Wall Brown
Lasiommata megera
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Overview
The Wall Brown has almost disappeared from inland England but coastal dune sites retain small populations. It basks on bare ground, paths and (historically) stone walls with wings open — the orange-brown chequered pattern with multiple eye spots is distinctive. The cause of decline is poorly understood but may be linked to climate — paradoxically, warmer summers may overheat larval development on south-facing bare ground. On the Sefton Coast it's now rare, with occasional records from the barest open dune areas.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae |
| Habitat | Bare dune path · Open rocky ground · Warm bare surfaces |
| Diet | Adults: flowers. Larvae: fine grasses, particularly Brome and Yorkshire Fog. |
| UK population | Declining severely — lost from most of England inland; now mainly coastal sites |
| Sefton Coast | Rare and declining — occasional records on bare sunny dune areas; formerly more widespread |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Open bare sandy areas and paths on the dunes at Ainsdale. Historical records from many parts of the coast — now rare.
Identification
Orange-brown with intricate dark markings. Multiple small eye spots — row on hindwing and one larger eye spot on forewing. Basks with wings open on bare ground. Underside: beautiful grey-brown marbling.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Check bare open paths and sunny dune areas at Ainsdale in May and August. Any orange-brown butterfly on bare ground is worth investigating. Record any sightings — they're increasingly rare.
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 is the Wall Brown disappearing from England?
The Wall Brown has disappeared from around 50% of its former English range since the 1970s, with the steepest declines inland. The cause remains unclear — a warming climate is suspected, possibly causing larval overheating on south-facing slopes, or changes in the vegetation structure that alter the microclimate. Coastal populations, including on the Sefton Coast dunes, appear to be maintaining better than inland populations.
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.