Greenford
UB6 0UW
Come and take part in a survey for the eggs of the rare Brown Hairstreak butterfly and help contribute to our knowledge of these butterflies. Brown Hairstreaks were recorded at Paradise Fields for the first time in 2023 and we want to know if they are using the habitat to breed or just visiting to feed.
We’ll teach you how to inspect Blackthorn bushes to detect their tiny but beautifully shaped eggs, and we may well discover some other species along the way. All the data we gather will be shared with Butterfly Conservation to support them in tracking this rarer butterfly.
Please make sure to wear warm clothes in layers and strong waterproof footwear (preferably wellies or walking boots) as the ground will be muddy and uneven. We also suggest wearing glasses if you have them (especially if you need them for reading) to serve as an extra layer of defence against the very long thorns of the shrubs we’ll be examining. This survey requires lots of patience and care as Blackthorn is sharp and can be a hazard to you and those around you; it is for this reason that this event is not suitable for children under 10. We will provide gloves and magnifying glasses but please feel free to bring your own if you have them – binoculars used in reverse can also be used to magnify any eggs you find. If you have macro photography skills these are also very welcome!
Meet at the underpass access to Paradise Fields next to the car park adjacent to Mcdonald’s in Westway Cross Retail Park.
N.B. – All under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.