Eyarth Rocks Butterfly Reserve
Eyarth Rocks Butterefly Reserve cosists of 8 hectares and forms part of Craig-adwy-wynt, one of the richest butterfly sites in North Wales; 32 of the 34 species known to occur in the region have been recorded on this limestone hill-top Site of Special Scientific Interest, and most of them breed there.
The population of Pearl-bordered Fritillary has grown strongly since 2002 when Butterfly Conservation bought and started managing the site. The limestone pavement flora is exceptional and the site provides magnificent views of the area. The limestone pavement of this fine hilltop reserve is some of the best to be found in Wales. It is being carefully managed to sustain North Wales' strongest populations of the threatened Pearl-bordered Fritillary
Sheep are grazed on the reserve to help control the scrub growth and break up the bracken cover so that more violets can flourish for the Pearl-bordered Fritillary caterpillars to eat..
butterfliesPearl-bordered Fritillary | plantsMountain Melick |
Location : Eyarth Rocks reserve lies some 4.5 kms south of Ruthin in Denbighshire. To reach the reserve entrance gateway in the northern boundary wall, follow the public footpaths from Pwll-glâs or from Eyarth Bridge. Outside of the villages of Pwl Glâs and Llanfair Car parking availability is limited (for example near Eyarth Brdige).
Site Access and safety: A suggested access routes involve walks of about 1 km, moderately steep in places, up from the scenic river Clwyd valley. The ground can be uneven and requires strong foot-wear. The limestone pavement surfaces comprises a myriad of 'clints' and 'grikes' - narrow crevices that catch the feet of unwary walkers. Please take great care on the western side of the reserve where there is an un-fenced cliff edge.
Grid reference: SJ 122 540
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
Read the comments about this article and leave your own comment