information

Site of Interest

Lighthouse

N

NW NE

SW SE

S

W E

1

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3

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5

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DUNES AND GRASSLAND

Magilligan National Nature Reserve ��

Benone Strand ��

Downhill Demesne ��

The Moors, Castlerock ��

Portstewart Strand ��

White Park Bay ��

PEATLANDS AND WOODLANDS

Binevenagh ��

Garvagh Forest Park ��

Breen Wood National Nature Reserve �

Slemish Mountain ��

Vanishing Lake, Loughaveema ��

Straidkilly, Glenarm ��

CLIFFS AND ISLANDS

Giant’s Causeway ��

Murlough Bay ��

Portmuck, Island Magee ��

Rathlin Island��

PARKS, GARDENS AND FARMS

Roe Valley Country Park ��

Anderson Park, Coleraine ��

Ecos, Ballymena ��

Watertop Farm ��

Glenarm Castle ��

Carnfunnock Country Park ��

Key to Sites

Key to Habitats

•Peatland •Rocky •Urban•Grassland •Woodland

When exploring Northern Ireland, think about whereyou’re going and make sure you have appropriate clothingand footwear for the terrain and weather. Remember ourwild places are part of a living, working landscape.Respect the wishes of landowners to ensure your visitis both enjoyable and responsible.

This material is based upon Crown Copyright and is reproduced withthe permission of Land & Property Services under delegated authorityfrom the Controller of HMSO, © Crown Copyright and database rights.EMOU206.2 Northern Ireland Environment Agency Copyright 2012.

Causeway Coast

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Documents

butterflies and moths of the Causeway Coast and Glens