Small Heath
Coenonympha pamphilus
Overview
The Small Heath is one of the most characteristic butterflies of the Sefton Coast's short dune grassland — a small, orange-brown butterfly that flutters low over the turf, never settling with wings open. It always rests with wings closed, showing the buff-orange underside with a small eye spot near the wingtip. In good years the dune grassland can hold dozens per hectare. Despite its abundance locally, it's declining nationally due to grassland improvement.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae |
| Habitat | Short dune grassland · Coastal heath · Dry calcareous grassland |
| Diet | Adults: small flowers close to the ground. Larvae: fine-leaved fescue grasses. |
| UK population | Widespread but declining; amber-listed due to significant losses |
| Sefton Coast | Common on short dune grassland throughout the Sefton Coast; one of the most numerous butterflies |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Short, dry dune grassland throughout the Sefton Coast. The most numerous small brown butterfly of dry grass.
Identification
Small butterfly. Orange-brown above (never seen — always rests with wings closed). Underside: buff-orange hindwing with grey-buff band; small eye spot on forewing underside near tip. Low fluttering flight.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk short dune grassland at Ainsdale in June or August. Small Heaths constantly settle with wings closed — the small eye spot near the wingtip is the key feature.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is of moderate conservation concern. Population monitoring and habitat management on the Sefton Coast support its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Small Heath never open its wings?
Small Heaths always rest with wings folded, making the underside the primary identification view. This is thought to reduce visibility to predators — the buff-brown underside blends with dry grass. Unlike many species that open wings to thermoregulate, the Small Heath likely uses body posture and ground reflectance to warm up rather than exposing the dorsal surface.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.