Wycombe Woodland gets Silver-washed!

11 August 2010

A Silver-washed Fritillary butterfly sighting (photo credit: Cheryl Oliver) has been an exciting talking point for Wycombe District Council's Woodland Service this month.

Ten people took part in the annual 'Big Butterfly Count' at Gomm's Wood Local Nature Reserve (LNR) where a Silver-washed Fritillary butterfly, which hasn't been recorded on the site for many years, was sighted amongst 15 other species of butterfly.

The newly sited butterfly has been making the most of the recently widened paths and woodland glades thanks to help from Conservation Partners Dun & Bradstreet who every year invest time via their Corporate Social Responsibility Scheme in the conservation of Gomm's Wood .

Cabinet member for Younger and Older People Councillor Richard Scott, commented, "This sighting is wonderful news, it is a testament to the Woodland Service Team and its volunteers who have managed to develop and maintain a habitat for this beautiful species of butterfly."

The Woodland Service's next woodland work party will take place on Saturday 28 August. Meet: 10am at Cock Lane Cemetery Car Park, Tylers Green, High Wycombe (Grid Ref: SU897935).

For more information on Gomm's Wood LNR including opportunities to help us with conservation work to benefit many species including these fantastic butterflies, visit Wycombe District Council's Gomm's Wood page or email woodland.service@wycombe.gov.uk or call 01494 421825.