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Broadcroft Quarry Butterfly Reserve

A 5 hectare disused limestone quarry which has been turned into a stunning nature reserve thanks to careful management of the naturally developing vegetation. It is a great example of how 'post-industrial' land can be of great value for nature conservation.

 

Butterflies Adonis Blue Chalkhill Blue Clouded Yellow Common Blue Dingy Skipper Gatekeeper Grayling Holly Blue Large Skipper Large White Lulworth Skipper Marbled White

Meadow Brown Painted Lady Red Admiral Ringlet Silver-studded Blue (abundant here, one of its very few colonies on limestone) Small Blue Small Heath Small Skipper Small Tortoiseshell Small White Speckled Wood Wall Brown

 

Moths: Portland Ribbon Wave, Four-spotted Moth, Beautiful Gothic, Valerian Pug.

Location and access: Take the main road (A354) to Portland, and follow the signs to Easton. Turn left onto Grove Road just upon entering Easton. The reserve entrance is down the quarry track (beware of lorries) about 1/4 km along the Grove, on south side. There is car parking at SY695723 west of the reserve entrance.

Unfortunately reserve signs are sadly removed by vandals, and broken gates and fencing will be encountered.

Grid reference: SY 697 720