SYWELL BUTTERFLY GARDEN

Located in the old filter beds at Sywell Reservoir, the Butterfly Garden was opened by Gordon Beningfield twenty years ago, after work initially by members of Butterfly Conservation and the local wardens who continue to maintain it. The sunken site is a suntrap for most of the day, which is ideal for the butterfly species. Mid to late Summer is the best time to visit. There is a series of large buddleias around the perimeter, which attract the Peacocks, Small Tortoiseshells, Commas, Red Admirals and Pianted Ladies, as well as the Whites and Brimstones. Following this, a succession of nectar-loving flowers, i.e. rubeckia, valerian, marjoram, golden rod, lavender, michaelmas daisies, sedum spectabile and ivy blossom ensure a steady stream of butterflies visiting right through to the Autumn. The grassy dam nearby is a breeding ground for others which fly into the garden to feed -Common Blues, Brown Argus, and, in particular, Small Coppers, which can be very numerous in a good year.