The Norsey Wood Society works closely with Basildon Borough Council, the owners of Norsey Wood Nature Reserve, an ancient woodland which is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest on the edge of Billericay in Essex, UK

Notable-Butterfly-Species

Notable Butterfly Species Seen in the Wood

The main interest lies in summer butterflies and small numbers of White Admirals are now seen annually, most often along the path beyond post 4 on the Norsey Wood Trail. 

There have been isolated sightings of Purple Emperor and Silver-washed Fritillary in recent years.  Both these species are increasing in numbers in Essex generally and might become established in the Wood in the next few years. 

Marbled White and White-letter Hairstreak have been seen in the Norsey Meadow area and the latter was also seen behind the car park and along the main ride in 2017. 

Purple Hairstreaks are rarely recorded but probably live in good numbers in the treetops.

A number of species which are relatively common in more open habitats are only seen in small numbers in the Wood. 
These include: -
Brimstone,
Small Tortoiseshell,
Large, Small and Essex Skippers,
Common Blue
and Small Copper.

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