Lankham Bottom Butterfly Reserve
46 hectares of West Dorset chalk downland that is home to a super range of downland butterflies and some special moths. It overlooks the River Frome valley and there are fine views towards the West Dorset coast. This large site is a water catchment for the local public supply and is owned by Wessex Water. The grassland has been protected from agricultural 'improvement' and so has a wonderful range of the natural grassland communities found on the West Dorset chalk hills. Butterfly Conservation leases the site and manages it though grazing and scrub control.
Managed by Butterfly Conservation.
Butterfly highlights: Adonis Blue, Silver spotted skipper, Marsh Fritillary, Grizzled Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Green Hairstreak, Chalkhill Blue and Brown Argus.
Moth highights include: Plain Wave, Wood tiger, Six spot burnet, Grass Emerald, Straw Underwing and Rosy Minor .
Location & Access: The reserve lies on the west side of the A37 (the Dorchester and Yeovil Road) at the Staggs Folly junction. Take the Cattistock Lane turning at this junction. The reserve entrances are 100m (bridleway) and 1/2 km (field and track gate) down on the left-hand side of the lane.
There is very limited parking along Cattistock Lane at the entrance gate for the bridleway, but a bit more space at the main gate. This gateway for the Wessex Water pumping station track must be kept clear at all times. There is no parking on site.
Open Access Land with single Bridleway
Grid reference: ST 610 003
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.