Nestled along Preston Down Road, Paignton lies a green haven meticulously tended by the Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust. Here, the rarely seen brown hairstreak butterfly finds its home, thanks to the Trust’s diligent efforts.
Their methodical approach involves rotating cleared areas, ensuring there’s always a variety of young blackthorn—a favourite laying spot for the butterflies. By maintaining a mix of ages of blackthorn, they create the perfect conditions for these delicate creatures to thrive.
A section of the meadow was cleared last year and the Trust are delighted to report that many eggs have already been spotted. In this photo you can see over 20 in the small white dot!
Another area was cleared earlier this year. In a few months young blackthorn will return, providing the perfect habitat for more brown hairstreak butterflies to lay their eggs in the summer.
But it’s not just about clearing scrubland. The Trust also preserves scrub areas which provide shelter from the elements and ample space for the butterflies to land and lay eggs—even in less-than-ideal weather.
Beyond this specific habitat, the Trust plays a vital role in conserving nearly 80% of Torbay’s green spaces. Their commitment to conservation ensures that Torbay’s beautiful coast and countryside can be enjoyed by residents and visitors while safeguarding native plants and wildlife.
For those who share a passion for Torbay’s green spaces and want to contribute to their preservation, joining the Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust is the way forward. By becoming a member, you can be part of a community dedicated to protecting these invaluable ecosystems.
Together, let’s ensure that Torbay’s natural treasures remain intact for future generations to enjoy.
